Loading summary
Ryan Reynolds
The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones and creating magical memories that will last a lifetime. So whether it's family and friends you haven't seen in a while or those who you see all the time, share holiday magic this season with an ice cold Coca Cola. Copyright 2024 the Coca Cola Company.
Matt
This is Matt and Myron. The pod.
Myron
I've been waiting a long time for this moment.
Ryan Reynolds
Time is here, time is now.
Matt
This is the countdown to kickoff on ESPN Radio.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
It is countdown to kickoff here on ESPN Radio. One hour until the early kicks today. Nine games around or seven games. This on the early slate. Four games in the late slate here. NFL on a cold. I don't know where you are, but cold here. Day in Kentucky. If you're a fan of the. Of the football action, Little Soccer Liverpool is leading Tottenham one nothing. So I know that's got to make you happy there, Myron, your Liverpool fan.
Unnamed Producer
Who won that Celtic game last week?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Celtic 1. They went into extra kicks and then they. Celtic won in the shootout over Rangers, who they beat.
Myron
They beat Rangers.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah. Not like the New York Rangers.
Myron
Is that the spurs or who's the Spurs?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Spurs is Tottenham. That's first of all, he and I are talking about Scotland. They had a big Scottish match that we follow. This is England, which is a different country. Liverpool and Tony countries. Okay, you know your countries?
Myron
Yeah, Tottenham. So the Tottenham hotspots plays Liverpool.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
They're playing right now. They're playing Liverpool.
Myron
Okay.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
What do you know your countries? Name me.
Myron
Okay, man, you said like I didn't know the difference between Scotland.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Name me. Name me three countries in Eastern Europe.
Myron
What do you mean? Like Ukraine, you talking about?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Okay, there's one.
Myron
Romania.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Okay, got one more.
Myron
Czechoslovakia.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Czechoslovakia has not been a country for.
Myron
It has been a while. Lithuania.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Lithuania. There you go. Czechoslovakia. I like that.
Myron
That.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I mean, that was a very public breakout. Slovenia, part of Czechoslovakia. But now, you know what, let's just get back to it. On the Texas sheet, one person says, myron stat about the Titans in the top five pick cannot be right. But maybe in addition to likability, one of Myron's talents is suspending the laws of mathematics, since there's no way what he said was correct.
Myron
It's not my stat, though. I just literally read it from ESPN.com. yeah, I sent you guys the stat.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, exactly. I googled it. And so that's what I saw. And that's.
Myron
It's literally on our website, espn.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I read it. The Eagles and the Commanders play today at 1:00 big game for both teams. Commanders trying to hang on, get their playoff spot and get seating. Eagles get to clinch the NFC east with a win. It would be their second division title in the last three years. The Eagles are on a 10 game winning streak is the longest in franchise history. It doesn't feel like it though, Myron, because the Eagles are one of the kind of higher profile brands in the NFL, yet here they've won 10 games in a row. And you know, people are mentioning them as a Super bowl contender, but it doesn't feel like we're talking about what an impressive run that is.
Myron
Yeah, I mean, I think all of the preseason drama just made it hard to believe in the Eagles. Right. The Sirianni Hertz drama. And then you got, you know, Jalen Hurts and his top receiver kind of going back and forth a little bit. But yeah, they've just, they've done the opposite of what, what happened last year when I think they lost eight games in a row going into the playoffs and lost to the Bucks. But no, they, they look like the team to beat in the NFC right now, considering the lines and all the injuries that they're dealing with. Right. So I think this is going to be a situation, Matt, where you've got two teams with a shot at the top seed, and the Vikings are still in that they need some help. But whoever gets that, top seed, Minnesota, Philly, Detroit, they're going to the Super Bowl. Like, I think that's how close those teams are at the top. But the Eagles are playing as well as anybody in the nfc.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Are you, are you a believer in, in. Jalen Hurts? I mean, he started the season not playing particularly well, but has gotten better as the year has gone on. You know, he's, we don't tend to put him in that list with the great quarterbacks that we mentioned earlier. Is he playing his way back into it?
Myron
Maybe. You know, he's good last week. Listen, quarterbacks have to throw their way to a Super bowl, you know, and can Jalen Hurts do that? He has done it. We've, we've seen him do it. But this year he's done a lot more with his legs in the ground game. He's been incredible in that offense. I think Saquon Barkley was a huge pickup and what they're able to do with the run game. 14 rushing touchdowns this season for Jalen Hurst, the most in the league. Um, and almost, I mean, it could, I think, get close to the record for, for touchdowns by a quarterback. But you got to do with your arm to get to the, the Super Bowl. I don't care who you are. I don't know. I don't care how good your legs are. So I think that becomes a question about Jalen hurts. Can he be the big playmaker with his arm that they'll will. They'll need him to be to get to a Super bowl and certainly to win a Super Bowl.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Washington is almost certain to make the playoffs, but is there any, do you think they can do any damage in the playoffs as it's constituted now? Are they going to be a good story? Good start for Jaden Daniels career, but a one and out or two and out run?
Myron
Yeah, I think they're a great story. I mean Jaden Daniels looks like he can be a franchise quarterback with this team, but they're a little fraudulent. They don't do well against good teams. Like most of their wins have come against average teams. I think they're 1 in 3 versus teams with a winning record. So I don't know how real their record is. I think they get into the playoffs and then I think they're definitely a one and out. But what you have is what Chicago doesn't have, what New England doesn't know it has for sure. What Denver is still trying to figure out if it hasn't. And certainly Atlanta might learn something in the next three games. You know, Jaden, Daniel Daniels is a guy that you can build around in the years.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I think he likely is. But as we saw with CJ Stroud this year, sometimes that progression is not always upward immediately. Sometimes it can level off or even go down a little bit. CJ Stroud, there was a time in the preseason people were talking about like, you know, he might be the third best quarterback in the NFL this year. That is not how people feel at this exact moment. By the way, if the playoffs were to start today, this Eagles Commanders game, that would be a first round game. That would be a first round matchup in the playoffs as well. The Rams are at the Jets. You know, I was called crazy by you and by our producers. When now five weeks ago when the Rams had four wins, I said they were a sleeper super bowl team for me and you all, all mocked me. And now they're 8 and 6. Their next three games are all very winnable. They could finish 11 and 6. If they do, they'd be the 3 seed in the NFC. Is it possible that maybe they are that sleeper team?
