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Andrew
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Myron
$15 per month equivalent required. New customer offer first three months only.
Andrew
Then full price plan options available. Taxes and fees extra.
Myron
See mintmobile.com this is Matt and Myron.
Andrew
The podcast less than an hour away from kickoff here on Matt. Myron, what's up?
Myron
No, I mean that. So they played. I don't know if you know what that clip was from the end, the last one. So I, I said on the show that Taylor Swift was paying like her, you know, truck drivers and her whole tour people, six figure bonuses. And I heard it from someone I know, someone who is related to someone who is on the tour.
Andrew
Sure.
Myron
So I, you know, I thought I was breaking news and it turns out I was just, you know, I guess a few months before it had been reported that they were getting these six figure bonuses. So they called me out on that.
Andrew
But ship, the Titanic, it sunk. I don't know if you, I don't know if you heard that.
Myron
Yeah, but mine was coming directly from a source though. I mean this was coming like, you know, I knew someone that knew someone.
Andrew
I spoke to Rose, she, she told me that Jack didn't make it and.
Myron
Titanic, which by the way, I've never seen that movie by the way.
Andrew
That's all right. You know, I know the end. I'll just tell you right now. It's a good movie and all, but you don't have to. Matt. Myron. Presented by Progressive Hours.
Myron
Lawrence.
Andrew
Get renters insurance. Protect the things that make your place a home, including coverage for theft or damage. Visit progressive.com so now's the time for you to call the Dr. Pepper. Call in line 888, say ESPN. That's triple 872-93776. Maybe your hottest take is that, that the Titanic you don't need to watch despite it being considered one of the greatest movies of all time. So we have our reigning champion from last Ohio. It's time now for King of the Mountain. Ladies and gentlemen, your winner and new.
Myron
King of the mountain champion, Mark in Ohio. Go Mark.
Andrew
Man.
Caller
I'm telling you what at what Point.
Andrew
Are we going to realize start is.
Caller
Elmer Fudd with a headset. When it comes to big games 20, 23 and 24 in the playoffs, the guy forgets that he's supposed to be.
Andrew
A genius play caller.
Caller
I think you and I can put.
Andrew
A headset out there in a big game and be less nervous than that guy. And as a die hard Michigan fan.
Caller
I was hop to God that they.
Myron
Would beat the Buckeyes yesterday and I knew I was going to be disappointed.
Andrew
All right, well, let's get right to it. King of the mountain. Let's start with Travis in Houston. Travis, you're on. Matt. Myron.
Caller
Hey man, I just read today's article in ESPN how Arch got his swag back. Well, if you can say swag against a Division 1 school that wasn't even a Division 1 school two years ago. Sam Houston State University. Oh, yeah, okay, he got his swag back. But in one or next week when he plays Florida and two weeks. Oh, you. I don't think that sidearm and slinging manning is going to get drafted very well. As a matter of fact, he'll end up being like Ryan Leaf a bust because he ain't that good.
Andrew
All right, we'll go. We're going. Ryan Leaf. Myron.
Myron
Yeah, I mean I didn't really get the take. Took a while to get to, you know, he's talking about the article and him getting his swag back. But yeah, I mean it was, it finished strong.
Andrew
Yeah.
Myron
Andrew is maybe a good appetizer to start. A good way to start King of the Mountain.
Andrew
Well, let's see if James and Washington can beat that. What's up, James, you're on. Matt. Myron. Yeah.
Caller
Cal Raleigh has 57 home runs so far this year. He has never had more than 34 home runs in one season until he started using a torpedo bat.
Andrew
Okay, so the torpedo bat is the reason why he's, he's going to reach 60 home runs.
Myron
There's not enough there like, okay, you all get 30 seconds. And I don't know if you all know what 30 seconds is, right? But you all, yeah, it's not 10 seconds or 15, it's 30 seconds. So you know, everybody take a deep breath and give us the take. Like that's the thing is you got to give us a take in all of this.
Andrew
I mean, it's a take that the torpedo bat is the reason why he has it. But it's kind of like the twish push. Any team can do it. Anybody can use the torpedo bat. The torpedo bat has been available all season long. And how many guys have 57 home runs? Not that many.
Myron
Exactly. Like, hey, he's like, I hate rain. Okay, well, we all do on some level, so just give us a little more from the call.
Andrew
The number is 888. Say ESPN. Triple H. Say ESPN. Let's. Let's get this. Go. Cory in Seattle, no pressure, but we really need you to get this thing going. What's up, Corey?
Caller
Hi, there. My take is you guys aren't talking about the Seahawks nearly enough. I mean, we got probably top five defense, least pass Blitzen in the NFL, number one, pressure. I heard earlier on the show you guys said that Aaron Rodgers lost to an okay Seahawks team. What are you talking about? I mean, what more do the Seahawks have to do? I mean, they got three guys on the secondary hurt. You know, you got Sam Darnold as a quarterback. I mean, what more did the Seahawks have to do to be talked about? It's like we're in Alaska. Get off that east coast bias.
Andrew
All right? I think they're. I think they're an okay football team, but if you think they're really good, that's a take. Like, I. I appreciate you, Corey, coming with that take. I don't have to agree with takes as long as it's a good take. I appreciate it, Myron. Right.
Myron
Corey with a good take. You know, and I get that. That's how you fight for your team, you know, I mean, they beat Pittsburgh, so it's like, you know, saw them lose in the first week. San Fran.
Andrew
But like how. I think Pittsburgh is an okay team.
Myron
Yeah.
Andrew
You know what I mean?
Myron
Like for your boys, Fight for your boys. I'm with it.
Andrew
That's the way it's supposed to. You're right. Maybe Vic and Santa Cruz is going to fight for his boys. Let's go to Vic.
