Hour 3: LIVE in Cincinnati

Summary

Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron – Hour 3: LIVE in Cincinnati

Release Date: December 1, 2024
Hosts: Matt Jones & Myron Medcalf
Platform: ESPN Radio

---

1. Live Broadcast Atmosphere in Cincinnati

The episode kicks off with Matt and Myron tuning into the electrifying pre-game environment in Cincinnati, home to the Bengals and Steelers showdown. The duo describes the scene as overwhelmingly loud and chaotic, likening it to a "heavy metal concert" (00:19).

Myron:
"I feel like I'm at a heavy metal concert. It is so loud in here." (00:19)

Despite the tumultuous atmosphere, they commend the production team for ensuring that listeners at home can hear their conversation clearly, even as they struggle to communicate amidst the noise (00:40).

---

2. Steelers vs. Bengals Rivalry

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the intense rivalry between the Steelers and Bengals. Matt observes unsettling behavior among some fans, noting a shift in the crowd's demeanor with individuals seemingly looking to incite trouble rather than support their teams (00:56).

Matt:
"The vibe is changing a little bit... It doesn't seem like they have any real mission here." (00:56)

Myron echoes these concerns, sharing an anecdote about a 24-year-old associate who appeared excessively intoxicated ("taking three shots of Fireball in 20 minutes") during the game, highlighting the potential for rowdiness to escalate into fights (01:58).

Myron:
"This is an absolute... It is Mad Max at a football game." (02:06)

The hosts agree that Bengals-Steelers games often become heated, emphasizing the need for fans to stay vigilant and maintain decorum amidst the fervor (01:58).

---

3. Game Previews and Predictions

The hosts delve into upcoming NFL matchups, providing insights and predictions based on team performances, player conditions, and other relevant factors.

Bills vs. 49ers

Matt expresses skepticism about the 49ers' chances against the Bills, especially given the challenging snowy conditions in Buffalo. He praises the 49ers' ability to execute low-risk plays, which could be advantageous in adverse weather (02:47).

Matt:
"The Niners can be decent. But what's that line in Batman vs. Bane?..." (03:18)

Their discussion takes a humorous turn as Matt mistakenly references a movie quote, leading to light-hearted banter about the confusion (03:18 - 08:18).

Myron:
"I love you. I've been doing this show with you for seven years. I think you leave the philosophy to me, leave the movie quotes to me." (05:08)

Ultimately, both hosts lean towards a Bills victory, citing Buffalo's preparedness for snowy games and the 49ers' inconsistent performance (04:32 - 05:29).

Other Key Matchups:

• Texans vs. Jacksonville: Both hosts predict a Texans win, highlighting the Texans' recent struggles and the Jacksonville Jaguars' declining performance (05:29 - 06:16).

• Commanders vs. Other Teams: Predictions favor the Commanders, with discussions centered around rookie quarterbacks and team dynamics (38:19 - 38:31).

• Rams vs. Saints: Matt and Myron consider this a "must-win" game for the Rams to stay in contention, predicting a Rams victory (39:34 - 39:50).

---

4. Rookie Quarterback Analysis

A substantial segment is dedicated to evaluating the potential of rookie quarterbacks across the league. The hosts assess Jaden Daniels, Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, and Drake May, discussing their performances, team situations, and future prospects.

Matt:
"CJ Stroud needs a big performance for his own confidence going forward." (06:16)

Myron:
"Bo Nicks has been the one that surprised me... Sean Payton clearly saw something." (14:02)

They analyze each quarterback's strengths, current struggles, and the support systems around them, expressing cautious optimism about their ability to develop into franchise leaders over the next few years (13:09 - 15:57).

---

5. Listener Interactions and Comments

Throughout the episode, Matt and Myron engage with listener feedback, sharing humorous and appreciative comments.

• Appreciation for Chemistry:
  Listener Michael C.:
  "Matt, you guys are the best... You and Myron are the best." (19:27)

• Humor in Stats:
  Listener Comment:
  "I really enjoy when Myron says things like the Ohio river is over 700ft deep and Dan Quayle had an ERA of 3.23 in the 1984 baseball season." (32:51)

The hosts respond with self-deprecating humor, acknowledging occasional inaccuracies in their statistics while maintaining an engaging rapport with their audience (33:32 - 33:48).

---

6. Final Game Picks and Predictions

As the show progresses, Matt and Myron compile their final picks for the day's games, discussing each one with enthusiasm and detailed reasoning.

Examples Include:

• Patriots vs. Certain Opponents:
  Matt:
  "Give me the Patriots to win." (34:34)

• Bengals vs. Steelers:
  Myron:
  "Give me the Bengals." (35:20)

• ** Chargers vs. Falcons:**
  Myron:
  "I'll take the Chargers to win this one." (35:49)

• Seahawks vs. Jets:
  Matt:
  "I'll take the Seahawks to win in New York or New Jersey." (36:19)

The hosts meticulously break down each game, considering team form, player performance, and situational factors to back their predictions (34:34 - 38:49).

---

7. Closing Remarks and Reflections

In their concluding moments, Matt and Myron reflect on the vibrant Cincinnati atmosphere, encouraging listeners to experience similar game-day vibes. They express gratitude towards their production team and listeners, highlighting the unique energy of live broadcasts.

Matt:
"Listen, man, I would say this put Cincinnati on your bucket list for a game because if this is the vibe, I can only imagine what it's like in the actual stadium for a big game." (43:09)

Myron:
"This has been awesome. And if you enjoy the show, which I hope you do, go to your local podcast store on Spotify... We’d appreciate all your support." (43:25)

The episode wraps up with enthusiastic endorsements of their live experience, reinforcing the show's dynamic and entertaining nature.

