Podcast Summary: The McShay Show – "An Indiana-Ohio State Deep Dive. Plus: Jets Distress and Best Bets With Stugotz"

Release Date: November 21, 2024
Host: Todd McShay
Guests: Stu Gotz, Steve Mensch

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The McShay Show, NFL Draft and College Football Analyst Todd McShay delves into two major topics: a comprehensive analysis of the upcoming Indiana vs. Ohio State football game and a discussion on the current distress within the New York Jets organization. Additionally, the episode features a segment on the best betting picks with special guest Stu Gotz and author Steve Mensch.

2. New York Jets Distress

a. Firing of General Manager Joe Douglas

Todd McShay kicks off the discussion by addressing the recent firing of Joe Douglas, the General Manager of the New York Jets. The conversation highlights the paradox of Douglas's tenure: despite assembling a talented roster—bolstered by draft picks like Aaron Rodgers—the Jets struggled primarily due to issues at the quarterback position.

• Steve Mensch: "Joe Douglas created a roster that was good enough that Aaron Rodgers decided to join, but he couldn't get the quarterback position right. That's why he's gone." [06:22]

b. Owner Woody Johnson’s Meddling

The episode critiques owner Woody Johnson for interfering with team decisions, particularly regarding the quarterback situation. McShay and his guests express frustration over Johnson's involvement, which they believe undermines the authority of the general manager.

• Stu Gotz: "I always criticize Woody Johnson for not taking this thing too seriously and not seeing what it is the fans are seeing." [08:40]

c. Impact of Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers' performance and fit with the Jets are scrutinized. Despite his legendary status, Rodgers struggled to mesh with the team, leading to speculation about whether Tyrod Taylor could have been a better option for the season.

• Steve Mensch: "Tyrod Taylor probably would have won more football games for the Jets than Aaron Rodgers this year. That's how bad Aaron has been." [10:10]

d. Steve Mensch’s Perspectives and Book Promotion

Steve Mensch shares his insights on the Jets' situation and promotes his new book, Stugotts Personal Record Book: The Real Winners and Losers in Sports. Mensch discusses the book's reception and its critical acclaim, highlighting the collaborative effort behind its creation.

• Steve Mensch: "Everyone's surprised that I finished the book. It's been received well, and credible journalists have contributed chapters to it." [26:03]

• Todd McShay: "You can find it on Amazon. Go out and buy it, folks." [29:12]

3. Deep Dive: Indiana vs. Ohio State Football Game

Todd McShay provides an in-depth analysis of the upcoming clash between Indiana (ranked #5) and Ohio State (ranked #2). He examines Indiana's offensive strategies and Ohio State's defensive prowess.

a. Indiana’s Offensive Efficiency

McShay praises Indiana's offense for its disciplined and efficient playstyle, likening it to a well-oiled machine. He emphasizes their ability to execute plays without costly mistakes, making them a formidable opponent despite not having elite receivers.

• Todd McShay: "They kill you with efficiency. Their operation is the most efficient factory in the Midwest." [34:54]

b. Quarterback Curtis Rourke

Curtis Rourke is highlighted as a smart and accurate quarterback who excels in ball placement and timing with receivers. However, McShay notes his limitations, such as a lack of a strong arm and mobility, which could be exploited by Ohio State's defense.

• Todd McShay: "Curtis Rourke is the captain of the efficiency train, but he's not a threat as a runner." [38:00]

c. Ohio State’s Defensive Strategy

The discussion shifts to Ohio State's defense, detailing how they plan to counter Indiana's disciplined offense. The focus is on maintaining gap discipline and ensuring that their secondary remains robust against Indiana's strategic plays.

• Stu Gotz: "The interior offensive line of Ohio State versus the interior defensive line of Indiana is something we need to keep a close eye on in this game." [50:21]

d. Key Matchups and Player Insights

Key players from both teams are analyzed, including Indiana's wide receivers and Ohio State's offensive line. McShay expresses confidence in Ohio State's ability to capitalize on Indiana's lack of depth in the offensive front.

• Todd McShay: "Ohio State can take advantage of the lack of depth Indiana has up front and I think they'll be okay." [50:32]

4. Best Bets With Stu Gotz

In the "Best Bets" segment, Steve Mensch shares his betting picks for both college and NFL games, providing insights based on his expertise.

a. College Betting Picks

• Indiana vs. Ohio State:

  • Mensch's Pick: Ohio State to win by 13.5 points.
  • Quote: "I think Ohio State will win that game by four touchdowns. [17:17]"

• Other College Picks:

  • Colorado vs. Kansas: Colorado minus three.