Myron
Pick it up.
Andrew
Yo.
Myron
Vic is victor.
Caller
Yeah. The Chiefs, come the quarter pool of the NFL season will have three losses. But Chris Kennedy will be eating his words about him not spending enough money on weapons. In 23, they drafted she Rice. In 24, they drafted Xavier Worthy. In 25, they drafted Tyquan Thornton. Those are the three best, two, the two fastest and three of the best receivers.
Andrew
Ah, he just got rung.
Myron
Yeah, he was. He was getting there. You know, he was trying to tell us like a campfire story. Felt like or something. He was going to. Yeah. I mean, but it was good. That was good.
Andrew
Chiefs have tried. They also. Rice wasn't going to be playing.
Myron
They've added some pieces. Yeah. But, you know, through the draft, for a championship team like your team, the Eagles, they went out and got A.J. brown right now and got Saquon Barkley. Like, those are the kinds of moves I think a lot of Kansas City fans are looking to.
Andrew
Yeah. They've acquired proven players. Yes. All right, let's try Danny in Florida. Danny, you're on. Matt and Myron.
Caller
Hey, guys. Thanks. I'm here in Florida, but I'm originally from Knoxville, and a week ago I was in Knoxville and saw the devastating loss there against Georgia by a field goal kick that, in my opinion, is going to prove to be a fluke. Tennessee is strong. Joey Aguilar looks great. They had two cornerbacks out who are probably going to go in the first round in the NFL. Look out Florida in Florida, October 22nd. Tennessee is coming against you in the whole SEC. Thank you.
Andrew
All right. I like that one because I don't. I don't totally disagree with it either. I mean, Tennessee, that loss to Georgia, not only did they lose by field goal, they did put up 41 points against the tough Georgia Bulldogs defense.
Myron
Right.
Andrew
Like, how much do we talk about how great Georgia's defense is? They scored 41 points in that game against Georgia. So takes are strong, but sometimes they can also be realistic. And I don't totally hate that one from Danny in Florida.
Myron
No, I mean. And you know, that's a tough game. We'll see kind of what happens moving forward. I think the thing why. The reason why that hurts so much. That's a home game.
Andrew
Sure.
Myron
Still got to go to Alabama. Uh, you got to play Oklahoma. That might have the Heisman Trophy trophy favorite right now.
Andrew
Yep.
Myron
Uh, and you're in the season at Vandy. But no, that's a strong. I like that take. That might be my favorite take. Favorite take so far.
Andrew
Let's go to Chris in Nashville. What's up, Chris? You're on. Matt. Myron.
Caller
Yeah, what's going on? My take is that out of the strong 24 draft class, there's only going to be one MVP, and that's going to be Drake May. Out of those quarterbacks, he's by and far away had the highest ceiling, but also the rest of them are going to fizzle out. I mean, you guys were talking about Kayla Williams. I think Jaden Daniels isn't. Isn't going to be able to be long, like have a longevity of career because he's going to keep getting hurt. All these tiny injuries from just being too thin and mobile. He's going to keep getting hurt. And the best one out of them all is going to be number one, pick three, Drake May.
Andrew
Wow. All right.
Myron
It's a strong take. I mean, I don't, I mean, the fizzle out thing with Jaden Day is. Yeah, after what he did last year, it's hard to like put anybody above him. Uh, I saw by the way, it's.
Andrew
Not like he was banged up like all last season. He went to the NFC championship game.
Myron
Yeah, it was pretty. I don't know if I, I don't know if that guy saw last season. I don't know if he saw that.
Andrew
He may miss that one.
Myron
Yeah, he missed all the last year. But I, I, I respect the strong take. You didn't tell me why Drake May. I mean, you say the high ceiling, but tell me, what is it about Drake May that makes you feel like he's going to rise above all these guys?
Andrew
And what's Jaden Daniels ceiling after getting to an NFC championship game? Is it lower than Drake May's high ceiling? Does that mean Drake May will one day be in the conference championship and then go to the Super Bowl? Let's go to Mike and Phoenix. Mike, you're on. Matt and Myron.
Caller
Hello, guys. My take is the Green Bay packers will have home field advantage and lose in the first round of the playoffs to the wild card Dallas Cowboys. They're gonna run it, Micah. They're the best team to know how to neutralize him. Of course Dak will outplay love and the Green Bay packers will lose in the first round to the Dallas Cowboys.
Andrew
All right, so I want to break this down real quick. All right. And you can keep on calling in triple eight, say espn, the Green Bay Packers. I kind of had a similar take before the season started when we were doing the the 2A days on ESPN radio.
Myron
Yeah.
Andrew
And my bold prediction for the Packer, that they would win the division but be an early exit in the playoffs. Here's the thing for Mike that I questioned. Dallas Cowboys, will they be in the playoffs?
Myron
Yes. Get there first.
Andrew
Right. Like that. I don't even know if Dallas is going to. They're third in their division. I don't even know if they're going to make the playoffs. And if they do make the playoffs, if the packers have home field advantage, maybe they're the one seed. That means the Cowboys would have to win their first playoff game and beat the packers at Lambeau.
Myron
Yeah, that takes you heat up on the take though. Yeah, no, it does. But that take is like about seven weeks early. Seven weeks premature, a little bit, I feel like. But I. I appreciate him rocking with his team. Cowboys fans are trying to find a way to make the Michael Parsons trade not hurt as much. That's what it comes down to.
Caller
Yeah.
Andrew
Good luck. Let's try Brenda in Texas. Brenda, Brenda, you're on. Matt and Myron.
Brenda
Hi there. I got a take about the Chicago Bears and the Cowboys. So are you there?
Myron
We're here.