---

Notable Quotes and Moments

• On Game-Day Chaos:
  Myron:
  "It is Mad Max at a football game." (02:06)

• Humorous Misquote Incident:
  Matt:
  "I didn't get the words right." (04:32)

• Listener Appreciation:
  Myron:
  "I love you. I've been doing this show with you for seven years." (05:08)

• Statistical Humor:
  Matt:
  "He has more games this season with 185 yards from scrimmage or more than the rest of the NFL combined." (27:10)

These moments encapsulate the hosts' chemistry, humor, and deep engagement with both the sport and their audience.

---

Conclusion

Hour 3 of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" offers an exhilarating deep dive into the NFL's latest happenings, amplified by the lively Cincinnati pre-game atmosphere. Matt and Myron balance insightful sports analysis with light-hearted banter, making the episode both informative and entertaining. Whether discussing intense rivalries, evaluating rookie talent, or making game-day predictions, the hosts deliver a comprehensive and engaging narrative for sports enthusiasts.

For those looking to stay updated with all things sports in a fun and dynamic format, "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" continues to be a must-listen every Sunday morning.

---

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections as per the instructions.

Transcript

[A]

Want to shop Walmart Black Friday deals first.

[B]

Walmart plus members get early access to our hottest deals. Join now and get 50% off a one year annual membership. Shop Black Friday deals first with Walmart.

[A]

Plus see [e-mail] this is Matt and Myron the podcast.

[B]

This is certainly the rowdiest atmosphere ever for Countdown to kick off on ESPN Radio. We are live in Cincinnati and it is. It's a party. I mean, it's not. I don't know how much you all can hear on the radio, but I feel like I'm at a heavy metal concert. It is so loud in here.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Thankfully our producers and our engineers are doing a great job of making it where you can sound. Where you can sound. Hear us at home. But Myron and I can barely hear each other. The Steelers and the Bengals are ready to go.

[A]

Yeah. I mean, can I be honest about something?

[B]

Yes, you can.

[A]

The vibe is changing a little bit. I see a couple dudes walking around. They don't have any food, no drinks. They're just kind of shoulder bumping people a little bit. Like. Like, it doesn't seem like they have any real mission here. And I think it's just something to watch. This is the moment as it unfolds.

[B]

This is a moment where Bengals Steelers games turn into fights. And it's noon. I just saw a guy. Let me tell you how corrupt the Bengal Steelers atmosphere is for people who don't. Who are listening nationally. I have a local show in Kentucky and I have four or five guys that work with me. As soon as we finish this show, we're getting in the car, we're driving to Seattle. Kentucky is playing Gonzaga next Saturday. So I'm driving across the country. One of my guys is 24 years old. I've never seen him go out. I've never seen him party. Yeah. All right. He walks into this place for Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and I look over, he's taking three shots of Fireball in 20 minutes.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he might be drunk at noon. Yeah.

[A]

Watch him.

[B]

That is what happens in a Bengal Steelers game.

[A]

Keep an eye on them. Keep, you know, keep an eye on them.

[B]

I'm just saying this place has a way to corrupt people who otherwise were completely. That's what happens at Bengal Steelers.

[A]

It is.

[B]

It is an absolute. It is Mad Max at a football game.

[A]

Yeah. I mean, again, I see about three dudes who are just eyeing people up like they just. I don't even know if they're wearing jerseys, you know?

[B]

Look at that guy. He football in his hand.

[A]

I mean, that's.

[B]

I saw a guy, big, I don't know, cheer there.

[A]

Is that the war cry? Is that their war cry? I don't know what's happening.

[B]

ESPN radio progressive keys to progress program providing cars to veterans in need. The bills and the 49ers will play tonight in the snow. We argued about the snow, but what about the game? 49ers have any chance of going into Orchard park and taking a victory tonight.

[A]

It just doesn't seem like with the conditions that the Niners can do anything they want to do. What I will say is what the Niners are very good at is playing sort of that short game, right? Those runs, those quick passes. And just let Brock Purdy kind of play that low risk football, which I think you have to do in the snow. Like, you don't really have another option. So I think in that regard, I think the Niners can be decent. But, you know, what's that line in Batman vs. Bane? Batman.

[B]

Batman vs. Bane. What movie was that?

[A]

The Dark Knight Rises.

[B]

Are you thinking Batman versus Bane?

[A]

No, no, listen. He says bane is the villain in Dark Knight Rises. And he says to Batman, oh, so you think you've been molded by the darkness? Bane says, I was born in it. And I think that's Buffalo in the snow. Like, sure you fought.

[B]

You sure you weren't taking the fireball shots with Mario? What are you talking about? Like, what are you even talking about?

[A]

What are you talking about?

[B]

Bane. And this is a Bills 49ers game. We talk about being molded. Dartmouth. The Bills are playing the 49ers. This is not. Like, we're not doing n here. This is a football game.

[A]

I can explain.

[B]

Hold up. I don't know if you can.

[A]

I didn't get the words right.

[B]

I don't think you did. What are you talking about?

[A]

My point is. My point is, there's a scene where the villain says, basically, I live in the conditions that you've adapted to. And that's Buffalo in the snow.

[B]

That's what you were getting at, that whole spiel about living in the darkness. And I was moaning, in the darkness? Is that just a way to say buffalo's been in the snow?

[A]

I was going somewhere with it, and then I forgot the exact words from the sea. And then I think. And then I think I was thinking of a different movie and I got it all crossed up.

[B]

You know what, Myron? I have to tell you, I love you. I've been doing this show with you for seven years. I think you leave the philosophy to me, leave the movie quotes to me. You just focus on bills and 49.

[A]

You know what I was talking, and I couldn't pull out of it.

[B]

Yeah, you just kept going.

[A]

I couldn't pull out of it.

[B]

All right, so tell me, who do you pick tonight in this game?

[A]

Oh, man. Oh, Bills. Yeah, Bills, of course. Bills, of course. But again, like, there are people, like, stuck on highways out there, man. Like, it could be really nasty during Buffalo.

