Hour 3: The Phones are Off

Summary

Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Episode Summary – Hour 3: The Phones are Off

Released on December 15, 2024

In this engaging episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron," hosts Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf delve deep into the current landscape of the NFL, European soccer rivalries, and the evolving dynamics of college football playoffs. Skipping advertisements and non-content segments, the discussion is rich with expert analysis, spirited debates, and insightful predictions. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the episode's key points, notable quotes, and the overall flow of conversations.

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1. Super Bowl Predictions and Team Analysis

The episode kicks off with Matt and Myron analyzing the odds of various NFL teams clinching the Super Bowl. The conversation primarily centers around the Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and the reigning favorites, the Kansas City Chiefs.

Matt's Perspective:

• Matt emphasizes his unwavering confidence in the Chiefs, stating, "I'm betting on the Chiefs until they lose. I just am. While they're not playing the best football right now, they have the best record in the NFL." (03:02)
• He highlights the Chiefs' path to the AFC Championship, suggesting that their remaining games, especially against the Texans, are manageable for them to secure their spot.

Myron's Counterpoints:

• Myron counters by expressing skepticism about the Chiefs' sustainability, remarking, "They find a way to win these games. Is that luck going to continue? I mean, it's going to run out at some point." (04:11)
• He underscores the resurgence of other teams like the Ravens and questions the Steelers' viability in the current playoff race.

Statistical Breakdown:

• Matt mentions the probabilistic edge, stating, "If you add up the numbers, it would be about 54% for your four and like 46% for mine." (03:02) indicating a close contest between their predicted favorites.

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2. European Soccer Rivalries: Celtic vs Rangers

Shifting gears, Matt and Myron delve into the intense rivalry between Celtic and Rangers in the Scottish Cup final.

• Matt expresses enthusiasm for the atmosphere, saying, "There are no more fun group of people to be around than Scottish people. Have you ever been to a... a lot of Scottish people? They are the best." (10:11)
• Myron shares his experiences from visiting Scotland, adding, "I have been to Scotland twice. Both times for golf trips, and yes, very hospitable. Very. It's fantastic." (17:29)

The hosts discuss the passion and intensity surrounding the match, highlighting its significance in the world of European soccer.

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3. College Football Playoff Expansion

The conversation transitions to the College Football Playoff, focusing on its expansion to 12 teams.

• Myron touches on the reasons behind the expansion, stating, "NIL has been the great equalizer in all of college sports." (16:16)
• Matt adds context about home-field advantages and the dream scenarios the expansion could facilitate, saying, "The home field advantage too. In that first round, we have dreamt of this situation." (12:35)

They speculate on the potential impact of this expansion on the competitiveness and excitement of college football.

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4. NFL Game Predictions and Analysis

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to predicting the outcomes of various NFL games scheduled for the day. Matt and Myron systematically go through each matchup, offering their insights and picks.

Notable Predictions:

• Ravens vs. Giants: Gabe picks the Ravens, supported by Matt’s remark, “I’ll take the Ravens.” (38:37)

• Jets vs. Jaguars: Both hosts agree on favoring the Jets, with Matt humorously referring to Aaron Rodgers’ tenure with, “Aaron Rodgers on his way to a conspiracy theory podcast.” (39:30)

• Cowboys vs. Panthers: They lean towards the Panthers, highlighting Bryce Young's performance, “Bryce Young has been playing better... I think they're going to continue to that.” (39:33)

• Commanders vs. Saints: A bit of back-and-forth ensues with Matt expressing concern over the Commanders’ stability but ultimately supporting their win, “I'm going to pick the Commanders.” (40:15)

• Chiefs vs. Browns: Matt takes a bold stance by backing Cleveland Browns over the Chiefs, stating, “I'm going to take Cleveland." (41:15)

• Bills vs. Lions: Both hosts favor the Bills, with Myron indicating, “I’m going to go with the Bills.” (43:19)

• Buccaneers vs. Chargers: They opt for the Chargers, discussing defensive strengths, “I’m going to take the Chargers to win at home.” (43:32)

• Steelers vs. Eagles: A consensus emerges in favor of the Eagles, with Matt noting, “I’m going to take the Eagles to win on the road.” (44:20)

• Bears vs. Vikings: Myron supports the Vikings, citing Sam Darnold’s prowess, “I’m going to take Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings.” (45:12)

• Falcons vs. Raiders: Both choose the Falcons, critiquing Kirk Cousins’ performance, “I’m going to take Atlanta.” (46:08)

Discussion Highlights:

• Sam Darnold’s Performance: A detailed debate unfolds around the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback Sam Darnold, with Myron advocating for his impact, “Sam Darnold has taken a team that we thought was a disaster and they have a chance to be the one seed in the NFC.” (35:04), while Matt questions the Vikings' potential decisions regarding their quarterback roster.

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5. Quarterback Contracts and Team Strategies

A significant segment addresses the contract negotiations and future of key quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy.

• Myron discusses the complexities surrounding Sam Darnold’s contract, emphasizing the high-stakes nature for the Vikings, “Whatever decision that GM makes is a 'you get fired if you get it wrong' decision.” (31:17)
• The hosts compare scenarios with other quarterbacks, debating the strategic moves teams might take in securing their QB positions, and the potential repercussions of these decisions.

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6. Host Interactions and Listener Engagement

Although the episode is titled "The Phones are Off," the hosts humorously address issues with phone lines not connecting, leading to light-hearted banter.

• Matt shares a listener's message praising Gabe, comparing him to a golfer's impressive shot, "One person writes... 'he's better than most. And that's like Tiger's putt at the Players Championship.'" (14:22)
• Myron mentions difficulty in reaching the show, leading to playful commentary about call lines and listener accessibility.

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7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Segments

As the episode wraps up, Matt and Myron reflect on the day's discussions and hint at future topics.