  • Dolphins vs. Patriots: Dolphins minus seven.

  • Packers vs. San Francisco: Packers minus two and a half.

  • Eagles vs. Rams: Eagles minus three.

  • Mensch: "The Dolphins are minus seven at home. The Patriots don't want to win because they're a smart team." [18:04]

b. NFL Betting Picks

• Todd McShay’s Picks:

  • Oklahoma vs. Alabama: Oklahoma plus 13.5.

  • Auburn vs. A&M: Auburn plus two and a half.

  • Virginia vs. SMU: Virginia plus nine and a half.

  • Todd McShay: "Oklahoma plus 13 and a half against Alabama is a trip to fan season in college football, folks." [59:56]

5. Menches Trenches 2.0: Evaluating Offensive Linemen

The episode features the debut of "Menches Trenches 2.0," where Todd McShay and Stu Gotz discuss offensive line evaluations, focusing on the Indiana vs. Ohio State matchup.

a. Ohio State’s Offensive Line Adjustments

With injuries plaguing Ohio State's offensive line, McShay examines the potential impact on their performance against Indiana's formidable defensive front.

• Stu Gotz: "Indiana's defensive tackle C.J. West is a game-wrecker. Big, powerful, violent hands." [50:31]

b. Indiana’s Defensive Line Strength

Indiana's defensive line, particularly C.J. West and James Carpenter, is analyzed for their ability to disrupt Ohio State's offense. The discussion emphasizes their pass-rushing capabilities and how they can challenge Ohio State's offensive stability.

• Stu Gotz: "Indiana's defensive tackle C.J. West is a game wrecker." [50:31]

c. Key Players to Watch

Both teams' key offensive and defensive linemen are discussed, highlighting their strengths and potential impact on the game outcome.

• Stu Gotz: "Donovan Jackson is a career guard but was moved to left tackle. There’s a lot of uncertainty with Ohio State's offensive line." [49:13]

6. Game Day Preparation and Traditions

Todd McShay shares his personal experiences and tips for attending an Ohio State football game in Columbus, Ohio. He describes the vibrant traditions, fan atmosphere, and essential preparations for game day.

• Todd McShay: "When you wake up in the morning, you better fly your flag. It is a tradition." [84:27]

a. Tailgating and Fan Experience

McShay emphasizes the importance of tailgating, sharing insights on the local cuisine, and the unique blue-collar spirit of the Midwest compared to other college football regions.

• Stu Gotz: "Auburn and Athens have a different vibe, but Columbus is about working hard and fueling up for the game." [73:35]

b. On-Site Recommendations

Recommendations include dining at specific local establishments like Forno and the Urban Meyer Pint House, and staying at the Blackwell Inn for proximity to campus activities.

• Todd McShay: "Stay at the Blackwell Inn. It's right on campus, near High Street, where all the action is." [73:34]

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Todd McShay wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of the Indiana vs. Ohio State game and the ongoing issues with the New York Jets. He invites listeners to join the Saturday Reaction Show on YouTube for live discussions post-game.

• Todd McShay: "This is a big week. Tryptophan college football season is here, and crazy stuff is going to go down." [60:22]

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Mensch: "Joe Douglas created a roster that was good enough that Aaron Rodgers decided to join, but he couldn't get the quarterback position right. That's why he's gone." [06:22]

• Stu Gotz: "I always criticize Woody Johnson for not taking this thing too seriously and not seeing what it is the fans are seeing." [08:40]

• Steve Mensch: "Tyrod Taylor probably would have won more football games for the Jets than Aaron Rodgers this year. That's how bad Aaron has been." [10:10]

• Todd McShay: "They kill you with efficiency. Their operation is the most efficient factory in the Midwest." [34:54]

• Steve Mensch: "Everyone's surprised that I finished the book. It's been received well, and credible journalists have contributed chapters to it." [26:03]

• Todd McShay: "Curtis Rourke is the captain of the efficiency train, but he's not a threat as a runner." [38:00]

• Stu Gotz: "Indiana's defensive tackle C.J. West is a game-wrecker. Big, powerful, violent hands." [50:31]

Conclusion:

This episode of The McShay Show offers a comprehensive look into both the strategic intricacies of a high-stakes college football matchup and the tumultuous state of the New York Jets. Through expert analysis and candid conversations, Todd McShay, alongside Stu Gotz and Steve Mensch, provides listeners with valuable insights into team dynamics, player performances, and the broader implications for the NFL draft and college football rankings. Additionally, the episode interweaves engaging segments on betting picks and game day traditions, enriching the listener's experience and understanding of the football landscape.