Brenda
Oh, good. Okay. So I'm originally from Chicago. Die hard Chicago fan. Love my Bears. Every year we get excited. We think it's going to be great. We're just. We just can't wait. And then it's Bears and we go back to just, okay. We love our Bears and we just watch the game we did down here in Texas now. And these Cowboy fans think that they're going to win every thinking year. They are. They could be Owen10 and they're like, we're going to win the Super Bowl. We still have hope. We're going to win the Super Bowl. And they never, ever do anything. So it's kind of like which is better. I don't know. But they're not going to win the super bowl this year either. Thank you.
Andrew
All right.
Myron
I feel like that was not a take as much as it was like expressing pain.
Andrew
Yeah. It was a comparison, like being, you.
Myron
Know, at least we're not Cowboys fans, I think. Is that. That's what she was saying.
Andrew
That's kind of how it sounded.
Myron
Which one do you want to be like? Do you want to be delusional like Cowboys fans or get your heart broken every year like Bears fans?
Andrew
That's a good question. All right, so we got to pick a winner. Myron.
Myron
I think the Tennessee guy, whoever that was, is probably at the Danny in Florida. Yeah. Of today.
Andrew
Because it also kind of made sense.
Myron
Yes.
Andrew
Like, I understood it.
Myron
Yeah. It made. But it wasn't stronger than, I think our reigning king Market Ohio.
Andrew
All right, well, maybe next week, you know, we'll have a better Florida return. But Danny in Florida. Congratulations.
Myron
Didn't have the cute Elmer fun thing. Yeah. You got to have a good saying.
Andrew
What we learned from doing this for.
Myron
A few weeks now is if you.
Andrew
Have a cool little, like, metaphor and you get creative with it, then you're gonna win.
Myron
That's basically where we're at.
Andrew
Because it makes it feel like you thought this out, like, from last Sunday. Like you had a whole week to think about. It's 12 o' clock every single week. King of the Mountain here on Mad Myron. Maybe that's a big part of it.
Myron
It also reminds me too, Andrew, when I hear these, it makes me realize that we're pretty good at our jobs, right? Like, I mean, we're not maybe the greatest, but you know, what we do is maybe a little bit harder, maybe a little bit harder than what you might think.
Andrew
All right, coming up next, it is the week of the backup quarterback here on Matt and Myron ESPN Radio and ESPN app.
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Myron
Matt and Myron.
Andrew
The Podcast the Week of the Backup Quarterback here on Matt Myron on ESPN Radio. The ESPN app SiriusXM Channel 80 presented to us by our friends over at Progressive Insurance, we have Marcus Mariota. Starting today we have Carson Wentz. Starting today we have Jake Browning. Starting today. It's unbelievable. So let's focus. First, Raiders commanders. Myron, A team in the Commanders that are coming off of a loss to the Green Bay Packers. So you're one and one behind the Eagles for first place in the NFC East. I know that it's early. You're also handed your first loss in the NFC when you fall to the Packers. Now, I imagine this is a game where they go, hey, we could potentially beat the Raiders with Marcus Mariota, so let's hope that we can do that. To be 2 and 1. But ultimately you just don't want to risk Jaden Daniels.
Myron
Yeah, I mean that, that's the thing. No matter what happens is, you know, A, get Dayn Jaden Daniels healthy. B, how do you prevent things like this happening in the future? We know how good he is, how good he can be. We saw last year one of the great rookie seasons we've ever seen. Right. Following one of the great Heisman Trophy campaigns.
Andrew
Right.
Myron
We never seen. I mean, that was a hell of a two year stretch for Jaden Daniels. So now it's yeah, getting him healthy because we know what the commanders can be when he is. But also Marcus Mariota, having a guy like that, an experienced backup, I'm sure there are a lot of teams around the league who wish they had a guy that they could turn to because we're seeing so many quarterback injuries at this point.
Andrew
Yeah, we've talked a lot over the course of the show today about the importance of having a quality backup quarterback. I think not just from a play standpoint, but maybe even a leadership standpoint. Here was Marcus Mariota earlier this week during one of his press conferences, which is with a pretty interesting message for Jayden Daniels.
Marcus Mariota
Yeah, I think it comes down to if you feel like you can do what you normally do, then go ahead. You know, I've been in situations, scenarios like this where you try to fight through it and maybe you're not playing like yourself and it's hard because you want to be able to be out there for your team and, you know, kind of tough it out, so to say. But I think at the end of the day, like you want to be able to be the best version of yourself. And we understand Jay's going to do everything in his power to be able to be ready to play, but I think that's what's cool about our quarterback room is that we're so close and regardless, whoever's in there, like, we're going to support that guy. So we always tell him, man, Just be you. And if you feel like through the course of this week, you get back to that point, great, and we'll support you and you'll be ready to roll. If you need a week, then that's okay. I'll be ready to go, too. So it comes down to just having that communication and just making sure he understands that we support his decision, whatever that is.
Andrew
You know, that's a. That's a guy that knows his role. Like, I actually respect that answer a lot, and I believe it. Like, there are some quarterbacks that would say, I'm here for him, regardless, I'm here for him. And then if you're the starting quarterback, you're going, no, I'm not going to help that guy out. Like Ryan Tannehill. Remember Ryan Tannehill with Malik Willis? Like, he was honest. Like, no, I'm here to be the starting quarterback. I'm not here to be a teacher. Whereas a guy like Daniel Jones, before he gets named the starter, I bet you he was thinking, man, I hope I get this job over Anthony Richardson so I could prove that I'm an NFL player. Marcus Mario. I liked it, and I actually think that's true.