Myron
I'm just not on that train yet, man. I don't know I mean, I don't know how real all this is because the NFC west is just not what we thought it would be. I don't know how much I can believe in a team that once again is playing from being in this situation where they're out of the playoff picture and then they go on this run like those teams usually get stopped early in the playoffs. I mean, it happened last year for the Rams, so it's a cool story for a team that was under 500 multiple games and now they got a chance to win the division, win the division and get into the playoffs. But I don't know how consistent they've been. You know, you can argue, oh, they.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Haven'T been really good in the last few weeks. They have. This is the first time they've been healthy was the last few weeks. And in the last few weeks, I mean, in the last few weeks they've played as well as Detroit has. I mean, they've played as well as Philadelphia has. I can't believe they're only a three point favorite today. I mean, what, what from the jets have you seen to have any confidence at all? I mean, Aaron Rodgers Netflix special came out, so I guess that's something. But beyond that, what, what, what is the. I don't understand how they're only a three point favorite today. I think they should be. To me, that's the bed of the day.
Myron
Yeah, I mean, probably because Aaron Rodgers, the last two games has played the best football he's played since he has. He was an MVP with the packers, probably. You know what I mean? So that's a factor in it. I also think the whole west coast to east coast thing, you know, and.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
What that usually does, that's still a thing.
Myron
Yeah, I think that's a very real thing. You know, so. But overall, I don't know. I'm not on the. I think this is real with the Rams train yet. Like, I think it's a great story and, and Matthew Stafford and, you know, puking a cool and Cooper cup, get healthy and everyone's like, yeah, this is, this is cool. I don't know if it's anything more than together.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
If we get together here in six weeks and we're doing our championship game preview and it's Rams versus someone to go to the super bowl, will you then say, Matt, you may be the best sports prognosticator I've ever met.
Myron
It depends on their path to get there. Like, it depends on what?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
If it depends on what.
Myron
It depends on how they win it.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
You know, when I, when I said that I thought they were super, super bowl contender sleeper, did I, did I give a caveat about path? I just said they were a, I just gave a very straightforward statement five weeks ago. This was not last week. This was when they had four wins. Will you say best prognosticator in sports?
Myron
No. I'll give you credit though for being on the Rams train early. Yeah. But again, I want to see if this continues.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
All right, well, we'll just keep it going because they're going to win today in New Jersey in the middle lands against the the jets coming up. Don't look now, but Myron's Tampa Bay Bucks are surging towards the playoffs with the benching of Kirk Cousins. Could they be a threat to the nfc? Are they for Myron what the Rams are for me? We'll deal with that. That's next here on Countdown to Kickoff.
Matt
It's bowl season on ESPN Radio. 25 bowl games including the College Football Playoff and National championship game. Electricity the atmosphere coverage continues Tuesday with the Hawaii Bo at 7:30 Eastern on ESPN radio. And on ESPN, Matt and Myron the.
Ryan Reynolds
Podcast Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile.
Myron
With the price of just about everything.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Going up during inflation, we thought we'd bring our prices down. So to help us, we brought in a reverse auctioneer, which is apparently a thing Mint Mobile Unlimited Premium wireless everybody get 30, 30 better get 30, better.
Myron
Get 20, 20, 20 better get 20, 20 everybody get 15, 15, 15, 15.
Ryan Reynolds
Just 15 bucks a month.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
So give it a try. @mintmobile.com Switch $45 upfront payment equivalent to.
Myron
$15 per month new customers on first.
Ryan Reynolds
Three month plan only taxes and fees Extra speed slower above 40 gigabytes in detail. As the number and severity of third party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant. Not just about how they handle their own data, but how their vendors do as well. For security and compliance leaders, this means more security reviews are coming across your desk every day and valuable time is being wasted on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire automation, security and compliance teams can complete security reviews up to five times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security and compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, Smart Recruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.compodcast to learn more about questionnaire automation. That's V A N T A Dot com podcast.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Song you've been begging us to play for two hours because you said you had some story about it. Myron here on Countdown to get golf.
Myron
So what is it I want you all to understand? So Mariah Carey was sort of reluctant to make a Christmas album, but she did it and obviously this became a global hit. Mariah Carey has made $103 million off this song over the last 30 years. She. She makes about 3 to 4 million dollars just off this song. And. And they literally play this song from the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas. So you're talking about a four week stretch where Mariah Carey makes three to four million dollars every single year. And she's been doing that for 30 years.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Did you.
Myron
I just think people need to understand where you.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Is that. Where did you get that stat? ESPN Analytics.
Myron
You can. Well, don't knock ESPN Analytics. They're great people over there. You can read it anywhere. You can go, where's the stat?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Can I see where the stats are?
Myron
Everywhere. I know about this. She's making. So she makes three to four million dollars a year from this song just off this song.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Every.
Myron
People play it for about four, four weeks, right? She's made over a hundred million dollars off this song.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Mikey, I want you to look that up and then if you find it on the site, tell me what the link is because I think we're becoming a little bit. Yeah, I'm gonna start calling him Myron Rogan here. For just saying a stat.
