What's Wright - Best Of - Travis Kelce & Chiefs MONSTER bounce back, Lakers should go ALL IN on Luka & LeBron

Summary

Podcast Summary: "What's Wright - Best Of - Travis Kelce & Chiefs MONSTER Bounce Back, Lakers Should Go ALL IN on Luka & LeBron"

Title: What's Wright - Best Of - Travis Kelce & Chiefs MONSTER Bounce Back, Lakers Should Go ALL IN on Luka & LeBron
Host: Nick Wright
Release Date: August 9, 2025
Platform: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

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1. Introduction to the Week's Highlights [02:11 - 02:20]

Nick Wright opens the episode by presenting the "Best of the Week" segment, promising listeners a comprehensive review of the top moments and insights from the latest sports news.

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2. Kansas City Chiefs' Offense and Patrick Mahomes' Commitment [02:36 - 08:32]

Discussion Points:

• Patrick Mahomes' Determination: Mahomes has publicly stated, "I'm gonna do whatever it takes to win," emphasizing his flexibility in achieving victory, whether through high-yardage passes or more strategic plays.

• Chiefs' Offensive Evolution: Wright reflects on the Chiefs' offensive performance over the past three years, highlighting their adaptability against top-tier defenses. Notably:

  • Super Bowl Performance: In a game against the number one defense, the Chiefs scored 38 points without any plays exceeding 25 yards, relying on Mahomes' scrambles and consistent short-yardage plays.
  • Subsequent Season Struggles: The following year saw a decline in offensive efficiency, culminating in a Super Bowl loss where receivers struggled with Mahomes' pressure.

Notable Quote:

"Patrick felt like, 'We better score right,' because we don't have this one playability." - Noah [03:45]

Key Insights:

• Statistical Dominance: Citing Warren Sharp, Wright highlights Mahomes' exceptional record when trailing in the fourth quarter over the past five years—14 wins and 7 losses (67%)—positioning the Chiefs as a formidable team in comeback scenarios.

• Team Dynamics: Improved offensive line health and the rise of rookie Xavier Worthy are expected to bolster the Chiefs' offensive strategies, potentially reviving their "light show" under Brew.

---

3. Travis Kelce's Performance and Future [08:32 - 13:21]

Discussion Points:

• Performance Evaluation: Andy Reid has praised Travis Kelce, highlighting his physical condition and sustained performance levels. Wright discusses whether Kelce still has "eight great games" left, a figure he mentioned last year.

• Impact on the Team: Kelce's role remains pivotal, with expectations that his deep ball capabilities will become more prominent, challenging defenses to adapt.

Notable Quote:

"Travis this year will once again be one of the three most impactful players in his position." - Noah [09:47]

Key Insights:

• Market Value: Wright speculates that Kelce's next contract could be the NFL's first million-dollar-a-game deal, underscoring his value to the Chiefs.

• Strategic Importance: With teammates like Brock Bowers and potential future stars, Kelce's presence is seen as a cornerstone for the Chiefs' offensive ambitions.

---

4. Los Angeles Lakers' Strategic Moves: Luka Doncic and LeBron James [13:21 - 26:38]

Discussion Points:

• Luka Doncic's Extension: The Lakers secured Luka Doncic with a three-year, $165 million extension, preventing him from seeking larger deals elsewhere, such as a potential $250 million contract.

• LeBron James' Influence: Wright argues that with this extension, the Lakers should prioritize competing for championships now, as Luka may not find a teammate better than LeBron in the coming years.

Notable Quotes:

"Over the lifetime of this extension, these next three years, Luka never has a teammate better than LeBron is right now." - Noah [18:53]

"If they have real intel that if they keep the cap sheet clean in two years Giannis plans on just coming there in free agency, then so be it." - Noah [19:12]

Key Insights:

• Jackpot Chemistry: The synergy between Luka and LeBron is emphasized as unparalleled, suggesting that maximizing their combined potential is crucial for the Lakers' success.

• Flexible Strategy: While current commitment is advised, Wright notes the importance of maintaining roster flexibility for future acquisitions, albeit viewing it as a high-risk gamble.

---

5. Baker Mayfield's Performance and Future Prospects [21:05 - 25:13]

Discussion Points:

• MVP Candidacy: Baker Mayfield is highlighted as a strong MVP contender for the season, positioned as the eighth best odds given his impressive statistics and leadership.

• Playoff Performances: Wright reviews Mayfield's playoff career, noting his high-performing games despite some setbacks, underscoring his resilience and clutch performances.

Notable Quotes:

"He is a legit awesome playoff performer." - Noah [22:38]

"In his playoff career, he's got a 106 rating, 12 touchdowns, three picks." - Noah [24:48]

Key Insights:

• Contract Implications: Mayfield's current contract positions him for potential future lucrative deals, making his ongoing performance critical for both personal and team success.