Myron
It was a veteran answer. It's also the answer from a guy who's made $84 million at this point in his career. Sure. Like, you know, Marcus is just having fun at this point, and he's in a really good spot. But that's the kind of experience you want. You want a guy behind you, you know, Carson Wentz, Jalen Hurst. That wasn't pretty.
Andrew
No, it wasn't.
Myron
So, you know, you want a guy who's behind the Jaden Daniels and. And telling them all the right things and. And really has his back. I mean, the question is going to be, you can't rush Jaden Daniels back. At the end of the day, if you're the commanders, you know what you have. There's no doubt about what you have at that position. You got to make sure he's completely healthy no matter when that is. So I wonder how long he's out, But I think this is a smart move by the commanders to hold him out until that knee gets healthy.
Andrew
Especially when the commanders, formerly known as a different team, had a different quarterback that kind of rushed back from an injury, and it didn't necessarily go all that well. Like, the Jaden Daniels injury discussion isn't just about week three, week four, week five of the 2025 season. It's about, hopefully 10 years. If you're a commander's fan. You don't want to mess that up. You mentioned Carson Wentz. Carson Wentz, the backup to JJ McCarthy, but now the starter today for the Minnesota Vikings. Who knows how long McCarthy might be out? Here's Adam Schefter on the Adam Schefter podcast talking about the vikings plans. Kevin O' Connell and Josh McCown and that organization. They're good enough to elevate a backup quarterback and Carson Wentz could be pretty good in Minnesota. If Carson Wentz comes in and plays well against a shaky Bengals defense on Sunday, they're not going to be in any rush. That buys them even more time. If he struggles on Sunday, maybe that expedites the timeline on J.J. mcCarthy. Now, one question, Myron, that you and I have talked about a couple times during the commercial breaks.
Myron
Yeah.
Andrew
It's one thing if Wentz plays well to not rush back McCarthy from a health standpoint.
Myron
Yep.
Andrew
It's another thing from an on the field standpoint if Carson Wentz plays well.
Myron
Yeah. It's just, it's just going to be hard to give that locker room back to second year quarterback who's played two games in two years and has really played one quality quarter. Now, I'm not in the comment, I'm not in the club Andrew of It's over for J.J. mcCarthy. No, he hasn't played a lot of football. Right. Like before this season. The last sanctioned game he played was the national championship with Michigan.
Andrew
Sure.
Myron
Right. So this is a dude who I think experience is a big part of it, getting used to the speed of the game. But we haven't seen a lot of special moments so far outside of that 1/4 in the first game of the year, if Carson Wentz comes in as a veteran presence and this offense, which is designed to do a lot of cool things with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison's coming back. You lose Aaron Jones, but you bring in Cam Acres who's basically been a backup whenever they needed one for the Vikings. If this offense rose, you got to think about, okay, how long do you keep this going if he looks like he has commanded this offense?
Andrew
Yeah. And now the question is what about the Cincinnati Bengals? Rich Eisen earlier this week talking about the Bengals chances without Joe Burrow.
Myron
Jake Browning started seven games the last time that Joe Burrow couldn't finish it. And the team finished nine and eight, which unfortunately for the Bengals was good enough for last place in the division. And so why would anybody be surprised if that team that went 9, 8 and Browning finished 4 and 3 and they started 0 and 2 and were at.500 after six weeks. Why would anybody be surprised if Jake Browning goes one game over. 500? That's 10 and seven the rest of the way. 10 and seven might make the playoffs. Season is not over. I mean, it depends on what the word over means.
Andrew
Yeah, you know, my only thing is that defense that Jake Browning had, not great, but not considered the worst in the league like it was last year. And I didn't really see a defense that got all that much better this offseason. So that will be that would be my pushback toward Rich Eisen. All right, coming up next, we got some more games to talk about and more banged up quarterbacks to talk about here on Matt Meyer and ESPN Radio and the ESPN app, the Jack Welch Management Institute at Strayer University helps you go from I know the way to I've arrived with our top 10 ranked online MBA. Gain skills you can learn today and apply tomorrow. Get ready to go from make it happen to made it happen and keep striving. Visit Strayer Edu Jack Welchmba to learn more. Strayer University is certified to operate in Virginia by Chev and has many campuses including at 2121 15th Street north in Arlington, Virginia. I'm Christian McCaffrey, pro running back and Abercrombie is an official fashion partner of the NFL. I'm not kidding when I say NFL by Abercrombie broke the Internet last year and I think this season's lineup is even cooler and so does my wife who keeps stealing all my hoodies. Stay fit for the season and Abercrombie's.
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Andrew
The app online and in store Foreign the podcast 30 minutes from kickoff here on Matt and Myron ESPN radio. The ESPN app SiriusXM channel 80 presented you by our friends at Progressive Insurance. You missed anything on today's show. You can listen to the Matt and Myron podcast, available wherever you get your podcast. And make sure you tune in. Sunday Night baseball tonight on ESPN radio coverage Astros Mariners begins at 6 o', clock, but before any of that we have the Sunday doubleheader here on ESPN Radio. Bengals, Vikings, who we just talked about in the previous segment. That coverage begins at noon followed by Niners and Cardinals. So more games to talk about here. Myron, we got the packers and the Browns and through two weeks the Green Bay packers have showed, hey, we are a legitimate team in the nfc. And through two weeks the Cleveland Browns had said, yeah, all that talk about the backup quarterbacks. Maybe you were on to something because it's not working out here with Joe Flacco in Cleveland. And they're just going to keep on doing it until they realize maybe now's the time to turn it. I don't know. If you're a player inside any of these locker rooms, it's two totally different feels. If you're a Packer, you're thinking, hey, we could run the table here. I'm not talking about the undefeated season. I'm just talking about, hey, we could put ourselves in a spot where we could have the playoffs go through Lambeau.