• Matt mentions upcoming analyses, including reacting to Week 15 in the NFL and the College Football Playoff kickoff, ensuring listeners stay tuned for more in-depth sports coverage.
• They also highlight the continued excitement in sports beyond American football, referencing the ongoing Celtic vs. Rangers match and the fanfare surrounding European soccer events.

Final Notable Quote:

• Matt concludes with enthusiasm for the ongoing sports drama, “This game is insane. 3, 3. As they are playing in extra time.” (47:09)

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Conclusion

This episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" offers a thorough exploration of the current sports climate, blending statistical analysis with personal insights. From dissecting NFL playoff potentials and quarterback contracts to appreciating the fervor of European soccer rivalries, Matt and Myron provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the sports world. Their dynamic interaction and expert predictions make this episode a must-listen for avid sports enthusiasts.

Transcript

[Matt]

This episode is brought to you by Amazon Prime. There's nothing sweeter than baking cookies during the holidays. With Prime, I get all my ingredients delivered right to my door, fast and free.

[Myron]

No last minute store trips needed.

[Matt]

And of course I blast my favorite holiday playlist on Amazon Music. It's the ultimate soundtrack for creating unforgettable memories. From streaming to shopping. It's on Prime. Visit Amazon.comprime to get more out of whatever you're into.

[Gabe]

This is Matt and Myron the Podcast.

[Matt]

I'm Ready to Play Football. I've been waiting a long time for this moment. Time is here.

[Unknown]

The time is now.

[Gabe]

This is the countdown to kickoff on ESPN radio.

[Matt]

It is countdown to kickoff here on ESPN radio presented by Progressive Insurance. 8, 8, 8 say ESPN. We are one hour till the early kickoffs here in the NFL. A lot of really, really good games late. Lot of eh, two games early. But nevertheless the day gets better as it goes on. That's all you can ask the two big games. Bills, Lions, Steelers, Eagles. Right now if you look at the, if you look at the odds to win the super bowl, the Bills are Bills and Lions are first and second. The Eagles and Steelers are fourth and eighth. The only team not in the top four are the Chiefs. So I'm going to ask you a question, Gabe. I'm going to give you right now to win the Super Bowl. I give you Bills, Lions, Steelers, Eagles or I give you the field, which the field would then include, you know, the Chiefs, the Ravens and basically every other team that will be in the playoffs. So at least I get 10 of the 14 teams in the playoffs. You get four. Would you take Bills, Lions, Eagles, Steelers over the everyone else?

[Unknown]

I think those are the two teams that have just such. I think all the other teams in the NFC have fatal flaws that are could prevent them from being there. Be very surprised if the NFC representative is not either the Lions or the Eagles at this point. I, I mean the Chiefs. And you know what? I would probably take those four teams. I don't think the Steelers are going to get there. I don't think the Steelers are going to get there. But I love my chance with the Lions, the Bills and the Eagles because the Bills, especially with a win today and if the Chiefs again they all they do is play close games. If they just make one more mistake in one of those games, that becomes a very tight race for the number one overall seed suddenly in the AFC during the final three weeks. So I think I would take the four because I feel really good about the Top three?

[Matt]

Yeah, that's a. You know, that is a really good question. If you add up the numbers. I'm sitting here looking at the numbers, it would be about 54% for your four and like 46 for my. Everybody else. I think your analysis is the right one, though, which is. I think there's almost, I would say a 75 to 80% chance your NFC representative is either going to be the Lions or the Eagles, which means you're going to get somebody in that final game. Whereas I got to get some luck to make sure I get my Chiefs in there against the Bills and against the Steelers. I don't think the Steelers are going to make it. So really I think we're looking at Lions, Bills, Eagles vs Chiefs, Ravens, Packers, Vikings or something like that. You know, my view about the super bowl is this. Right now, the Chiefs are the third favorite team. They are a 12% chance to win the super bowl, but I'm betting on the Chiefs until they lose. I mean, I just am. Until I'm going to pick the Chiefs to win the super bowl until they don't. And then when they don't, I'll reconsider. But I'm just not betting against those guys. They still have the best record in the NFL.

[Unknown]

I understand they're not playing the best football out of anyone, but they should be number one in everyone's power rankings. They're the only team in the NFL that I don't think the regular season that matters that much for them. They proved that last season everybody wanted to get out in front. After they lost to the Raiders on Christmas Day last year, it's over for the Chiefs. You know, they're going to have to figure something else out. This is not going to be a year where they make it back to the AFC Championship game, which, by the way, they've done every year with Patrick Mahomes as their starting quarterback. They're not going back to the Super Bowl. And look, I understand it hasn't looked pretty, but they find a way to win these games. Is that luck going to continue? I mean, it's going to run out at some point in time. I'm not going to be the one to predict when it runs out, though, because you keep. How many times would you have looked foolish going up?

[Matt]

Nope.

[Unknown]

They're losing that game. No, they're losing that game. And yet here they sit at 12 and 1.

[Matt]

Well, the other thing is, if they can. If they can stay as the number one seed. Now, that's important to me. Not so Much for the home game part, but because of the path, if they stay the number one seed, you're basically telling me they have to beat the Texans in order to go to the AFC championship. That's it. That's all they have to do in that war. And you're. And do I not think that they can beat the Texans to go to the number one to go to the AFC championship? Yeah, I do think they can do that. Of course I think they can do that. Then they have a great defense. You're not going to convince me that my man Travis Kelce doesn't have some stuff, stuff left in the tank. I mean they're, they're, they're preserving him, don't you think? I, I refuse to believe he's done.

[Unknown]

He.

[Matt]

Everybody, everybody acts like the Travis Kelsey you see. There are still games out there where he gets nine catches and 88 yards. Just because he doesn't do it every week against the Broncos doesn't mean it's not there. They got Pacheco back and then that defense is good. And I'll just say this one score games, they have now set the all time record for most one score games. One in a row. That ain't coincidence, it ain't luck. There's something about a game that when it's close, they win. And until that stops, I'm going to continue to pick them.