[B]

Buffalo's made for this weapon, like when you create. When you create a Buffalo Bills team, when you create an entire. The whole institution of the Bills. It's four nights like this. Buffalo is winning this game, and I would put any amount of money on it. You put this kind of snow on a field, unless they're playing an elite team, unless they're playing Mahomes or someone like that, I'm going to take Buffalo. Now we're also going to have the Texans. The Texans have fallen apart in the last few weeks. Yeah, Titans go and beat them in Houston. They go to Jacksonville. Jacksonville's 2 and 9 lame duck head coach. They're. They're going nowhere. This is a game the Texans have to win. Right? They have to win this.

[A]

If you want to know how quickly perceptions can change, look at CJ Stroud, who. Last year, there were a lot of us saying, if I had to pick six or seven quarterbacks. Right now, C.J. stroud is in that group. Now, you look at some of the injuries he's had to deal with around him, and he's had his struggles. He's had still some highs, but a lot of lows. You gotta. You don't even have to just win this game. You got to win this game convincingly. Like, you got to get a blowout under your belt so that you can remind yourself, if you're C.J. stroud, of how good you can be, because I don't think he's had enough of those moments this season. And again, you're playing a coach in a situation where the Jazz got to rebuild in a lot of areas. CJ Stroud needs a big sports center worthy performance for his own confidence going forward.

[B]

I just got a text on the text machine in the last segment. Matt, you said you could smell something. Myron must have smelled it during the break because that made absolutely no sense. Has there ever been a higher, higher co host on a radio show than Myron sounded during the last session?

[A]

No. Listen, I got to do a better job of writing down my movie quotes.

[B]

That might be a Good way to start.

[A]

I shouldn't be allowed to freestyle them. I should be allowed to guess.

[B]

No, I don't think you. I don't think you should be allowed to freestyle. Yes, let's go ahead. But you read the quote.

[A]

Okay, read the quote.

[B]

Can we then play what Myn said?

[A]

Ability to do that.

[B]

Well, first read. Read me the quote. Yeah, read.

[A]

Read the quote first.

[B]

Oh, you think darkness is your ally. You merely adopted the dark. I was born in it, molded by it. I didn't see the light until I was already a man. By then it was nothing to me but blight. And you thought that's what you said. And that's what you thought that's what you were trying to say.

[A]

Here's what happened. As I was saying it, I was like, oh, no, am I quoting a different movie? Like, I thought I was quoting two movies? But I kept. I had to keep going. So that's all I had to keep going.

[B]

Listen to this. Kentucky chair right here. Look at that. That's right. You got. There you go. Kentucky Wildcats. See, we are people. We go everywhere. My NFL show and they're still chanting, cat.

[A]

Is that dude still at the concession stands from the game yesterday or did he get what he needed?

[B]

I have to tell you, I've done a lot of radio shows. This one is one of the most off the rails. I will say to you all that are listening to this, I hope you like this because this is what I like to do. And this is absolute chaos in Cincinnati and I hope everybody's enjoyed it. We're going to talk. It's ESPN Radio is presented by progressive Keys to Progress program providing cars to veterans in need. We're going to look at some of the other games coming up, including Eagles, Ravens. We are in Cincinnati where this radio show is the living embodiment of Bengals Steelers games. This is Cabinet Kickoff on ESPN Radio.

[A]

Matt and Myron the podcast.

[B]

Welcome to AutoZone. What are you working on today? So you've got an oil change coming. You can go farther and save on full synthetic with our oil change special. Right now you can get 5 quarts of Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic with an STP Extended Life Oil Filter for just 33.99. Get the parts you need when you need them at autozone or autozone.com get in the zone. Autozone restrictions apply. Bombas makes the most comfortable socks, underwear and T shirts.

[A]

Bombas are so absurdly comfortable you may.

[B]

Throw out all your other clothes. Sorry, do we legally have to say that? No, this is Just how I talk. And I really love my bombas.

[A]

They do feel that good. And they do good too. One item purchased equals one item donated.

[B]

To feel good and do good, go.

[A]

To bombas.com espnpod and use code ESPNPOD.

[B]

For 20% off your first purchase.

[A]

That's B O m b a s.com espnpod and use code espnpod at checkout.

[B]

This is completely off the rails here. Canada Kickoff on ESPN radio. I need you to see the Bengals fan right here. What's your name? What? Shane.

[A]

Shane.

[B]

She was at. We had a life size cutout at my bar in Kentucky of John Daly. Don't ask me why.

[A]

We had it.

[B]

We had it. This woman just came up to me and said, I stole your life size cut out of John Daly and woke up the next morning in bed with it. And she just. Look at that picture. That's her in bed with my life size cut out of John Daly. And it's not a shock you're a Bengals fan, but give me a hug. Thank you very much. Please text me that. That is amazing. All right, so there you go.

[A]

For those who can't see this, there are a lot of fans of Matt down here in Cincinnati. I mean, it's like a combination of like if Tom Cruise were running for governor is how it feels. You know what I mean? Like it just, it's. And I feel like Jamie Foxx or something a little bit like. But it's pretty amazing to see.

[B]

This is amazing. My people, we're on the border at Kentucky.

[A]

The banks. These are in the banks.

[B]

I wondered where that John dailies out with. I've been looking for it.

[A]

How'd she get out the bar with us?

[B]

I guess she just walked out with it and there she's gone. All right, it is count down to kickoff. This is without now they've just bringing Myron a shot.

[A]

Don't give it to me. I'm not doing any of that.

[B]

He's out.

[A]

I'm out.

[B]

Explain to people you're new to this. I've been to this before. Would you say this is the wildest outside of maybe Buffalo pregame atmosphere?

[A]

Yeah, it looks.

[B]

You thought Green Bay was wild.

[A]

Yeah, but Green Bay was wild. Like families are grilling and barbecuing and playing games. It looks like everybody is drinking their fight juice. Like you gotta take five shots to go into the game because you don't know when a fight's going to jump off again. I told you there are some characters in this establishment that people need to keep an eye on there are a couple people here who just came here to fight and that's what makes this different.

