The McShay Show Episode Summary Episode: Coaching Carousel Buzz with Pete Thamel, and Ohio State Prospect Tiers | The McShay Show
Release Date: November 5, 2024
Host: Todd McShay
Guest: Pete Thamel, ESPN College Football Insider

1. Episode Overview

In this episode of The McShay Show, host Todd McShay welcomes Pete Thamel, a renowned ESPN College Football Insider, to discuss the latest developments in college football as the first college football rankings reveal day unfolds. The conversation delves into the implications of the new 12-team playoff system, Ohio State's performance, coaching strategies, and NFL draft prospects, particularly focusing on quarterbacks.

2. College Football Rankings and the New Playoff System

Todd kicks off the discussion by highlighting the significance of the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings reveal day.

• Todd McShay [04:05]: "It's the first time with the 12-team playoff. It just feels new and exciting and it's so much more important now..."

Pete Thamel provides insight into the committee's mindset and the challenges posed by the new format.

• Pete Thamel [05:01]: "This is the first chapter of this history here and how this is all going to work. Greg Sankey has really set an interesting tone..."

They discuss the balance between conference champions and at-large bids, debating the inclusion of teams like Boise State.

• Pete Thamel [08:40]: "We may see the expectation. One team from the ACC, one team from the Big 12, one non-Power 4 team, like Boise State, it looks like right now."

3. Ohio State's Team Analysis and Prospect Tiers

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Ohio State's team dynamics, defensive prowess, and the tiers of their draft prospects.

• Todd McShay [10:15]: "I'll throw up a graphic and talk about this. For me, not giving grades, but if we tier them a little bit, who are the planes that are going to land first?"

Pete and Todd collaboratively tier Ohio State’s defensive prospects, identifying top candidates like Ty Leek Williams and Davison Igbon Osin.

• Pete Thamel [66:17]: "Ty Leek Williams, defensive tackle and Davison Igbon Osin, the cornerback, those would be the top two."

They emphasize the depth of Ohio State's defense, predicting up to nine players could be drafted.

• Todd McShay [67:38]: "It's a damn good college football defense. Find me many, if any other defenses this year that have nine guys that could get drafted..."

4. Coaching Insights: Will Stein, Chip Kelly, Ryan Day

The discussion shifts to coaching strategies and the impact of key coaches on team performance.

• Pete Thamel [25:40]: "Will Stein’s hiring at Oregon was a smart move. He maximized Bo Nicks and is now nurturing Dylan Gabriel..."

They commend Will Stein’s collaborative approach and his ability to develop talent.

• Pete Thamel [32:14]: "Chip Kelly is an efficient, smart play-caller. He doesn't just go slinging cards. He's protecting his strengths and adjusting in-game strategies."

The relationship between Chip Kelly and Ryan Day is highlighted, showcasing their shared history and mutual respect.

• Pete Thamel [33:25]: "Ryan Day and Chip Kelly have a genuine bond. Ryan was like a son to Chip, and they brought that emotion into the game."

5. NFL Draft Prospects: Quarterbacks Discussion

A deep dive into the current quarterback landscape and their prospects for the NFL draft.

• Pete Thamel [47:14]: "I'm hearing everything right. It's really interesting. There's so many different opinions among scouts..."

They analyze quarterbacks like Shador Sanders, Carson Beck, and Dylan Gabriel, discussing their strengths and areas for improvement.

• Todd McShay [52:17]: "The most intriguing guy to me right now is Cam Ward because there's a lot to love, but there's a lot to be scared of on his tape."

Pete reflects on the diversity of opinions regarding the quarterback class, noting it’s one of the most divisive in recent years.

• Pete Thamel [54:29]: "Cam Ward is a tough, competitive player with good cover skills. He’s flexible but not an elite shutdown guy yet."

6. Upcoming Shows and Promotions

Todd promotes upcoming segments and live shows to engage listeners further.

• Todd McShay [82:30]: "Tonight after the rankings reveal show we're going to do a big discussion about Cam Ward and LSU vs. Alabama..."

He encourages listeners to join the live Saturday night reaction show on YouTube for in-depth game analysis.

• Todd McShay [83:50]: "Join us after the primetime game of Alabama vs. LSU in Baton Rouge. We'll break down that game and others live on YouTube."

7. Conclusion

Todd and Pete wrap up the episode by reiterating their excitement for the evolving college football landscape and the upcoming changes in the playoff system. They express optimism about Ohio State’s potential and the overall talent present in the current season.

• Todd McShay [96:13]: "I am a believer in Oregon. Ohio State is now progressing and ready to take off like a rocket ship."

• Steve Palazzolo [97:08]: "We should be so lucky to get that [Oregon vs. Ohio State playoff matchup]."

They thank listeners for tuning in and encourage subscription and engagement through various platforms.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Pete Thamel [05:01]: "This is the first chapter of this history here and how this is all going to work."

• Todd McShay [08:55]: "What are you hearing when you talk to NFL scouts, just specifically with this year's quarterback class?"

• Pete Thamel [54:42]: "He is the toughest, most competitive player with cover skills."

• Todd McShay [67:38]: "It's a damn good college football defense. Find me many, if any other defenses this year that have nine guys that could get drafted..."

• Pete Thamel [85:52]: "The groupings are the same, so we're off to a good start."

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the current college football season, the introduction of the new 12-team playoff system, and an in-depth look at Ohio State's team and NFL prospects. With expert insights from Pete Thamel and engaging discussions led by Todd McShay, listeners gain valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of college football and its implications for the NFL draft.