[Unknown]

Pacheco being back I think is huge because last year going into the playoffs they decided, hey, we trust Pacheco, Kelsey and at the time, Rasheed Rice, and they rode those three offensively to most of the yards that they ended up accumulating in their run to the Super Bowl, Pacheco's back. We know they trust him. I'm with you on Kelsey.

[Matt]

Yeah.

[Unknown]

Just because he's, you know, doesn't have a 10 catch for 150 yard game, that look, this guy's going to have something in the playoffs. You know, he is going to. So I'm not writing him off. And it's just kind of getting down more reps with Deandre Hopkins. Is he as explosive as a young Rasheed Rice? No. But if Hopkins can continue to get on the same page more and more with Patrick Mahomes, that's more than enough for what they have defensively for that offense to be able to win.

[Matt]

And isn't there. Their weapons on offense are just as good as they were last year, aren't they? I mean, like, exactly. So I really don't see it. Now let's go back to the Games today with the Bills, the Lions and the Steelers and the Eagles. Either of those games, do you think the result will say something about the rest of the year or is this just like a one off regular? Is there either of those games that you're like, it's really important to me to see who wins this one.

[Unknown]

Uh, I don't think that there's a definitive statement that I'm taking away from any one of these games. I guess unless the Steelers just completely lay an egg and Russell Wilson has like a four interception game, then it seems like, okay, well now that other shoe is dropping for him. But for the, for the Lions and Bills, the Lions are incredibly beat up. If they lose this game, I still think they're one of the best teams in the nfc. Even if the Bills lose this game, I guess it seems bigger for them because that probably drops them out of the conversation to get that number one seat. Yes, they're still, they've already won their division, but it's a bigger game for the Bill. But I still feel good about them in terms of how competitive they're going to be in the afc. So I look at that game as more. That's just going to be fun to watch. At 425 this afternoon, two really good football teams going head to head this close to the playoffs.

[Matt]

I think this is a big game for the Bills. I do. I think it's a big game for the Bills because of what you said. The lines are very banged up. The Steeler. If the Bills were to lose and the Steelers were to win and Buffalo goes from potentially being the 1 overall seed to having to play an initial game, then go to Pittsburgh, go to Kansas City, that's a lot tougher a road than they would have others. So I actually think there's a lot on the line for the Bills today. The one seed goes away if they lose and then all of a sudden if the Steelers beat the Eagles, the two seed is in jeopardy. And if you're the Bills, you don't want to be coming through as the three seed. You don't want to have to. I mean there's a chance if they do that, that they could slip down and have to open with the Ravens, go to the Steelers and then go to the Chiefs. You do not want that to be your path.

[Unknown]

Is this more important game for the Eagles in that Eagle Steelers game? Because if they come out and they look good today and they win yet again, doesn't that kind of quash down any of the drama that's Been lingering, maybe.

[Matt]

But if you lose at home to a Pittsburgh team that on paper should have no business playing with you, that's a problem. I think that it's more like. It's more like the Eagles can't lose, then a win is very impressive. I just don't think you can. I mean, for both of these teams. A lot of it depends on what happens in the other game. Because if the Eagles win and then the Lions lose, the one seed is right there for the taking for the Eagles. So these. These games almost work in concert together. As to what happens in one, we'll say a lot about what happens in the other. You know, the one result that probably wouldn't matter a lot is if both the Lions win and the Eagles win. It keeps it the same. The Bills and the Steelers say that stay the same with each other. That's the only thing that really wouldn't shake it up at all.

[Unknown]

Yeah. And the only thing it really does is eliminates the Bills from.

[Matt]

From the one seed.

[Unknown]

From the one seed. And that's exactly right.

[Matt]

Yeah.

[Unknown]

That's not that big of a deal.

[Matt]

You know, I've been keeping you up to date here, Gabe, on the Scottish Cup. Rangers just scored. It is now 2. 2. It is a tie. It is in the fog. When you think of Scotland, you think of exactly the weather they have now. They have rain, they have smog, they have people screaming. Half the fans are Rangers fans, half the fans are Celtics fans. I go to Paramount. Plus, this is what sports is, is an atmosphere like right now in the dark in Glasgow.

[Unknown]

So just fill me in here. Are you watching this because you're a soccer fan or because this is just such a great rivalry?

[Matt]

I'm an atmosphere fan. I respect. I like, you know, I like part of this because I grew up with Kentucky, Louisville. I went to Duke law school, so I was around Duke, North Carolina. I've been to the Iron Bowl. I've seen Auburn, Alabama. Never been to Ohio State, Michigan, but want to get there. Been to a Packers, Bears game. Right. Like, I love the rivalry and in sports, unfortunately, in professional sports, I don't. I mean, where do we get it in professional sports now, like Yankees, Red Sox?

[Unknown]

Not even then that much anymore.

[Matt]

So what is it? I mean, like, Raven, Steelers always feels like a pretty nasty game. Maybe Packers, Bears, you all beaten us for like eight straight years. So it's really kind of college sports to me. It is so. To me, like, if you're just saying the rivalries in basketball, Duke, Carolina, Kentucky, Louisville in football, Ohio State, Michigan, Auburn, Alabama, Army, Navy. Is that it? Are those like the things, those are.

[Unknown]

Always the can't miss. I mean, some of the other ones obviously can rise up to that level, but they're not consistently. The ones you just listed I think are the can't miss every year, can't miss.

[Matt]

Like the hatred is through the roof. So then you go to European soccer. The ones that exist are insane. And even though this isn't the highest quality, you know, two sports organizations and fans in America, in the world hate each other like Celtic and Rangers. So that's why I'm watching. Okay, coming up next, some teams are already facing must win games today. How many of them will see their season end on the field today? Or as they would say in soccer, on the pitch? That's Next here on ESPN Radio.