• Team Contention: His role is pivotal for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' aspirations, with Wright expressing unwavering confidence in Mayfield's abilities.

---

6. James Cook and the Buffalo Bills' Running Back Situation [25:22 - 26:38]

Discussion Points:

• Contract Negotiations: James Cook is currently holding out for a contract extension with the Buffalo Bills. Wright discusses the team's cap constraints and their strategic approach to offensive planning.

• Running Back Longevity: The volatility and short career span associated with the running back position are addressed, questioning Cook's long-term value despite his significant contributions.

Notable Quote:

"It's just such a tough business for running backs, man. It's just such a tough business for running backs." - Noah [26:38]

Key Insights:

• Franchise Tag Considerations: With limited cap space, the Bills may opt to franchise tag Cook for shorter terms, balancing immediate performance needs with financial flexibility.

• Future Projections: Wright expresses skepticism about securing a long-term, high-value contract for Cook, given the unpredictable nature of running back careers.

---

7. Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook [26:38 - End]

Nick Wright wraps up the episode by reiterating his key points on the Chiefs' offensive strategies, the Lakers' strategic investments in star players, and the critical performances of players like Baker Mayfield and James Cook. He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and team dynamics in achieving sustained success in both the NFL and NBA.

Final Notable Quote:

"This is one where I've put my money where my mouth is. I'm in the process right now of negotiating a real Broncos bet with poker legend and one of the best sports betters ever, David Baker." - Noah [37:13]

---

Key Takeaways:

• Chiefs' Resurgence: With Mahomes' leadership and strategic adjustments, the Chiefs are poised for another competitive season, leveraging both veteran savvy and emerging talent.

• Lakers' Strategic Commitment: The extension of Luka Doncic underscores the Lakers' intent to compete at the highest level, combining him with LeBron James for immediate championship contention.

• Player Impact: Stars like Travis Kelce and Baker Mayfield continue to shape their respective teams' fortunes, with their performances and futures closely tied to team success.

• Contract Dynamics: The complexities of player contracts, especially in volatile positions like running back, play a significant role in team strategy and long-term planning.

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Patrick felt like, 'We better score right,' because we don't have this one playability." — Noah [03:45]

• "Travis this year will once again be one of the three most impactful players in his position." — Noah [09:47]

• "Over the lifetime of this extension, these next three years, Luka never has a teammate better than LeBron is right now." — Noah [18:53]

• "He is a legit awesome playoff performer." — Noah [22:38]

• "It's just such a tough business for running backs, man. It's just such a tough business for running backs." — Noah [26:38]

---

This summary encapsulates the critical discussions from the episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the Chiefs' strategic outlook, the Lakers' star commitments, and key player performances shaping the current sports landscape.

Transcript

[Sarah Spain]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Manny]

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[Noah]

You got a hoodie on. Take it all.

[Manny]

I'm Manny. I'm Noah.

[Devin]

This is Devin.

[Manny]

And we're best friends and journalists with a new podcast called no Such Thing, where we get to the bottom of questions like that. Why are you screaming? Well, I can't expect what to do now if the rule was the same, go off on me. I deserve it, you know? Lock him up. Listen to no Such thing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Noah]

No Such Thing.

[Az Fudd]

Hey, guys, it's Az Fudd. You may know me as a gold medalist, you may know me as an NCAA national champion. You may even know me as the people's princess. Every week on my new podcast, Fut around and find out, I'll be talking to some special guests about pop culture basketball and what it's like to be a professional athlete on and off the court. Listen to FUT around and find out a production of iHeart Women's Sports in partnership with Unanimous Media on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your PODC.

[Jake Hofer]

I'm Jake Hofer and this is Back 40, a limited series show on wire to Hunt, part of Meat Eaters Podcast Network. Each episode, I'll be asking eight whitetail hunting pros a focused, thought provoking question about hunting and land management. How do I hunt the best part of the farm with less than ideal access?

[Devin]

Should you? That's what the real question is. Stand without. Good access is not a good stand.

[Jake Hofer]

Listen to Back 40 on iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Sarah Spain]

Get fired up, y'.

[Noah]

All.

[Sarah Spain]

Season 2 of Good Game with Sarah Spain is underway. We just welcomed one of my favorite people, an incomparable soccer icon Megan Rapinoe, to the show, and we had a blast. Take a listen.

[Megan Rapinoe]

Sue and I were like, riding the lime bikes the other day and we're.

[Sarah Spain]

Like, wee people ride bikes because it's fun. We got more incredible guests like Megan in store, plus news of the day and more. So make sure you listen to Good Game with Sarah Spain on the I heart iheartradio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Brought to you by Novartis, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports Network.

[Noah]

Welcome to the best of the week for what's Right with Nick Wright. The best takes and moments from this week on the show. Enjoy.

