The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode: Interview Only: Hall of Famer Cris Carter. No Ring, Ryan Day Must Go. Discuss NFL MVP Race
Release Date: December 3, 2024

Summary:

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith engages in a candid and insightful conversation with Hall of Famer Cris Carter. The discussion traverses a range of topics, including recent college football rivalries, coaching performance critiques, and analyses of current NFL team dynamics and MVP contenders. Below is a structured breakdown of the key segments covered during the interview.

I. Introduction and Recent Ohio State vs. Michigan Game

Timestamp: [01:02]

Stephen A. Smith opens the episode by welcoming Cris Carter, highlighting his illustrious career as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. However, the conversation quickly pivots to a recent and heated Ohio State versus Michigan game, emphasizing the intense rivalry and the aftermath that unfolded.

Key Points:

• Flag Planting Incident: Carter addresses the chaotic scenes following Ohio State's loss to Michigan, including flag planting and resulting altercations.
• Generational Differences: He attributes the unrest to a new generation's heightened sensitivity and lack of sportsmanship compared to previous eras.

Notable Quote:

Chris Carter: "This brother went to Ohio State. [...] The biggest issue... a damn melee broke out after the game..." ([01:55])

II. Criticism of Ohio State Coach Ryan Day

Timestamp: [03:15]

The conversation intensifies as Stephen questions Carter about Ohio State’s head coach Ryan Day, particularly focusing on the team's recent struggles against Michigan.

Key Points:

• Poor Record Against Michigan: Ohio State has lost four consecutive games to Michigan, a significant decline for a program historically dominant in the rivalry.
• Call for Accountability: Carter asserts that Ryan Day's position should be in jeopardy given the team's inability to secure victories against key rivals despite having top-tier talent.
• Historical Comparisons: Carter references past Ohio State coaches who faced scrutiny despite having successful seasons, drawing parallels to Ryan Day's current situation.

Notable Quotes:

Chris Carter: "If your number one goal is to come to an operation and beat someone [...] your job should be on the line." ([05:55])

Stephen A. Smith: "Am I interpreting this right?... that Ryan Day should be fired?" ([07:38])

Chris Carter: "Yes. If you go one and four against Michigan... your job should be in question at Ohio State." ([07:55])

III. Transition to NFL: Team Performances and Coaching

Timestamp: [08:59]

Shifting focus to the NFL, the discussion delves into team performances, coaching strategies, and potential shifts in coaching positions.

Key Points:

• Detroit Lions vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Carter praises the Detroit Lions for their strategic play-calling and defensive prowess, arguing they are outperforming the Eagles despite public perception.
• Coaching Evaluations: The conversation critiques Chicago Bears' former offensive coordinator Eva Fluster and debates whether Ben Johnson, currently with the Lions, is a better fit for head coaching positions compared to others like Cliff Kingsbury or Kellen Moore.
• Super Bowl Predictions: Carter predicts a showdown between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs, highlighting Lions' balanced offense and robust defense as championship contenders.

Notable Quotes:

Chris Carter: "Detroit Lions to me are still a little bit ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles in the outstanding season that they're having." ([09:17])

Stephen A. Smith: "Is Ben Johnson a better candidate for the head coaching job in Chicago next season rather than Cliff Kingsbury...?" ([10:14])

Chris Carter: "Ben Johnson is the number one candidate. [...] Your program in the same way the Philadelphia weakened the New York Giants." ([11:26])

IV. Discussion on AFC and NFC Super Bowl Prospects

Timestamp: [12:26]

The dialogue transitions to broader NFL playoff implications, analyzing team potentials from both the AFC and NFC.

Key Points:

• Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs: While Stephen leans towards the Bills, Carter maintains confidence in the Chiefs, citing Buffalo's tactical prowess despite environmental challenges.
• Other Contenders: Both hosts discuss the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers, noting their offensive strengths and defensive capabilities that make them viable Super Bowl contenders.
• MVP Race: The episode touches upon the ongoing NFL MVP race, dismissing Lamar Jackson as a favorite in favor of other emerging talents.

Notable Quotes:

Chris Carter: "Philadelphia's defense to me is what puts them at the elite level. [...] their defense is way better than people are giving them credit for." ([12:56])

Stephen A. Smith: "I don't like what I'm seeing from Kansas City's defense over the last four or five weeks..." ([14:11])

V. Conclusion

Timestamp: [16:55]

As the episode draws to a close, Stephen asks Carter to select his top AFC and NFC teams projected to reach the Super Bowl following week 12.

Key Points:

• Super Bowl Pick: Carter confidently selects the Detroit Lions versus the Kansas City Chiefs, praising the Lions' balanced team dynamics and Chiefs' championship pedigree.
• Final Remarks: Both hosts exchange respectful critiques and affirmations, wrapping up the discussion with mutual appreciation for the insights shared.

Notable Quote:

Chris Carter: "Detroit Lions versus Kansas City for a chance to three peak. That's what I'm going with." ([16:55])

Conclusion:

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a thorough and engaging exploration of current college and professional football landscapes. Cris Carter provides expert analysis on coaching performances, team strategies, and playoff prospects, enriched by his extensive experience as a Hall of Fame wide receiver. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on the implications of recent games, the future of coaching leadership, and the ever-evolving NFL MVP race.