Interview Only: Maryland Governor stuns and challenges Stephen A with his Super Bowl Picks.

Summary

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

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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.

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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.

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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."

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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.

Transcript

[Greg Rosenthal]

What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Julie Swerbinks]

What's up, everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Nate Thompson]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swerbinks]

The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Nate Thompson]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swerbinks]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Nate Thompson]

Julia's pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swerbinks]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and JSP on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Stephen A. Smith]

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 you to know I acknowledged it. And congrats to you because you deserve it. Having said that, 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. It's not gonna happen. I mean, I mean, you got. You got two good teams. I mean, I gotta admit to you, Jaden Daniels is special and Lavon Jackson is that dude. But you can't have both. You can't have both. So if you had to pick one, I'm not gonna ask you to pick. I'm not gonna do that to you. But how are you feeling about your two teams in Maryland? Oh, you'll pick.

[Wes Moore]

I'll pick. Listen, 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. And let's be clear, Jaden Daniels. I mean, like anybody thought that this was a flash in the pan. He is not. And also, he's the hardest working person. I remember I went to training camp and one of the first things that the coaches told me that was that he's the first person there every morning and he's the last person out. Like that kind of hustle, that kind of motor, you can't teach that. And he is showing why the Commanders are so excited about him. However, you are not going to find a bigger Ravens fan than me. And when you talk about special, Lamar Jackson is that dude. I mean he's 27 years old, a two time league MVP on the path to become the third. Derrick Henry is an alien there. Like there is no defense in the NFL that has an answer for him. And not to mention the fact that we're one of the best coached franchises in the entire NFL. And so I'm listen, I love the fact that the Commanders are there. 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. And I'm telling you, I actually think there's a real probability that we gonna see the Ravens and the Commanders in New Orleans come this year.

[Stephen A. Smith]

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. I mean, listen, Dan Marino got Miami there in year two. Ain't never, it never went back. But Jalen Daniels is special. But before I let you go governor, I got to tell you something. You do understand that your Baltimore Ravens defense is, is just violating the legacy and the tradition of the Ravens, right? I mean, you can't stop anybody. You gave up, gave up the lead in the last two minutes about eight times in the last year and a half. You're giving up points. You just lost the Jameis Winston, we hadn't seen him throw the football in two years and he comes out there looking like Joe Montana. I mean, your defense, Ray Lewis, I'm scared to call him. I'm scared to call Ed Reid. I'm scared to call Terrell Suggs. What happened? What's going on with the Ravens? Def.

[Wes Moore]

You know. You know what I think? Well, one, it's injuries, but you can't make excuses about that because in the NFL injuries are a reality. And it's next man up. And if you don't have the horses behind them, then you have a real problem. But we don't have depth on our defense and so particularly when it comes to our secondary. And so if someone gets knocked out, you're really suffering. But the other big Thing is this, is that I think there's a heart that matters in this. So, for example, Roquan Smith, he is, he's a dude. I, I really think in many ways, he is this generation's Ray Lewis, the same way that Kyle Hamilton is this generation's Ed Reed. I think they are really special players on defense. But I tell you one thing that I think I underestimated was losing Patrick Queen. When he went to the Steelers. I thought I was like, listen, you know, yeah, we lose a queen, but we picked up Derek. So we lost the queen, but we got a king. And that was a cute phrase. You cannot underestimate the leadership that Patrick Queen brought to that defense, that he brought to that locker room. And, and, and, and I think that it's showing itself right now. And not to mention the fact that we lost McDonald, we lost our defensive, we lost our defensive coordinator. So, so you're right. This is not the Baltimore Ravens defense of 2000. This is not the Baltimore Ravens defense of 08. This is not the glory days of what we had before. But we've got to find a way to either stay healthy or stay deep, because that's the key in the NFL. And you need that presence, that unifying presence that I think Roquan really helps to take on. But again, we lost something with Queen, and I didn't realize how much we were going to lose.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I feel you on that. And listen, I, I like you. I'm a fan of yours. You know what I'm saying? I mean, somewhere down the line, hopefully, you're gonna run for president. I, I, I've never, I don't campaign for people, I campaign for you in a heartbeat. I wouldn't hesitate. But I gotta tell you something right now, having said all of that, your Ravens are in second place to the Steelers. I just wanted to, I just want to end the interview by telling you that. I just want to end the interview, I tell you. Well, listen, you, you, you, you feel free to reach out to me when the Steelers beat y'all in a few weeks, because that's coming. You understand that? Right now, it's all, you ain't gonna beat him twice. You'll lose one, you'll win one, but you're gonna lose one of those games. One of those games.

[Wes Moore]

You do know that I'm inviting you, I'm inviting you to come down to Baltimore to watch that game together. And so you can see firsthand next to me, just what a beat down is going to look like. The Steelers have a good record, but, I mean, they haven't played anybody.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm looking at my schedule. I'm trying to find that schedule. Now, I'm assuming you got a suite, because, you know, I mean, I can't be sitting in the stands. The fans will harass me. I can't be sitting. I gotta. I'm sitting with the governor. I'm assuming I'm gonna have a seat, but I'm telling you right now, the Steelers, I don't know which game, but you're not beating them twice. They gonna get you one of those times. I'm telling you that right now. I'm telling you. All right, we gonna follow up on that one.

[Wes Moore]

Watch.

[Stephen A. Smith]

We gonna keep in touch on that one, because y'all gonna get beat. Steelers stealing nation. Stand up. The one and only Governor Westmore. Man, I appreciate you so much. Good luck to you. Keep working. Keep doing what you've been doing. It's an honor and a privilege to talk to you. So I really appreciate it. Thank you so much.

[Wes Moore]

God bless you, man. Honor's all mine. Sincerely. Thank you.

[Stephen A. Smith]

God bless. All the best. My thanks to the one and only governor Wes Moore. Election Day 2024 is this Tuesday. Ladies and gentlemen, whether you vote early or on election Day, please make sure your voice is heard. I always tell you the number one provocation for change is going to the polls and voting. If you don't vote. Shut up. You don't have anything to say if you can't even find it within yourself to vote. Remember I said that. Foreign.

[Greg Rosenthal]

What'S up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents starting on March 6th on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Julie Swerbinks]

What's up, everyone? Julius Rbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.

[Nate Thompson]

We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.

[Julie Swerbinks]

The Name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.

[Nate Thompson]

Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?

[Julie Swerbinks]

Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.

[Nate Thompson]

Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.

[Julie Swerbinks]

Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.