[B]

Bengals and the Steelers are playing today. Let me ask you a question. We were talking about the rookie quarterbacks for a second ago. Jaden Daniels, Caleb Williams, Bo Nicks, Drake May. Could all four of them end up good?

[A]

Yeah, yeah. I think there's a. I think there's a. They're all in different scenarios. I mean, the thing about Caleb Williams that I think the Bears are saying this week was we're not going to let you mess this up. And I don't think a coach coming in, Matt has any security when it comes to Caleb Williams. Either you help him develop into a franchise quarterback or you'll be replaced, too. I think with Jaden Daniels, the schedule's gotten tougher. Obviously no one knew about him in the first seven or eight games and now they got all this film to evaluate. I also think he's hurt with that rib injury. Drake May is hard to judge because he got the late start, but I think there's a lot of promise there. And I think Bo Nicks with this Denver defense, they got a chance to get into the playoffs and be a team that nobody wants to face in the first round. So I think all four quarterbacks have a chance to be the quarterbacks of their franchises three, four years from now.

[B]

Yeah, I'm going to go through them real quick. Jaden Daniels was obviously awesome at the.

[A]

Beginning of the year.

[B]

He's hit a bump. I wouldn't be worried about him if I was a Commander fan. He has hit a bump. But you know what? I love the arm strength. I love the decision making. I think he's going to breed great. As a Bears fan with Caleb Williams, I was a little concerned early in the year, but I thought it would come around. And I think even though we've lost the games, I think the last three or four games he's look like exactly what you would hope. If they get that higher right. I think you're going to see him have a massive leap the next year. Drake May, I think, has been decent for me. The jury's still out. I'm going to need to see what happens. I think they've got to improve their offense, their offensive line to give him any chance. But I'm certainly. I'm not ready to say bust or success. We'll wait and see. Bo Nicks has been the one that surprised me watching him in college. He's the oldest of the group. He's old and I thought. I thought that was a crazy pick by the Broncos, but Sean Payton clearly saw something, and now we're seeing it play out. He's got maybe the hottest team of the group, and he's been able to do things that really, really surprised me. I have to tell you, I was. I called Anthony Richardson as a bus two years ago. I think I'm right on that. I was ready to say the same thing about Bo Nicks, but he's been good.

[A]

He's been good. He's been in the right system. I also think the defense has helped him a lot. Like, if you're not going to have a great offensive line to protect a young quarterback, you got to be able to keep games close to give him a shot. And I think that's what Denver has been able to do. You mentioned Drake May. There's a lot of missing pieces there, but a lot of promise. Again, I think Jaden Daniels has the rib injury. Caleb Williams has really been good the last couple of weeks, but Bo Nix has probably been the biggest surprise. And you know, Sean Payton said, this is my guy. And Sean Bate is usually right when he says that.

[B]

Well, let me go even further. The Broncos play tomorrow night. On Monday Night Football. They play the Browns. They're 7 and 5. If they win that game, they go to 8 and 5. Then they have a buy next week so they get a chance to get healthy. Then they have the Colts beatable. Could be 9 and 5. They go to the Chargers. Don't know what will happen with that. They go to the Bengals and then the Chiefs. But they could go into that stretch of going up against the Bengals, the Chiefs and the Chargers. They could go up to the end of that stretch of three games where they literally are nine and five with a shot to do very well in the playoffs.

[A]

Yeah, no, make the playoffs.

[B]

They're going to have a good seat.

[A]

I think they'll be tested. Right. They'll be tested down the stretch. But also for a young quarterback, it could go the opposite way. I think that's why it feels like this week for a lot of teams, although we not. We're not putting must win on it in terms of win or lose it. Injured playoff hopes. But just for the situation, Denver's got to win.

[B]

Yeah. Because those last three games are tough.

[A]

Yeah. You can't go to the box.

[B]

Those are three very difficult games to finish the schedule. And you don't want to go in where you got to win them all or even win two of them. I think that would be A very difficult situation. Mo Egger was supposed to join us from Cincinnati. I don't know if he was able to get through the walls outside, but he was going to talk to us about Bengal. Steelers. How do you see the game playing out here today? Right across, right down the street from where we are?

[A]

I think how it starts is going to matter a lot. Like if Pittsburgh can come out and establish early on that they're aggressive with the run, that Russell Wilson is going to make some big throws to George Pickens and some of the other targets he has, then I think everything's in Pittsburgh's favor. But I think if Cincinnati comes out and they throw that first big punch, it's just going to be hard to beat him. I don't think Russell Wilson is going to be able to play from behind. I don't think he can give you, you know, a 10 point deficit and suddenly he's going to come back and win the game for you. I think the Steelers have to win from start to finish to really have a chance to leave here with a victory. I think the Bengals, though, will win this game. I think. I just think again, the Pittsburgh Steelers I don't think are as good as their record, and I don't think the Bengals are as bad as their record.

[B]

I agree with both those things. I think the records for both teams are misleading. One thing's to watch here. The Bengals have not been good at home this year. I don't know what their home record is, but I want to say like 2 and 5 or something that their crowd has been very restless in these games. Yeah, they get very quickly. They get down on their team because they're like, are we about to blow another one if this game gets away from them early? The Steelers rivalry, I could easily see the crowd kind of turning on the team. This is, I think, for. For Zach Taylor and for the Bengals, this is a game where your fan base is going to go one way or the other based on how you play.

[A]

Yeah, I mean, I think this is a team where the only guy you know for sure is coming back is Joe Burrow.

[B]

Well, let me tell you what Joe Burrow said. He was asked what his message was to the team coming out of the bye before this big rivalry game. I just told everybody, focus on doing what you can do every day to try to get better and putting yourself in the best position that you can to try to seize that opportunity when it comes your way on Sundays. And we can't look at the big picture anymore. Big picture doesn't look great. We just have to focus on the day to day, focus on doing everything with intent to improve yourself. I think it's the first year since probably that 18 year in OSU, which.