Myron
Whoa, whoa.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
For just saying a stat and then look at his producers and going. Is that right?
Unnamed Producer
I mean, I just said it.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Is that right, Myron?
Unnamed Producer
One more time, give me the numbers on her.
Myron
She makes between three and four million dollars a year just off. All I want for Christmas is you. Yeah, she's been doing that for 30 years.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
It's wrong. Okay, what is the actual stat?
Myron
It's not wrong.
Unnamed Producer
So I'm on CNBC. I'll credit my source, CNBC, they bring in about 8.5 million on the song each year. It's about that much. She makes about 1.9 after all the.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Everyone still very good? Oh, yeah, very good.
Unnamed Producer
Not three.
Myron
It's more. It's more. It's more than that. I'm looking at Billboard right Now. She makes 2.7 to $3.3 million a year.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
All right, well, we'll see. By the way, Charlie Woods, Tigers kid, they're playing in the Father Son golf tournament or whatever. Tiger's kid just got his first hole in one of his life in the competition live on tv. How's that?
Myron
That's amazing. That's amazing. It shows you how old we are. Right. By the way, to have watched Tiger debut at 17 and now his kid is playing with him. But that's cool, man. Is this kid good, though?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I mean, he must be pretty good. Tiger and his kid are leading this golf tournament right now, so you got to assume his kids, like, pretty good at least.
Myron
Yeah, but how good? Like what? I don't know. I don't know what that means.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I'll say. I'm looking at his hole in one right now. And if you didn't know that swing is Tiger swing, like, look it up. It's on. It's on the Golf Channel Twitter account. You look at that swing. That is Tigers swing. Same. Wearing the same red, and he gets a whole one. That's. That is very cool. You talk. If he ends up being a good golfer, that would be exactly what golf needs. Because, you know, they did that PGA Live Challenge this week and no one watched it. Like, no one. It got. I mean, it got worse ratings than like the times when Blake Griffin plays. Like, no one watched it. Golf is going to need something. Maybe it's Tiger woods, kid.
Myron
I'm watching it now. That. That is pretty amazing.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Doesn't that look like a swing? Doesn't that. I mean, it looks exactly like his dad swing.
Myron
I just can't imagine, like, ultimately does that hurt him because that's. The expectations are going to be so unfair.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah.
Myron
You know what I mean?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
But still, I mean, it's Bronnie James dealing with that right now, and he. And he's, you know, that's the way it goes. Bucks and the Cowboys tonight. Sunday night football. Bucks 86% chance to win the South. They win today. They don't clinch it, but they come very close. Cowboys have been bad, but they're playing better in the last couple of weeks than they have before. Cowboys are at home a four point underdog. This is a sneaky for me, upset pick here potentially for the Cowboys. Bucks are owing three in prime time this season. I, you know, Cowboys last two games, last three games, about the best games they've played. You think Dallas can pull one off today at home?
Myron
They could, but I don't think they will. I mean, to me, we should be talking about the Bucks the way people are talking about the Rams. You know what I mean? Like, you want to talk about a team that just has been. Because a team that has just really changed who it is after getting healthy. I mean, Mike Evans coming back to this Bucks team has changed everything. They've won four in a row. They just.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Exactly by the Way you just explained exactly what the Rams have done when Puka and Cooper cup came back.
Myron
Yeah, we're not talking about them right now. We're talking about my Rams without a bus.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Okay.
Myron
And they destroyed the Chargers last week on the road 40 to 17, bucking bucks bucks. Baker completed 81% of his passes. I mean, they have just been incredible over these last four weeks. The defense is playing better. I think the Bucks are that team in the nfc. If they ended up winning the division, that'll be the team that you just don't want to see. If they continue to play at this level. Man, they look good.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
They do look. They do look good. And that game last week against the Chargers was a very impressive performance. I mean, they dominated that game on the road as well to get that victory. You know, they are kind of they and the rams are both 8 and 6 you mentioned. I actually think they have similar trajectories. The only difference is the Bucks looked really good at the beginning of the year, then went through a lull and now kind of re hit the have re hit the gas. They're going to be fighting for the three seed. And it's kind of interesting. If you were the Bucks or you were or you were the Rams, would you rather see a second round matchup today in Detroit or in Philly? Like if you got to choose, which of those teams, would you rather play in the in the second round on the road?
Myron
Detroit. I mean, just because you don't know who's going to be available, Detroit doesn't know who's going to be available. You know, also, I would rather go to a place that hasn't done it before.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah.
Myron
You know, as great as the Lions are, they just haven't been in this position to, to be a top seed potentially to make a run to the Super Bowl. And now they're having to deal with their biggest adversity is happening at the end of the season. Like how are they going to handle it? So I'd want to go certainly to play a Lions team that is dealing with all these injuries versus a Philly team that might go into the playoffs on a 13 game winning streak or something.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
With Baker Mayfield success along with Sam Darnold. Is there a lesson in that at all for not giving up on these quarterbacks too quickly? Like you mentioned earlier, Will Levis is done, Bryce Young is done. I mean, these guys were people that people that, you know, teams had already given up on. And yet now they both are 1's 11 and 2. You know, 1's 8 and 6. Is there a lesson there for future quarterbacks?
Myron
I think having a smart front office, you know, and if you can get these guys on a budget, you can look pretty smart. You know, you don't want to pay.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
So you. But you still would give up on Levis, Young Richardson, even though you've seen this success from guys that were like them a few years ago.
