The Herd with Colin Cowherd - 3 & Out - Tua's future in doubt, Bills are for real, Stuckey joins the podcast

Episode Date: September 13, 2024

John reacts to the Thursday Night Football game that saw Tua get knocked out for the fourth time in three years. He dives into what Tua's NFL future might look like, how the Bills looked great and sho...uld have an easy path in the division, and how different are the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens. Later, John talks about a few teams and players to watch this weekend for potential implosions, and the return of Fugazi Friday.  Finally, John is joined by The Action Networks betting guru, Stuckey to talk about the weekend's best bets. 6:58 - Thursday Night Football reaction 25:15 - Implosion Watch 26:50 - Will the Jets make adjustments 29:00 - What will happen with Deshaun Watson 32:15 - Fugazi Friday 44:52 - Stuckey Interview Follow John on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for the latest. Check out Gametime - the fastest growing ticketing app in the US, and the official ticketing app of 3 & Out and GoLow -  for tickets to all of your favorite NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA teams. Concert and comedy show tickets, too. Go to Gametime now to create an account, download the app and use code JOHN for $20 off your first purchase. #Volume #HerdSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Starting point is 00:04:37 What is going on everybody? John Middilkoff, three and out. Podcast, how are we doing? Hopefully everyone's doing well. I just watched the Thursday night football game. The bills obliterate the dolphins. Obviously, the story of the night is Tua, getting caoed again, concussion, and let's face it, the questions are going to begin.
Starting point is 00:05:01 Does he ever play again? How do the dolphins handle this? My main question, does the NFL get involved? And do they let him play again? Because that's at the forefront of everyone's mind when you see him go down and his arms shoot up in the air like they did two years ago. So devastating night from the dolphins. I mean, it was an embarrassing night before that play.
Starting point is 00:05:26 They were getting shalacked and embarrassed at home. And then Tua goes down. And let's just be real, it feels like they're seething. season is over. And Tom Brady? Is that a name that's going to get through? I bet you hear it on some shows tomorrow. So I had a quick take on that.
Starting point is 00:05:43 And then on the bills who just, I don't understand people questioning the bills, not just in this game, which they've now beat the Dolphins. It was 11 and 2, so they're 12 and 2 in the last 14 games. But just big picture. Like, they're just a consistent, the chiefs are in their own tier
Starting point is 00:06:04 and they're right there with the Ravens. Like, what the hell is the difference these last five years? Other than that, I do want to dive into just the pressure rankings this weekend. There are some teams that if they lose, turmoil is about to break out. It's obviously Fugazi Friday. So got to hit with a couple Fugazis.
Starting point is 00:06:22 Stucky will join us as well. Have a couple bets I don't like. I love. I love. And your boy's hot. Just hit this Bills game. So I'm feeling some momentum. Other than that, check out the use.
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Starting point is 00:07:36 Lowest prices guaranteed. Okay, the crazy part about tonight with Tua is the story of the game is not the bills killing them. It's not the final score, is not the onage that the one franchise has over the other. And I saw Lewis Riddick, who I worked for with the Eagles, had a good tweet. And it was a sad night because,
Starting point is 00:08:01 nobody wants to see a player laying there like that, especially one with a history, is now this conversation immediately turns to, will he ever play again? And I see a lot of people on social media saying that he should retire, and that's his own decision. I do think that's easy to say. We've seen it before when I was young, Steve Young, had it happened to him, but he was older. Tua is 26 years old. Does not turn 27. I looked it up before I walked in here till March. So I can't even begin to say, yeah, he'll just hang him up. But there's going to be a lot of pressure about putting him back on the field
Starting point is 00:08:42 because we saw two years ago. The Dolphins screwed up and it was a disaster for them. They were embarrassed as they should have been. And I think this is going to be out of their control. Roger was at the game. I think this is going to be a decision from the NFL. and I think the NFL is going to force their hand to not allow this guy back on the field
Starting point is 00:09:04 because it's one thing, listen, we see guys get concussions all the time and sometimes you can kind of tell, sometimes you can't, sometimes they're on the sideline, all of a sudden they get checked by the independent neurologist, and then they're just gone. And some of them are clear, right? You see the guy wobbling on the ground. Sometimes you don't really notice,
Starting point is 00:09:24 and then all of a sudden he's out with a concussion. Tua's are, the most cringe-worthy ones I think I've ever seen twice I had to re-look up this term it's called fencing when his arms are straight up and his fingers are kind of moving and rigid it makes your kind of heart and stomach drop and the NFL's not going to want to see that anymore and I was texting around like what do buddies and people in the league what they think is going to happen they're like what if you know could he sign a waiver or whatever I don't think the NFL likes that visual, as they should not.
