Podcast Summary: The McShay Show Episode: Senior Bowl Primer: Finding QB3, Ranking Position Players in Mobile, and an Unforgettable Tim Tebow Story
Release Date: January 23, 2025

Introduction to NFL Draft Season

Timestamp: [00:00 - 01:13]

The episode kicks off with host Todd McShay expressing excitement about the commencement of the NFL Draft season at The McShay Show headquarters. He emphasizes the transition from the college football season to the critical pre-draft period, highlighting the importance of analyzing top draft prospects and engaging with NFL front offices.

Senior Bowl as a Crucial Evaluation Platform

Timestamp: [01:13 - 04:44]

McShay delves into the significance of the Senior Bowl, likening it to the unofficial kickoff of the draft process. He discusses the upcoming activities, including weigh-ins and intensive interviews, stressing the opportunity the Senior Bowl provides for prospects to showcase their skills against top competition. Co-host (B) adds insights into specific drills like one-on-ones with the defensive line and seven-on-seven practices, illustrating how these drills help evaluate players' pass protection and decision-making under pressure.

Quote:
B: "The one on ones with the defensive line and the offensive line, just getting them to see them go best against the best... it's really awesome."
(03:52)

Quarterback Analysis and Draft Market Insights

Timestamp: [04:44 - 22:10]

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the quarterback position, particularly the dynamics surrounding QB1 and the emergence of QB3. McShay analyzes the prospects Shador Sanders from Colorado and Cam Ward from Miami, examining their strengths and potential impact in the NFL. He introduces the concept of FanDuel's draft stock tracking, noting how their odds influence conversations among general managers and scouts.

Key Points:

• Shador Sanders: Recognized for his pure passing instincts, ball placement, and timing but lacks elite mobility.
• Cam Ward: Possesses a stronger arm and better mobility than Sanders but needs development in reading defenses and consistency in throws.

Quote:
A: "Shador Sanders is the best passer in this class... But Cam Ward is not as developed in terms of progression reads."
(11:30)

McShay and Co-host debate the potential of these quarterbacks being selected as franchise QBs, considering factors like media attention and organizational fit. They also explore the possibility of finding a QB3 through the Senior Bowl, drawing parallels to past drafts where players like Jalen Hurts and Justin Herbert emerged successfully.

Quote:
A: "The top two quarterbacks are not going to be at the draft... But right now, did you see this on FanDuel... they keep updating and... we're gonna create like a stock market where we track it over the course."
(08:01)

Identifying QB3 Candidates

Timestamp: [22:10 - 43:14]

The hosts speculate on potential QB3 candidates who could significantly boost their draft stock during the Senior Bowl. They highlight Jackson Dart and Jaylen Milroe as frontrunners, emphasizing their performance metrics and potential to impress NFL scouts. The discussion includes the challenges these quarterbacks face, such as inconsistent performances and adapting to new systems during the Senior Bowl week.

Quote:
B: "I think Dart is in the pole position to be that quarterback three guy... this kid could go down to Mobile and just wow people."
(43:14)

Unforgettable Tim Tebow Story

Timestamp: [26:38 - 35:48]

A personal and emotional segment recounts Todd McShay's tumultuous experience during a Senior Bowl filled with media frenzy, reminiscent of the Tim Tebow era. He shares how his critical evaluations of Tebow led to significant backlash, including hate mail and strained relationships, highlighting the pressures analysts face when making public judgments about high-profile athletes.

Quote:
A: "I became the Howard Stern of the NFL draft... It was hard."
(31:47)

Ranking Position Players in Mobile

Timestamp: [43:14 - 80:02]

The hosts transition into ranking top prospects across various positions—quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs, and defensive linemen—based on their Senior Bowl performances and overall draft potential.

Quarterbacks

• Top Picks: Jackson Dart and Jaylen Milroe
• Analysis: Focus on mobility, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure.

Quote:
B: "I'm taking Dart first and I'll go Milroe."
(51:36)

Wide Receivers

• Top Picks: Jalen Royals, Elic Amanor, Tez Johnson, Jalen Noel
• Analysis: Emphasis on route running, catch ability, and versatility in NFL schemes.

Quote:
B: "I think he's probably the best one down there."
(55:30)

Running Backs

• Top Picks: RJ Harvey, Damien Martinez, Trevor Etienne, Khalel Mullings
• Analysis: Highlighting agility, yardage, and ability to gain yards after contact.

Quote:
B: "He runs angry. He's got that compact build where he's stronger than he is big."
(63:52)

Defensive Linemen

• Top Picks: Shamar Stewart, Mike Green, Walter Nolan, Nick Scorton
• Analysis: Focus on pass-rushing ability, versatility, and disruptive potential against NFL offenses.

Quote:
B: "He's one of those guys that's quick enough to split double teams and he's strong enough to fight off of them."
(73:24)

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: [35:48 - 85:46]

Todd McShay shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from previous Senior Bowls, including interactions with coaches and players, and the personal challenges faced during high-pressure evaluations. He reflects on how these experiences have shaped his approach to draft analysis and the importance of maintaining professionalism amidst media scrutiny.

Quote:
A: "I'm fired up, man... it's going to be awesome."
(85:45)

Conclusion and Upcoming Coverage

Timestamp: [85:46 - End]

McShay wraps up by promoting upcoming live coverage from the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. He encourages listeners to engage with their content on various social media platforms and highlights the comprehensive analysis and interactions they will provide throughout the week.

Quote:
A: "We're going to be there shows on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday... make this the most special trip mensch we've ever had to Mobile."
(85:00)

Notable Quotes:

• Todd McShay:
  "How are you looking for from them? How do you think this will play off, play out throughout the week?"
  (41:01)

• Co-host (B):
  "He runs angry. He's got that compact build where he's stronger than he is big."
  (63:52)

• Todd McShay:
  "I became the Howard Stern of the NFL draft... It was hard."
  (31:47)

This episode provides an in-depth primer on the Senior Bowl's role in the NFL Draft, with comprehensive rankings and personal stories that offer listeners valuable insights into the draft process. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the draft scene, McShay's analysis delivers a thorough understanding of the upcoming prospects and the factors influencing their draft stock.