Podcast Summary: The McShay Show Episode: McShay’s Guys 1.0, an EMERGENCY Mock Draft, and Best Bets With Stanford Steve
Release Date: October 24, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of The McShay Show, NFL Draft Analyst Todd McShay and his guest, Stanford Steve, delve deep into the intricacies of the NFL draft prospects, conduct an emergency mock draft, and share their best bets for upcoming college football games. The episode is rich with expert analysis, insider insights, and engaging discussions that cater both to avid football fans and those looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current draft landscape.

Segment 1: McShay’s Guys 1.0

Todd McShay introduces the segment McShay’s Guys 1.0, where he and Stanford Steve discuss players they are particularly excited about for the upcoming NFL Draft. This segment highlights prospects who may not be the top picks but possess unique qualities that could make them valuable assets in the league.

Key Discussions:

• Jalen Walker, Georgia Defensive End/Outside Linebacker ([03:19] Todd McShay):

  • McShay praises Walker’s versatility, comparing him to stars like Micah Parsons.
  • Quote: “[...] he can do both. And you can excel as an edge rusher, but also play in space, drop in coverage, do different things.” ([04:05] Todd McShay)
  • Walker’s performance includes eight tackles, three tackles for loss, three sacks, and a fumble recovery against Texas, showcasing his disruptive potential.

• Nick Iman Warri, South Carolina Safety ([07:55] Stanford Steve):

  • Steve highlights Warri’s athleticism and playmaking ability, noting his multiple interceptions and touchdown returns.
  • Quote: “He has four picks this year, two touchdown returns.” ([07:55] Stanford Steve)

• Derek Harmon, Oregon Defensive Tackle ([11:00] Todd McShay):

  • Harmon is commended for his smooth technique and ability to disrupt the quarterback, distinguishing him from more traditional three-technique tackles.
  • Quote: “But the value is finding an interior defensive lineman that can disrupt the quarterback. And that's exactly what Harmon's done.” ([11:30] Todd McShay)

• Mason Taylor, LSU Tight End ([13:03] Stanford Steve):

  • Despite his impressive performance, Steve notes Taylor has flown under the radar compared to his father, Jason Taylor.
  • Quote: “He has, he's leading LSU in all-time history for catches and receiving yards for tight ends.” ([14:39] Todd McShay)

Segment 2: Emergency Mock Draft

Todd McShay and Stanford Steve engage in an Emergency Mock Draft, rearranging their strategies to accommodate the pressing needs of top NFL teams. This segment showcases their ability to adapt and prioritize based on team requirements and player evaluations.

Mock Draft Highlights:

1. New England Patriots - Abdul Carter, Penn State Edge Rusher ([40:36] Todd McShay):

   • Recognizing the Patriots’ need for an edge rusher, McShay selects Carter as a top pick.
   • Quote: “Abdul Carter goes number one to the Patriots.” ([40:36] Todd McShay)

2. Cleveland Browns - Cam Ward, Quarterback ([42:44] Todd McShay):

   • The Browns address their quarterback need by selecting Cam Ward.
   • Quote: “Cam Ward, quarterback, Miami going to the Browns.” ([42:44] Todd McShay)

3. Carolina Panthers - Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver ([43:53] Stanford Steve):

   • Despite initial skepticism, Hunter is chosen to fill Carolina’s defensive and offensive gaps.
   • Quote: “I think Travis Hunter will be the pick at number three.” ([43:53] Stanford Steve)

4. Tennessee Titans - James Pierce Jr., Tennessee Edge ([45:09] Todd McShay):

   • Pierce is drafted to bolster the Titans’ edge defense.
   • Quote: “The Titans take James Pierce Jr.” ([45:09] Todd McShay)

5. Las Vegas Raiders - Shador Sanders, Cornerback ([45:36] Stanford Steve):

   • Sanders is selected to enhance the Raiders’ secondary.
   • Quote: “I take Shador Sanders.” ([45:36] Stanford Steve)

Discussion Points:

• The challenges of aligning player strengths with team needs.
• The potential impact of each pick on the respective teams.
• The speculative nature of mock drafts and their reliance on current player performances.

Segment 3: Best Bets With Stanford Steve

In this segment, McShay and Steve analyze upcoming college football games, offering their best bets based on team performances, player matchups, and broader season implications.

Highlighted Games and Bets:

1. Boise State vs. UNLV ([56:07] Stanford Steve):

   • Best Bet: Favoring Boise State to secure a playoff spot led by standout quarterback Ashton Ginty.
   • Quote: “We need Gentee in the playoff. We need to find a way to get Gentee in the playoff.” ([90:32] Mensch)

2. Indiana vs. Wisconsin ([56:07] Mensch):

   • Bet: Taking Wisconsin at six and a half points.
   • Quote: “I'd take UCF in that game, the one that sticks out to me.” ([85:31] Mensch)

3. Notre Dame vs. Navy ([59:00] Todd McShay):

   • Bet: Favors Notre Dame with a 21 and a half point spread.
   • Quote: “I'm going to go against the grain and give the points with Notre Dame.” ([67:07] Todd McShay)

4. LSU vs. Texas A&M ([70:59] Todd McShay):

   • Bet: Steve sides with Texas A&M, appreciating their defense.
   • Quote: “I will side with A&M.” ([76:27] Mensch)

5. Illinois vs. Oregon ([79:10] Todd McShay):

   • Bet: Taking Oregon at 21 and a half points.
   • Quote: “So I'm going to go with number 21 and a half.” ([79:47] Mensch)

Key Insights:

• Analysis of team strategies and player performances influencing betting decisions.
• The importance of defensive strengths and offensive potentials in game outcomes.
• The impact of external factors like coaching strategies and player injuries on game predictions.

Conclusion

Todd McShay and Stanford Steve wrap up the episode by reflecting on their long-standing professional relationship and the dynamic nature of college football scouting and analysis. They express excitement for their new Saturday night reaction shows and anticipate engaging discussions on upcoming games and draft prospects. The episode underscores the complexities of talent evaluation, strategic team building, and the ever-evolving landscape of college and professional football.

Final Remarks:

• Todd McShay: Encourages listeners to tune into the new Saturday night show for real-time game analyses.
• Stanford Steve: Highlights the importance of adapting to evolving game strategies and player developments.

Notable Quotes:

• Todd McShay ([03:22]): “We’re going to break it all down with Steve and we got a lot of fun stuff in the NFL draft we're going to do.”
• Stanford Steve ([06:18]): “I love that you really stuck your neck out on that one.”
• Todd McShay ([35:30]): “The Browns are a quarterback needy team right now.”
• Stanford Steve ([42:21]): “They need a guy, I don’t think they wanted to allow Shador Sanders to go.”

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the strategic considerations behind NFL draft selections and provides valuable betting insights for upcoming college football matchups. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the gridiron, McShay and Steve deliver engaging and informative content that keeps you ahead of the game.