[A]

We played finishing, you're healthy but haven't had kind of the stakes at the.

[B]

End of the season. How tough has that been, knowing it's the first time since then you really.

[A]

Might not have anything to play for despite finishing your health.

[B]

We're not out of it yet. We're not out of it yet. You know, it's going to take a lot for us to get in, but you know, at this point, just, just focus on what you can focus on, control what you can control. And that's trying to get better every week, putting great, great stuff out there on tape week in and week out. That's what I'm focused on doing. Well, we'll find out if they're able to do it. I'm going to read you a couple comments here. Michael C. Says, matt, you guys are the best. I listen all day to ESPN Radio. I can't wait till Sundays. When I hear you guys filling in on other shows, I get excited. You and Myron are the best. How nice is that?

[A]

That's cool, man. No, and I'm glad people are feeling the chaos because I feel like I'm 19 at the club again a little bit. And this is, this is amazing atmosphere.

[B]

One person writes, when Myron started talking about Batman and Bane, I thought he had gone on Aaron Rodgers. Ayahuasca. Darkness, retreat. Just bring rain. Myron, in just a little bit.

[A]

I just, I gotta write my quotes down before I just say I gotta read off a, a postcard.

[B]

I do want to explain one thing about this here. If you all can hear, there's a million people here. They're drunk, they're excited about the game. However, this place has a lot of TVs. They're all on football except one. Television, right there is on Aqueduct. Aqueduct, the race, okay, Horse race. It's on TVG or whatever. On Aqueduct. There was one guy standing at the bar. In the midst of this chaos, just imagine a club, people drinking, and there was one guy watching the race. First race at Aqueduct, screaming at the television. And his horse won as it crossed the line and he went nuts. I love the guy who's like, you know what? Bengals are about to play the Steelers. Let me go to the bar and watch the first race at Aqueduct.

[A]

I mean, it's a culture down here, right? I mean, I think people think it's just the derby but it's literally all.

[B]

Day every first race in Aqueduct. Yeah, this man is already going crazy. Shannon the dude is in the house. Everybody is ready to go. It is countdown to kickoff. The biggest game of the day is at 4:30. It is the Eagles and the Ravens. Lamar Jackson. Lamar Jackson and Jalen. Hurts going at him. Confused. I can't. That's nasty.

[A]

Matt and Myron the Podcast.

[B]

Hey, I'm Ryan Reynolds. Recently I asked Mint Mobile's legal team if big wireless companies are allowed to raise prices due to inflation. They said yes. And then when I asked if raising prices technically violates those onerous two year contracts, they said what the are you talking about? You insane Hollywood so to recap, we're cutting the price of Mint Unlimited from 30amonth to just 15amonth. Give it a [e-mail] Switch $45 upfront payment equivalent to $15 per month New.

[A]

Customers on first 3 month plan only Taxes and fees Extra speeds lower above.

[B]

40 gigabytes Detail looking for a pickup truck to get just about anything done? Look no further. The Chevy Silverado EV isn't just the most powerful Silverado ever with next level towing capability and technology. It also offers game changing versatility with the available multiflex midgate and tailgate. Which means Silverado EV helps you carry large, bulky and oddly shaped items up to nearly 11ft in length. Chevrolet together. Let's drive. Visit Chevrolet.com to learn more. I'm just going to go ahead and tell you if you've missed this countdown to kickoff, it's crazy. You've missed one for the ages. You know when we, Myron and I for seven years have had conversations with our bosses where I'm like, hey, you should let us do this. You should let us do this. And people are and they're always like no, we're not gonna do that. And I'm like, come on, we should. Let's do this. If we if I could put into a package what a show of Sunday Mornings with Matt Myron can be like, yeah, I would put this one on there because whatever it is, it's distinct and you can listen to it on podcast every week. If you miss it. Sunday Mornings with Matt Myers subscribed on all your podcast atmosphere. It's not even 1pm yet.

[A]

No.

[B]

And these people are losing their minds in Cincinnati.

[A]

Myers yeah, whatever you think happened on this show, it happened.

[B]

I gotta say about Cincinnati. Can you believe this place? It's not even 1pm yet and the game hasn't even Started and this city has lost its mind.

[A]

It's a fun environment.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I mean, we were in Green Bay, which was cool. A little more subdued, you know what I mean? Fair to say Chicago was kind of festive, you know what I mean? There was a lot of music and dancing. Cincinnati is just here to party. I mean, they just want to have a party before the game and I respect that. They are so intentional about how they vibe.

[B]

I'm going to go ahead and tell you. I always say pro atmospheres have nothing on college. Yeah. And generally speaking, I agree with that.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

But this might be the one.

[A]

Yes. Yep. Yep.

[B]

This might be the one that I would say, you know what? Maybe come visit Cincinnati. Yeah. At some point. I certainly will be back. It is 888. Say it's been it start. People are starting to make their way to the stadium, so it will clear out a little bit. Game of the day. Eagles and Ravens, 430 people don't realize, if you're not like a geography specialist, that these places are not far from each other. Like, both teams can make a. Both fan bases can make the drive. People from Philadelphia can make the drive. There'll be a pretty big Eagles presence at the game. But this is the game of the day. What do you like?

[A]

I think when you got two teams, that to me, could be right there at the end. A lot of people, I think, are probably going to Pick Kansas City vs. Detroit in the Super Bowl. That's probably the early favorite right now. But I think if you had to pick a second game that didn't involve those two teams, Baltimore versus Philadelphia might be the game in the Super Bowl. So you got a Baltimore team that started slow against the Chargers last week, and then you saw what happens when Lamar Jackson gets going with that offense and how good they can be. And then you get an Eagles team that everybody just forgot about. And now Saquon Barkley, he might be the mvp. Now, I don't think running backs are going to win MVP again. I make the.