[Unknown]

The College Football Playoff on ESPN Radio. College Football Playoff is expanding to 12 teams.

[Matt]

Touchdown. Un believable. The home field advantage too. In that first round. We have dreamt of this situation.

[Gabe]

A College football playoff round one December 20th and 21st on ESPN radio ESPN and on ABC. Matt and Myron the podcast my dad.

[Unknown]

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.

[Myron]

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[Matt]

Countdown to Kickoff here, ESPN Radio presented by Progressive Insurance. There are some, I don't know, big time games today, but also big time is our countdown to kickoff. I got a Message here. You know, I have a text machine game. Okay. Book and text in thoughts from the show. It's 772-774-5254. And people send them in during the show. One person writes, matt, I don't know who this guy is with you instead of Myron. I think you said his name is Gabe. Tell him. I think he's doing a pretty good job. Not gonna say he's the best, but he's better than most. And that's like Tiger's putt at the Players Championship. I think that's a compliment.

[Unknown]

I'll take it as a compliment. Very similar to the compliment I feel that Mikey C. Gave me earlier, but he kind of was also taking out Myron. I'm not. I'm not quite sure, but I am going to perceive that as a compliment.

[Matt]

I think better than most is definitely a compliment. I mean, I know this. You may not know this game. I'm not considered the easiest guy to do a show with in the world.

[Unknown]

I've heard that. Yes.

[Matt]

Well, no way. You're not supposed to say. You have heard that. You were supposed to wait. You were supposed to.

[Unknown]

I was supposed to make you feel better.

[Matt]

You are not supposed to agree to that. That. I enjoy.

[Unknown]

I enjoy being on with you.

[Matt]

I mean, I enjoy being on with you as well. You. You know, there's. There are people out there that are, you know, less interesting, and you are interesting, and I. I enjoy that. So. So thank you very much for coming. And I don't know where Myron is today, but I'm sure it's somewhere important. He's going to Utah for, like, four days, and he's nervous about it because he's not sure. He's not sure if there's anybody in Utah that looks like him. And I told him you were just out there.

[Unknown]

Can you confirm or deny that?

[Matt]

I mean, I won't say he has a lot of twins in Utah when I was there, but I think he'll still be fine. I mean, you know, he's going. I think the guy, the kid. AJ Debansa. $7 million to go play for BYU, the number one recruit in America. What do you think about BYU getting the number one recruit in America? That's kind of crazy, isn't it?

[Unknown]

But I kind of like it. Again, it just kind of spreads everything out. NIL has been the great equalizer in all of college sp. Why? I think college basketball is going to be fascinating when we hit the tournament because it seems like it is very wide open this year. And honestly, the College Football Playoff is also wide open. Whereas four or five years ago, at this point, Matt, it'd be okay. Well, we know these are the two best teams. Nobody's particularly close. It'll be a fun championship game, semifinal games, whatever. But all these College Football Playoff games are must watch because I don't think there's one team that is just head and shoulders above everybody else.

[Matt]

Celtics scores to go up 3, 2. And the fans are going insane. Look at those people go crazy. I hope you all have this game on. Wow, look at that. Wouldn't you love to be there, Gabe, with all those Scottish. There are no more fun group of people to be around than Scottish people. Have you ever been to a. Around a lot of Scottish people? They are the best.

[Unknown]

I have been to Scotland twice. Both times for golf trips, and yes, very hospitable. Very. It's fantastic. However, the way you've described this rivalry, I'd be a little bit scared that I would not be wearing, like, the white.

[Matt]

Definitely.

[Unknown]

And be going after, like, one side or the other would be coming after me. I don't know.

[Matt]

You definitely want to see the stadium map before you go in and make sure you're in the right. You're on the right side with your shirt. Maybe go neutral, but Celtic. Now you got me, Matt. This game is insane. Ranger just scored. Rangers just scored. Now it's three. Three. I'm telling you. I told you all this was the best sporting event of the day. There's three. It's the Cup Final, and now it's three. Three. I told you guys it would be good. All right, I'll try to switch back to football, even though I'm going to be distracted watching this. Colts and Broncos Today, the Broncos have a 74% chance of making the playoffs, but it goes to 92% if they win, but 50% if they lose. They are at home against the Colts. If you're going to make the playoffs, Gabe, you got to beat the Colts at home. Am I right?

[Unknown]

You are 100% right. And it kind of feels like if the Broncos win this game, it really brings that AFC playoff picture just kind of into focus. And we know who those seven teams that are going to be there are going to be. Yes, you can jostle around for the different seatings, but if they jump up right now, they're the 7 seed. And if they jump up to a 92% chance to be in the postseason, that is just such a long shot for Miami or Cincinnati. Some of these other teams that are still alive in the afc. A win here, huge for the Broncos goes and they can start making their postseason plans.

[Matt]

Do you, I mean, are you believing in the Bo Knicks going into the postseason hype? I thought he was the most likely person to be a bust in the last draft class and he has surprised me. I give Sean Payton a lot of credit. I give Bo Nix a lot of credit for how he's played this year.

[Unknown]

Well, I think it's been a reclamation project for both of them. And because I was with you, like Bo Nicks, he was in College for what, 15 years?

[Matt]

He's like 38.

[Unknown]

Yeah, he was a little bit older coming into this year, but. But at the same time with Sean Payton, you were thinking, oh, last year, okay, well, he's going to be the one to be able to fix Russell Wilson. He wasn't the one who was able to fix Russell Wilson. They shipped him off. So this was kind of a make or break thing for Sean Payton and he has made the most of his brand new quarterback. Now, I don't think the Broncos are threatening anybody in the postseason once they get there, but for this team, as in shambles as they were, to be paying $85 million, yes, it spread out over two years, but still, to be paying that much for a quarterback not to be there and still make the playoffs, that is impressive. If the Broncos can do it, they.

