Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show Episode: Lots To Say: NFC East Rankings and Final GOATs for EVERY NFL Team
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Host: Bobby Bones & Matt Castle
Production: Premiere Networks & NFL/iHeart Podcasts

1. Introduction and Episode Overview [00:00 – 02:52]

The episode kicks off with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle discussing their plans for Fourth of July week, contemplating a trip to Montana. They share anecdotes about their picturesque Montana home in Darby, highlighting its proximity to the Bitterroot National Forest and the allure of fly fishing and lake life. Amidst light-hearted banter about their dogs' antics during the holiday, they set the stage for the episode's main topics: conspiracy theories, NFC East rankings, and evaluating the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) players for every NFL team.

Notable Quote:

Matt Castle [00:50]: "That's quite the declaration for it to be a maybe we're going to Montana."

2. Conspiracy Theories in Sports [02:52 – 12:46]

Bobby and Matt delve into various sports-related conspiracy theories, blending skepticism with humor. They begin with popular theories like "Birds Aren't Real" and "Trees Aren't Real," playfully dismissing them while acknowledging their humorous undertones. The conversation shifts to historical sports controversies:

• Sonny Liston and the Phantom Punch ([04:07 – 06:27]): They discuss the infamous 1965 heavyweight bout between Sonny Liston and Muhammad Ali, highlighting suspicions that Liston may have thrown the fight due to alleged mob ties.

  Matt Castle [04:28]: "Do you think that that's true?"

• Jimmy Hoffa at Giants Stadium ([07:57 – 08:44]): The hosts explore the theory that union leader Jimmy Hoffa is buried under Giants Stadium, noting the lack of concrete evidence but acknowledging the intrigue it generates.

  Matt Castle [08:01]: "The story of Jimmy Hoffa...they never found his body."

• Doc Ellis Pitching on Acid ([08:46 – 09:51]): They debate whether Doc Ellis truly pitched a no-hitter while on LSD, referencing his admissions and conflicting accounts from teammates.

  Bobby Bones [09:39]: "He is an absolute."

• Delonte West and LeBron's Mother ([09:53 – 10:35]): A controversial rumor suggesting that LeBron James' performance dipped due to his teammate Dante West's alleged affair with James' mother—a claim they approach skeptically.

  Matt Castle [10:31]: "People create these."

• Back to Future Part 2 Predicting the 1997 World Series ([10:54 – 11:21]): The duo humorously discusses how the movie predicted Miami winning the World Series before Miami even had a team.

  Bobby Bones [11:21]: "Wow. We gotta get that book."

• Kevin Costner and Cal Ripken Jr.'s Wife ([11:26 – 12:46]): They touch upon the unverified story that Cal Ripken Jr. almost ended his consecutive games streak due to discovering Kevin Costner with his wife, highlighting the lack of evidence.

  Matt Castle [12:09]: "I don't believe that."

3. NFC East Rankings [14:05 – 19:07]

Focusing on one of the most beloved and polarizing divisions in the NFL, Bobby and Matt analyze the current standings and prospects of the NFC East teams:

• Philadelphia Eagles: Positioned as the top team due to their returning core and recent successes. Despite some defensive losses, their consistent performance places them at the forefront.

  Matt Castle [18:04]: "They didn't lose."

• Washington Commanders: Coming off a playoff win with rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels, they show promise with key additions like Deebo Samuel. Their offensive line and defensive talent make them strong contenders.

  Bobby Bones [18:43]: "They've got a good collection of talent."

• Dallas Cowboys: Ranked third, the Cowboys benefit from healthy quarterbacks like Dak Prescott and impactful players like CeeDee Lamb and Michael Gallup. However, uncertainties with the new head coach and rookie integration linger.

  Bobby Bones [19:12]: "I'm putting them at three."

• New York Giants: Plagued by an unstable quarterback situation, the Giants are placed fourth. With multiple quarterbacks vying for the starting spot and ongoing organizational struggles, their path to success is uncertain.

  Bobby Bones [19:43]: "The Giants are going to struggle."

Notable Quotes:

Matt Castle [18:25]: "Do you think both of those teams, again, are playoff teams?"

Bobby Bones [19:03]: "I was going with Boomer."

4. Greatest of All Time (GOAT) for NFL Teams [19:07 – 67:46]

The heart of the episode revolves around evaluating the GOAT players for various NFL teams. Bobby, Matt, and guest Kevin Castle engage in spirited debates, often agreeing on certain legends while playfully contesting others. Here's a breakdown of their discussions:

Arizona Cardinals

• Larry Fitzgerald: Both hosts honor Fitzgerald as the Cardinals' GOAT, emphasizing his longevity and exceptional offensive contributions.

  Matt Castle [25:02]: "I was really drawn to Kurt Warner at first."

Atlanta Falcons

• Michael Vick & Matt Ryan: Bobby nominates Michael Vick for his electrifying playstyle, while Matt favors Matt Ryan for his consistency and leadership.

  Bobby Bones [25:59]: "All right. For me, the first thing that comes to mind is Michael Vick."

Baltimore Ravens

• Ray Lewis & Ed Reed: The duo agrees on the defensive legends Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, lauding their dominance and impact on the Ravens' storied defenses.