[Devin]

So Mahomes came out and said, I'm gonna do whatever it takes to win, whether that's passing for a lot of yards or. Or not passing for a lot of yards. So we've seen Kansas City winning a number of different ways. How do you think that the offense or the Chiefs need to look in order to succeed this year?

[Noah]

I listen, I do think there's an element of they need to get their swagger back and pump the ball down the field. Now I, I think people need to remember how we got kind of to the point that we got to with this offense being the way it is. And I talked about this yesterday on TV, but I think it's worth revisiting. Three years ago, they're playing the number one defense in the NFL in the Super bowl they score 38 points without a single play longer than 25 yards. And the longest play of the game is a Mahomes scramble. The very next year they come back, they're in the super bowl having the offense having struggled all year long, receivers just openly revolting against Patrick in the Super Bowl. The biggest drive up to that point of Mahomes his life. 11 play, 64 yard, dink, dunk, dink, dunk, field goal. And then in overtime, one of the greatest drives in NFL history. 13 play, 75 yard drive where the longest play once again is a Mahomes scramble. Dink, dunk, dink, dunk. No big explosives. And then last year, offense just eking along and pulling games out of the fire. So why am I saying when they gone super bowl win, super bowl win, super bowl loss after being S17 and one going into the super bowl with Mahomes as a starter. Because I think one of the reasons Patrick started to press early in that Super Bowl, Dean is because being down 14 for last year's Chiefs felt so different than any of the previous year. Chiefs down 14 three years ago was okay, we can start playing now. Down 10 in every super bowl they've ever played in, take the lead back in a heartbeat. And so because it was so death by a thousand cuts, I they felt they needed to. I think Patrick felt like, man, we better score right? Because we don't have this one playability. So I think they need to get that back. And I think the better offensive line, hopefully healthier receivers even though Rashid is now dealing with a groin. Hollywood Brown still out with an ankle. That's not great. That should help that. I also saw there's an unbelievable stat courtesy an unbelievable stat courtesy of Warren Sharp that I would like to go over for a moment. But so quarterbacks record when trailing entering the fourth quarter over the last five years. Let me give you the top three from three to one. Damon say in third place, best record when trailing entering the fourth last five years. Okay. Jalen hurts eight and 14 so that's pretty good. I mean it's third best it that so 36% of the time the Eagles are trailing going into the fourth. They win anyway when Jalen starts second place Lamar Jackson 7 and 10 41% of the time. So that's almost half the time, bro. That the Ravens are trailing entering the fourth, they win when Lamar is the quarterback. So third place is 36% Jalen. Second place is 41% Lamar. This again courtesy Warren Sharp. First place record the last five years when trailing entering the fourth quarter. Patrick Mahomes, 14 and 7, 67%. That means the Chiefs would be an 1112 win team if every game they trailed going into the fourth quarter. And the other like CJ demands A is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. He's eighth on this list. 2 and 10, 20% Josh Allen is above average 3 and 14, 18% Joe Burrow 4 and 23, 15% Brock Purdy 1 in 10, 9%. Like so I say that for this reason it's understandable that the Chiefs kind of carry themselves like ah, we'll figure it out. But it's harder to do that after you've got your teeth kicked in in the Super Bowl. Yeah. And that is they need to.

[Sarah Spain]

Come.

[Noah]

Out, they need to go ahead, demonstrate what you say. Yeah. And I and I think Josh Simmons, the rookie left tackle and Xavier Worthy's ascension is going to help that quite a bit. By the way, late the Madden ratings for this year, Xavier Worthy a higher rating than Marvin Harrison Jr and Roma Dun two top 10 now just barely but still like that is the highest rated rookie receivers were neighbors then Brian Thomas than Xavier Worthy. So yeah, I do think they need to bring back, as Brew would call it, the light show a bit and I'm optimistic that they can. All right, let's talk a little more Chiefs where we get some other stuff.

[Devin]

Andy Reid's been hyping up your guy Travis Kelsey. He's saying that he's calling him, he's calling him svelte, saying he looks 20, he's all slender. A year ago you said Travis Kelsey's got about eight more good games in him. Great games, great games, not good, sorry, got eight great games left in him. Has that number changed since? Like what would he have now at this time?