[Matt]

Need to get it done. And as far as the Colts, oddly, even though they've kind of been off of everybody's radar, they still have a chance to make the playoffs as well. If they win, it goes up to about 40% because they'll own the tiebreaker over the Broncos later.

[Unknown]

The Bucks.

[Matt]

Go ahead.

[Unknown]

Well, I was about to say you're the big schedule guy. Their schedule the remaining way after this. Titans at Giants home against the Jacks.

[Matt]

They should win all three of those. I mean, they're sitting there looking and going, hey, we got a great shot to make the playoffs if they win today. They're kind of the sneaky playoff team that nobody thinks about. The Bucks hold a one game lead over the Falcons in the NFC South. That is a division which has been a complete, you know, insane back and forth all year. They play at the Chargers today. Chargers are a three point favorite. Chargers are playing great for both of these teams. This is the third biggest game in the 4:00 segment, but it's a game that's crucial for both of these teams heading into the playoffs.

[Unknown]

The buccaneers are the 1 team in the NFL where I just don't have a really good feel for them. I just have no feel for them whatsoever. Everybody else, I kind of have an idea, okay, if this team's good, this team's bad. I don't know what the Buccaneers are because they have, again, some very tough losses against good teams. They have some inexplicable losses that exist on their schedule as well, but they've played well the last three weeks. Granted, not against very good teams, but this is the only tough game left on their schedule. Cowboys, Panthers, Saints, the rest of the way. And if they build up some momentum with what they have offensively in the way that Baker can get hot, that could be a team where, yeah, they come out one of those teams that we've seen in NFL recent history where, yeah, the division is not very good. Your division winner comes out at or around.500, and yet they end up winning a home playoff game and advancing to the divisional round. I certainly could see that for the Buccaneers because of how good Baker has played this year.

[Matt]

Totally agree with you there. They might be a team that play your packers in the first round of the playoffs. Right.

[Unknown]

I don't like that.

[Matt]

I mean, but I mean, that's, that could be how it plays out. And that's one of those games where, like you just said, you wouldn't feel confident going down to Tampa Bay and playing, would you?

[Unknown]

No, I absolutely would not. I would much rather play whoever wins the NFC West, I think, than the Buccaneers.

[Matt]

Yeah. And so you may end up, may end up getting that right now if you're at home, get on Paramount. Plus you don't just have to watch Yellowstone and Landman on it. You can also watch this Celtic and Rangers. It's a cup game, so they might have to go into a shootout. And this is the best drama on television this weekend right now. 3, 3. As they are playing in extra time. Coming up, next Monday night doubleheader features maybe the least talked about team in the NFL. We'll tell you who they are and talk about them next on Countdown to Kickoff.

[Unknown]

Hey, it's your resident super bowl champ, Chris Cannon coming up Monday.

[Matt]

The Bears have been huge underachievers this season, but I'll tell you why they have a chance to change how we feel about it. It's unsportsmanlike. 6:00am Eastern right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.

[Gabe]

Matt and Myron, the podcast.

[Myron]

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[Matt]

30 minutes until the kickoff of the early games here on Counting the Kickoff ESPN Radio. I am keeping my man Gabe Neitzel and you the audience informed as we go to extra time in Celtic Rangers in Glasgow, Scotland. Man City also playing Manchester United tonight today. I didn't realize that game. It's also the Manchester Derby today, so all kinds of fun around the world.

[Unknown]

Yeah, lots of ride by Army Navy yesterday. It's, you know, don't forget Kentucky Louisville.

[Matt]

Do not forget Kentucky Louisville was yesterday.

[Unknown]

That's my bad. I apologize. So yeah, a lot of rivalry games happening this weekend.

[Matt]

That's right. Meyer Metcalf, who normally is on this show but today decided to take it off to go on a bicycle ride, is joining us. Myron, where are you right now?

[E]

I'm still in Minnesota, but I wanted to tell you all I was on hold for five minutes. I didn't get through on my own show. The phone was ringing for five minutes as I tried to get through. So I figured Mikey C was probably involved. You know, I figured he had something to do with it.

[Matt]

They don't answer the phone.

[E]

I couldn't get through on my own show. Five minutes. It Rained. It's not fake. When we say answer the phone, they didn't answer the phone.

[Matt]

Mikey, do you have a response? No, I have one. Myron, you should have the number that comes directly to us. Like the number where we pay attention to more like. Oh, the number where we pay attention. Listen to that game. Listen. Listen to our elitist producers over here.

[E]

So how are callers supposed to know about this VIP number?

[Matt]

They're not. It's for guests that we call out to. But when we go to the phones, Nick, I mean, it would be nice if people had been able to get through.

[Unknown]

Well, we weren't taking calls in the segment that Myron was trying to call the regular lineup.

[Matt]

See, Myron, I would argue we should be taking calls all the time to show that we love our listeners.

[E]

Yeah, Mike, you see, didn't let me through because it ain't February yet.

[Matt]

But I don't know what everybody else got going on.

[E]

I don't know what everybody else got going in that studio. I couldn't get through on my own show. I just called to let y'all know.

[Matt]

Myron, you get one month a year. That's what Mikey believes. So I totally, totally understand. You got a big. All right, so Gabe's gonna have to make your picks today. Gabe's gonna have to make your picks today. Would you like to. Would you like to make a pick that Gabe has to do? Is there any game you feel strongly about?

[E]

I trust Gabe. Gabe is good, smart dude. I would just say be real careful about Bill's Lions. You know, I know where the. What the Vegas is saying, but I really like the Bills in that one.

[Matt]

You can do what you want. He beat you by three games last week, so you probably should trust him.

[E]

Just turn the phones on, man. That's the only reason I call. Y'all are doing great, man. Have fun the rest of the way.

[Matt]

Thank you, Myron. Appreciate it. Look at that.

[Unknown]

Well, you get to talk to you, Myron, man, that was quite a shot.

[Matt]

One month a year he gets to call in. That was not. Mikey, Come on now. No idea what he's talking about. Well, I do.