Myron
Yeah, I. I don't know. I think those are all three different guys. Right. Young to me, like physically just can't hold up in this game. Anthony Richardson just hasn't been a good quarterback ever. You know what I mean? And then you have a will Levis who has had some really big highs, but the lows have just been overwhelming. But I think a Baker Mayfield showed signs, promising signs early. Sam Donald had a high ceiling. I think if you can find the guys who have a high ceiling but need a lot of coaching, a lot of real, A lot of talent around them and you can get them for 30 million or less, yeah, you could be pretty successful. You just don't want to pay Kirk Cousins a hundred million dollars and a guy isn't playing at a high level. So I think there are going to be a lot of smart GMs who look really good when they get the Baker Mayfields and the Sam Darnolds. And then a bunch of guys are going to get fired when you overpay for the Kirk Cousins of the world.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, no, you're right. I just find it. We kind of have this view of quarterbacks, especially ones in the first round, that if they don't make it quickly, like you move on, you're a career backup. And here are two guys who've seen their careers completely resurrected, and not just resurrected, but contender resurrected. And I wonder if there will be another one of those. I mean, they were part of that class that people thought was a can't miss class, and now they're kind of rising again here together in part because with Kevin OConnell in Minnesota and then Liam Cohen, the offensive coordinator at Tampa Bay, they found offensive coordinators who really connected with them and have been able to bring out the best of their abilities.
Myron
But. But I think you hit it though, Matt. If you can put the right coaching around these guys, that changes. Like every offensive coordinator is a great offensive coordinator. You know, like there are some guys who are clearly special. Kelvin O'Connell, as you mentioned, Liam Cohen, if you can get them with one of those kinds of guys, yeah, it can change their entire careers. But I don't know how many guys are at that level. You know, I think there's four or five guys who are in that conversation who could do that with these two players.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
So, Mikey, we have. Nick says that it was. It was. It was 1.9 million.
Myron
Nick's got a passion.
Unnamed Producer
No, I was wrong. I just wanted Myron to be.
Myron
What was that?
Unnamed Producer
I wanted Myron to be so wrong so badly. Yeah, I didn't scroll down, but yeah, he is right.
Myron
Well, say that he's right.
Unnamed Producer
Myron's right. It's 1.9 off publishing, but then she also gets other royalties.
Myron
Say that again, though.
Unnamed Producer
About 2 to 3 million. You're right, Myron.
Myron
Okay.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Wow. There's a first time for everything in America.
Myron
And we now Mariah Carey knowledge.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Myron is right. Coming up, Monday Night Football heads to Lambeau. We get in the freezer next.
Myron
Hey, it's your resident super bowl champ.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Chris can he from unsportsmanlike And I just want to wish everybody, everyone a.
Myron
Happy and healthy holiday season. And happy New Year. And reminder, tune in to unsportsmanlike every.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Weekday morning starting at 6 right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.
Matt
Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Ryan Reynolds
My dad works in B2B marketing. He came by my school for career day and said he was a big roas man. Then he told everyone how much he loved calculating his return on ad spend. My friends still laugh at me to this day. Not everyone gets B2B, but with LinkedIn you'll be able to reach people who do. Get $100 credit on your next ad campaign. Go to LinkedIn.com results to claim your credit. That's LinkedIn.com results. Terms and conditions apply. LinkedIn the place to be to be. This episode is brought to you by aws. Amazon Q Business is the new generative AI assistant from aws. Many tasks can make business slow, like wading through mud. Help. Luckily, there's a faster, easier, less messy choice. Amazon Q can securely understand your business data to help you streamline tasks like summarizing quarterly results or doing complex analyses in no time. Q got this. Learn what Amazon Q Business can do for you@aws.com learnmore.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
All right, who is this Myron? Continuing our tour of of what Myron called Black Christmas.
Myron
Is this the Stylistics or Temptations?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Al Green?
Myron
No, no.
Unnamed Producer
Myron's got it. Myron. You know it. Come on.
Myron
I said the Stylistics or the Temptations.
Unnamed Producer
You knew you got to pick one.
Myron
It's got to be the. The falsetto makes me think Stylistics, Temptations. Dang. Okay. I knew it was one of them.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Wow. Well, yeah, you got close. I mean. Yeah.
Myron
Yeah. I thought you saw much more soul is in this, though. Play this a little bit. That compared. Compared to the dudes who was singing, you know, we'll come down the chimney. But you need to get, like.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
But you got to get. If you're gonna compare, you at least got to get our best versions of these.
Myron
What is your best. What is your best.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
The best.
Ryan Reynolds
Josh Groban's got a great silent.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Well, not. I don't know, a Silent Night. First of all, the best. The best song is oh, Holy Night. That's the best one for a great.
Myron
Who sings the best version.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I think the best version is actually a country singer from about 25 years ago named John Barry. So pick up John Holy Night. Right.
Myron
John Barry. A Holy Night it for the next.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Break and we'll play it. And I think that's the best version. But I agree, this is beautiful. Don't get me wrong.
Myron
Yeah.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I'm just saying, you can't just always pick, like, the worst white person and say, that's our Christmas carol. You can't, you know, take Lee Greenwood. Like, you got to give us a chance to get some vocal stylings.
Myron
Well, part of it is, I think you all got to remind people that, like, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra weren't the only dudes who did Christmas. I think you got to go up a few decades, you know, dead 45 years.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I mean, we have newer songs a lot of.
Myron
But they play a lot of those.
Unnamed Producer
But we also. They also play a lot of Nat King Cole, who probably has the best Christmas album.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yes, they do.
Myron
They do a lot of Matt.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
He does. You'll see. John. I think oh, Holy Night is the hardest Christmas song to sing. And.
