The Stephen A. Smith Show: Episode Summary
Title: Interview Only: Cris Carter recaps Eagles vs Chiefs beat down and Hall of Fame inductees
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Kris Carter
Release Date: February 11, 2025
1. Introduction
In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith sits down with Hall of Fame wide receiver Kris Carter to discuss the recent Super Bowl 59, where the Philadelphia Eagles decisively defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, and to reflect on the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees.
2. Super Bowl 59 Recap
Dominance of the Philadelphia Eagles
Stephen A. Smith opens the discussion by highlighting the lopsided score of Super Bowl 59, emphasizing the Chiefs' defeat with a score of 40-22. He remarks, "40 to 22 does not indicate how dominant this damn game was" (00:24).
Kris Carter's Analysis
Kris Carter commends Philadelphia's strategic execution, stating, "Philadelphia was able to rush four people the minimum amount of rush people and put the maximum amount of pressure by doing that" (01:38). He points out the exploitation of the Chiefs' offensive line weaknesses, noting, "Their left tackle is not a left tackle and their right tackle is not a good right tackle" (02:12).
3. Philadelphia Eagles' Strategy and Performance
Defensive Prowess
Carter praises the Eagles' defense, explaining, "They can smash it at the with Barkley. Everybody bought into it" (08:53). He highlights the Eagles' ability to dominate both in rushing and passing, which led to their overwhelming victory.
Game Plan Execution
Stephen A. Smith discusses the premeditated nature of the Eagles' game plan, questioning if they were simply exploiting an observed advantage or if the plan was set from the outset. Carter responds by emphasizing the team's confidence and preparation, illustrating how "they had two weeks to prepare" for the game plan, leading to an effective execution against the Chiefs (02:39).
4. Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City Chiefs' Weaknesses
Mahomes' Performance
Stephen A. Smith critiques Patrick Mahomes' performance, citing specific statistics: "24 to nothing, 0 first downs, 1 total or 1 first down, 23 total net yards, 0 for 6 on third down" (04:15). Carter acknowledges Mahomes played an average game, attributing the interceptions and pick-sixes to Philadelphia's dominant defense: "Patrick Mahomes, he played an average game... because they didn't have an answer to this defense" (05:11).
Chiefs' Offensive Line Issues
Carter further explains the issues with the Chiefs' offensive line, stating, "Their left tackle is, is a very good all pro guard and he can't play left tackle... their right tackle is going to jump offside an awful lot and he's only going to be an average player" (07:29).
5. The "GOAT" Conversation: Tom Brady vs. Patrick Mahomes
Stephen A. Smith brings up the ongoing debate about the greatest of all time (GOAT) quarterbacks, comparing Tom Brady's consistent Super Bowl performances to Mahomes' recent struggles. He states, "Is the goat conversation over? For now anyway" (06:02).
Carter advises caution in this debate, suggesting that "people try to get ahead of what history really is" and asserts that Tom Brady, backed by Bill Belichick, remains unparalleled: "I doubt that he's going to pass Tom Brady as the greatest quarterback that we've seen play in The National Football League" (07:05).
6. Andy Reid’s Coaching and Future of the Chiefs
Reevaluating the Chiefs' Strategy
Stephen A. Smith questions Andy Reid's coaching decisions, particularly the lack of running plays in Super Bowl 59. Carter responds optimistically about Reid's future moves: "I think Andy Reid's going to go back and look at it just like he did in Tampa Bay... They will retool" (07:29). He anticipates improvements in the Chiefs' roster and offensive strategies, foreseeing Mahomes leading another Super Bowl run.
7. Defensive Coordinator Spagnola's Challenges
Spagnola's Performance Against the Eagles
Stephen A. Smith criticizes Defensive Coordinator Spagnola for allowing 35 points in Super Bowl 57 and 40 points in the recent game. Carter defends him by pointing out the mismatch in personnel: "Philadelphia has Devontae Smith, AJ Man, Saquon, Kurt man, they provide mismatches that he doesn't necessarily have answers to" (08:53). He acknowledges Spagnola's efforts but underscores the Eagles' superior talent and strategy.
8. Jalen Hurts and the Evolution of Quarterbacks
Hurts' Postseason Performance
Stephen A. Smith lauds Jalen Hurts' postseason achievements, highlighting his impressive statistics: "Jalen Hurts... 69.5% of his passes, 102.5 passer rating, 19 touchdowns, just two interceptions" (10:46). He argues that the Eagles' emphasis on rushing has shaped perceptions of Hurts.
Carter's Perspective on Hurts
Carter appreciates Hurts' growth but maintains that he should be recognized among the top quarterbacks, albeit not necessarily in the top five: "he should be in the top 10. And just because he's not in the top five, that is not a slap in the face" (13:53).
9. 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees
Inductees Overview
The episode transitions to discussing the 2025 Hall of Fame class, which includes Antonio Gates, Eric Allen, Sterling Sharpe, and Jared Allen. Carter notes the selectivity of the induction process, stating, "the hall of Fame is still trying to be selective and you need to get 80 of the vote. So guess what happened this year, Stephen a. We have four people that got 80% of the vote" (14:50).
10. Tribute to Sterling Sharpe
Sharpe's Legacy and Contributions
Carter passionately defends Sterling Sharpe's induction, describing him as "a beast" and highlighting his resilience overcoming a severe neck injury: "he grew up in an awful situation... This dude was a beast. This dude was one of my role models" (15:48).
Personal Anecdotes
He shares a personal story where Sterling Sharpe's injury led to his own first Pro Bowl invitation, illustrating Sharpe's character and impact: "Sterling Sharp, Michael Irvin, Jerry Rice and Andre Risen, those were the receivers in the NFC and it was him. And Jerry Rice is the. Who's the best? All right. So I can't make people forget that conversation. That dude was worthy of it" (16:58).
11. Travis Kelce’s Hall of Fame Prospects
Kelce's Future in the NFL
Stephen A. Smith inquires if Travis Kelce is ready for the Hall of Fame or if he will continue to play following the recent Super Bowl loss. Carter confidently predicts Kelce's return, asserting, "I look for him to use this as fuel... I see him playing another two seasons" (19:11). He acknowledges the challenges older players face but remains optimistic about Kelce's ongoing performance and contributions.
12. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with mutual appreciation between Stephen A. Smith and Kris Carter, highlighting Carter's valuable insights throughout the football season. Both express gratitude and end on a positive note, reinforcing the depth of analysis provided during the discussion.
Notable Quotes
- Stephen A. Smith: "40 to 22 does not indicate how dominant this damn game was." (00:24)
- Kris Carter: "Philadelphia was able to rush four people the minimum amount of rush people and put the maximum amount of pressure by doing that." (01:38)
- Stephen A. Smith: "Is the goat conversation over? For now anyway." (06:02)
- Kris Carter: "I doubt that he's going to pass Tom Brady as the greatest quarterback that we've seen play in The National Football League." (07:05)
- Kris Carter: "he should be in the top 10. And just because he's not in the top five, that is not a slap in the face." (13:53)
- Kris Carter: "Sterling Sharp... that dude was worthy of it." (16:58)
- Kris Carter: "I see him playing another two seasons when he starts trying to go home." (20:29)
Conclusion
This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show provides an in-depth analysis of Super Bowl 59, emphasizing the strategic dominance of the Philadelphia Eagles, critiques of the Kansas City Chiefs, and discussions on notable NFL figures entering the Hall of Fame. Kris Carter offers valuable insights into team dynamics, player performances, and the evolving landscape of professional football, making this episode both informative and engaging for listeners.
Note: Timestamps correspond to the guest's and host's notable comments within the transcript.