Myron
Yeah.
Andrew
If you're Cleveland, you're probably sitting there going, what am I doing here? Because this isn't fun.
Myron
Yeah. You're like Miles Gary. Like, at least I'm rich. Right? I mean, I think that's probably the only thing that you're excited about.
Andrew
I don't need him talking about how he's embarrassed. I don't. Because you could have left. Like, you could have left until they put the check in front of you and you said, oh, wow, this is nice money, and I'm all for you getting your money, but don't then say, hey, I want to go somewhere else because I want to be in a better position to win. Then they give you the paycheck. So you say all the right things of, I'm here to build a new culture in Cleveland. And then two weeks into the season, you're talking about how it's embarrassing. It is. Well, you know what? That's on you, my man.
Myron
Yeah. I mean, it's also not the NBA, Right. Like, NBA, you can just change where. Go wherever you want to go. It's a little more complicated in the NFL. I think if you're Miles Garrett, you realize, like, this is a team that's a long way from. From being relevant in the division, outside the division. This feels like a team that's playing for 20, 26.
Andrew
Yeah.
Myron
Where they have a couple of first round picks and maybe they get their quarterback there. It's probably less promising as a Browns fan, because you look at college football right now, oh, it's horrible. And I don't think you have a guy where you're like, that dude can come in and certainly be a difference maker as a young quarterback. So it's just all bad. You know, if you're the Cleveland Browns and there's not, you know, it's like, like football teams are like one of those giant cruise ships, man. It's hard to turn it. It takes a long time to get it going. In a different direction. So I can understand why you'd be disappointed if you were Miles Garrett.
Andrew
Yeah. But still, like you, you could have left. Did you think it was gonna get better? Like did you think Joe Flacco or Kenny Pickett or third round pick Dylan Gabriel or fifth round pick Shador Sanders in year one was going to do anything for you?
Myron
Like.
Andrew
No. You have to realize it's not going to be good for you guys this season.
Myron
But there's not a ton of 200. Like again, I think we talk sometimes about the NFL likes the NBA. I don't know that a bunch of teams had $200 million just sitting around this off season to, to give.
Andrew
Sure.
Myron
You know what I mean. And certainly the contenders probably don't have that right. Kind of cash. Like they're probably not spent. They probably, if they are giving up that kind of money, they've already done it on their top defensive stars.
Andrew
Yeah, but you've mentioned it with quarterbacks, there's tears, right? There's tears to contender to no contender. And the Browns are at the bottom and it's not happening anytime soon.
Myron
No. And it's a tough position to be in, you know, because it's again in that division. You can get better and still be pretty bad.
Andrew
Right.
Myron
But their problem is they're not getting better. And I think that's why you're the five alarm fire is already happening for the Cleveland Browns who just don't look like they have a way to be a good team no matter what they do this year.
Andrew
Right. And then on the flip side, Green base found something right. Obviously they acquire Micah Parsons in the trade to already a pretty good defense in Green Bay. And now you're starting to see that growth from Jordan Love. He was on the Rich Eisen show earlier in this week talking about his expectations for year three.
Jordan Love
Going into year three as a starter, I've learned so much and been building up and taking every rep and just learning from it and growing. And so I think this year, you know, not just me, but the team we have, the offense we got the weapons we have around us the O line, you know, the running back with Josh Jacobs. So we got weapons. And I think we've all been building this thing together and you know, learning about each other, learning how we can evolve both as offense. So you know, I've been saying that the sky's the limit, but it always, it always comes down to going out there and performing on Sundays. And I think the way we started the season on offense, we've been doing a great job. And I think there's still. The fun part about it is there's still plays that we haven't hit on, some really big, explosive plays that once we start hitting those, we're going to take off, be running. So I'm excited, I feel good, I feel confident, and I got a lot of playmakers around me, so we got to keep going out there and making it happen on Sundays.
Andrew
There's a couple of things in there that I just want to point out. One, I think him mentioning Josh Jacobs is part of the biggest reason why he's having success. Because we've seen the return of the back, right? The resurgence of the running back in recent years. Saquon with the Eagles last year, Derek Henry with the Ravens. Josh Jacobs, because he's not the name of Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley, has almost been like, I don't know, underappreciated for what he's been able to do for Jordan. Love, because that ground game has made him more comfortable. Because let's not act like even though he says the weapons around me, it's not like he's got Justin Jefferson, right? Like he's got a bunch of guys at wide receiver, but he makes the most of them and that ground game has helped him out tremendously.
Myron
Well, I mean, having a bunch of guys, though, I think he's also got some good receivers, right? Not bad, but. But I think, well, the advantage is because they've dealt with injuries. The advantage of being a situation compared to what Minnesota has is if Justin Jefferson goes down, that that's it. Whereas this team has been able to sustain a bunch of injuries, especially coming to the season, and they still look really good. Like, we're not even seeing a completely healthy Green Bay packers team yet. So what happens when they hit their peak once you get into the rest of the season? So I think we were having this conversation across sports. Who's going to challenge Philly? Who's the team that Philly has to worry about the most? It was like, all right, Matthew Stafford, if the, if he gets healthy, right, and the Rams adding Devonte Adams, could that be the team? Okay, Washington, we know what they did a year ago. Now Jaden Daniels is hurt. Detroit losing their coordinators. I think the jury's still out on them. It clearly looks like it's Green Bay right now as the team that if anyone can beat Philly in an NFC Championship game matchup, it looks like it's them.
