Podcast Summary: Throwbacks with Matt Leinart & Jerry Ferrara
Episode: The Triple Option and Throwbacks Live presented by Nissan | Day 1
Release Date: April 24, 2025

Introduction: Live from Green Bay

In this special crossover episode, Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart and Jerry Ferrara host "Throwbacks" alongside Mark Ingram from "The Triple Option." Broadcasting live from the Nissan Drafthouse outside the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the trio dives into the excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft. The event marks the first-ever live crossover between their two podcasts, promising an engaging discussion over the next two days.

NFL Draft Insights and Predictions

Matt Leinart, Jerry Ferrara, and Mark Ingram delve deep into the dynamics of the upcoming NFL Draft, analyzing key prospects and team strategies.

Top Quarterback Prospects

1. Cam Ward

   • Mark Ingram posits Cam Ward as the leading candidate for the number one overall pick, highlighting his athleticism and leadership.
   • Quote: "Cam Ward is for sure has the highest ceiling of all these quarterbacks. He started at three different universities in college. He's a tremendous athlete, has all the physical traits." [33:25]

2. Shador Sanders

   • Jerry Ferrara emphasizes Shador Sanders' versatility, comparing him to legends like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes.
   • Quote: "He can do it both ways. He could be one of the top five corners in the NFL and one of the top five receivers." [52:46]

3. Jackson Dart

   • Jerry Ferrara predicts Jackson Dart as a promising second-round pick, noting his performance at Ole Miss and potential for growth.
   • Quote: "I think Jackson Dart is going to go in the first round today... This guy reminds us of Joe Burrow." [40:43]

Running Backs Resurgence

The hosts discuss the renewed focus on running backs, citing standout performers like Ashton Gent and Saquon Barkley.

• Matt Leinart praises Ashton Gent for his versatility and impact on the field.

  • Quote: "Ashton Gent had 1900 yards after contact, more yards than I ran for my Heisman year." [15:54]

• Jerry Ferrara highlights the deep running back class, anticipating a high-quality selection in the early rounds.

  • Quote: "The running backs are making a comeback. They're an integral part of an offense." [16:48]

Team Strategies and Bold Predictions

Urban Meyer shares his perspectives on team strategies, advocating for accumulating multiple first-round picks if a single quarterback doesn’t meet expectations.

• Quote: "If it's not a generational quarterback, you're going to trade up and get five first-rounders to build your program." [18:19]

Mark Ingram and Jerry Ferrara offer bold predictions, including potential trades to secure top talents like Ashton Gent and Travis Hunter.

• Mark Ingram's Prediction: The Cleveland Browns will draft Travis Hunter and Shador Sanders, subsequently retiring their jerseys.
  • Quote: "The Cleveland Browns will walk away with Travis Hunter and Shador Sanders and then immediately retire both of their jerseys." [65:47]

Personal Anecdotes and Experiences

The hosts share heartfelt stories from their careers, connecting personal experiences to the current draft landscape.

Matt Leinart’s Lambeau Field Memories

Matt Leinart recounts his first NFL game kickoff at Lambeau Field, highlighting memorable plays and the camaraderie within the team.

• Quote: "My first NFL game was the NFL kickoff right here in Lambeau, and they did win. It was a close game with a goal-line stand." [05:07]

Jerry Ferrara’s Connection to Green Bay

Jerry Ferrara reflects on his first visit to Green Bay, tying in personal milestones such as the birth of his son during a game against the Packers.

• Quote: "This is my first time back in 19 years, and it will always hold a special because my son was born that week." [07:56]

Urban Meyer’s Coaching Insights

Urban Meyer offers invaluable coaching perspectives, discussing the importance of draft strategies and the mental resilience required for rookie quarterbacks.

• Quote: "The mental side of the game is the hardest for rookie quarterbacks." [38:50]

The Fullback Position: Evolution and Future

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the evolving role of the fullback in modern NFL offenses.

Rob Stone explains how the fullback position has transitioned from a lead blocker to a more versatile role, incorporating both blocking and receiving responsibilities.

• Quote: "It's no longer just a fullback; it's now called the blocking back with diverse responsibilities." [28:47]

Jerry Ferrara emphasizes the importance of the fullback in setting the tone for an offense, advocating for players who can contribute on special teams and perform multiple roles.

• Quote: "The fullback is as important as an offensive lineman, doing the dirty work to set the tone." [27:41]

Audience Interaction and Fun Segments

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with fun topics and playful banter, making the discussion lively and entertaining.

• Cheese Curds and Frosty Flavors: Reflecting their Green Bay location, the hosts humorously incorporate local culture, discussing cheese curds and Wendy's new Frosty flavors.

  • Quote: "We have some cheese curds. Who wants a New York Giants perspective? It doesn't matter because you're going to get it anyway." [49:17]

• Fan Questions: The trio answers listener questions, ranging from hypothetical scenarios involving non-professional players to memorable NFL hits.

  • Quote: "Hardest hit I ever took was from Cam Chancellor, a 6'4", 230-pound safety who just bulldozed through." [72:50]

Conclusion: Looking Ahead to Day Two

As the episode wraps up, the hosts tease upcoming discussions, including deeper dives into quarterback prospects like Travis Hunter and the intriguing dynamics of the draft’s second day.

• Quote: "Travis Hunter brings two different positions, two sides of the ball. He's a fascinating talking point for this." [51:31]

The live broadcast concludes with a reminder of the next day's schedule and gratitude towards sponsors Nissan and Wendy's, ensuring listeners stay tuned for more insights and memorable moments.

Notable Quotes

• Mark Ingram: "Cam Ward is for sure has the highest ceiling of all these quarterbacks." [33:25]
• Jerry Ferrara: "He's a unicorn. He really is, like we've never seen." [53:30]
• Matt Leinart: "When you're there in the room and you're still the only one, it's kind of like discouraging." [10:08]
• Urban Meyer: "If it's not a generational quarterback, you're going to trade up and get five first-rounders to build your program." [18:19]

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the 2025 NFL Draft, enriched with personal stories, expert analysis, and lively interactions. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or new to the sport, Matt Leinart, Jerry Ferrara, and Mark Ingram provide valuable insights and entertaining commentary that capture the essence of the draft excitement in Green Bay.