Starting point is 00:09:58 And clearly, like, I'm not some medical expert here, but tonight of the previous ones that happened in 2022, obviously it was avoidable, slide, and I would imagine that cliff is going to be shown to every quarterback Friday morning beside maybe Jared Gough, any guy that could move 50 times tomorrow. Because those hits are avoidable. You've got to slide. And as Herfrey said, Tua can be a. reckless runner. And he runs in ironically to
Starting point is 00:10:29 Damar Hamlin, who is one of the most incredible stories ever, almost dies on the field two years later starting safety for the bills who might be one of the best teams in the league. But I'm prepared to never see the guy play again. And I think you saw the faces of Mike McDaniel as the game went on. He was shell-shocked. You saw Stephen Ross, the headshot of him in the suite. He looked like he was ready to jump off a bridge.
Starting point is 00:10:54 And then you saw the shot of the GM. who realize they're done. It's over. Now, I didn't like the Dolphins that much anyway. Before this happened, I thought they showed their true colors, a team that doesn't have that much toughness. And I'm not going to spend the night.
Starting point is 00:11:10 Tonight's not the day to be critical of two of the player, but obviously it wasn't going well for him the night at all. And the gap between them and the bills is as wide as the Grand Canyon, if not wider. But now they have a quarterback. obviously they just extended him to a very large contract, and the pressure is going to be on to never allow him to play quarterback for them again because it's not safe.
Starting point is 00:11:36 And the visuals we have of those injuries doesn't look like much we see anymore in this NFL. That's the type stuff where guys were lying there and you didn't know if they were dead or alive that happened for a long time over the history of the NFL. And then about 10, 15 years ago when the concussion stuff, in the lawsuits, and the NFL is pivoted, and they've pivoted hard. And it's why that everyone was so uneasy with what happened a couple years ago when it felt like they were putting out a concussed player in these games who, like, it just didn't feel safe.
Starting point is 00:12:14 Now, a lot of people are going to push to a, like, you got to retire, got to retire. That's his choice, man. Like, he has a lot of money to attempt to keep playing. Obviously, he gets a percentage of his contract is guaranteed no matter what, but you can make a lot of money if you continue playing. And at his age, I don't think, I understand if it's not an easy decision. But I think this decision comes from Park Avenue. And they say no moss. And there's going to be a lot of pressure from them and Raj about making sure that Tua's not on the field for them anymore.
Starting point is 00:12:49 And this is going to be like when most players get a concussion, they're going to be. going the concussion protocol. Obviously, when you play on Thursday, you get a longer runway into your next game. Like, I don't think it's going to fly that next Thursday. He's cleared concussion protocol. Obviously, the media pressure, the fan pressure, and the league pressure. So I think it's fair to assume that we're not going to see Tua for a while. Now, does that mean his career's over?
Starting point is 00:13:16 Who knows? We've seen crazier. Like I said, Tamar Hamlin, I think legally died on the field. and now he's starting safety for the bills, making place. Almost had a pick in the corner or in the middle of the end zone. I guess it wasn't almost a pick, but hit his hand, made some tackles, had a bunch of tackles last week. Like, isn't just a contributing member like he was last year.