[B]

I think they should, I think, because here's why. Here's why I think I want to make the case. Josh Allen's probably going to win it.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

This is what I would say. But let's say in the next couple of games, Josh Allen takes a deal. Second place for me is Saquon Barkley. I'm with for the exact reason that you said running backs don't make a difference until they do. And when you have a position where like that position had been given up on and Then you get a guy that impacts a game like Saquon Barkley has. I actually think that's a positive in his face.

[A]

Oh, he's definitely one of the top MVP candidates. I think it's. Josh Allen still won. Would you vote him second, Saquon or Lamar? I mean, depending on what happens with Lamar. I think it's Josh, Saquon, Lamar.

[B]

That's where I am. That's my three.

[A]

But it's just. It's hard for people to look at a running back and go, okay, what you're doing is exceptional. Even though everything he's done, I'll give you. I'll give you a stat. When it comes to Saquon Barkley, he has more games with 185 yards or more from scrimmage than every team in the NFL combined this season.

[B]

That's not right.

[A]

100%.

[B]

Women.

[A]

He has.

[B]

That's not true. He has more yards from scrimmage than.

[A]

I just messed up.

[B]

That's not. That's not true. Than any other players. Okay?

[A]

That's the rest of the NFL, not the teams. So he has. He has more. He has more effort of 185 yards from scrimmage this season than the rest of the NFL combined.

[B]

Mikey, can I ask you a question? I think we need to get some.

[A]

No, no.

[B]

I think we need to get.

[A]

You get what I'm saying.

[B]

To throw a challenge when Myron gets.

[A]

You get what I'm saying? He has. Let me say it again. He has more games this season with 185 yards from scrimmage or more than the rest of the NFL combined. Players. I said teams. I meant players.

[B]

Okay, all right, I can buy that one.

[A]

I missed a word, but that was a big word.

[B]

It's a big word. You know, there's a lot of times you can miss a word.

[A]

It's hard to hear.

[B]

Very important. That was a big word. Now, go ahead with your point.

[A]

But. But I think he certainly has changed the Eagles and made them contenders. I think everybody can see that Jalen Hurts has been better. Because of him, they've had a bunch.

[B]

Of injuries at receiver.

[A]

Remember, we came into the year talking about whether or not Nick Sirianni was going to be on the hot seat and how him and Jalen Hurts don't get along. And now, to me, they're number two behind Detroit. And if you told me Philly and Detroit play today, I'm picking in Detroit.

[B]

But the spreads. Three points.

[A]

Three and a half. I mean, it's not some crazy spread. That those two teams meet.

[B]

I like the Ravens tonight or this afternoon because they're at home. But I will say this about the Eagles. The Eagles, early in the year look like they kind of were lost. Jalen Hurts didn't look the same. But now when you have Saquon, who's been awesome from the beginning, and you throw in a Jalen Hurts, who is also now starting to look like himself, and then as Herm mentioned earlier earlier, that defensive line is starting to look like a powerful force. You combine the three of those, you give me a Jalen Hurts that's playing as the sixth to eighth best quarterback in the league. You give me a Saquon Barkley that is definitively the number one running back, and then you give me a defensive line that's top three four in the league. Now you got a Super Bowl.

[A]

Now you do. Now the question is, can you do it in the postseason? Right. Can Nick Sirianna be the coach you need him to be in the postseason?

[B]

Are you not worried about it? Like, you think he's that much of a detriment?

[A]

I just don't think you can hide things in the playoffs. Like Jalen Hurts can't hide behind Saquon in the playoffs the way that I think he's been able to during the regular season. Nick Sirianni can't hide behind Saquon. And what they've been able to do on offense and defense, it comes down to a couple of plays. And can the Eagles be that? I don't know, but I think they're a legit contender. Baltimore, meanwhile, I think, has still the best offense in the league, and I think you saw that against a Chargers team that had a really good defense before they met Baltimore. But Lamar Jackson keeps having these moments, man, where you're going, what's wrong with the Ravens? Why can't they do this for two, three, four games in a row? Why is it just a couple of games and then you have another game where you're like, all right, I'm out on Baltimore. That has seemed to be the schedule, the sense of what you get from Baltimore, a team that has a high ceiling, but I don't think anybody trusts them to win a Super bowl right now.

[B]

Yeah, I don't.

[A]

I don't.

[B]

Until they do it at some point. Yeah, you're exactly. That's going to be one of those. That is going to be a show me888, say ESPN. One person writes, myron Mac. Myron Metcalf's laugh is one of the Best things in life. Tell him that when he makes me giggle, it maybe makes me happier than anything else.

[A]

Oh, I, I, I appreciate that. Yeah, I was, I've been cutting up today, as my dad would say. I've been cutting up definitely, so.

[B]

Well, good. Another person writes, matt, I listen to you admiring all the time. I think you all have great chemistry. They need to put you on the road throughout the country.

[A]

I'll do it.

[B]

I would like that.

[A]

Yeah, I'll do it.

[B]

I do think our engineers little, little nervous. I don't know if they want to go all over the road everywhere, but I think, I think that, I think it would be fun.

[A]

Well, I think people keep bringing drinks to this table with all the equipment.

[B]

Even drink, I don't even.

[A]

I know. But like people just, you know what it is. You go to the club or the bar. Like people see a table and it becomes their table. That's what's kind of happening here. Like people are trying to make this their table.

[B]

A lot of dancing. We didn't expect that. I tell you, this wasn't, this isn't what it's like when I do the show in my house most Sunday, I.

[A]

Don'T have music playing this live.

[B]

We are going to pick all of the games across the country. Got people dancing with their ESPN Radio hats. We'll pick them and let you know who's going to win. That's next. Here I can add a kickoff on ESPN Radio.

[A]

Matt and Myron, the podcast. So you want to be a marketer? It's easy.

[B]

You just have to score a ton of leads and figure out a way to turn them all into customers. Plus manage a dozen channels, write a million blogs and launch 100 campaigns all at once. When that's done, simply make your socials go viral and bring in record profits. No sweat.