Myron
Oh, yeah, that's a difficult. Yeah, that's a devil. You got to have, like, a lot of real talent to sing a lot of these.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
A lot of these football games this weekend, unfortunately, have been disappointing. I look at the NFL slate, doesn't look great today. But let me tell you one thing to watch. And this is hard for me to say today as a Kentucky fan, because this is our rival. But I do think if you all are sitting at home and you want to see a good sporting atmosphere, today at 3:00 is the NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship. Louisville is playing Penn State for the title. Nebraska and Pitt, who are the two favorites, both got upset. So these are kind of two teams, both one seeds, but they Weren't considered the best teams. Louisville is playing and they just so happen to also be hosting the Final Four this year. So they're going to be. They're expecting the largest crowd outside of like when they play the game at the Nebraska football field. The largest crowd for a women's volleyball game in America. Probably 21,000 people there. And it will be. You'll never hear a more raucous atmosphere because Louisville is hosting the Final Four today. They're playing in. That's at ABC, Myron, at 3:00.
Myron
No, I'll be watching, man. I'm a big volleyball guy. I was our public address announcer in college with volleyball.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
So you always just have to.
Myron
Very excited to.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
You like a big one up there, right? Yeah. I mean this is the. This is the women's volleyball national title. And all of a sudden you talk about how you used to announce volleyball.
Myron
Like I was the. I was the public address announcer for women's volleyball at my college. I was supporting volleyball 20 years ago. And I'm using that as a reference point to why I value the sport today. Exactly. I love the sport. To hear.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
To hear a PA announcer who wasn't as good as Myron was in High School. 3:00, Louisville. Penn State playing in the Final Four. From the Yum center, the Saints and the packers play Monday night. Packers a 14 and a half point favorite. This is only the second time all year a team has been favored by more than 14 points. Whether. I mean, it's everything against the Saints. Saints are not good. They're an indoor team playing on the road in the coldest place in the NFL against a good packers team. Any chance that your New Orleans states cover the 14 and a half? And do you feel bad for Joe Buck and Troy Aikman to have to call this game?
Myron
Yeah. I mean, not for their salaries. I think they'll be okay calling this game. But. But I mean, I don't know. It's going to be one of those situations where it feels like the Saints need a miracle to cover the weird thing they're doing. Didn't you say something about them sitting in a freezer or something like that?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
The Saints quarterbacks are sitting in a freezer to get ready for the game.
Myron
That's just. So no one does those things in the cold weather state. They just don't. So that's probably a knock against them as well. I think the packers win and you know, it's interesting how we talk about the Packers. We have a lot of conversations about the Vikings, obviously, the Eagles and the Lions. The packers are one of those teams where it felt like people thought they were super bowl level and now we're not sure. But you go out and have a strong finish these last three games and who knows. And I think you get the Vikings in one of those games as well. So the packers are definitely a team to watch in this last stretch of the season.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
The, the packers to me are a team. You always hear, well, you don't want to go to Green Bay. You don't go to Green Bay. But it doesn't really matter. They've lost a number of home games the last few years in the playoffs. You know, the thing is with their record, I mean they have as good a record as most of these other teams. We just don't talk about them. I wonder if they're, you know, we keep talking about teams in the NFC slept on if maybe they're one of those teams.
Myron
Well, I mean the problem is that Jordan Love hasn't put together a full season yet. You know what I mean? He got paid $55 million a year off of an eight game stretch finish.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Strong salaries bother you, don't they? I mean they really do. People, people's Sal, whether it's Kirk Cousins or Jordan Love, you get your salaries bothered.
Myron
You get your money, get your money. My point is he was paid off of an eight game stretch, really nine games, because then they went to Dallas and they beat the Cowboys. He comes in this season, obviously injuries were a factor. But then he starts throwing all those interceptions. I mean he was tied for the league lead and interceptions and he had only played eight games, you know, in week 12. So this is a guy who I think is still trying to prove that he can be more consistent. I think that's what's on Jordan Love's shoulders because yeah, when you are the highest paid quarterback, people expect more. And I think the end of this season can be a strong stretch for him to say, listen, I am that guy. And then you go into the playoffs and the NFC is an insurmountable. Who isn't beatable in the NFC right now. So I think the packers have a good chance to build momentum going into the postseason.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
49Ers and the Dolphins 4:30 today, kind of the marquee afternoon game. It's hard to get excited about this. Neither of these teams are likely to make the playoffs. Brock Purdy's played pretty well on the road this year. You know, I apparently my clip, what was it two weeks ago or whatever we were talking About Brock Purdy versus Sam Darnold. Was, or was that last week, Nick? One of these, one of these weeks I was and I made the point.
Unnamed Producer
That was last week.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah. So I made the point something like if you're going to pay Brock Purdy, why wouldn't you pay Sam Darnold? Because Sam's been better this year. Well, let me finish my point. But that was.
Unnamed Producer
Play it for you, Myron.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, play Blake because they played it on all. Here's what I would say first of all before you play it, Nick, I hear and my sources tell me that they've been playing this on these other ESPN shows just to rip me, which is frustrating to me. But, but this is what I said. Well, I mean the logic we're giving for Sam Darnold makes it hard not to sign Brock Purdy. I, I, this sounds crazy but I would give money to Sam Darnold before I would Brock Purdy because I think my thing about Brock Purdy is Jimmy G did all the stuff Brock Purdy did. And then when Brock Purdy did it, we acted like he was a superstar and when Jimmy G did it, he got let go. Sam Darnold has taken a team that we thought was a disaster and they have a chance to be the 1 seed in the NFC. So why am I wrong about that?
Myron
Yeah, I think it is crazy. Jimmy Garoppolo. Jimmy Garoppolo. I think the theory was that he had peaked. Right. Like you didn't know what was coming in the future. There was no signs that he was going to progress and get even better. You're talking about a third year quarterback who was the last pick in the NFL draft, who's been to a Super bowl, who might be one injury away from getting to back to back Super Bowls. Right. He goes out in that Philly game and it's rookie season.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Wait a minute. Oh from his rookie year. Okay, yeah, it's rookie year.