Starting point is 00:13:35 Like, he's a starter. So I never say never, just in life in general. But I do think tonight was a game-changing moment with this specific player and the way that it happened again, the same exact visual, which is really hard to describe. But you know when you see it and you just kind of go speechless.
Starting point is 00:14:04 It was tough to watch. I do think, you know, the dolphin season is over. So I don't even know what else to say. I didn't think they were a playoff team at the start of the season. They're very, very fortunate right now to not be O and 2.
Starting point is 00:14:18 but Skyler Thompson, who ironically was drafted 15 spots ahead of Brock Purdy. So it shows you, like most seventh-round quarterbacks look pretty shitty. And he looked tonight like this, no pun intended, a fish out of water. But the dolphins are done, and the bills, they didn't want to do it. I mean, they wanted to beat them and blow them out, but obviously they didn't want to injure Tua. and one conversation I would imagine that's going to come up my guess in the next 24 hours, Tom Brady to the Dolphins. You crossed my mind.
Starting point is 00:14:54 Remember a couple years ago, a lot of rumors about the dolphins wanting to get Tom Brady as their quarterback. It was like tampering stuff when he was in New England. It would be cool. I'm not against the story. But at this point in time, he's several years older than even when he retired. It's not like he's making $10 million to call games. He's making 37. And even though his first game clearly did not go that well,
Starting point is 00:15:23 I think at this point in time, I would be stunned. But sometimes you'll just be listening to podcasts and you just hear people talk and it kind of makes you think, like, I bet Tom misses it. It's like, yeah, how would he not miss it? I would imagine his arm still works. But from a football standpoint, even if he did have 10% interest, awful fit. I mean, they have, their offensive line is abysmal to start with, and now they got a bunch of injuries.
Starting point is 00:15:48 So I think you just look at Miami, no Tua for the foreseeable future. Skylar Thompson, whoever else, maybe they can sign, sniff around the practice squad, and their season is in major trouble. And you saw at the end of the game when they are on offense, down 31 to 10, and Hill and Waddle are just chilling on the bench. And even Herbstre's like, yeah, it's not the best look. And he's right. Because tonight, before the Tua injury, was a culture night.
Starting point is 00:16:19 And Mike McDaniel is beloved by certain people in the media. He's got this quirky little stick going. He's never won an important game as a head coach. He was getting Maliwop tonight before the Tua story just overshadowed. I mean, he was embarrassing tonight. I regretted not putting more money on the Buffalo Bills about five minutes before kickoff. because that game was over and that game was over quick. But the Bill's culture,
Starting point is 00:16:47 we talk a lot about the Ravens, and people think I'm like negative with the Ravens. I have a ton of respect for them. The only people that they really can't beat in big games, and we saw it last year is like, yeah, Mahomes. Do I think they could beat every other team in the playoffs? 100%. I think the same thing about the Bills.
Starting point is 00:17:04 I would say the Bills right now and the Ravens are mirror images of themselves. They are championship level teams who, and cultures most specifically, have defensive-minded head coaches, have a physical culture, and have star quarterbacks. Now, I like Josh more than Lamar, and I like the Ravens roster typically more than the bills,
Starting point is 00:17:26 because for whatever reason, the bills on defense, they just always have so many injuries. But tonight, off a short week, they have guys that, let's face it, for every Vaughn Miller they got, they got a couple other guys, I got to look up. I'm like, I don't really know. know who this player is.
Starting point is 00:17:43 And they're running around, their hair on fire, making tackles, and their quarterback is awesome. But one game-changing player for them that has added a physical element that the Ravens have always been able to do because they always have a good running game is James Cook. And you saw him the night, he looks awesome. You saw him last week. He looks awesome. You saw him last season.