[A]

Okay, fine, it's a lot of sweat. But with HubSpot's AI powered marketing tools.

[B]

Launching benchmark breaking campaigns is easier than ever. Get started. @HubSpot.com marketers, you can get the most important meal of the day any time of day. I'm Talking about the $5 Big Deal Breakfast meal from Jack in the Box, available all day and all night. A breakfast Jack with a freshly cracked egg, a hash brown and French toast sticks for five bucks.

[A]

Sounds good.

[B]

For breakfast, lunch and dinner at Jack. Every bite's a big deal. Order Jack's $5 big deal breakfast meal now. It is kind of the kickoff here on ESPN Radio presented by Progressive Insurance. Dr. Pepper, call in line 888 say ESPN. One listener writes in and says, I really enjoy Myron's stats. As a matter of fact, I really enjoy when Myron says things like the Ohio river is over 700ft deep and Dan Quayle had an ERA of 3.23 in the 1984 baseball season.

[A]

I didn't say that. Come on. I didn't say that. I missed a word on the stat.

[B]

You miss you. You don't always to work. Your stats are not always 100% accurate. You know they can be might be completely inaccurate.

[A]

And you don't.

[B]

That's okay.

[A]

It happens.

[B]

You know what? It happens. All right. We are in a yearly countdown where we pick games all year.

[A]

I am.

[B]

Last week I was 9 and 3. Myron was also 9 and 3. What does that mean? I still have a five game lead. I'm 101, 53. He's 96 and 58. Going for seven straight championships in this. And right now with six weeks to go, I'm still five games up. Let's go. It's now time to take your pick.

[A]

You know, this is a game where you can see Drake may continue to improve. But I didn't like the way the Patriots look last week. They look soft. And you got a Colts team that's still in the playoff hunt. Anthony Richardson. There were some plays that guys dropped passes but was better than the number suggested. Give me the Colts to win this.

[B]

See? All right. You already given me a one game advantage because the Patriots are going to win at home. Drake may it's time for him to get a victory. He's had a few losses in row, didn't play well last week. This is the week they get it back at home. I like the Patriots to win and I will take yet another point off of Myron. What's next?

[A]

We're obviously here in Cincinnati. Like I think Joe Burrow will play well. I know this team struggled at home. I think they're one in four. But I think the Steelers defense will keep this game close down the stretch. The Steelers win down in the fourth quarter. Give me the Steelers to win this. Wow.

[B]

You're going. You give me another one. Singles are at home. You see this atmosphere. How in the world are they going to lose when the crowd is like this? They've been losing like this.

[A]

They've been losing.

[B]

You know what? But not like this since Cincinnati at home. They get the victory. Give me the Bengals. What's next?

[A]

You know, I thought the Chargers that defense is really good but didn't look good against Baltimore Ravens who just kind of got some momentum. Even though the Chargers had that early lead, I don't think they'll get the early lead against the Falcons. I think this will be a battle, but I'm still picking the Charles Chargers to come out on top.

[B]

11 games this year with the Falcons. I picked 11.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

10 of them I've gotten wrong. I'm one in 10 this year picking Falcons games. So I'm going to be like Myron, I'm going to pick the Chargers, which means you should bet on the Falcons because I never get them right. I'll take the Chargers to win this one. What's next? Only a two point spread here.

[A]

Surprising, right? I mean, Aaron Rodgers already talking about next year and retreats and all this stuff. And you have a Seahawks team that again is still in the mix for the NFC west championship. The defense has played better. The Seahawks win this on the road.

[B]

Tough pick here because there's no reason to pick the jets. But the Seahawks are only a two point favorite. That's weird to me. I still feel like Aaron Rodgers is going to have like one more good game before he runs off in the sunset. This one could be the one. But I, I cannot pick the jets, who are three and eight this year. I'll take the Seahawks to win in New York or New Jersey. Excuse me. What's next?

[A]

I mean, the Texans haven't been able to put like a couple of games together where you feel like this is a team that's going to get into the playoffs and make some noise. But they're playing a Jacksonville team where everything is going to look different a year from now from the coaching staff down to who is around Trevor Lawrence, who's had his own struggles even though with the injury. Give me the Texans to win this game.

[B]

See, I think C.J. stroud has a big game. I'm going to show you what he's going to do today. They're going to snap him the ball. He's going to go back. Touchdown. Then he's going to go back again. Touchdown. Another one. Touchdown. He throws four TDs today. Or as the kids say, tutties. Why don't you look embraced?

[A]

Kids say that.

[B]

Kids. You get on the. You get on the TikTok. Hey, Tutty. So I. And then they do that dance with the somebody that I used to know. Right? They do that one as well.

[A]

I don't have that. Tick tock.

[B]

Oh, well, you should get it. I'm gonna take the Texans to win against Jacksonville. What's next?

[A]

Daniel Jones isn't in the mix yet, but he is a backup quarterback for Sam Darnold. They're not going to need him because I think the Cardinals last week didn't really show their full potential. How good they've been. Kyler Murray's been very good, but he was pressured and he struggled. And you know who pressures a quarterback more than anybody? Brian Flores. In this Vikings defense, they'll do it again. It'll rattle Kyler Murray. Give me the Vikings to win.

[B]

I want to pick Arizona, but you make a really good point there. Your, your point actually probably is going to make me flip it because you're right. Forest is good at getting pressure on the quarterback. I'll take the Vikings to win at home. I think there's going to be a game for the year's over that Daniel Jones comes in and wins it. And the Giants are going to be even more upset about everything. But I'll take the Vikings tonight. What's next?

[A]

Both quarterbacks are something to prove.

[B]

Will second biggest spread of the day by the way.

[A]

Surprising. Will Levis been better. But you know Jaden Daniels. To me I think he's hurt but he's due for a big game after the three game slide. Give me the commanders to win.

[B]

Yeah, I, you know Levis look good recently, but it's time for Jayden Daniels to have a big game. It's also time for him to win one. He's going to win this one. Jaden Daniels comes out, plays well, gets a big victory. I'll take Washington to win. What's next?