[Noah]

Well, so this year, yeah, so I I felt he, I thought he used a couple last year. Certainly the playoff game against Houston Texans, yeah, was peak. Travis and I also thought he left a lot out on the field the Christmas Day game against Pittsburgh that if they knew they won they were going to get the long rest that they all desperately needed. Now those aren't the only big games he had all year, but some of the other big games yet I just thought were, you know, the teams not being able to deal with him or you know, the how the game plan filled up. So again, Swifties, please, because I got absolutely crushed for this take last year because people misunderstood what I was saying. I think when you are Travis's age at that position, you have to be very diligent about when you go full throttle and I think he knows that he only has so many full throttle games left. Now do I think the added chip on his shoulder for the fact that he didn't play up to his standard, he said last year and the way they got their ass kicked in the super bowl and the fact that he shed some weight had probably a better off season, maybe replenish some of those games, that game count? Yeah. I've got to see him in week one to give this a real answer, but I'm going to go out on a limb and say this. I think Travis this year will once again be one of the three most impactful players in his position. I think Travis and Brock Bowers and then maybe Kittle, maybe laporta, maybe the kid in Arizona are the other candidates. But I think Travis and Brock Bowers are going to be up there and I think Travis is, especially because teams are going to have to respect the deep ball more this year. He's going to have a lot more room to work with over that intermediate middle where he wants to. All right, dog days of summer. Which means it's time for the boys this summer to kick it into gear. And the best way to cash in on your baseball IQ is with DraftKings Sportsbook. As the stretch drive begins, DraftKings Sportsbook has you covered with live betting, home run props, odds boosts and more. Whether you're chasing dingers or jumping in mid game, there's always action to be had. Never bet on baseball before. Simple. Pick a guy to go yard, hammer some live odds mid game or just ride with your squad and hope for the best. No spreadsheets, just vibes and lines and odds subject to change. Something special for first timers. New DraftKings customers bet five bucks, get $200 in bonus bets instantly. Download DraftKings Sportsbook app and use code right. That's code right for new customers to get $200 in bonus bets instantly. When you bet just five bucks only on DraftKings, the crown is yours.

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[Manny]

Imagine that you're on an airplane and all of a sudden you hear this.

[Az Fudd]

Attention passengers. The pilot is having an emergency and we need someone, anyone, to land this plane.

[Manny]

Think you could do it? It turns out that nearly 50% of men think that they could land the plane with the help of air traffic control. And they're saying, like, okay, pull this. Until this, pull that, turn this. It's just I do my eyes closed. I'm Manny. I'm Noah.

[Devin]

This is Devin.

[Manny]

And on our new show, no Such Thing, we get to the bottom of questions like these. Join us as we talk to the leading expert on overconfidence.

[Noah]

Those who lack expertise lack the expertise they need to recognize that they lack expertise.

[Manny]

And then as we try the whole thing out for real. Wait, what? Oh, that's the run, right? I'm looking at this thing. See? Listen to no Such thing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Az Fudd]

Hey, guys, it's Az Fudd. You may know me as a gold medalist. You may know me as an NCAA national champion and recent most outstanding player. You may even know me as the People's. But now you're also going to know me as your favorite host. Every week on my new podcast, Fut around and find out. I'll give you an inside look at everything happening in my crazy life as I try to balance it all. From my travels across the globe to preparing for another run at the natty with my UConn Huskies, to just trying to make it to my midterms on time. You'll get the inside scoop on everything. I'll be talking to some special guests about pop culture, basketball, and what it's like to be a professional athlete. On and off the court. You'll even get to have some fun with the FUD family. So if you follow me on social media or watch me on tv, you may think you know me, but this show is the only place where you can really fudd around and find out. Listen to FUD around and find out. A production of iHeart Women's Sports in partnership with Unanimous Media on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Sarah Spain]

Get fired up, y'.

[Noah]

All.

[Sarah Spain]

Season 2 of Good Game with Sarah Spain is underway. We just welcomed one of my favorite people and an incomparable soccer icon, Megan Rapinoe to the show, and we had a blast. We talked about her recent 40th birthday celebrations, Co hosting a podcast with her fiance sue, bird watching former teammates retire, and more. Never a dull moment with Pino. Take a listen. What do you miss the most about being a pro athlete?

[Megan Rapinoe]

The final. The final and the locker room. I really, really like you. Just you can't replicate. You can't get back. Showing up to the locker room every morning just to talk.

[Sarah Spain]

We've got more incredible guests like the legendary Candace Parker and college superstar AZ Fudd. I mean, seriously, y', all, the guest list is absolutely stacked for season two. And you know, we're always gonna keep you up to speed on all the news and happenings around the women's sports world as well. So make sure you listen to Good Game with Sarah Spain on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Az Fudd]

Presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[A.J. Jacobs]

Hello, puzzlers. Let's start with a quick puzzle. The answer is Ken Jennings appearance on the puzzler with A.J. jacobs. The question is, what is the most entertaining listening experience in podcast land? Jeopardy. Truthers who say that you were given all the answers believe in.

[Damanze]

I guess they would be conspiracy theorists.

[A.J. Jacobs]

That's right. Are there Jeopardy. Truthers? Are there people who say that it it was rigged?

[Damanze]

Yeah. Ever since I was first on, people are like, they gave you the answers. Right? And then there's the other ones, which are like they gave you the answers and you still blew it.