Andrew
And I think we all feel pretty comfortably saying the packers will improve to three. And, oh, today when they take down Joe Flacco and the Cleveland Browns. The other game to talk about here, Jets Bucks. Justin Fields out. He got hurt with the concussion last week. So Todd Taylor getting the start for the jets against Tampa Bay, who once again on Monday night, they give up the score late, and Baker Mayfield says, don't worry, I got this. They go down the field and they score, and the Buccaneers start the season two. And, oh, and I think for the first time in a while, we'll see an NFC south champion, even though it's been the Bucks every year, win it a little bit earlier than normal this season.
Myron
I can't tell you, Andrew, if to Rod Taylor's rookie season was 2014 or 1993. Like, I don't know. Like, neither would surprise me because it feels like you're, like, sitting there and you're like, all right, man. Oh, no. A quarterback is hurt. How is To Rod Taylor on their roster? Like, to Rod Taylor somehow is on every roster of any team that has a quarterback who gets hurt. I don't know how he pulls it off, but this is an interesting situation for a Jets team where, you know, Justin Fields, to me, had shown some signs of growth. It had some rocky moments as well. But now the injury puts you in a tough spot. The Bucks are dealing with these injuries as well. The Bucks have been a team that can they finish better than anybody. Like, it's two minutes left. They know how to close out games. They've done that the past couple of weeks. Tristan Worsh is still out. Right. Jaylen McMillan, wide receiver is hurt. Chris Godwin is still hurt. So this isn't a team that's 100% yet, but Baker Mayfield, and again, that Baker Mayfield quarterback tier is pretty good, you know, and people kind of look over those guys, past those guys. But imagine if they didn't have a Baker Mayfield who I think the last two seasons has had more passing touchdowns than any other quarterback. So this is a team that is just finding ways to come together at the most crucial moments. The challenge is you don't always want to be in these close games in the fourth quarter and hope something goes your way.
Andrew
Yeah. At some point, you want to be able to pull away and just kind of make the game a little bit more comfortable for you, you know, why is Baker Mayfield overlooked? I don't know if it's part of the reason, jumping from team to team, because that has happened. Not that he's wanted to do that, but, you know, the Cleveland Browns just said, now we don't want you anymore.
Myron
And are they better off?
Andrew
Yeah. Like they were like, yeah, we're good. We got Joe Flacco. They moved on pretty quickly. But you're starting to see a guy that's putting together. And again, to give Baker Mayfield credit, when Tom Brady left, people thought it was done. Like the time in Tampa was over. And no, he. Has he gotten to a Super Bowl? No, he's not gotten there. But there is a difference from being Tom Brady super bowl contenders to being the Cleveland Browns. Instead. Baker Mayfield said, hold on a second. I'm a guy that's bounced around. I'm a guy that's talented. I'm a guy that kind of knows the way this league is going. And oh, by the way, it doesn't hurt to have Mike Evans with you. Emeka Igbuka, when you do get Chris Godwin back. Kate Ons, a decent tight end like Baker Mayfield's got weapons around him and they're starting to build a pretty good defense with a great defiance. Defensive minded head coach in Todd Bowles.
Myron
Yeah, and he's better than most of the quarterbacks in this league. He's not better than the top tier guys. Like, you know, he's not better than those guys. But Trevor Lawrence or Baker Mayfield right now, that's not a question. You mean Baker Mayfield all day, like, so again, there are people who look at that tier of quarterbacks and feel like that's not a franchise guy. That's not the kind of guy that you would pay. Okay. But a lot of teams don't have a guy that good and to your point, to bounce around and to still keep his head up and to still know that he's a starter in this league. Being in the right situation certainly helps, you know, being on the right team. But Baker Mayfield is just finding ways, man, to keep Tampa Bay relevant. And I don't know how many quarterbacks you could put in that situation and they would be as good as they've been under Baker Mayfield.
Andrew
Yeah, exactly. I mean, look, we're watching. You mentioned Torod Taylor bouncing around from team to team. Year 15, by the way, for Torod Taylor, Carson Wentz, sixth year where he's starting for six different team. There's a lot of guys that can't overcome that. Baker Mayfield has been able to. All right, so throughout the entire show today here on Matt Myron, we've been getting you set for one o'. Clock. We are 18 minutes away from kickoff league wide. So coming up next, we Take your pick here on ESPN Radio and the ESPN app. When did making plans get this complicated? It's time to streamline with WhatsApp, the secure messaging app that brings the whole group together. Use polls to settle dinner plans, send event invites and pin messages so no one forgets mom 60th and never miss.
Myron
A meme or milestone.
Andrew
All protected with end to end encryption. It's time for WhatsApp message privately with everyone. Learn more@WhatsApp.com this episode is brought to.
Myron
You by State Farm. Checking off the boxes on your to do list is a great feeling. And when it comes to checking off coverage, a State Farm agent can help you choose an option that's right for you. Whether you prefer talking in person on the phone or using the award winning app, it's nice knowing you have help finding coverage that best fits your needs. Like a good neighborhood, State Farm is there. Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Andrew
We're less than 15 minutes away from kickoff. Less than 15 minutes away from me being able to put my rear end on the couch and just eat leftovers and do nothing absolutely all damn day. This is Matt and Myron on ESPN Radio, the ESPN app SiriusXM channel. Lady, I'm Andrew. Sal Trude is filling in for Matt. I mean, the beauty of doing what we do, Myron, is. Honey, I gotta watch. It's for work. I have to watch. I have to have this beer, I have to have this buffalo chicken dip in front of me.
Myron
Yeah, I mean, I gotta buy an extra tv. You know, I got. I gotta have every subscription. You know, it's all work.
Andrew
It all makes sense. We have to do it. All right, so it's time. As we get set for 1 o', clock, 4 o', clock Sunday night and Monday night, it's time now to take your pick.
Myron
Take your pick. You take your pick. It's time to take your pick with Matt and Myon.
