Summary of "Lots to Say: NFL GOATS and Power Rankings" Episode of The Bobby Bones Show
Introduction
In the June 4, 2025 episode of "The Bobby Bones Show," hosted by Premiere Networks, Bobby Bones welcomes guest Kevin (also referred to as Matt Castle) for an engaging discussion centered around the National Football League (NFL). The episode focuses on identifying the greatest of all time (GOAT) players for various NFL teams and providing power rankings for the upcoming season. The conversation is rich with insights, personal anecdotes, and listener interactions, making it both informative and entertaining for football enthusiasts.
Choosing an NFL Team
Selecting a Favorite Team
Timestamp: 03:08 - 04:01
Kevin begins by expressing his initial lack of a favorite NFL team, despite his love for the league and fantasy football. Growing up in Arkansas, he notes that while the Dallas Cowboys were popular, he avoided aligning with them to prevent being just another Cowboys fan. Instead, Kevin narrows his interest to four teams: Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Carolina Panthers.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [03:33]: "I grew up not having a favorite NFL team. Like, love the NFL and fantasy football makes you care about every NFL team."
- Bobby Bones [04:03]: "Four hats. Let's see which one looks best on you."
Identifying Team GOATs
Arizona Cardinals
Timestamp: 18:23 - 18:35
Bobby selects Larry Fitzgerald as the Arizona Cardinals' GOAT, highlighting his impressive 18-year career and significant contributions to the team. Kevin agrees, initially considering Kurt Warner but ultimately aligning with Larry Fitzgerald.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [18:23]: "There's two that come to mind, both offensive players. But I have to go with Larry Fitzgerald."
- Kevin [18:35]: "Larry play 18 years."
Atlanta Falcons
Timestamp: 19:01 - 20:13
The discussion shifts to the Atlanta Falcons, where Bobby Bones names Michael Vick as the team's GOAT due to his legendary status and unique quarterbacking style. Kevin offers an alternative by suggesting Matt Ryan for his consistency and professional demeanor.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [19:04]: "I got to go with Michael Vick. He was only there for a significant period of time, but not as long as Larry."
- Kevin [20:11]: "He is an absolute..."
Baltimore Ravens
Timestamp: 20:39 - 24:41
Bobby recommends Ray Lewis and Ed Reed as the Baltimore Ravens' GOATs, emphasizing their defensive prowess and leadership. Kevin concurs on Ray Lewis for his intensity and strategic mindset but ultimately favors Bruce Smith for his dominant defensive play.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [20:41]: "Ed Reed is my second, but we had the same, too."
- Kevin [23:21]: "He was the guy that was making calls, calling everything out, getting the defense set."
Carolina Panthers
Timestamp: 25:09 - 26:44
The conversation moves to the Carolina Panthers, with both hosts agreeing on Cam Newton as the team's GOAT. They discuss his impactful performance and the team's progress under his leadership.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [25:26]: "Cam Newton's for sure."
- Kevin [25:26]: "Cam Newton did a Super Bowl."
Chicago Bears
Timestamp: 25:44 - 26:18
Bobby selects Walter Payton as the Chicago Bears' GOAT, praising his exceptional running ability and dedication on and off the field. Kevin supports this choice, sharing anecdotes about Payton's commitment and resilience.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [25:48]: "Walter Payton's all-time great, for sure."
- Kevin [26:04]: "He played soulless and then ran through people."
Cincinnati Bengals
Timestamp: 26:48 - 27:38
Both hosts discuss potential GOATs for the Cincinnati Bengals. Kevin suggests Boomer after highlighting his two Super Bowl appearances, while Bobby Bones adds Carson Palmer to the mix. They agree that Boomer is the standout choice for his achievements.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [27:38]: "Boomer went to two Super Bowls, so Boomer over Burrow."
- Bobby Bones [28:01]: "I’d go with Boomer."
Power Rankings for the Upcoming NFL Season
Bobby Bones' Power Rankings
Timestamp: 37:16 - 40:55
Bobby Bones presents his top five NFL power rankings for the upcoming season:
- Philadelphia Eagles: With returning stars like A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley, Bobby believes the Eagles have a strong offensive lineup.