[A.J. Jacobs]

Don't miss Jeopardy Legend Ken Jennings on our special game show week of the Puzzler podcast. The Puzzler is the best place to get your daily word puzzle fix. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Devin]

Saluca signed his three year, 165 million extension with the Lakers over the weekend. We've all been Waiting on that. So now that that's finally happened, do you think that it's time for LA to really press the gas on trying to succeed in the now?

[Noah]

Well, listen, I got it. I said after they didn't resign Dorian Finney Smith that I thought there was a chance I, I put Lucas signing the extension. Was it 90% I had it. I dropped it to like 75%. So I do think this is good, important real news. I also think that because he signed the extension they are able to slow walk this a bit if they want to because Luke is not going anywhere over the next three years. And by the way, the next deal he'll sign to Monze will be the league's first million dollar a game deal.

[Devin]

Supermax. Yeah. Well, was that what he was supposed to, Was that what he was coming up on in Dallas?

[Noah]

No, he was. No, he could have signed no the, he would have gotten the biggest deal ever in Dallas, but it wouldn't, we wouldn't have gotten to that threshold yet. But three years from now his contract will average more than 82 million a year and there's 82 games. It's a really remarkable thing. Here is though my general lakers take that no. 1, even the biggest anti LeBron folks haven't been able to explain to me where I'm wrong on this. I think it is overwhelmingly likely that over the lifetime of this extension, these next three years, Luca never has a teammate better than LeBron is right now. Now listen, maybe they're going to get Giannis and I'll be wrong. Maybe they're, you know, they have their eyes on Joker and I'll be wrong but Shea ain't going anywhere and N. Tatum's not going anywhere and now we're like running out of people who are better than LeBron right now. Okay, so I would if I were the Lakers prioritize trying to win right now because if they think this is their last year with LeBron, I do not know that Luke is going to have a better running mate than LeBron over these next three years. Now again, if they have real intel that if they keep the cap sheet clean in two years Giannis plans on just coming there in free agency, then so be it. Then, you know what if they like, then see, you know, it's not like they're drawing dead this season like they've got a nice roster then, then keep it flexible. But that's a hell of a gamble to take. Like a hell of a gamble to take.

[Devin]

Do you, are you worried at all that there's like a, a rift potentially forming between Luka and LeBron or do you think that Luca knows that it's.

[Sarah Spain]

I don't think.

[Noah]

Yeah, I don't think it's between Luka and LeBron at all. I. LeBron was Luca's all time favorite player. Luke is the guy LeBron tried to sign to his shoe line. Luke, like I don't think there is anything between them at all. I think there is some obvious frustration for LeBron, fair or not, that the Lakers are not pressing the gas even more on this season. Now you can say that's unfair, that they shouldn't, whatever, but that is to me the entirety of the frustration is. Is that right there?

[Devin]

Oh yeah. So Baker Mayfield came in at number 50 in the NFL top hundred list. He answers this year's the eighth best odds for MVP. And Tampa Bay also just drafted Emika Igbuka and they're getting Godwin back from his injury. What are your expectations for Baker this year?

[Noah]

Expectations are he has another really good season ceiling. Is he is a frontline MVP candidate and they are a true contender in the nfc. Like I think that's on the board. And here's the thing, in order for them to be a contender, he has to be an MVP candidate because that defense is not going to be great. They are going to have to outscore people. But Baker had 40 touchdowns last year. He was a badass. Yeah. I mean he was a badass last year. I'm so. And he right now has. I want to make sure I'm right about this, that I didn't miss it. Yeah. He's on the best non rookie contract in the NFL. Three years, 100 million bucks for Baker Mayfield. He is one more good season away from getting a $250 million deal. He's been that level of player and I'm just happy for him, man, because went so sideways on him. Yeah. And his teammates love him. He is true to himself. He's tough. He is a legit awesome playoff performer. Like this is the thing that people I think underrate with Baker. He has played I think five career playoff games. I'm going to tell you what he did in them. First playoff game ever, the Cleveland Browns go into Pittsburgh, hang 48 on them. Baker throws for 263 touchdowns, a 115 rating. Second playoff game ever. His only ever bad playoff game. He's against the two time defending AFC champion. Oh, I'm sorry. He's against the defending super bowl champion Chiefs and he's 23 of 37 for 200 yards, one touchdown, one pick, 75 rating. But he's in Arrowhead in round two against the 2020 Chiefs. Like, no shame in that.

[Devin]

Yeah.

[Noah]

He then makes the playoffs with Tampa. His first playoff game ever against Philly. And again, it's so crazy. This is Philly. This game was in January of 2024. Yeah, exactly. 32, nine, three touchdowns, no picks, a 120 rating. The next game against Detroit, 350 yards, three touchdowns, two picks, a 95 rating. They lose by eight. And then the game against Washington last year, a wild one where he only throws 18 times, but he's 15 of 18 for a buck 85. Two touchdowns and a 147 rating. In his playoff career, he's got a 106 rating, 12 touchdowns, three picks. Like, I mean, he's just been awesome in the big game.