Andrew
Not just Matt and Myon. Again, Matt out, I'm Andrew. Style trudas in for Matt, but also with somebody that we had to work really hard to get my.
Myron
It was difficult.
Andrew
I know you were calling people left and right to try to get this special guest today because you always have, always have the guest picker and man, finally Mikey C said, all right for you guys, I'll do it. Mikey, what's up, man?
Mikey C
Mikey C. Myron, I haven't seen you a while. Andrew. I saw you last week. How you guys doing?
Myron
Good, man. We had to call your people, man, to see if we can make it work, man. We. We struck a deal at the final hour.
Mikey C
Yeah.
Andrew
Yeah.
Mikey C
The contract finally came in and so did the money. So thank you.
Andrew
Yeah, exactly. I just remember when we texted him, he first said, new phone. Who dis. I. I want nothing to do with you guys. All right, let's get things started. We have Bengals. We have Vikings. Myron, what do we got?
Myron
We're doing the sounder, right? We do the sound.
Andrew
Oh, I'm sorry.
Myron
Bengals at Vikings Diva. I am. I'm. Matt Jones has had an impact on me. Clearly this is the game between two backups, right. Jake Browning, who actually led the Bengals to a plus 500 season two years ago when Joe Burrow got hurt. Now you got Carson Wentz in Minnesota. I think Minnesota's dealing with even more injuries, but I'll give them the edge at home between backup quarterbacks. Give me the Vikings to win.
Andrew
Mikey, see what we got. By the way, this game on ESPN radio today.
Mikey C
Yeah, I'm on the Jake Browning train. Give me the Bengals to take the little bit of an upset. Yeah, sort of.
Andrew
I'm going to go back with the old ties of Philadelphia. Carson Wentz was at one point MVP candidate. Give me the Vikings. What's next?
Myron
Steelers at Patriots? Yeah, I mean, this is the Steelers team where we obviously saw how Aaron Rogers struggled against Seattle after a strong first week with those four touchdown passes. I think this is a game where the Patriots win at home. Drake May continues to. To grow. And I just think Aaron Rodgers, what you saw last week is going to be more likely than what you saw in week one.
Andrew
Mikey.
Mikey C
I think the weather is cooling off a little bit up here, which is, you know, a little bit more like Aaron Rodgers weather. So give me the Steelers.
Andrew
I think this game is going to be absolutely gross and I think Vrabel is going to do whatever he can to keep from Aaron Rodgers from doing stuff. Which is why the Steelers rely on the ground game today. I will go Pittsburgh in a low scoring northeast battle.
Myron
I love it. Colts at Titans. Danny Dimes. I mean, one of the questions in this game is whether or not Cam War is going to get more opportunities to show his arm talent. I don't think we've seen enough of that in the first couple of weeks, but it's not going to matter. It feels like the Colts have just figured it out with Daniel Jones. The run game with Jonathan Taylor has been incredible. I think he's number two now behind Ed James with games of 100 yards or more. So give me the Colts to win this Mike.
Mikey C
Yeah, I Think the Colts are legit. Little bit of a letdown last week didn't look as impressive. But give me the Colts again this week.
Andrew
All right, three straight. I'm going Colts as well. What's next?
Myron
Texans at Jaguars. In the back of my mind, I'm hearing Matt Jones say, speed it up, right? Because we're up against the clock. Texas Jags, you know, Liam Cohen probably fights with Trevor Lawrence again. Texans got to get a big win. I think C.J. stroud comes through. Give me the Texans.
Mikey C
I probably wouldn't watch this game if it was in my backyard, but give me the Texans.
Andrew
I guess Texans defense will drive Trevor Lawrence crazy. I'm with Houston. What's next?
Myron
Falcons at Panthers. I don't know if B. John Robinson is the best player in football, but, I mean, he's looked pretty good. That Falcons defense has gotten a lot better. James Pierce Jr. They obviously moved up to get him. Price Young is. I mean, outside of that comeback. Ever said a comeback attempt. They're also down 27 to 3. You know what I mean? So we got to add that factor into it. I just don't think they have a guy at that position. They're just a bad team, I think, in general. Give me the Falcons.
Mikey C
Michael Penix Jr. Getting his first start in Mikey C's fantasy team this week. So I got to go Falcons.
Andrew
Bryce Young had like four good games in his career. He's not going to have a fifth today. Give me Atlanta.
Myron
Rams at Eagles. Yeah, I mean, not going to be any snow on the ground. I think for this one. Rams played the Eagles tough in the playoffs last year. You know, I feel like the Eagles have played okay and still managed to be two. And, oh, against the Cowboys and Chiefs. They'll be better this year. They'll be better today. Give me the Eagles to win.
Mikey C
I really want to take the Rams. I think the whole tush push thing is in Philly's head a little. Yeah, I'll do it. Give me the Rams.
Andrew
I said it locally, I'll say it nationally till I see more out of the Eagles offense. Give me the Rams.
Caller
Whoa.
Andrew
Injured? Really?
Myron
Jets at Buccaneers.
Andrew
Too bad we don't have much time, Myron. We gotta keep going.
Myron
Turrod Taylor, who is, you know, a backup for anybody who needs one. They're certainly gonna use the backup for.
Andrew
The Baltimore Colts at one point.
Myron
For real. Playing for the jets going up against the Bucks. Were again, they're not a completely healthy team, but Baker Mayfield is just so good at winning those tough games. Close games. I don't think this will be that close. Give me the bucks to win.
Mikey C
Yeah, I think it's. I think it's going to be one of those scrappy games. Give me the Buccaneers as well.
Andrew
Tampa starts three and oh, what's next?