[Unknown]

So we'll explain it to you later.

[Matt]

The Bears and the. All right, so Monday Night Football, two games. Which means Dan Orlofsky gets to come out and do his thing this weekend as well. My. Our former partner. Falcons and the Raiders, Monday at 8:30 on ESPN. But the big one is on ABC. Bears and Vikings. Vikings are a seven point favorite. I don't. I think a lot of people Listening. Gabe would not know that The Vikings are 11 and 2. I mean, like I have to tell you, I mean, I do an NFL show and I look every week at the games and I go, oh yeah, The Vikings are 11 and 2. I just don't think people process just how good this Sam Darnold team has been.

[Unknown]

And it's all Sam Darnold. It all goes back to him so much. Like you told me, I needed to accept that Russell Wilson is good. Again, not as good as he was in his heyday in Seattle, but he's a good quarterback. Once again, do I have to accept that Sam Darnold's at least good this year? Because I thought that.

[Matt]

I think you do.

[Unknown]

Yeah, I thought that when they won their game, I think it was like 12 to 7 against Jacksonville A few weeks ago. Okay, here comes Sam Darnold. He's going to start falling apart. And ever since then he started to play better and better and better. He's had a five touchdown game since then. I think we just need to accept that maybe Sam Darnold's not going to be good going forward and whoever is going to give him a bunch of money to be their starting quarterback next year is probably going to regret it.

[Matt]

Do a minute. Let's stop right there. Do you, do you think that's true? I mean, if we were, if you were the Vikings, what? I mean, Sam Darnold is 11 and two. Why would you go and make a change to JJ McCarthy who's going to be coming off an ACL tear, maybe two, depending on what some people are suggesting. Why would you want to make that change?

[Unknown]

Because my guess is he's going to be too expensive to keep around. I mean, because why isn't he your guy?

[Matt]

Why isn't he your guy? Like, why. Why take a chance with jj? I mean, how many quarterbacks in the league today have played better this year than Sam Darnold? How many? Six, Seven?

[Unknown]

Why would that number. Yeah, look, I don't think it would be the worst idea and I guess you could make the case that, hey, the 49ers gave up three first round picks to go get Trey Lance and he didn't really ever get much of a chance to start. And they rode with Garoppolo and then they went to Brock Purdy before they eventually traded him away. I guess you could make the case in a similar situation that that's the way you want to go. I don't know what his price tag is going to be. I think what he gets is going to be fascinating to me because I don't think you can give him $50 million. I don't think he can get into that range that Tua's in. But at the same time, if somebody like Daniel Jones got $40 million per year, where does, where does Sam Darnold come in and does that become too expensive for the.

[Matt]

But I just don't understand if you're the Vikings, I mean like it's going to be one of those decisions. What's going to be interesting with Sam Darnold in the off season is whatever decision that GM makes is a you get fired if you get it wrong decision, right? So if you bring, if you sign Sam Darnold and it, it doesn't work out, you're done. If you sign, if JJ McCarthy then goes somewhere else and succeeds, you're done. If you get rid of Sam Darnold and then he goes in his great somewhere else and you're stuck with a bad J.J. mcCarthy, you're done. Like, I mean there's, there's like it's a get fired decision, isn't it?

[Unknown]

100% is a get fired decision. I guess the safest thing is if you could get him to some sort of contract. But very similar, it would probably have to be more money at this point, but very similar to what Geno Smith had after he had his big year out there in Seattle. Maybe get something like that where it's a little bit more team friendly. Maybe you can get out of it, have some sort of quarterback competition. Because the one thing is they were really high on JJ McCarthy until he had the injury. It seemed like I thought there was a chance that Sam Darnold was going to start the year regardless and they were going to bring along J.J. mcCarthy slowly. That did not seem to be the case. It looked like JG McCarthy was going to be the starter in week one had the injury not happened. But it is hard to argue with.

[Matt]

The competition is though I don't even know why there is. I mean, Sam Darnold has played extremely well. Just take this season. How many quarterbacks this season have been better? Okay, Josh Allen, Lamar Mahomes, Burrow. I mean, why is he not next?

[Unknown]

I mean, I mean it's okay.

[Matt]

So golf. So now he's six.

[Unknown]

Sixth.

[Matt]

Like is he seventh? I mean, I don't know.

[Unknown]

He's in the top 10.

[Matt]

So I don't know how you let a top 10 guy walk for a guy who's not played. One down and it's coming off an ACL tear. I don't know how you could do it.

[Unknown]

That's. This is the first time I've heard somebody make the case that. That Sam Darnold stays in Minnesota. I just.

[Matt]

Well, I'm not saying he does.

[Unknown]

Yeah.

[Matt]

I'm just saying he. If I. I don't know how you let a guy go if they're 11 and if they win today, they're going to be 12 and two. If they win today, or, excuse me, tomorrow. If they win and Detroit loses, they have a shot to play the last week of the season for the division title and, oh, I don't know, maybe even the one seed. Like, you can't let that guy go, can you?

[Unknown]

I don't think if you make it to an NFC Championship game, I don't think he can. I think you have to bring it back. I think he's got to be the starter because this is a team that. I mean, nobody thought anything of this team at the beginning of the year. I mean, the Bears were picked to finish ahead of them by most people, because the Vikings. Yeah, well, I mean, Sam Darnold's gonna be their quarterback. They've got some nice.

[Matt]

Most people thought they were gonna finish last in the division for sure.

[Unknown]

Without a doubt. I thought they were. I didn't think Sam Darnold was gonna play this. I mean, nobody thought Sam Darnold. Even Sam Darnold didn't think he was going to play this well. It's just not possible.