Myron
They get to the NC Championship.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
But I mean Jimmy G went, Jimmy G went to the Super Bowl. So like why is that?
Myron
But, but I'm saying you're talking about we're grading Brock Purdy on what he can be and based on what we've seen.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
But he knows worse this year. He was worse this year.
Myron
Who, who's on that team this year? Yeah, but he literally lost his 30 million dollar receiver Brandon Ayuk at the start of the year. Trent Williams is 35.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
If I'm, if I'm having to decide tomorrow going into next year, Sam Darnold has been just as good as Brock Purdy has been this year, probably better. And they have a chance to be the 1 seed with significantly less talent. I mean, the reality is, the moment you pay Brock Purdy, this is important for people to realize. The moment you pay Brock Purdy, all that talent he had to play with those two years, he made the super bowl or nearly made it, they're all going to be gone because they're not able to afford any of those guys. So the question becomes, can Brock. Can you win with Brock Purdy as himself? And I don't think the answer is yes.
Myron
I think the only reason that they even stayed in the conversation in the NFC west was because of Brock Purdy. The conditions have been perfect around Sam Darnold. He's excelled amid those conditions, but they've been perfect. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are playing very well. You know, Aaron Jones looks like a Pro bowl kind of guy.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
The Brian, those were all castaways except for Justin Jefferson. They had given up on everybody else, Justin Jefferson being different, but the rest of them, they'd given up. Those guys all been given up on that.
Myron
That defensive scheme and the pieces they added were perfect for what they're doing. Sam Darnold has been really good, but he also has been in a better situation than Brock Purdy has been in this season because of all the injuries. There's no world where you don't pay Brock Purdy franchise quarterback. They're going to pay franchise tag, and they should.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
They're going to pay him, and when they pay him, it will be a mistake.
Myron
That's Sam Darnold more money than Brock Purdy.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
No, I wouldn't pay either of them franchise money, but they're. But, but, but it is. Here's my point. The decision on both those guys, to me, is about an equal decision. The 49ers are definitely going to pay Brock Purdy. It's going to be a mistake. The Vikings, I think, are unlikely to do that with Sam Darnold. And it's just interesting to me because I think they're very similar players. To be honest, I think they're very similar in their abilities. The 49ers will pick Brock Purdy and he's going to be a guy that cannot win them a Super bowl at the salary he's going to make. And they're going to be stuck with him for years. That's my prediction. And you can write that down because it'll. He will not be able to win the way your Mahomes and Allen's have to do with piece together players.
Myron
That's not fair though. I mean, who is the he had it this year.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
What about this year?
Myron
Everyone.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Got hurt from homes. He found a way to go. Everybody gets hurt. For Josh Allen, he finds a way to go. You think Purdy's as good as those guys?
Myron
He's got to be top four in the league to get paid. I don't think that's how it works.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Well, we've talked about this a million times. If you don't have a Hall of Fame quarterback and you pay them franchise money, you are tying your team to a death sentence. I would rather have Sam Darnolds and Brock Purdy's at the money they're making than a dude at the max who can't win me a Super Bowl. And I don't think Purdy can win you a Super bowl without super talent around him.
Myron
Yeah, I don't know if that's fair, but I, but I, you know your perspective. You're going to pay him. He's going to get paid.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
He's going to get paid and it's going to be a mistake. Countdown to kickoff. We will pick all the games here next on ESPN Radio.
Matt
This week on Football Sunday on ESPN Radio, it's an NFC north showdown at Soldier Field.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Touchdown Detroit.
Matt
Jared Goff leads the 122 Detroit Lions into Chicago to face Caleb Williams. And the Bears coverage begins today at noon Eastern with kickoff at 1 Eastern on select ESPN radio stations. Matt and Myron the Podcast.
Ryan Reynolds
This episode is brought to you by Lifelock. The holidays mean more travel, more shopping, more time online and more personal info in places that could expose you to identity theft. That's why LifeLock monitors millions of data points every second. If your identity is stolen, their US based restoration specialist will fix it, guaranteed or your money back. Get more holiday fun and less holiday worry with Lifelock. Save up to 40% your first year. Visit lifelock.com podcast terms apply. So you're getting hungry. Really hungry. Head to Jack in a Box and pick up a Smash Jack. It's a juicy, delicious smashed burger topped with cheese, pickles, grilled onions and boss sauce. And it's now available on Sourdough. The Smash Jack. Only a Jack in the Box? Order one on the Jack app today.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
So is that good, Myron, in your mind?
Myron
Oh, that's a great song. No, that's a good, that's a good song.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I think that if since you were trying to use Bing Crosby, this is like white soulful, the best version we can do Right here?
Myron
Yeah. Now, that's. That's the one that they play at, like, the church service or. No, that's. That's the one that you do play.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Oh, Holy night.
Myron
Everybody's having dessert, you know. That's a good. That's a good one.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Well, everybody's having dessert.
Myron
Well, you know, after you've opened the presents and they don't play. Just relax.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
You open presents at church?
Myron
No, I'm saying, like, at home. Like, if you're just hanging out and they're playing Christmas carols, this is kind of.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
This is what they play. All right, there you go. John Barry. That's the best version of kickoff presented by Progressive Insurance. Round out your protection with life. You don't need to sing along phone and pet John Barry. He hits the notes that. I don't think you're gonna be able.
Myron
To hear that rain.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
It is now time to make our picks. It is. Take your pick.
Unnamed Producer
Take your pick.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
You take your pick.