Starting point is 00:18:03 He looks awesome. To me, he's kind of changed them. Because for several years, it was like they were so past dependent on Josh. and when you play in these frigid temperatures late in the season, you're not just going to be able to throw for 350 yards. It was always a bugaboo for the Packers. It's like you might play some January games in Lambo. We know you got sweet wide receivers.
Starting point is 00:18:26 This was during the Aaron Rogers era, and then what looks like, you know, if Jordan Love is healthy, what's going to happen during this? You've got to have a physical back. What do they do? They went out inside Josh Jacobs. They had Aaron Jones.
Starting point is 00:18:36 Like that guy really, really helps in cold, inclement weather games. And that's what James Cook is. So can the bills beat the Chiefs? The roster, I don't think is good enough. And defensively, they're not good enough. But I do think they have a championship level culture
Starting point is 00:18:53 and they have a championship. I believe Josh Allen's a championship level quarterback. Does that mean he'll ever win one? I believe Charles Barkley was a championship level player. Never won one. Everyone that ever played against Dan Marino say he was one of the best players I ever played against. Never won a Super Bowl.
Starting point is 00:19:09 So I don't know if it's going to happen. Obviously, they've had opportunities in the past, and their coach got a little tight. But Sean McDermott's really good at his job. And I thought this at the beginning of the season, I feel strongly, more strongly about it tonight. I think they're going to cruise to this division. And it would be their fifth straight division.
Starting point is 00:19:28 They're having the Patriot-ownage thing that the Patriots had for 20 years. The difference is the Patriots were rattling off championships. And the bills, for whatever reason, even going back to the early 90s, haven't proven to win it. But in what world through these,
Starting point is 00:19:43 we'll see the Jets this weekend, but even, let's just even say they win. Let's say the Jets win by 20. Could you assume the Jets of 40-year-old Aaron Rogers, all their culture question marks, could beat this Bill's team?
Starting point is 00:19:56 How could you assume that? If they were playing next week in New York or in Buffalo, how could you bet on the Jets? How could you possibly do that? I've been saying this forever about the bill, versus Miami. In what world do we think these are even close to equals?
Starting point is 00:20:12 They're not. The bills are chasing the Chiefs. These other teams are just little roadblocks on their way to the playoffs, where they go every single year. So obviously awful night with Tua. It sucks. Dolphin season ends abruptly
Starting point is 00:20:28 on September 12th. Cool moment for DeMarne Hamlin for sure. And obviously the bills, man. I feel even more strong about them now than I did at the beginning of the season, just because they got a pretty good thing going. They really do.
Starting point is 00:20:45 Joe Brady also has resurrected his career after going to Carolina, getting fired by Matt Ruhl, going to Buffalo as a quarterback coach, and that seamless transition, when they fired Dorsey and elevated him, they have looked like a different animal. And maybe it's his ability to utilize James Cook, settling Josh down a little bit tonight. But, man, the best of the best of them. Those look good.
Starting point is 00:21:16 Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal but encouraged. It's the enhanced games. Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth.
Starting point is 00:21:39 Listen to Superhuman on the I-Hard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what you're saying. Yep, that's me, Cliver Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, the reactions, my journey from basketball to college football,
Starting point is 00:21:56 or my career in sports media. Well, somewhere along the way, this platform became bigger than I ever imagined. And now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifford Show. This is a place for raw, unfiltered conversations with some of your favorite athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard,
Starting point is 00:22:14 but celebrate. One week I'll take you behind the scenes of the biggest moments in sports and entertainment and the next we'll talk about life, mental health, purpose, and even music. The Clifford Show isn't just a podcast, it's a space for honest conversations, stories that don't always get told, and for people who are chasing something bigger. So if you've ever supported me or you're just chasing down a dream, this is right where you need to be. Listen to the Clifford Show on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.
