Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode: Interview Only: Maryland Governor Stuns and Challenges Stephen A. with His Super Bowl Picks
Release Date: November 2, 2024
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Maryland Governor Wes Moore
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

1. Introduction and Context

In this exclusive interview episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith sits down with Maryland Governor Wes Moore to discuss a variety of topics, primarily focusing on the state's NFL teams—the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens—and their prospects for the upcoming Super Bowl. The conversation delves into team dynamics, player performances, and broader implications for Maryland's sports landscape.

2. Stephen A. Smith Opens the Dialogue

Stephen A. Smith begins the conversation by congratulating Governor Wes Moore on his recent recognition in the Times 100 list and acknowledges his potential as a future Democratic presidential candidate.

Stephen A. Smith [01:06]: "Governor Westmore, you were featured recently. Congratulations. You. You were featured recently in the Times 100 next issue and widely considered to be a future Democratic presidential candidate. So I know you're focused on Kamala Harris right now, so I won't ask you about that. But I just want to know you I acknowledged it. And congrats to you because you deserve it."

3. Assessing Maryland's NFL Teams

Transitioning to the main topic, Stephen A. challenges Governor Moore's optimism about both the Commanders and the Ravens making it to the Super Bowl.

Stephen A. Smith [01:06]: "But I got slightly negative news for you. And here it is. The Washington Commanders in Baltimore Ravens ain't going to the Super Bowl, sir. That's not gonna happen, Governor."

Governor Moore responds by expressing his support for both teams, highlighting the Commanders' economic importance to Prince George's County and praising key players like Jaden Daniels and Lamar Jackson.

Wes Moore [01:54]: "I love the fact that the Commanders are in Maryland. They're an incredibly important part of Prince George's county, an important, incredibly important part of our economic future... Jaden Daniels is special... Lamar Jackson is that dude. I mean he's 27 years old, a two-time league MVP on the path to becoming the third."

Moore emphasizes his personal support for the Ravens but maintains his appreciation for the Commanders.

Wes Moore [02:30]: "The Commanders are probably my favorite NSC team. But there is no question, and there should be no question. The Ravens are my squad wad."

4. Debating Team Potential and Player Impact

Stephen A. counters Moore's optimism by expressing skepticism about a rookie quarterback leading the Commanders to victory, drawing parallels to Dan Marino's early success with Miami.

Stephen A. Smith [03:19]: "I think you're going a little bit too far there. I think you're going a little bit too far. I don't think a rookie is getting you to the Super Bowl. I'd be shocked."

Moore acknowledges the challenges but attributes recent struggles to injuries and depth issues within the Ravens' defense.

Wes Moore [04:09]: "You know, it's injuries, but you can't make excuses about that because in the NFL injuries are a reality... we've got to find a way to either stay healthy or stay deep, because that's the key in the NFL."

5. Analyzing the Ravens' Defensive Struggles

The conversation shifts to the performance of the Ravens' defense, with Smith criticizing their recent vulnerabilities and loss of key defensive figures.

Stephen A. Smith [04:09]: "Your Baltimore Ravens defense is just violating the legacy and the tradition of the Ravens... You gave up the lead in the last two minutes about eight times in the last year and a half."

Governor Moore responds by highlighting the resilience and leadership of remaining defensive stars like Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton, while acknowledging the impact of losing Patrick Queen and the defensive coordinator.

Wes Moore [04:30]: "Roquan Smith... is this generation's Ray Lewis... We lost Patrick Queen... you cannot underestimate the leadership that Patrick Queen brought to that defense."

6. Predictions and Friendly Banter

Stephen A. maintains his skepticism about the Ravens' immediate Super Bowl prospects and brings up their current standing relative to the Steelers.

Stephen A. Smith [05:54]: "I like you, I'm a fan of yours... but your Ravens are in second place to the Steelers. I just want to end the interview by telling you that."

Governor Moore extends an invitation to Stephen A. to attend a Ravens vs. Steelers game, confident in his team's performance.

Wes Moore [06:37]: "You do know that I'm inviting you to come down to Baltimore to watch that game together."

Stephen A. remains firm in his prediction that the Steelers will secure a victory.

Stephen A. Smith [06:53]: "The Steelers, I don't know which game, but you're not beating them twice. They gonna get you one of those times."

7. Closing Remarks and Election Encouragement

As the interview wraps up, Stephen A. shifts focus to the importance of the upcoming Election Day, urging listeners to vote.

Stephen A. Smith [07:34]: "Election Day 2024 is this Tuesday. Ladies and gentlemen, whether you vote early or on election Day, please make sure your voice is heard... If you don't vote. Shut up."

Governor Moore expresses his appreciation for the discussion and extends well-wishes to Stephen A.

Wes Moore [07:37]: "God bless you, man. Honor's all mine."

8. Conclusion

This episode offers a spirited exchange between Stephen A. Smith and Governor Wes Moore, blending sports analysis with political undertones. The debate over Maryland's NFL teams provides listeners with insights into team dynamics and leadership while also touching upon Governor Moore's political aspirations and Stephen A.'s civic call to action. Whether a sports enthusiast or a follower of Maryland politics, this interview delivers a comprehensive look at the intersection of sports and societal leadership.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen A. Smith [01:06]: "The Washington Commanders in Baltimore Ravens ain't going to the Super Bowl, sir. That's not gonna happen, Governor."

• Wes Moore [01:54]: "Jaden Daniels is special... Lamar Jackson is that dude."

• Stephen A. Smith [04:09]: "Your Baltimore Ravens defense is just violating the legacy and the tradition of the Ravens."

• Wes Moore [04:30]: "Roquan Smith... is this generation's Ray Lewis."

• Stephen A. Smith [05:54]: "Your Ravens are in second place to the Steelers."

• Stephen A. Smith [07:34]: "If you don't vote. Shut up."

This detailed summary captures the essence of the interview, highlighting key discussions, insights, and the dynamic between Stephen A. Smith and Governor Wes Moore. By including timestamps and notable quotes, the summary provides an in-depth overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.