[Devin]

He gets better.

[Noah]

Yeah. So I. Yeah. So I'm a Baker believer through and through. All right, let's do these last two real quick.

[Devin]

James Cook is holding in as he looks for his contract extension. After a few years of big dollar running backs paying off, it seemed like the debate was put to rest, but that conversation opens back up again. Or do you think Cook is just not that guy?

[Noah]

Well, no, I just. I think Cook's really good, but I. The Bills have no cap space. He's under contract for 5 million bucks. They know they can franchise tag him for not much. And even if you think he's awesome, do you think he's going to be awesome four years from now? So, like, go ahead.

[Devin]

Isn't he a huge part of their offense last year? Like what.

[Noah]

What was huge?

[Devin]

Buffalo.

[Noah]

The last two years.

[Devin]

Right, Exactly.

[Noah]

I just think they think he's going to blink, bro. I don't think it's that. They. You know what I mean? I think that they think we'll give him a little more money, but not long term. You know what I mean? Nothing long term. And then we'll. Or maybe a one year extension. But the report is he wants, you know, I don't know if it's what he wants. I don't want to get this wrong, But I saw four years, 40 million bouncing around, which is only 10 million a year. But I just think they think at that position, his style, in two years he could be done. And they just. It's just such a tough business for running backs, man. It's just such a tough business for running backs.

[Manny]

Imagine that you're on an airplane and all of a sudden you hear this.

[Az Fudd]

Attention passengers. The the pilot is having an emergency, and we need someone, anyone, to land this plane.

[Manny]

Think you could do it? It turns out that nearly 50% of men think that they could land the plane with the help of air traffic control. And they're saying, like, okay, pull this. Until this, pull that, turn this. It's just I can do my eyes closed. I'm Manny. I'm Noah.

[Devin]

This is Devin.

[Manny]

And on our new show, no Such Thing, we get to the bottom of quest questions like these. Join us as we talk to the leading expert on overconfidence.

[Noah]

Those who lack expertise lack the expertise they need to recognize that they lack expertise.

[Manny]

And then as we try the whole thing out for real. Wait, what? Oh, that's the run, right? I'm looking at this thing. See? Listen to no such thing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Az Fudd]

Hey, guys, it's Az Fudd. You may know me as a gold medalist. You may know me as an NCAA national champion and recent most outstanding player. You may even know me as the people's princess. But now you're also gonna know me as your favorite host every week on my new podcast, futaround, and find out. I'll give you an inside look at everything happening in my crazy life as I try to balance it all, from my travels across the globe to preparing for another run at the natty with my UConn Husky, to just trying to make it to my midterms on time. You'll get the inside scoop on everything. I'll be talking to some special guests about pop culture basketball and what it's like to be a professional athlete on and off the court. You'll even get to have some fun with the Fudd family. So if you follow me on social media or watch me on tv, you may think you know me, but this show is the only place where you can really futt around and find out. Listen to fud around and find out. A production of I Heart with Sports in partnership with Unanimous media on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Sarah Spain]

Get fired up, y'.

[Az Fudd]

All.

[Sarah Spain]

Season 2 of Good Game with Sarah Spain is underway. We just welcomed one of my favorite people and an incomparable soccer icon, Megan Rapinoe, to the show, and we had a blast. We talked about her recent 40th birthday celebrations, Co hosting a podcast with her fiance. So watching former teammates retire and more. Never a dull moment with Pino. Take a listen. What do you miss the most about being a pro athlete?

[Megan Rapinoe]

The final. The final and the locker room. I really, really like you just, you can't replicate. You can't get back. Showing up to the locker room every morning just to talk.

[Sarah Spain]

We've got more incredible guests like the legendary Candace Parker and college studio superstar AZ Fudd. I mean, seriously, y', all, the guest list is absolutely stacked for season two. And you know, we're always going to keep you up to speed on all the news and happenings around the women's sports world as well. So make sure you listen to Good Game with Sarah Spain on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Az Fudd]

Presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[A.J. Jacobs]

Hello, puzzlers. Let's start with a quick puzzle. The answer is Ken Jennings appearance on the puzzler with A.J. jacobs. The question is, what is the most entertaining listening experience in podcast land? Jeopardy. Truthers who say that you were given all the answers believe in.

[Damanze]

I guess they would be conspiracy theorists.

[A.J. Jacobs]

That's right. Are there Jeopardy. Truthers? Are there people who say that it, it was rigged?

[Noah]

Yeah.

[Damanze]

Ever since I was first on, people are like, they gave you the answers. Right. And then there's the other ones which are like they gave you the answers and you still blew it.