Starting point is 00:22:42 And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford. and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok. Hey, this is Robert from the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast. Joe and I are both lifelong Star Wars fan, so we're celebrating May the 4th with a brand new week of fun, thought-provoking Star Wars-related episodes. Join us as we tackle science and culture topics from a galaxy far, far away,
Starting point is 00:23:03 such as the biology of tauntons and wampas on the ice planet hot, or the practicality and corporate business sense of the Sith Rule of Two. Listen to Stuff to Blow Your Mind on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tapped Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs? Or when Kanye said that George Bush didn't like black people. I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with Little Kim?
Starting point is 00:23:29 Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam J. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill, waxing all about crack in the 80s. To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because of crack. I'm down to talk about crack on day, but just so y'all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second episode where we've discussed crack,
Starting point is 00:23:55 so I'm starting to see that there's a through line. We also have AIDS on the table right now, so. Thank you for finishing that sentence. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Really? Yeah. For me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app,
Starting point is 00:24:14 Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to my new podcast, Learn the Hardway with me, your host, and your favorite therapist, Keer Games. And in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, I'm bringing over a decade of my own experience in the mental health field and conversations with so many incredible guests. I'm talking, Tripp Fontaine, Ryan Clark. Sometimes when we're in the pursuit of the thing, we get so wrapped up in the chase that we don't realize that we are in possession of the thing.
Starting point is 00:24:43 and we're still chasing it and we don't know when we've done enough because people scoreboard watch. Life becomes about wins and losses. Steve Burns, Dustin Ross, because you find it important to be a good person while you hear on earth, or are you a good person because you're afraid?
Starting point is 00:24:58 Because that's two different intentions, bro. Absolutely. And that's two different levels of trust. I want you to just really be a good person. Join me, Kear Gaines, is we have real conversations about healing, growth, fatherhood, pressure, and purpose on my new podcast.
Starting point is 00:25:13 Learn the hard way. Open your free iHeartRadio app. Search Learn the hard way and listen now. Okay, let's dive into a couple other things. The thing is after this weekend, you're going to have some O and two teams. And some are going to feel way worse than others, but they're all going to feel really shitty. And the cool part about football, unlike the other two sports, you know, team sports and baseball and basketball, because of the contract setup, for the most part, there is a very, very small
Starting point is 00:25:43 percentage of players on scholarship. And as we have seen over the years, even the players on quote unquote scholarships because their contracts are enormous, doesn't hold much weight when you're losing. And the thing in football is, and this is cool, so many guys, random guys, right? Late round draft picks, undrafted free agents,
Starting point is 00:26:06 guys who have bounced around on practice squads, make the 53-man roster. And that is an incredible accomplishment. to go into week one on the 53-man roster. But you do have to keep your spot because in this league, and trust me, for three years in the NFL, I guess the two I worked in the office,
Starting point is 00:26:24 I printed out the waiver wire every single day and handed that thing out. And as the season goes, obviously when people get injured, you have to make transactions. But people will get waived, people will get benched, and people will get cut
Starting point is 00:26:38 because they have been benched constantly throughout the season. and it usually happens. Obviously it could happen after wins. Remember, Belichick, the one dude was late to a meeting. I mean, there are specific instances. But when you play poorly, especially when you're not making a lot of money,
Starting point is 00:26:54 your job is always in jeopardy. So just because you make the 53-man roster, if you make it and you're the starting right tackle, you're the starting middle linebacker, the starting safety, or the starting slot-wide receiver, slot corner, you start playing crappy, you not only will get benched,
Starting point is 00:27:10 you might get cut. And maybe they want you on the practice squad, but your spot on the big roster can go Sianara in one game. And definitely over the course of a couple games when that team is losing. Because especially this early in the season, you know, position coaches or coordinators are not going to get fired yet. But players will be sent home. Right. Like, you're no longer starting for us. Or you're no longer rotating in.