Matt
It's time to take your pick.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
All right, so you were on another diva vacation last week. So we had Gabe Knights will pick for you. He actually helped you. He beat me by one game. So I'm up five with three weeks to go. You better make your move now, or it's bon voyage. Let's get started. What's up first?
Matt
49Ers at Dolphins.
Myron
Bonvoy. I'll be on the show. I mean, we'll see the Dolphins. There was a window where they. I think they could have made the playoffs. I think that window's pretty slim. I think Brad P's out to prove a point man, you know, to prove that. All this talk about whether or not he should get paid. I think he shows up big today. Unfortunately, with all the injuries, it won't be enough. Give me Miami.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
All right, well, I believe in Brock Purdy. Unlike you, I'll take the 49ers to get the victory. Pay that man his money. What's next?
Matt
Patriots and Bills.
Myron
I mean, the Bills are gonna win, right? But I mean, the question is, what will they get out of Drake May? Because I think that's still the storyline. Can he be the guy in the future?
Unnamed Sports Analyst
If you listen to Bill Simmons, he's the next Joe Montana. I think he might be the next Joe Piscopo. So I'll take the Bills to win the game. What's next?
Matt
Rams head Jets.
Myron
Oh. Matt's favorite team going across the country playing Aaron Rodgers, who's playing his best football, coinciding with the release of his net Netflix special that Won't matter. Rams win.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, I take the Rams. Come on. Yeah. I'm not picking Aaron Rodgers for anything except retirement. What's next?
Matt
Eagles at Commanders.
Myron
I mean, the Eagles can continue that streak. The Commanders haven't been great against good teams. I think that continues today. Jalen Hurts is playing like he's trying to send a message to the world. I will pick the Eagles to continue their winning streak.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
This one's tough for me. I actually bet that Washington's getting four. I would take Washington gets a spread. But since this is just straight up, I'm going to pick the Eagles in this. But my bet is actually on the Commanders to cover the four. I like that one. I think that's good value. What's next?
Matt
Giants at Falcons.
Myron
I mean, Michael.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Michael.
Myron
Yeah. You know, sometimes that changes a team. New quarterback, you know, fresh start. Also, you're playing the Giants, which. Which helps give me the Falcons to win.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I wonder how many times in NFL history has a starting quarterback in their first ever game been a nine and a half point favorite.
Myron
That's pretty.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
It can't have happened very often, but probably should be the case now. I'll take the Falcons, but nine and a half points for a guy who's never played a game is a lot. What's next?
Matt
Cardinals at Panthers?
Myron
I mean, Panthers have shown some signs of growth, but the Cardinals are still in the playoff hunt and they're going to come out knowing that. Give me Kyler Murray and the Cardinals to win.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, boy. I want to pick the Panthers here, but I feel like I'd be giving you a game because the Cardinals are better. So I'll take the Cardinals to win on the road in Carolina. There might be 12 people at this game. What's next?
Matt
Browns at Bengals?
Myron
Well, they're gonna be some fights in the stands. We know that between these two teams. Dorian Thompson Robinson, starting quarterback for the Browns, Miles Garrett, I think is sacked Joe Burrow more times than any other player in the NFL. But Burrow's been really good. He'll be good again today. Give me the Bengals.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I'm going to take the Bengals. They're hitting their stride. They sets up a big game against Denver tomorrow, so. Or, excuse me, next week. So I'm going to take Cincinnati to win at home. What's next?
Matt
Titans at Colts?
Myron
Yeah, I mean, yeah, Titans are playing for the draft at this point and Anthony Richardson still trying to prove that he can be a franchise quarterback for this team. Give me the Colts.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, give me the Colts. I think going to Mason Rudolph's not going to make any difference. This may be Anthony Richardson kind of playing for his job next year. In the next few games, I'll say plays decent here and we get the Colts. What's next?
Matt
Lions at Bears?
Myron
Yeah, I mean, lions aren't 100%, but I think they'll still beat the Bears, who, you know, they got a lot going on as they're thinking about their future, but give me the lines.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, I mean, again, I want to pull the trigger here. We're going to have a big upset today. The question just who. I don't think it'll be my Chicago Bears, though. I'll take the Lions to win on the road. What's next?
Matt
Vikings at Seahawks.
Myron
Vikings are two and a half point favorites. They're the better team, but I can't get over the history. They've lost five in a row. I believe in Seattle. Two of their last nine of their last 11, I believe. So I'm gonna pick. No, I'll pick the Vikings to break that history. You know what? Give me the Vikings to break that history.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Wow.
Myron
Okay.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Well, you know what? I'm gonna take Seattle. I think even though I think Sam Darnold should be paid all the money, I do think Seattle wins this game. Their playoff hopes are really on the line. They end up pulling it out at home. Give me the Seahawks. What's next?
Matt
Jaguars at Raiders.
Myron
I shouldn't have picked the Vikings. Oh, man. Jags, Raiders. Everybody loses, right? But again, Brock Bowers is God. People need to watch. I think he has a big game. He's going to be a centerpiece of that team's future after they draft Shador Sanders or whatever. So give me the Raiders.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, I have no idea. I just can't pick the Jaguars. They're starting the guy everybody thinks is me, Mac Jones. So I'm going to end up. Yeah. Every time he plays well, people think his name is Matt and not Mac. And everybody, like, writes me and doesn't see, oh, you were the worst at KY Sports Radio. Like, why are you doing that? I didn't. I didn't play. So I'll take the Raiders to win the game. Who's next?
Matt
Buccaneers at Cowboys.
Myron
Fun game, man. Buccaneers obviously trying to win that division. And now the Falcons take a step back, potentially. Michael Penix Jr. Replacing Kirk Cousins. Give me the bucks.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, I gotta take the bucks. Cowboys haven't won anything at home and even worse in primetime games. So I don't know how you can pick. Pick them. I'll take Tampa Bay to win on the road and then Monday Night Football.
