Podcast Summary: "Lots to Say: FOX CFB Bruce Feldman and the NFL Combine" on The Bobby Bones Show

Episode Information:

• Title: Lots to Say: FOX CFB Bruce Feldman and the NFL Combine
• Host/Author: Premiere Networks
• Release Date: February 19, 2025

1. Introduction and Host Banter

The episode kicks off with light-hearted banter between hosts Bobby Bones and Matt Castle, where they discuss Bobby's nostalgic jersey and Matt's humorous attempts at rapping. This playful exchange sets a relaxed tone before delving into the episode's main content.

Notable Quotes:

• Bobby Bones (02:04): "You look good."
• Matt Castle (02:26): "I don’t know. I got this off eBay."

2. Introduction of Guest: Bruce Feldman

As the hosts transition, they introduce their special guest, Bruce Feldman, a renowned FOX College Football (CFB) analyst. Bruce is set to provide expert insights into the upcoming NFL Combine, a pivotal event for college football players aspiring to enter the NFL.

Notable Quotes:

• Bobby Bones (07:13): "We have Bruce Feldman coming up in a little bit, and Bruce Feldman is going to talk a bunch about the NFL combine, which will be super cool as it's coming up."

3. Deep Dive into the NFL Combine

a. Travis Hunter: Overexposure and Talent Bruce begins by discussing Travis Hunter, highlighting his exceptional talent and the potential impact of his overexposure. Despite criticisms of overexposure, Bruce emphasizes Hunter's remarkable endurance and versatility on the field.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (14:21): "I think he's a remarkable talent... his gas tank is insane."
• Bruce Feldman (16:07): "There's going to be ability for him to play some both ways... I think it's a longer season. It's a much more physical brand of football."

b. Abdul Carter: Draft Prospects The conversation shifts to Abdul Carter, where Bruce assesses his draft prospects. He suggests that Carter's combination of size, strength, and disruptive abilities will make him a high draft pick, regardless of team needs.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (17:24): "I think it's probably the latter. ... he just doesn't see that many guys who have his traits and also have the film that he has."

c. Quarterback Draft Class Analysis Bruce provides an overview of this year's quarterback draft class, comparing it to previous years and evaluating key players like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. He notes that while Cam Ward stands out due to his athleticism and arm strength, the overall quarterback class has notable inconsistencies.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (18:54): "I think Cam is the most talented of the quarterbacks... his decision making sometimes can have people scratching their heads with Shedeur."
• Bruce Feldman (19:28): "I think you look at this quarterback draft and there's nobody who you look at and go, man, that guy doesn't have big concerns."

d. Underrated Draft Prospects: Mike Green Bruce highlights Mike Green from Marshall as a potential first-round pick who might fly under the radar. He praises Green's athleticism and disruptive playstyle, suggesting he has the traits that scouts highly value.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (21:10): "Mike Green from Marshall... he should be a top 20 pick just based off of what he brings to the table athletically and how twitchy he is."

e. Saquon Barkley: Character and Leadership The discussion shifts to Saquon Barkley, where Bruce commends Barkley's humility and leadership both on and off the field. He shares anecdotes that illustrate Barkley's likable nature and dedication to helping teammates.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (22:25): "He has this really cool vibe about him... there's something very natural about him."

f. Kellen Moore: Transition to Coaching Bruce reflects on Kellen Moore's career trajectory, noting his transition from player to coach. He commends Moore's intelligence and down-to-earth demeanor, predicting a successful coaching career in the NFL.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (24:14): "Kellen's an easy guy to root for... they're very smart and genuinely humble."

g. Jeremiah Smith: Top Ranked Player Bruce discusses Jeremiah Smith, ranking him highly in his "Freaks List" due to Smith's exceptional size, athleticism, and maturity. He anticipates Smith being a top draft pick in the future.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (26:52): "Jeremiah Smith is really wired differently... he just has an uncanny maturity and drive."

h. Criteria for the Freaks List Bruce elaborates on his "Freaks List," explaining the criteria he uses to evaluate standout players. He emphasizes athleticism, unique traits, and the potential to excel at the professional level.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (28:15): "It's something that's such a fun project because I learned so much about it..."

i. College Coaches Transitioning to the NFL Bruce discusses the trend of college coaches moving to the NFL, citing Chip Kelly as a prominent example. He analyzes the challenges these coaches face when adapting to the professional league.

Notable Quotes:

• Bruce Feldman (29:52): "It wouldn't shock me if Steve Sarkeesian did... but the NFL is a different reality."

4. Personal Stories and Insights

a. Matt Castle on Being a Backup Quarterback Matt shares his experiences as a backup quarterback, offering strategies for succeeding in a role with limited playing time. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging offseason opportunities and mental preparation.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Castle (44:37): "The toughest challenge for any backup is that you don't get the reps during the regular season."
• Matt Castle (47:30): "The best backups are guys that have had some experience playing because they're not too overwhelmed by the moment."

b. Bobby Bones’ Experience on American Idol Bobby recounts his unexpected stint as a guest host on American Idol, detailing how he was thrust into the role and the support he received from Ryan Seacrest. This segment highlights Bobby's versatility and adaptability.

Notable Quotes:

• Bobby Bones (35:17): "I was pretty quick. I like to freestyle a little bit."
• Bobby Bones (52:24): "Ryan gets sick. There's only ever been one guest host of American Idol. It was me."

c. Goat Stories Segment In a new segment titled "Goat Stories," Matt shares a memorable anecdote about playing alongside Tom Brady, describing Brady's resilience despite a severe injury.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Castle (40:08): "The greatest goat I know that I played with, obviously Tom Brady."
• Matt Castle (43:14): "That's a goat move."

5. Fun Segments: Best Sports Movies of All Time

The hosts engage in a lively discussion about their favorite sports movies, each presenting their top picks. Matt champions classics like The Natural and Hoosiers, while Bobby shares his preferences including Talladega Nights and Remember the Titans. This segment adds a cultural and nostalgic layer to the episode.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Castle (58:50): "The Natural... that's for sure."
• Bobby Bones (62:22): "Talladega Nights at 5."

6. Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

The episode concludes with the hosts encouraging listeners to check out Bruce Feldman's work, subscribe to their podcast, and engage through reviews and social media shares. Bobby humorously showcases Matt's jersey, adding a final touch of camaraderie.

Notable Quotes:

• Bobby Bones (69:14): "Thanks to Bruce Feldman for coming on. ... please subscribe and rate us. Review us, but only if it's good."

Conclusion

In this episode of The Bobby Bones Show, listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of the NFL Combine with expert Bruce Feldman, supplemented by personal anecdotes from the hosts. The blend of professional insights and relatable stories creates an engaging and informative listening experience, catering to both football enthusiasts and casual fans alike.