The Stephen A. Smith Show - Detailed Episode Summary

Release Date: December 24, 2024

Hosts: Stephen A. Smith and iHeartPodcasts

1. Jayden Daniels Shines for the Washington Commanders

Timestamp: [01:02]

In the opening segment of the episode, Stephen A. Smith delves into the impressive performance of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. During a pivotal game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Daniels orchestrated a last-minute victory for the Washington Commanders with a decisive nine-yard touchdown pass to Jameson Crowder, securing a final score of 36-33 despite the team turning the ball over five times.

Smith lauds Daniels' prowess, proclaiming, “Daniels is that dude. He can ball.” However, he also credits the team's success to a twist of fate involving Jalen Hurts of the Eagles, who suffered a concussion early in the game. Smith speculates that Hurts’ presence might have altered the game's outcome, stating, “I think if Jalen Hurts is in the lineup instead of Kenny Pickett, they move the ball better, they make things happen.”

Despite acknowledging the questionable circumstances under which the Commanders secured their win, Smith emphasizes Daniels' potential and importance to the team’s future prospects.

2. Steelers’ Defeat to the Baltimore Ravens and Political Banter

Timestamp: [01:02] – [03:15]

The show transitions to a heated analysis of the Steelers' recent 34-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Smith recounts his experience attending the game as a guest of Maryland Governor Wes Moore, highlighting the governor's uncharacteristic fervor for the Ravens. “He was talking, ravens go stomp, y'all. We got this,” Smith remarks, expressing his surprise at Moore’s aggressive support.

Stephen A. emphasizes the Ravens' domination in the game, praising Lamar Jackson for completing 15 out of 23 passes with three touchdowns and Derrick Henry's 162 rushing yards, contributing significantly to the victory. He confidently predicts Baltimore’s supremacy in the AFC North, citing their favorable remaining schedule compared to the Steelers. “Baltimore's going to win the AFC north because the Steelers have the Chiefs and the Bengals to close out the season,” Smith asserts.

Additionally, Smith criticizes the Steelers’ performance issues, including Russell Wilson’s fumble near the goal line and the absence of George Pickens, while commending the Ravens' strategic gameplay. His enthusiasm for the Ravens is palpable as he chants, “Let’s go, Ravens!”

3. Dez Bryant’s Controversial Comments on Travis Hunter’s Relationship

Timestamp: [03:15] – [12:36]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to addressing the sensitive topic of Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, who has deactivated his Instagram account amidst growing online criticism concerning his relationship with fiancée Leanna Lanae. Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant enters the conversation with a disparaging, albeit now-deleted, tweet targeting Lanae:

“She loves the attention way more than you. She thinks she's an equal to you. I can tell you're a great dude and I promise there's a woman out there who's going to make your life easy and respect you. From what I see, she has nothing to offer but a fucking headache.”

Smith approaches this issue with nuance, emphasizing Bryant's intentions as protective rather than malicious. “DEZ Bryant's heart is in the right place,” he explains, recognizing Bryant’s desire to guide a younger brother navigating public scrutiny. Smith advocates for compassion and understanding, suggesting that both Travis and Leanna deserve privacy and support rather than public vilification.

He criticizes the athletes and public figures who resort to social media attacks, highlighting Shador Sanders’ defense of Travis Hunter and urging respect for personal boundaries. Smith advises, “Your personal life is your personal life. Football is one thing. Your personal life is another.” He underscores the importance of allowing Travis and Leanna to manage their relationship away from the relentless gaze of social media criticism.

Furthermore, Smith commends the decision to deactivate social media accounts, viewing it as a step towards preserving their mental well-being. He poignantly states, “They got it good. They got it good,” reinforcing his belief in their ability to maintain a healthy relationship free from external negativity.

4. Donald Trump’s Plan to Rename Mount Denali

Timestamp: [12:36] – [13:06]

In the final quick hitter, Stephen A. addresses President-elect Donald Trump's announced intention to revert the name of Denali, North America’s tallest mountain, back to Mount McKinley—a name originally bestowed in honor of the 25th President, who was assassinated in 1901. Trump criticizes the 2015 decision by former President Barack Obama to rename the mountain, labeling McKinley as “a great president.”

Smith expresses his perplexity and frustration over the decision, questioning the significance of such a symbolic gesture. “Why bother with something like this? Why?” he rhetorically asks, highlighting what he perceives as a trivial focus amidst more pressing issues. He remains skeptical of Trump’s motives, suggesting economic policies like tariffs might be the actual reason behind the renaming effort, rather than a genuine appreciation for President McKinley's legacy.

Smith defends Obama’s decision, emphasizing the importance of honoring the wishes of Alaskan residents who preferred the name Denali. “Barack Obama made that decision to rename that mountain because the citizens in Alaska wanted it that way,” he asserts, urging Trump to prioritize more consequential matters over symbolic name changes.

Closing Remarks and Additional Promotions

The episode concludes with brief promotions for upcoming podcasts, including Greg Rosenthal’s collaboration with Daniel Jeremiah on "40s and Free Agents," and Julie Swearbinks’ new show "Energy Line with Nate and jsb," featuring former NHL player Nate Thompson. These segments are excluded from the main content summary as per the instructions to omit advertisements and non-content sections.

Notable Quotes:

• “Daniels is that dude. He can ball.” – Stephen A. Smith [01:02]
• “Ravens go stomp, y'all. We got this.” – Governor Wes Moore [02:37]
• “Baltimore's going to win the AFC north because the Steelers have the Chiefs and the Bengals to close out the season.” – Stephen A. Smith [03:15]
• “Your personal life is your personal life. Football is one thing. Your personal life is another.” – Stephen A. Smith [12:36]
• “Why bother with something like this? Why?” – Stephen A. Smith [12:36]

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers a comprehensive analysis of recent NFL highlights, media controversies, and political movements with Stephen A. Smith’s signature blend of candor and insight. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or someone interested in societal issues, Smith delivers content that is both engaging and thought-provoking.