Podcast Summary: The McShay Show – "Scouting the Loaded Running Back Class + Is Tyler Shough a 1st Round Pick?"

Release Date: February 13, 2025

Introduction

In this energetic and somewhat unstructured episode of The McShay Show, NFL Draft and College Football Analyst Todd McShay dives deep into two primary topics: the burgeoning running back class and the quarterback prospects, with a particular focus on Tyler Shough. The hosts candidly discuss recent developments, share insights from NFL scouts, and engage in lively debates to provide listeners with a comprehensive analysis ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.

Quarterback Spotlight: Tyler Shough

Todd McShay initiates the episode by introducing a quarterback who has captivated his attention: Tyler Shough from Louisville. Despite being somewhat under the radar compared to his peers, Shough's journey has been anything but ordinary.

• Shough's Journey and Resilience

  • Timestamp [02:10]: "Tyler Shough, in his first year in college football, was the backup to Justin Herbert at Oregon. His career trajectory has been marked by perseverance, overcoming multiple injuries, including three season-ending clavicle and fibula injuries."
  • Shough's transfer to Louisville and his impressive performance at the Senior Bowl have positioned him as a resilient and mature prospect, turning 25 on draft weekend.

• Comparative Analysis

  • Timestamp [08:50]: "Shough is bigger and more physically gifted than quarterbacks like Shador Sanders and Jackson Dart. While he's not as agile as Cam Ward, his stronger arm and improved running capabilities make him a formidable candidate."
  • Timestamp [16:47]: "Comparing Shough to Jackson Dart shows that there's little difference in their performances. Shough might even be slightly better, but his age and injury history are significant factors to consider."

• Potential as a First-Round Pick

  • The hosts debate whether Shough deserves a first-round selection, weighing his physical attributes against his injury history.
  • Todd concludes that Shough could be a top-tier quarterback but emphasizes the importance of his medical evaluations before making a definitive ranking.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay [02:33]: "He's more physically gifted in some ways than the top three quarterbacks in this class. His resiliency and maturity are what make him stand out."

The Loaded Running Back Class

Shifting focus, McShay and his co-host delve into what is being heralded as one of the best running back classes in recent years, drawing comparisons to the notable 2017 and 2011 classes.

• Historical Context

  • Timestamp [26:16]: "2017 was considered the best running back class, with 30 running backs taken, including stars like Christian McCaffrey and Dalvin Cook."
  • This year's class mirrors that depth, with a plethora of talented running backs attracting attention from scouts and analysts alike.

• Top Running Backs to Watch

  • Ashton Genti: Compared to Christian McCaffrey for his versatility and run style.
  • Omarion Hampton: Viewed as the second-best running back in the class, likened to Joe Mixon in terms of potential.
  • Caleb Johnson and DJ Giddens: Highlighted for their quickness, vision, and ability to make explosive plays.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay [30:15]: "Ashton Genti can be something similar in the same ballpark as Christian McCaffrey. Their versatility, their run style, their body types – there's not a big difference between the two."

Running Back Rankings and Analysis

The conversation becomes more detailed as the hosts rank and analyze individual running backs, discussing their strengths, potential NFL impact, and draft value.

• Tiered Rankings

  • Top Tier: Ashton Genti and Omarion Hampton are positioned as the most complete backs, akin to superstars like McCaffrey and Mixon.
  • Second Tier: Includes Caleb Johnson, DJ Giddens, RJ Harvey, and others who show substantial promise but may require further development.
  • Sleeper Picks: Names like Dylan Sampson and Terence Ferguson are mentioned as potential late-round steals due to their unique skill sets and upside.

• Key Attributes Discussed

  • Speed and Agility: Essential for running backs like Giddens, who is praised for his "quickness and first-level burst."
  • Vision and Instincts: Caleb Johnson is highlighted for his zone-running instincts and ability to choose the right gaps.
  • Strength and Durability: Omarion Hampton is commended for his powerful running style and ability to wear down defenders.

Notable Quote:

Co-host [44:28]: "Caleb Johnson's ability to run instinctively in a zone makes him a threat on any team that utilizes a stretch zone offense. His burst outside the tackles is exceptional."

Strategic Draft Considerations

The hosts discuss strategic approaches NFL teams might take when drafting from this running back class, considering team needs, schemes, and the depth of available talent.

• Team Needs and Fit

  • Timestamp [35:53]: "Teams like the Cowboys, Bears, Vikings, Browns, Patriots, Broncos, Raiders, and Chargers are prime candidates to draft running backs in the early rounds based on their current rosters and offensive schemes."

• Draft Strategy

  • Emphasis on not just selecting the top talents but also considering how these running backs will fit into specific team systems and their long-term potential.
  • The importance of balancing drafting workhorse backs versus versatile backs who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay [38:33]: "If you're looking for guys who will transcend and just work, you need to focus on where they land and the right environment and system for them."

Looking Ahead: Defensive Linemen and Tight Ends

While the episode primarily focuses on quarterbacks and running backs, the hosts briefly touch upon the defensive linemen and tight ends, indicating that these topics will be explored in future episodes.

• Defensive Linemen

  • Preview of discussing edge rushers and interior defensive linemen, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of this group.

• Tight Ends

  • Mention of elite tight ends like Warren and Loveland, who are garnering significant attention and may be drafted early.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay [62:45]: "The Notre Dame tight end, Mitchell Evans, is intriguing despite his knee injury. He's that kind of playmaker in the passing game that NFL teams covet."

Conclusion and Teasers

As the episode wraps up, Todd and his co-host reflect on the intensity and excitement of the draft season, emphasizing the depth of the current class and the strategic nuances teams must navigate. They tease upcoming topics, including in-depth analyses of defensive linemen and comprehensive combine recaps.

Notable Quote:

Todd McShay [73:34]: "Anyone else you want to get to here? I think we got Mason Graham in the obvious tier, but there's so much depth. This is my favorite draft class, and it's my favorite problem to have."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The McShay Show offers listeners an in-depth exploration of one of the most promising running back classes in recent years while also scrutinizing the quarterback prospects, particularly Tyler Shough. With candid discussions, insightful rankings, and strategic analyses, Todd McShay and his co-host provide valuable content for NFL fans gearing up for the draft.

Note: For more detailed rankings and continuous updates leading up to the draft, listeners are encouraged to follow The McShay Show on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.