Myron
Raiders at Commanders. I don't know if Ashton Genti is the guy or not, but this is a good game to go out and kind of shake off some of the cobwebs, get ready for this level and I think we'll see that from Ashton Genti. Give me the Raiders to beat the Commanders without Jaden Daniels.
Mikey C
I agree with you. I'm taking Raiders too, over the Commanders.
Andrew
Yeah, Gino can throw better than Marcus, which is crazy to say in the year of 2025, but I'm going to go with the Raiders.
Myron
Packers at Browns. Packers. Packers. We don't need to discuss this.
Andrew
Yes.
Mikey C
When we can move on.
Andrew
Move on.
Myron
Packers, Broncos at Chargers. I mean, the Justin Herbert development is a big deal. I do think Khalil Mack being out is going to affect that defense more than people realize. But Chargers still win.
Mikey C
So the Mikey C Lock of the week. Chargers only two and a half points. I take six and a half. Give me the Chargers.
Andrew
I'm going to take the charges as well. That Broncos defense that's supposed to be top five did not look good last week against Indy. I don't know if it looks any better against the Chargers. Give me the Broncos or give me the charge. Excuse me.
Myron
Saints at Seahawks. I mean, Spencer Radler, Sam Donald, that's like we used to have to buy those off brand Sega Genesis NFL games, you know what I mean, where you couldn't put the real players in the game. That's what this starting quarterback matchup looks like. But I'll take the Seahawks to win this one.
Mikey C
Yeah, they're a heavy favorite. Give me the Seahawks because they got no other reason.
Andrew
Same. Let's keep going.
Myron
Cardinals at 49ers. Cardinals have a banged up secondary, which is going to be a problem I think in this game. But banged up quarterback obviously for the 49ers. Mack Jones. Give me the Cardinals to win on the road against the 49ers though.
Mikey C
I'm a 49er fan so I'll stick with my team. Give me the 49ers.
Andrew
Continue to prove me right that anybody can win with Kyle Shanahan, Mac Jones and the Niners. What's next?
Myron
Cowboys at Bears. We probably have to be even faster here. Cowboys. I don't believe in Caleb Williams and.
Andrew
Anything that Ben, the Cowboys do Dallas. What's next?
Myron
Chief said Giants. I mean Kansas City is going to win, but I think how they look will be the conversation on Monday. How good do you look against a Giants team or Russell Wilson looked pretty good last week. Give me the Kansas City Chiefs.
Mikey C
Yeah, the Chiefs get their first win. Kansas City.
Andrew
They're not starting owing three. Give me K.C. all right, one more.
Myron
Lions @ Ravens. I mean regular season, Baltimore Ravens at home. They're going to win, right? And probably cover like they just. That's what they do. That'll happen here despite the Lions putting up historic numbers last week. Give me the Ravens.
Mikey C
Yeah, this is like 53 point over and under. So it'll probably be like a 7 nothing game. But I'll take Baltimore.
Andrew
I'll take Baltimore as well. But I will go with the over in this game. All right, Mikey C. Great job. Go back to being my superstar that you are. You know, I know it's hard to get you, man.
Mikey C
Maybe next time.
Myron
Well, I'll bring you our to Rod Taylor. I think of picks, man.
Andrew
All right.
Mikey C
Thanks, boys.
Andrew
Damn right. There he is. Good job, Mikey C. We appreciate it. All right, we got one o' clock kickoff coming a little bit. Did I surprise you with my Eagles Rams pick?
Myron
Very much so.
Andrew
I'm sorry. I'm sorry to my my fellow Philadelphia team. It's just the way that it is. All right. Don't forget football Sunday Doubleheader today on ESPN Radio. Bengals, Vikings and then 49ers at Cardinals. Myron, thanks for letting me hang out with you again today. It was a lot of fun. James Steele, Great job. Cam, Great job back at the studio as well as Mikey C. Our guest picker today.
Myron
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.
Caller
Talk about stepping up.
Andrew
It's time to level up your game.
Myron
Introducing the all new new ESPN app.
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Myron
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Myron
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Hour 3: King of the Mountain
Broadcast: September 21, 2025
Hosts: Myron Medcalf, (Matt Jones scheduled but out), Andrew (fill-in), plus guest Mikey C
Platform: ESPN Radio
This episode kicks off less than an hour from Sunday NFL kickoff with Myron Medcalf and guest hosts, focusing on listener sports takes in the “King of the Mountain” call-in segment, backup quarterbacks stepping into starting roles across the league due to injuries, and rapid-fire NFL game previews. Listeners passionately debate which team deserves more respect, whether certain players are overhyped, and which underdog might surprise this week. The episode captures fan energy, lively banter, and actionable sports analysis for football’s biggest day.
[00:33-01:28]
[02:07-13:16]
[15:16-22:03]
[23:15-33:45]
[35:15-44:16]
Myron, on what callers need to win “King of the Mountain”:
“If you have a cool little, like, metaphor and you get creative with it, then you’re gonna win.” [12:44]
Danny in Florida, earning King of the Mountain take of the day:
“Tennessee is strong…look out Florida in Florida, October 22nd. Tennessee is coming against you and the whole SEC.” [06:58]
Marcus Mariota, demonstrating the ideal veteran backup:
"Just be you ... if you feel like ... you get back to that point, great, and we’ll support you ... If you need a week, then that’s OK. I’ll be ready to go, too." [17:02]
Myron, reflecting on sports talk radio:
"It makes me realize that we're pretty good at our jobs, right?...what we do is maybe a little bit harder than what you might think." [13:04]
Jordan Love on Packers’ potential:
"The sky’s the limit ... excited, I feel good, I feel confident, and I got a lot of playmakers around me, so we got to keep going out there and making it happen on Sundays." [27:39]
Summary prepared for Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron, 9/21/25, Hour 3.