[Matt]

But the dip. But if you want to make the case for Darnold going forward, this is not like a Cooper Rush situation where you have three or four good games and there was nothing in the pedigree to say that he'd play well. This is a dude who had a great college career, who was one of the highest tab quarterbacks coming out of college. He went to a terrible organization where one of the best quarterbacks of all time is now 3 and 10. There's a case to be made that maybe this is what Sam Darnold should have been all along. And it just took a detour the.

[Unknown]

Last four games since he had that 12, 7 game where he threw three picks and you thought, okay, well, he's coming back to earth. Eleven touchdowns and interceptions, and they've won every single game. Like, he has been spectacular. And because he's Sam Darnold, because he was the guy who failed for the Jets, I don't know if anybody wants to take him seriously, but it's the.

[Matt]

Jets, and that's the thing it's the Jets. So maybe it that's maybe there's like, you know, you get in a car that stinks and that stinks gets on you when you get out. It might not be that you smell bad. It may just be that you were in that car and you to get disinfected and then you'll smell good. It doesn't mean you have bo. I think the Jets BO maybe got on Sam Darnold and it's not his actual bo.

[Unknown]

So. Okay, let me ask you this. What is the most interesting quarterback off season contract situation? Is it Brock Purdy or is it Sam Darnold?

[Matt]

Well, I mean the logic we're giving for Sam Darnold makes it hard not to sign Brock Purdy. 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 one seed in the nfc and they could.

[Unknown]

Be tied for that one seed by the time they finish that game against Monday night.

[Matt]

They could be tied by Monday night. That's exactly right. It is time to make our picks. We got a lot of them to do. We gotta let you know who wins. Celtic Rangers. There's so much going on. And we have the BO conversation. That's next here on Countdown to Kickoff on ESPN Radio. 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.

[Unknown]

So to recap, we're cutting the price of mint unlimited from $30 a month.

[Matt]

To just $15 a month. Give it a [e-mail] switch.

[Unknown]

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[Matt]

Above 40 gigabytes of detail.

[Myron]

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[Matt]

Or your money back get more holiday.

[Myron]

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[Matt]

Visit lifelock.com podcast terms apply.

[Gabe]

Week on football Sunday on ESPN radio.

[Matt]

Mahomes fakes the inside hand off. Throw us the worthy for the touchdown.

[Gabe]

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs head to Cleveland to face Jameis Winston and the Cleveland Browns.

[Matt]

Proving everybody wrong.

[E]

You know what I'm saying?

[Matt]

I look good and I know.

[Gabe]

Coverage begins today at noon eastern with kickoff at 1 Eastern on select ESPN radio stations. Matt and Myron. The podcast.

[Matt]

Kickoff here on ESPN Radio. Dr. Paper call in line, which they may or may not answer is 888 say ESPN. We are presented by Progressive Insurance. Progressive is helping to drive veterans lives forward through their Keys to Progress program. This is the first week in like eight weeks where we've had a full slate of games. So we got a lot to get to to pick. Myron went six and six last week. Gabe filling in for me went nine and three. So now I have a six game lead over Myron. Let's keep it going. You can't do as well as you did last week because now you're filling in for Myron. So your scores will count for Myron. What's up first?

[Gabe]

Ravens at Giants.

[Matt]

What do you got, Gabe?

[Unknown]

I mean, this is easy. You just take the Ravens and we move on.

[Matt]

Biggest spread for a road team ever. Ever. Think about that, Giants fans ever. I'll take the Ravens. Who's up next? Okay. Yeah, good luck.

[Gabe]

Jets at Jaguars.

[Unknown]

I guess I'll take the Jets. Aaron Rodgers broke his streak last week. He finally threw for over 300 yards. Maybe he plays a little bit better. It doesn't really matter. But I'll take the Jets.

[Matt]

I'll take the jets too. Mac Jones. That's why I don't like to hear Simmons get so excited about Drake May. He was just as excited about Mac Jones. What happened with that? So I'll take the jets to get a finale tour of Aaron Rodgers on his way to a conspiracy theory podcast. What's next?

[Gabe]

Cowboys at Panthers.

[Unknown]

I like the Panthers here. I think that, you know, Bryce Young has been playing better. He's going to continue to that. I'm going to take the Panthers at home.

[Matt]

Yeah, I like the Panthers as well. Bryce Young's been good. They expect. I saw last year these two teams played in Carolina, it was 80% Cowboys fans. This year the Panthers announced they expect only 60% Cowboy fans. So the Panthers are improving on their, on their crowd. What's next?

[Gabe]

Commanders at Saints.

[Unknown]

I think this might be a bad pick, but I'm going to take the Saints. Something just seems off about the Commanders with me. I'm going to take the Saints at home here.

[Matt]

Oh, it's going to be fabulous. Jake Hayner like that picture he took this week. The energy is going to be there this game. By the way, if you're a Commanders fan, watch out. This is a dangerous game. It's a dangerous game. I'm going to pick the Commanders, but I see what I like to command. Or the Saints plus seven on the spread. I think that's too many points. What's next? But I'm taking the Commanders.

[Gabe]

Bengals at Titans.

[Unknown]

Just take the Bengals here. Look, 3% chance that they make the postseason. They're not going to make it, but they're going to put up a bunch of points. And unfortunately, I don't think your guy will. Levis can. Can keep pace.

[Matt]

Yeah. I mean, these teams are not that far apart. I know it doesn't. It feels like it is. They're only like four and a half hours away from each other. So. A lot of Bengals fans, I think, are making the trip down to Nashville to, you know, redo their bachelorette party at this game. I think there'll be a lot of Bengals fans there. I'll take Cincinnati. What's next?

[Gabe]

Chiefs at Browns?

[Matt]

Any you want Cleveland by any chance?

[Unknown]

I am not going to take Cleveland. I am going to take Kansas City here. I know you. I think you think this is going to be a dangerous game.

[Matt]

I for. I'm going to take Cleveland. I'm going to take Cleveland to win. I just. Just. The Chiefs lose a game like this every year. This will be the day. Take Cleveland. I know it's a crazy pick, but I think it might happen. So I'm taking Cleveland. What's next?