- Baltimore Ravens: Highlighting Lamar Jackson and improved defense, Bobby sees the Ravens as a formidable contender.
- Buffalo Bills: Led by Josh Allen and bolstered by Joey Bosa on defense, the Bills are positioned as strong competitors.
- Kansas City Chiefs: Despite a recent Super Bowl loss, the Chiefs remain top due to Patrick Mahomes' exceptional performance and team consistency.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Featuring Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans, along with coach Todd Bowles' defensive strategies, the Buccaneers are expected to lead their division.
Kevin's Power Rankings
Timestamp: 39:58 - 44:36
Kevin offers his own perspective, placing the Kansas City Chiefs at number one, citing Patrick Mahomes' enhanced physical condition and motivation following the Super Bowl loss. He ranks the Eagles second and adjusts the remaining teams based on his evaluation of their strengths and potential.
Notable Quotes:
- Bobby Bones [37:33]: "I'm going to go with the Eagles as number one."
- Kevin [44:36]: "The AFC is so stacked because of the quarterbacks."
Financial Insights for NFL Players
Managing Finances and Career Longevity
Timestamp: 57:54 - 63:10
Bobby and Kevin delve into the financial aspects of an NFL career, discussing the importance of financial literacy, the challenges of limited career spans, and the lack of guaranteed contracts in the NFL compared to other sports like MLB and NBA. They emphasize the necessity for players to plan for post-retirement and manage their earnings wisely to ensure long-term financial stability.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [57:54]: "At this point in my life, I'm in that fraction of a fraction [making enough to be wealthy]."
- Bobby Bones [62:35]: "You have to have some kind of financial literacy."
Interactive Segment: Listener Comments
Engaging with the Audience
Timestamp: 79:31 - 83:52
Kevin reads out listener comments from Spotify, many of which praise Matt Castle (Kevin) and express admiration for the show. The hosts plan to send jerseys to selected listeners as a token of appreciation, fostering a sense of community and engagement among their audience.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [79:31]: "Matt Castle is my daddy. I listen to this podcast since day one."
- Bobby Bones [81:53]: "Have you seen my golf ball?"
Golf Trip Anecdotes
Sharing Personal Experiences
Timestamp: 84:00 - 92:00
The hosts recount a recent golf trip to Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri, highlighting the unique features of Payne’s Valley golf course. They discuss the challenges and joys of the experience, including a memorable drone crash and competitive play among family members. This segment adds a personal touch to the episode, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and off-field interests.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [88:12]: "It was the best 24-hour golf experience I've ever had."
- Bobby Bones [90:43]: "How are they at golfing?"
Conclusion
Wrapping Up the Episode
Timestamp: 92:50 - 93:43
Bobby Bones and Kevin conclude the episode with light-hearted banter, reflecting on the various topics discussed. They reinforce their appreciation for the listeners and hint at future interactive segments, ensuring the audience remains engaged and looking forward to upcoming shows.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin [93:18]: "Kevin is back. He's got two babies now."
- Bobby Bones [93:43]: "Yep."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Kevin [03:33]: "I grew up not having a favorite NFL team. Like, love the NFL and fantasy football makes you care about every NFL team."
- Bobby Bones [18:23]: "There's two that come to mind, both offensive players. But I have to go with Larry Fitzgerald."
- Kevin [78:42]: "The bowl is taking away all 11 to get back there."
- Bobby Bones [84:38]: "Reggie White was one of those guys."
- Kevin [85:16]: "I listened to this pot since day one."
Conclusion
This episode of "The Bobby Bones Show" offers a comprehensive exploration of NFL team GOATs and power rankings, enriched by personal stories and listener interactions. Bobby Bones and Kevin provide insightful analyses, making the content accessible and engaging for both die-hard football fans and casual listeners. The blend of sports discussion with personal anecdotes and financial advice ensures a well-rounded and entertaining listening experience.