[A.J. Jacobs]

Don't miss Jeopardy. Legend Ken Jennings on our special game show week of the Puzzler podcast. The Puzzler is the best place to get your daily word puzzle fix. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Devin]

Yeah, the media has been super high on the Broncos. You have not been. So is Sean Payton. He came out and said the short term goal is winning the division, but this is a team capable of winning the Super Bowl. I've coached six teams that I thought could win a Super Bowl. This is my seventh. Yes. Should we, should we believe in this? Is he too high?

[Noah]

Okay.

[Devin]

Too low.

[Noah]

He also said Bo Nicks in the next two years going to be a top four or five quarterback in the world. He also said he's going to be a superstar also. By the way, check out what when you're subscribing to what's Right with Nick Wright on YouTube. There's another new channel you can subscribe to on YouTube. Did you see this? Damanze. What is it? Bo Nix's new YouTube channel. And my, my take that Bo Nix, my take going into the draft was Bo Nix was Mac Jones. For those of you wondering how that has, how that looks so far, well, Mack Jones in year one with new The New England Patriots made a somewhat fraudulent Pro bowl as an alternate Bonix check. The team won 10 games, kind of surprisingly made the playoffs. Bonick's check. The team played the Buffalo Bills in round one, lost by four touchdowns. Bonick's check. And Mac Jones, that off season trademarked Mac 10 and all this silly stuff because he was a future star. Go follow Bo Nix on YouTube. Here is my problem with the Broncos hype and discussion. Gosh darn it, Dexter, you know what I. You know what I actually think it's value ad.

[Devin]

It draws attention.

[Noah]

It draws attention. Exactly right. Here is. Here's what I think people are not recognizing when they are talking about the Broncos as cont. Broncos have an excellent defense and that matters now. Dre Greenlaw's dealing with a quad already. And Huanga, who I love as a player has been injured every year since his rookie season. Those are their two big additions. The other problem is this last year, Damanze, they won 10 games. Okay? The first game they won, they beat Baker Mayfield. Salute. That's a real thing.

[Devin]

That's a good one.

[Noah]

Here's who they beat after that, okay? Aaron Rodgers, who the jets then got rid of. They then beat Spencer Rattler, who is in a quarterback. The saddest quarterback battle of the year. They then beat Bryce before Bryce got hot. They then beat Kirk Cousins right before they benched him. They then beat Gardner Minshew, who they. I left that out earlier. They actually beat Gardner twice. They then beat whoever the hell was starting for the Browns at the time, Jamis, who is currently I think a third string quarterback. They then beat Anthony Richardson and they then beat Chad Henney. Yeah, that's all their wins now. We are now saying they're contenders. Well, to be contenders. Let's just start with the conference. How did you do against playoff teams in your conference? Well, you played Pittsburgh week two and lost. You played the Chargers week six and lost. You played the Ravens week nine and lost. You played the Chiefs week 10 and lost. You played the Chargers Week 16 and lost. You played the Bengals who weren't in the playoffs. But that was a playoff level game, that game. Cause they were still alive. Week 17 and lost. You then played the Bills in the actual playoffs and lost 31 to 7. Why am I supposed to believe that team all of a sudden is going to be great now folks out there like, oh Nick, you always just hate on the Broncos. Last year, preseason gambling show our favorite win total of the year, Broncos over five and a half. Even though I didn't Believe in Bo Nicks because that number was too low. They had a last place schedule. Russ, it was so terrible for him. I'm just calling it as I see it. And right now, is there any other team this year or any year that you can remember that had the pretty universally accepted worst quarterback in their own division? That we were like, yep, that team look out for him. Like, let's just look at the other teams across the league who have the worst quarterback in the division. What we think of them? Justin Fields and the Jets. Were we afraid of them? Whoever's starting for the Browns, Joe Flacco, how are they looking? The Colts with Daniel Jones, the Giants with Russ, the Vikings with JJ and again, that, that's harsh on him, but he's just young now. Maybe Dean is like, maybe it's Caleb.

[Devin]

Yeah.

[Noah]

I mean, again, I don't think, I don't think people is. Even though Caleb Stock is dropping, have JJ Ahead of him in the south, the Saints with whatever they're dealing with, and in the West, Seattle with Darnold or Arizona, I guess with like, I, I just.

[Devin]

They just believe in them.

[Noah]

I am, say it again.

[Devin]

They're believers. They believe in themselves.

[Noah]

Sean Payton has talked a lot of shit though. And yeah, and listen, this is a tricky one because Sean Payton, as great of a coach as he is, he must be a better hang because the media loves him. So many of my colleagues at Fox, just from the one year of working with him, they love him. I, I, I, I think Peter Schrager, my pal, he loves him. And we kind of give Sean Payton a, you know, like he walks into Denver, does the interview about what a clown show it was under Nat Hackett, and by week three, the Dolphins are hanging 70 on him. Last year after sneaking into the playoffs and then getting absolutely demolished by Buffalo, has the audacity to say, if we had won this game, we really liked our next matchup, which was going to be against the Chiefs, a Chiefs team that then beat the Buffalo team that he lost to by a hundred. And now he's like, talking division isn't big enough for us. We need to be talking super bowl when that team has not won the division since the last year they won the Super Bowl.