[Gabe]

Dolphins at Texans.

[Unknown]

Who? The Texans. The records. Okay.

[Matt]

C.J.

[Unknown]

Stroud hasn't been playing as well. I'm going to take the Dolphins. I'm going to take the Dolphins. I think Tua and the Dolphins get it done on the road today.

[Matt]

Yeah, I like the Texans. I think this is. C.J. stroud plays well. Texas got to get back on track. I think they do it here. I will take the Dolphins. By the way. I just bet on Cleveland. Just so people know I've got money where my mouth is. So what's next?

[Gabe]

Colts at Broncos.

[Unknown]

I think the Broncos take care of business here at home. We ran over the numbers before. 92% chance to make the postseason. If they win this game. I think it basically locks in what that AFC playoff picture is going to look like if they win and they do get the win today.

[Matt]

Yeah, I'm going to take the Broncos as well. Big game though for both teams, but I think, you know, Bo Nick's been playing well. Colts on the road have been a disaster. Give me the Broncos to get the victory. What's next?

[Gabe]

Patriots at Cardinals.

[Unknown]

Slim chance for the Cardinals to keep those playoff hopes alive. But if they can get past this game again, the schedule can be a little bit favorable to them. They still have one against the Rams who have been hot and cold, but I think the Cardinals get it done today.

[Matt]

I'm going to take the Cardinals. This is, this is the kind of game that could be an upset if they're not careful. But I like Arizona to get the win. What's next?

[Gabe]

Bills at Lions.

[Matt]

Biggie, what do you got?

[Unknown]

I got to go with the Bills. It seemed like Myron Myron was leaning towards the Bills so I will respect him because I am making the picks for him. I am going to take the Buffalo Bills.

[Matt]

I love the Bills in this game. I can't believe they're getting points. You're giving me points with Josh Allen. I've taken the Bills on the road on a banged up Detroit defense. What's next?

[Gabe]

Buccaneers at Chargers.

[Unknown]

I'm going to take the Chargers in this one. I know. I still don't know what the Buccaneers are. I just feel at home. Harbaugh is going to have that defense and just enough good plays from Justin Herbert that they will beat the Buccaneers at home today.

[Matt]

Yeah, I'm this game. Normally the Chargers, the home field thing matters won't as much. Tampa Bay won't have as many people traveling. So I'm going to take the Chargers to win at home in a big game for both teams. What's next?

[Gabe]

Steelers at Eagles.

[Unknown]

I know I have to respect the Steelers. I just don't think that they're as good as the Eagles. The Eagles have had a little bit of drama this week. I think they're able to quash it because they're just going to continue to play well, continue to win. Winning will cover up any and all drama and that's what the Eagles do today. They'll just win.

[Matt]

Yeah, I'm going to take Philadelphia as well. Although I will say if the Steelers win this game, then you finally have to say, you know what, maybe they're an actual contender here. I'm not ready to do that yet. But if they go on the road and Win in Philly. I would, but I'm going to take the Eagles to win on the road. What's next?

[Gabe]

Packers at Seahawks.

[Matt]

Packers at Seahawks. Big one. You're nervous about it. What happens?

[Unknown]

I'm nervous about this one. I think the packers do ultimately pull off the win though, against Seattle. The Seahawks run defense little suspect. Josh Jacobs continues to play well for the pack.

[Matt]

Oh, I don't know what to do on this one. These games are always crazy. The last two that have had wild innings though have had Seahawks victory. So I'm going to take the Seahawks. That crowd's going to be wild. Seahawks, but that's a tough pick for me. What's next?

[Gabe]

Bears and Vikings.

[Unknown]

We were just talking about them at length. I'm going to take Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings, especially because they are at home. Bears continue their slide. Vikings win.

[Matt]

I'm going to assume the Vikings win. But I have a message for my Bears. Don't screw up this head coaching hire. Just don't. We have a quarterback. I think Caleb Williams is good, but if you screw this up, he'll never be good. Do not. I don't even care who you hire, but don't screw it up. Just make sure you make the right pick. Rabel's right there. Go get him. We know he can win. Let's go get him. Who's next?

[Gabe]

Falcons at Raiders.

[Unknown]

Who? I guess I'll just take the Falcons in this game. I don't know what's going on with Kirk Cousins. He has not been playing well as of late to the point where they're asking if they should be starting Michael Penix Jr. But I'll take the Falcons. And maybe he writes the ship a little bit to stave off those questions for one more week.

[Matt]

Kirk Cousins been awful. I mean, the fact that people are even considering Michael playing Pinnock when he hasn't done anything and is also coming off an injury, it's kind of crazy. But I'll take Atlanta. I mean, season's over if they lose this game. I'm gonna take Atlanta. But you know people coming out there and I guess they'll be there for the Emirates NBA cup and maybe they go to the game and see the Falcons take the victory. Gabe, it was a lot of fun. Thank you very much for your time.

[Unknown]

Yeah, always love hanging out with you on Sunday mornings, bud.

[Matt]

Appreciate it. Celtic Rangers in their second overtime time. You can turn that on along with red zone. Thanks to everybody for listening. We will be back next week with Myron. I think in Utah. This has been Countdown to Kickoff. Hey, it's Evan Cohen. Coming up Monday, we'll react to week 15 in the NFL. Plus look ahead to the College Football Playoff, which kicks off this week. It's unsportsmanlike 6am Eastern right here on ESPN radio. ESPN2 and ESPN. You.

[Gabe]

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 podcast. Hey, ESPN subscribers, get even more of the sports and teams you love. You can now stream six months of Sirius X for even more live games, sports talk, music and podcasts all at your fingertips wherever you go. Score even more with ESPN plus and get six months of the SiriusXM app. Today you just need an active ESPN plus subscription. Get all the [e-mail] SiriusXM eligibility and offer details.

[Matt]

Apply.