Starting point is 00:27:37 We're cutting you to make a spot for another guy to see if that. guy's any better. And that's going to start happening after this week because when teams lose, changes are made. And I think when you look at the schedule, there are, I got a little implosion watch that I'm keeping an eye on. First and foremost, we talked about the scholarship. Daniel Jones makes a lot of money. But can you afford to look awful against the Vikings, get your ass kicked, and then play Washington, who is not very good? who has a rookie quarterback and keep losing and keep your job? Now, even if they look bad again and he plays bad,
Starting point is 00:28:19 do I think he'll get benched week three? I would probably bet against it. But the one thing is when there is momentum and people start talking, fans start talking, you know the owner's thinking it, there's this negative emotional avalanche that starts rolling down the hill. And it's clear where everything is headed. and once that starts, the only way to stop it,
Starting point is 00:28:45 like in real life, there's no stopping one of those avalanches. It just either stops on its own or takes everything out. In football, you better win a game and play well. Because if you don't, they're eventually going to make a move. And the margin for error with this player, because all the previous negativity, couldn't be any higher. So Daniel Jones better play well, and he better play well fast.
Starting point is 00:29:07 And if you're Brian Dayball, it feels like you're coached for your job a little bit. So that's going to be a fascinating thing to watch. I like the Giants this weekend, and I feel disgusting doing that, but I'm no dummy. Very possible they lose. Very possible, Daniel Jones.
Starting point is 00:29:24 I don't care whether he's playing Dionne Sanders or the worst secondary in the league. You can throw pick sixes at any moment. Could be trouble. One team, and this is, it was evident the other night on Monday Night Football. It's like, oh, they're playing one of the best teams. That wasn't the point.
Starting point is 00:29:41 It was how little effort it felt like they were playing with. It was like how little adjustments it felt like they have in their back pocket. And I think the thing with the Jets is, you look at most of the good teams in the NFL. They've been playing together for a while. So part of just playing football, you're going to have some bad weeks. You actually learn a lot from that. As a group, as individual units, offense, and defense,
Starting point is 00:30:09 how hard you get coached that week, the changes you make, and obviously the successes you have as a group, right? Look at the 49ers and the Chiefs. They've been playing together for half a decade or more. The Ravens, the core of their group, has been together for a while. The Lions are now going on four plus years as this core. And you look at the Jets, you're like, Aaron's played one game and four plays with all these guys.
Starting point is 00:30:35 One game and four plays. and a lot of question marks with the coaching staff doesn't feel like that many people believe in that hackett I think they got implosion written all over them if they don't win this week and everyone in their mother's picking them I think the Titans actually played pretty well last week beside a block punt and one of the worst plays you'll ever see
Starting point is 00:30:56 from Will Levis but that defense is good that defense looked really really physical against the bears I mean they were embarrassing the bears And like I said, rookie quarterback, but he still got Roma Dunesay, Keenan Allen, DeAndre Swift, Cole Commet, DJ Moore. That was an ass kicking. I like the Bears personnel a lot more than the Jets in the totality of it. Now, Rogers is clearly better than Caleb Williams as of today,
Starting point is 00:31:27 but I don't think that's an easy game. And then they play the Patriots on Thursday night. You talk about kind of a powder keg of just this thing can get ugly and this thing could get ugly fast, just better win this week. And last but not least, a lot like the Daniel Jones thing, this Deshaun Watson has been going on for longer.
Starting point is 00:31:46 And unlike Daniel Jones, there is this whole other element of character, lawsuits, sexual assault, that is just something that just people are disgusted and tired of. Right? So when you play well and you're going through shit, it's pro sport. It's about winning and losing.
Starting point is 00:32:08 It's about making money. No one cares. But you better win if you're going to get no one caring. The media will, but you don't have to listen to them when you're winning. When you start losing, it's really hard to hide. And that's how the Browns feel. Like, they don't get to hide behind success. They had it last year, and Deshawn was nowhere to be seen because they put them on injured reserve.
