The McShay Show: Senior Bowl, Day 2 Summary

Episode Title: Senior Bowl, Day 2: Mike Green vs. Josh Conerly Jr., Small Schools Show Out, and Is Jack Bech the Next Puka Nacua?
Release Date: January 30, 2025
Host: Todd McShay
Presented by: The Ringer

1. Introduction and Senior Bowl Atmosphere

The episode kicks off with Todd McShay and his co-host diving into the second day of the Senior Bowl, emphasizing the intensity and significance of the event as the NFL Draft approaches in 85 days. They highlight the physicality of the practices, especially focusing on the trenches, which drew considerable attention from scouts and NFL executives.

2. Defensive Line Highlights

a. Mike Green vs. Josh Conerly Jr.

One of the standout moments of the day was the matchup between Mike Green from Marshall and Josh Conerly Jr. from Oregon. McShay describes a pivotal play where Green "literally got under his pads and plowed him down," marking a decisive moment that underscored Green's status as a first-round talent.

Todd McShay [01:43]: "Mike Green kind of let everyone know who the real first rounder was there."

While Conerly Jr. showed resilience by holding his own in subsequent plays, McShay remains unfazed, emphasizing that such setbacks are not uncommon and Conerly Jr. has room to grow.

Co-host [05:14]: "I'm not overly worried about Josh Conerly after he gets beat on one snap. These things happen."

b. Shemar Stewart vs. Emory Jones

Another significant duel featured Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M against Emory Jones from LSU. Despite Jones's size advantage—standing at 6’4.5” and weighing 312 pounds—Stewart dominated the rep, showcasing his versatility and strength.

Todd McShay [07:12]: "Shemar Stewart beats him badly. Makes quick work of him."

Stewart's post-rep celebration, where he confidently asserted his prowess, left a lasting impression on scouts and analysts alike.

c. Additional Defensive Line Performances

The discussion extends to other defensive linemen, including Darius Alexander from Toledo and Oluwafemi Oladejo from UCLA, who demonstrated exceptional effort and versatility, further solidifying the depth of this year's defensive line class.

3. Offensive Line Overview

a. Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon)

Conerly Jr.'s performance, though challenged by Green's aggression, remains promising. McShay notes his potential to add weight and strength, projecting him as a solid second-round pick with the capability to develop into a reliable starter.

Co-host [06:41]: "I think he's a guy that hasn't quite peaked. He's definitely going to get 10 or 15 pounds heavier maybe."

b. Jackson Slater (Sacramento State)

Jackson Slater from Sacramento State emerged as a noteworthy performer, excelling in maintaining balance and simplicity in his blocking technique. His ability to stay low and recover quickly when out of position impressed both hosts.

Todd McShay [29:04]: "He just played his game. It was really cool to watch."

c. Other Offensive Linemen

Players like Carson Vincent from Alabama A&M and others demonstrated remarkable athleticism and energy, underscoring the competitive nature of the offensive line cohort.

4. Quarterback Analysis

a. Jackson Dart (Ole Miss)

Jackson Dart showcased steady improvement, exhibiting confidence and a smooth throwing motion. McShay appreciates Dart's "whole package" approach, highlighting his consistency and leadership qualities.

Co-host [40:07]: "He just got more confident out of him. Progressions. He's got a way about him."

b. Riley Leonard and Jalen Milroe

Riley Leonard maintained strong performances with effective ball placement and decision-making, while Jalen Milroe, despite some challenges with accuracy, showed potential for growth and adaptability.

Todd McShay [55:54]: "There's nothing that jumps out. It's the whole package. He's starting to emerge as the guy who's like, I got this under control."

c. Dylan Gabriel

Dylan Gabriel delivered an impressive showing with powerful throws and a capable arm, though occasional inconsistencies were noted.

5. Wide Receiver Insights

a. Jack Bech and Comparison to Puka Nacua

Jack Bech from the Senior Bowl drew comparisons to Puka Nacua due to his instinctual play-calling and ability to produce after the catch. McShay sees Bech as a reliable day-two pick with high floor potential.

Todd McShay [59:20]: "He does what's required at the position very well. His floor is so damn high."

b. Jaden Higgins vs. Jalen Noel

Jaden Higgins showed notable improvement, especially in his run-after-catch capabilities, while Jalen Noel impressed with his steady performance, excellent hand-eye coordination, and balance.

Co-host [64:16]: "Jalen Noel has been the most steady. Really, really good wide receiver here this week."

6. Running Back Evaluations

a. Damian Martinez

Damian Martinez from Miami demonstrated a blend of vision and patience, making decisive plays that cement his status as one of the top running backs in this highly competitive class.

Todd McShay [73:02]: "He is patient. He's got great vision, but he's still decisive."

b. Laquint Allen and Others

Laquint Allen impressed with his ability to catch the ball well and his speed, positioning him as a potential top-tier running back. Other notable backs like Ashton Jinty and Caleb Johnson also received praise for their performance and athleticism.

7. Linebacker Spotlight

a. Demetrius Knight

Demetrius Knight from Delaware made his mark by overpowering opponents and showcasing leadership on the field. His relentless playstyle and instinctual movements highlight his potential as a standout linebacker.

Co-host [80:38]: "He's a heat-seeking missile. Honestly, when he gets some, his ability to get from A to B and the effort is awesome."

b. Small Munden

Small Munden from Georgia exhibited versatility and physical prowess, surprising analysts with his ability to cover and rush effectively, despite battling injuries.

Todd McShay [76:37]: "He's a versatile player. I love the way he plays the game and surprises me."

8. Conclusion and Future Prospects

As the Senior Bowl progresses, McShay emphasizes the depth and talent of this year's draft class, particularly highlighting the defensive and offensive linemen as valuable prospects for NFL teams. He also touches on the potential of small school players to make significant impacts, underlining the importance of versatility and physicality in evaluating talent.

The episode wraps up with anticipation for the final day of practice, promising further insights and analyses on emerging players and their draft prospects.

Notable Quotes:

• Todd McShay [01:43]: "Mike Green kind of let everyone know who the real first rounder was there."
• Co-host [05:14]: "I'm not overly worried about Josh Conerly after he gets beat on one snap. These things happen."
• Todd McShay [07:12]: "Shemar Stewart beats him badly. Makes quick work of him."
• Co-host [29:04]: "He just played his game. It was really cool to watch."
• Co-host [40:07]: "He just got more confident out of him. Progressions. He's got a way about him."
• Todd McShay [59:20]: "He does what's required at the position very well. His floor is so damn high."
• Co-host [64:16]: "Jalen Noel has been the most steady. Really, really good wide receiver here this week."
• Co-host [73:02]: "He is patient. He's got great vision, but he's still decisive."
• Co-host [80:38]: "He's a heat-seeking missile. Honestly, when he gets some, his ability to get from A to B and the effort is awesome."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the second day at the Senior Bowl, highlighting key performances, player evaluations, and ongoing discussions that are shaping the upcoming NFL Draft.