[A]

You have to hate this game. You have to hate this game. You're the Bucks because Bryce Young just proved to himself that he can go toe to toe with Kansas City. They lost at the end last week against the super bowl champs.

[B]

I told you that was going to happen. True.

[A]

But I think the Bucks, they're healthy again. This is a different team than the one we've seen during that rocky month stretch. Give me the Bucs to win on the road.

[B]

Big game for the Bucs if they want to. In terms of their playoff position, they cannot lose this game. Liam Cohen's been mentioned for a ton of head coaching jobs this week. Maybe a little bit of a distraction, but he and Baker Mayfield get it done. I take the Bucks to win in Carolina, but I will say this. Carolina wins. Don't be shocked. Yeah, but I'll take Tampa Bay. What's next? Only two and a half points again. These spreads are weird to me this week.

[A]

The Rams look really soft last week. I mean, they didn't look like a team that realized they were still in the hunt for the NFC NFC West Championship and that there was still something to play for. Every game they go out there, they have no room for error. I think they'll remember that this week when they get the win over the Saints.

[B]

It's over for the Rams, maybe even for Matthew Stafford as a quarterback that has a chance to win in the playoffs. If you lose this one, I think the Rams win it. They need it. This is a. We talk about must wins. This is the must win of must wins. It's over for the Rams if they don't win. They take it today, though, I'll take the Rams. What's next game of the day.

[A]

The Ravens have been so good. And there's that craziest stat with Lamar Jackson versus the NFC. I don't know the exact number.

[B]

15 and 1.

[A]

It's scary though, how good he has been. Maybe.

[B]

No, I think it's like 24 and 1.

[A]

It's incredible.

[B]

It's insane.

[A]

This will be another close game. Like you'll go into the fourth quarter, it's a three point game probably. And then I think Lamar Jackson just makes the play late. That gives the Ravens the game and what could be a Super bowl preview.

[B]

Look at these Kentucky fans.

[A]

Come on over.

[B]

You can take a picture while I make my picks. I'm going to take the Ravens to win at home, beat the Eagles. You're a Ravens fan? Yes, Ravens fan. Perfect timing. I take the Ravens to win in Philadelphia. Come on up. What's next? 49ers and bills. What do you got?

[A]

Well, I think all the people shoveling snow in Buffalo should call their local union, by the way.

[B]

All right.

[A]

That's all I'll say. I won't get into it beyond that.

[B]

Are you in the union?

[A]

No, I just. I won't get into it beyond that. No, I'm not. I'm not doing that. All I'm saying is there's a.

[B]

There's a process.

[A]

Listen, they got to make a call. Shouldn't be doing that. Shouldn't be doing for free. But I will say I think the 49ers, they haven't been 100. I think that's probably the biggest issue they've obviously dealt with. Now you're going across the country to play a Buffalo team that's been practicing in these conditions over the last couple of days. Buffalo wins this, and I'm not surprised. I won't be surprised if it's A double digit win for Buffalo.

[B]

This is the kind of day that having a franchise in Buffalo is for nights like tonight. It's cold, it's snowy. The community has come out with their shovels and their shoveling snow. It's a beautiful sight. This is why they didn't move to Toronto, was for nights like tonight. And the Bills come out and get a huge victory. They roll the 49ers. It is almost certain Brock is not going to play pretty good. He's going to play pretty bad. And the Bills are going to win in the snow. Give me Buffalo. And now let's go to Monday Night Football. A terrible game.

[A]

Stop interviewing Pastor Jameis Winston before these games and saying everything he does is inspiration. All these little mini TED talks he's doing. Just go play football. That's all I really care about when it comes to Jameis Winston. They're going to play a Broncos team where that defense is underrated. I know people realize how good they are. Bo Nicks won't make a lot of mistakes. And I think on the road, I'm going to pick the Broncos to win this game.

[B]

Thin air in Denver. They always say that you get tired. Jameis Whitson is going to do such a good speech, he'll lose his breath for the game. And the Broncos end up winning, let's say by 10. I take the. I'll take the Broncos to cover. So there we go. Those are our picks. Let's get it done. I saw they just tried to give away Myron's.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Y'all want stickers?

[A]

Y'all want stickers?

[B]

I don't think anybody wants the stickers, Myron. I had a blast Jefferson Social here in Cincinnati for hooking us up. There's my man I and Eagle is here calling the game. Yes, but what a fun time out here on the road.

[A]

Listen, man, I would say this put Cincinnati on your bucket list for a game because if this is the vibe, I can only imagine what it's like in the actual stadium for a big game. So I've been impressed by what I've seen. This is the most fun I think we've had on the road so far.

[B]

Without question, it was. It was a great deal of fun. Thanks to our producers, who everybody here as well. And if you enjoy the show, which I hope you do, go to your local podcast, podcast store on Spotify. Yeah, download this episode and go and just download Sunday mornings with Matt Myron. We'd appreciate all your support. Meyer calls himself the number one black podcaster in America.

[A]

I was. I was for like a week.

[B]

It's you or Shannon Sharp. I'm not sure which one.

[A]

I was over him for like a week.

[B]

For a week. Game day is coming up with your favorite group. Kevin Clark, Justin Pugh and Mike Jersey Shore Tannenbaum. Thank you all very much. We'll see you later. This has been Cabinet Kickoff on ESPN Radio.

[A]

Thanks for listening to Matt and Myron the podcast. You can listen to the show live every Sunday morning at 10:00am Eastern on ESPN radio, the ESPN app and on SiriusXM channel 80. Matt and Myron, the pod when it comes to family vacations, there are a million different trips you can take. You can get your own.

[B]

Trip to.

[A]

Texas or if you prefer a vacation from your family, you can always get your own leave the kids with grandma trip to Texas. So go to traveltexas.com getyourown for the only trip to Texas that matters.

[B]

Yours.