Matt
Saints at Packers.
Myron
It's just a matter of how much, right? If these dudes are doing things like going to freezers and doing silly stuff like that, I mean, Saints don't have a chance. So. So packers win. But stop doing that silly cold weather stuff when you're coming up to these places.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Yeah, I'm gonna go with the Packers. I think they win, win handily. It'll be a good Monday Night Football game that I can skip to get ready for Christmas. I'll be doing last minute shopping maybe for you, Myron. By the way, thanks for the gift you sent me for Christmas. I appreciate it. Yours should get there Monday. I know. That's what I'm saying.
Myron
I'll see you. I mean, I'm a gift if you really think about it.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Oh yeah, you're a gift. Well, that's good. I'm glad you consider yourself overpriced gift, but still one that I like to have. Game Day with Kevin Clark, Justin Pugh and Mike Tannenbaum is coming up next here on ESPN Radio. This is Meyer Metcalf. Matt Jones has been countdown to kickoff. We'll see you later.
Myron
Hey, it's Michelle Smallman from unsportsmanlike.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
I just wanted to wish everyone a.
Myron
Happy and healthy holiday and a happy New Year. And a reminder to tune into Unsportsmanlike every weekday morning at 6am Eastern right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.
Matt
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 SiriusXM channel 80. Matt and Myron the podcast this Christmas is different.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Five games, a Christmas Day gift, five superstar matchups, splashdown. Steph Curry, the legend of LeBron continues.
Myron
To grow, including Dunk the Halls, a.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
Real time animated NBA game between the.
Myron
Spurs and the Knicks and featuring Mickey.
Unnamed Sports Analyst
And friends celebrate the NBA on Christmas Day beginning at noon Eastern on espn.
Myron
Abc, ESPN and Disney.
Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Hour 3 - Myron is Right Release Date: December 22, 2024
In the December 22, 2024 episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron titled "Myron is Right," hosts Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf delve deep into the latest happenings in the sports world, offering insightful analysis and spirited discussions. This episode covers a broad spectrum of topics, from NFL season dynamics and quarterback performances to the enduring legacy of Mariah Carey's holiday music. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key points, enriched with notable quotes from both hosts.
The conversation kicks off with a focus on the Philadelphia Eagles' remarkable 10-game winning streak, the longest in the franchise's history. Myron underscores the team's resilience, especially amidst preseason turmoil and key player movements.
Matt complements Myron's assessment, noting that the Eagles' consistent performance, despite high expectations, positions them as serious Super Bowl contenders. The hosts discuss Jalen Hurts' evolution, emphasizing his dual-threat capabilities and the critical role of the running game supported by Saquon Barkley.
A spirited debate ensues about the Rams' potential as a sleeper team vying for the Super Bowl. While Matt expresses optimism about their trajectory, Myron remains skeptical, citing concerns about consistency and past playoff performances.
The hosts compare the Rams to the Tampa Bay Bucks, highlighting how key player recoveries have bolstered their performance but caution against overestimating their postseason prospects.
A significant portion of the episode centers on quarterback performances:
Jalen Hurts (Eagles): Myron praises Hurts' ability to combine his arm strength with his mobility, making him a versatile threat on the field. However, he raises questions about Hurts' capability to lead the team with his passing alone in the playoffs.
Sam Darnold vs. Brock Purdy (Commanders vs. 49ers): The hosts engage in a heated discussion about the future of quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy. While Myron expresses reservations about long-term commitments to either player, Matt advocates for backing both, citing their current performances and potential.
This segment highlights differing philosophies on managing quarterback talent and the risks associated with high-value contracts.
Myron evaluates Jaden Daniels' potential impact on the Washington Commanders, appreciating his role as a franchise quarterback despite questioning the team's ability to contend against stronger opponents.
Matt counters by acknowledging the unpredictability of quarterback development, drawing parallels with past players like CJ Stroud.
Shifting gears, Myron passionately discusses the financial success of Mariah Carey's iconic holiday song, “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” He cites impressive figures, asserting that Carey has amassed over $103 million from the song over three decades.
The conversation briefly becomes a playful debate about the accuracy of these statistics, with Myron confidently standing by his figures before correcting himself based on a producer's input.
The hosts celebrate a milestone achieved by Tiger Woods' child, who recorded his first hole-in-one during a televised father-son golf tournament. They reflect on the legacy and future potential in golf, acknowledging the pressures accompanying familial affiliations in sports.
Highlighting collegiate sports, Myron shares his enthusiasm for the NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship, featuring Louisville vs. Penn State. He reminisces about his time as a public address announcer for volleyball, emphasizing his passion for the sport.
A significant portion of the episode involves Matt and Myron making predictions for upcoming NFL games. They analyze team performances, player conditions, and situational factors to back their choices. Notable picks include:
Throughout these segments, Myron frequently expresses his confidence in being "right" with his picks, reinforcing the episode’s theme.
In a lighter segment, Matt and Myron engage in a friendly rivalry over the best versions of Christmas carols, debating artists like the Stylistics, Temptations, and John Barry. This discussion underscores the holiday spirit and the hosts' personal preferences, adding a festive touch to the episode.
As the episode nears its end, Myron and Matt extend warm holiday wishes to their listeners, thanking them for tuning in and reminding them of upcoming shows and special holiday programming.
This episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron delivers a comprehensive and engaging overview of current sports narratives, enriched by the hosts' expert opinions and lively banter. From dissecting NFL strategies and quarterback potentials to celebrating iconic holiday tunes and personal milestones in golf, Matt and Myron offer listeners a well-rounded and entertaining Sunday morning experience.