[Devin]

Weak NFL right now, I think is what's going on maybe.

[Noah]

And here's the other thing, Demanze. I am very, very prepared for a month into the year, the Broncos to maybe be four. And oh yeah, and people, yeah. And, and people are firing stuff back at me like, because they're softest part of their schedule is the beginning, in my opinion, home for Tennessee at the Colts at the Chargers, which is a home game home for Cincinnati. But I'm curious how the rest of that's going to go for them. And we'll see. But I am I this is one where I've put my money where my mouth is. I'm in the process right now of negotiating a real Broncos bet with poker legend and one of the best sports betters ever, David Baker. I think I'm going to give him Broncos to win the division at plus 320. And I think we're also going to what demons that you look, that's he's.

[Devin]

He wants to, he wants to bet and give you money for the Broncos winning the division.

[Noah]

Well, I got to give him + 320 so you know what I mean. If we bet a thousand bucks, he can win 3200. But yeah, he wants that bet and he I but I'll also I think bet him make missed playoffs. And so like maybe I'll be wrong, but I'm, I want this take understood and I want to see and you know what? Maybe I'll, maybe I'll make a third bet with David if we can find a fair price on this and have it be an either or and if it's neither, then it's no action which is the Broncos are so much more likely to finish last in the AFC west than finish first. They are like I think the Chargers are a are better than them. I know the Chiefs are better than them. And I think the Raiders because of schedule coaching quarterback. I think the Raiders can pop. Now the, the most likely outcome is the Broncos finish third. I understand that but I see no outcome whatsoever where the Broncos finish first. And we'll see. We'll see how the future superstar Bo Nix looks come November. Maybe I'll be wrong. I doubt it though. And boss Ajs says in the chat show us the team and quarterbacks the Chiefs beat. It's not that impressive last year. I mean we can do that.

[Devin]

That's pretty funny.

[Noah]

I let's see who are the teams in the who are the quarterbacks the Chiefs beat last year? Lamar, Josh Allen, Cousins, Herbert Carr, Purdy, Muu, Baker, Nicks, Bryce, Muu. Herbert. I thought I said Burrow. Oh, Cleveland, whoever was their quarterback then C.J. whoever the Steelers quarterback. Oh, Ross, then C.J. again, then Josh Allen. So every single quarterback in football.

[Devin]

Denver and week 18 though 38.

[Noah]

Yeah, they didn't play their guys. Yeah. They said everyone and, and I And then they got crushed in the Super Bowl. They beat every. So in other words, they beat every single good quarterback in football. Except for Jaden, who they never played. Her two beat them, and Stafford, who they never played. Good try, good effort.

[Manny]

Why are TSA rules so confusing?

[Noah]

You got a hoodie on. Take it all.

[Manny]

I'm Manny. I'm Noah.

[Devin]

This is Devin.

[Manny]

And we're best friends and journalists with a new podcast called no Such Thing where we get to the bottom of questions like that. Why are you screaming? Well, I can't expect what to do now if the rule was the same, Go off on me. I deserve it, you know? Lock him up. Listen to no Such thing on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Noah]

No Such Thing.

[Az Fudd]

Hey, guys, it's Az Fudd. You may know me as a gold medalist, you may know me as an NCAA national champion. You may even know me as a people's princess. Every week on my new podcast, Fut around and Find out, I'll be talking to some special guests about pop culture, basketball and what it's like to be a professional athlete on and off the court. Listen to Fut around and find out. A production of I Heart Women's Sports in partnership with Unanimous media on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Jake Hofer]

I'm Jake Hofer and this is back 40, a limited series show on Wire to Hunt, part of Meat Eaters Podcast Network. Each episode I'll be asking eight whitetail hunting pros a focused, thought provoking question about hunting and land management. How do I hunt the best part of the farm with less than ideal access?

[Devin]

Should you? That's what the real question is. Stand without good access is not a good stand.

[Jake Hofer]

Listen to Back 40 on iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Sarah Spain]

Get fired up, y'.

[Manny]

All.

[Sarah Spain]

Season 2 of Good Game with Sarah Spain is underway. We just welcomed one of my favorite people, an incomparable soccer icon, Megan Rapinoe, to the show and we had a blast. Take a listen.

[Megan Rapinoe]

Sue and I were like riding the lime bikes the other day and we're.

[Sarah Spain]

Like, wee like this. People ride bikes because it's fun. We got more incredible guests like Megan in store, plus news of the day and more. So make sure you listen to Good Game with Sarah Spain on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Brought to you by Novartis, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports Network. This is an iHeart podcast.