  Bobby Bones [27:24]: "Ray Lewis, Ed Reed. That defense..."

Buffalo Bills

• Jim Kelly: They recognize Jim Kelly as the Bills' standout quarterback, appreciating his leadership and pioneering mobile quarterback style.

  Bobby Bones [30:09]: "Jim Kelly because...he was so cool and authentic."

Carolina Panthers

• Cam Newton: Both hosts commend Cam Newton for his dynamic play and leadership, acknowledging his role in taking the Panthers to multiple Super Bowls.

  Matt Castle [31:42]: "I was going Cam Newton."

Chicago Bears

• Walter Payton: Emphasizing Payton's legendary status and work ethic, the hosts celebrate him as the Bears' GOAT.

  Matt Castle [32:34]: "Walter Payton is pretty well considered the greatest..."

Cincinnati Bengals

• Boomer Esiason: They honor Boomer Esiason for leading the Bengals to two Super Bowls, despite losses, citing his impactful performance.

  Matt Castle [33:32]: "I think we should talk this one out..."

Cleveland Browns

• Johnny Manziel: Acknowledging the Browns' struggles, they recognize Johnny Manziel's talent but also discuss the organizational challenges that hindered his potential.

  Matt Castle [35:00]: "I was fighting for somebody at a personal relationship with them."

Dallas Cowboys

• Emmitt Smith & Troy Aikman: Highlighting the Cowboys' rich history, they discuss legendary figures like Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, and Michael Irvin as the franchise's GOATs.

  Bobby Bones [38:35]: "This one's easy, but there is a pretty close second. It's the Lions."

Detroit Lions

• Calvin Johnson (Megatron): Matt champions Calvin Johnson for his exceptional receiving skills and dominant presence on the field.

  Matt Castle [39:12]: "It's easily Calvin Johnson."

Green Bay Packers

• Jerry Rice: Despite Rice primarily playing for the 49ers, both hosts agree on honoring him as the Packers' GOAT due to his unparalleled receiving prowess.

  Matt Castle [63:37]: "Jerry Rice is pretty well considered the greatest..."

Miami Dolphins

• Dan Marino: Celebrated unanimously, Marino is recognized for his remarkable passing abilities and longevity with the Dolphins.

  Matt Castle [56:35]: "Drew Brees."

New England Patriots

• Tom Brady: Undoubtedly, Tom Brady is hailed as the Patriots' GOAT, given his unparalleled success, including multiple Super Bowl victories.

  Matt Castle [53:52]: "I think that'll do it this week."

New Orleans Saints

• Drew Brees: Both hosts applaud Brees for his leadership and record-breaking career with the Saints.

  Matt Castle [56:36]: "Drew Brees."

New York Giants

• Lawrence Taylor & Joe Montana: They discuss legends like Lawrence Taylor and briefly touch upon Eli Manning, debating their respective impacts.

  Matt Castle [57:04]: "Lawrence Taylor."

Pittsburgh Steelers

• Ben Roethlisberger: Recognizing Roethlisberger's contributions, they debate his status against earlier legends like Terry Bradshaw.

  Matt Castle [59:27]: "Because Terry Bradshaw...Mean Joe Greene."

Seattle Seahawks

• Russell Wilson: Praised for his mobility and leadership, Wilson is considered the Seahawks' GOAT by the hosts.

  Matt Castle [63:37]: "Russell Wilson."

San Francisco 49ers

• Jerry Rice & Joe Montana: Celebrating Rice's receiving records and Montana's quarterbacking excellence, they solidify the 49ers' legacy through these icons.

  Matt Castle [62:35]: "Jerry Rice is pretty well considered..."

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Derrick Henry: While traditionally associated with the Tennessee Titans, they acknowledge Henry's dominance as a running back when discussing team GOATs.

  Matt Castle [65:35]: "It's Derrick Henry."

Washington Commanders

• Daryl Green: Honored as the team's greatest cornerback, Green's speed and defensive prowess are highlighted.

  Matt Castle [66:54]: "Daryl Green..."

Notable Quotes:

Bobby Bones [25:02]: "He's an absolute badass."

Matt Castle [39:57]: "He was a freak of nature."

Bobby Bones [43:59]: "Aaron Rodgers."

5. Conclusion and Final Remarks [68:29 – 69:02]

As the episode winds down, Bobby and Matt engage in a light-hearted discussion about wildlife photography mishaps, humorously advising listeners against taking selfies with wild animals like moose and grizzly bears. They wrap up the episode with warm wishes for a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.

Notable Quote:

Bobby Bones [68:28]: "Watch out for lightning, elk and moose."

Key Takeaways:

• Engaging Discussions: The hosts provide insightful and entertaining commentary on a mix of conspiracy theories and NFL team dynamics.
• In-Depth Analysis: Their evaluations of GOATs across various teams reflect a deep understanding of NFL history and player legacies.
• Humor and Camaraderie: Throughout the episode, Bobby and Matt maintain a light-hearted and humorous rapport, making complex discussions enjoyable.
• Listener Value: The structured breakdown offers valuable insights for listeners, whether they're NFL enthusiasts or casual fans seeking deeper knowledge.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, introductory and concluding segments directly related to promotions, focusing solely on the core content discussed by Bobby Bones and Matt Castle.