Starting point is 00:32:29 Flacco got to steal the day. And Flacco was a great story. It's like, oh, great family, man, off the couch, taking us kids to school. It was easy to wrap your arms around. Deshawn Watson that we saw on Sunday against the Cowboys has kind of been the same guy we've seen throughout his career since he got traded. Below average does not look good. Like the twitch is gone.
Starting point is 00:32:53 You used to be like when you watch a lot, you watch Jaden Daniels, when he makes a move, you're like, damn, he's quick. Right? You watch Josh Allen when he moves, you're like, damn, it's a twitchy athlete. You watch Deshawn, he just looks like, me, to me, his athleticism feels like a shell of himself. It obviously, the ability to play quarterback does not look good, and the playmaking is completely gone.
Starting point is 00:33:15 So I don't see what's going to change. Like all of a sudden, you're just going to find it? Not saying you can't, like, throw a touchdown or whatever, but I have a hard time just like, oh yeah, Deshaun Watson went 24 or 30 through three touchdowns. It was one of the best players of the day. I think those days are way gone and not coming back. No one likes this guy, besides David Maldetta,
Starting point is 00:33:38 who made a ton of money off him, and then Deshawn's family, who obviously is probably getting some money too, and his lawyers. I mean, his lawyers are making a lot of money out of Deshaun. But in terms of Cleveland, the fan base, they got to be out. And I would imagine,
Starting point is 00:33:53 and they got to be good company men, the coaching staff can't be high on this player. Now, do I think he's going to get benched week three if he has a bad game, week two? No, I do not. but I've started to come around this week of like, yeah, this probably ain't going to last long. How it works, the financial ramifications, I don't know.
Starting point is 00:34:13 But I have a hard time, and we've seen recent examples of Carson Wentz. Now, he got traded. Nobody. The XFL wouldn't trade for this guy right now, right? We saw Russell Wilson get cut. It'd be more financially punitive because of the numbers. Now, there are ways you can split it up over years, but it's still pretty complicated. But I think you kind of feel that hourglass, that sand's going, and it's going.
Starting point is 00:34:43 And I don't know how much is left. And how long they'll just let him just be terrible every week. So to me, that is something to keep an eye on. Like, this is a story that feels like it's not slowing down. A couple things for Fugazi Friday. I got this DM, and it made me laugh because it made me think of my grandpa. This is from Coleman. Fugazi Friday.
Starting point is 00:35:05 I was sitting on a plane waiting to take off from Phoenix. The dude next to me pulls out a used Kleenex from his pocket and blows his nose. That part is fine. The gross part is that he put his tissue back in his pocket. Used it over and over again. I just hate when people reuse the same tissue and put it in their pocket. It's got to be a Fugazi, right? It's not technically a Fugazi, but it made me laugh.
Starting point is 00:35:31 my grandpa Woody Woodrow Middilkoff RIP, he came from a generation he was born like in the Great Depression, fought in World War II. And I remember being a little kid and just he was not alone. They would have like that handkerchief that was like something you'd put around
Starting point is 00:35:51 like people in Western movies that would rob banks would wear around their faces and you have it in his pocket. Anytime he needed to blow his nose, he'd pull that bad boy out. And he was not alone. Like, depending on where you lived, there were a lot of people, especially older people, that use this move.
Starting point is 00:36:09 I don't think I've seen that move happen in 15 plus years. But I do believe, and maybe it's just like when you grew up, these aren't hard times now. And these, listen, depending on who you are, how much money you're making inflation. I'm not saying they're always easy times for everybody. But like you grew up in the Great Depression, you grew up in the 40s, the 50s. Life was a little harder. not debatable, not debatable. And I do wonder if there was like a scarcity element to that.
Starting point is 00:36:37 So maybe like this guy's dad did that and just been his go-to-mov? It is disgusting. I'm more of a fan of the snot rocket. Obviously, you've got to be outside to pull that move off. But I couldn't even imagine blowing my nose and putting it back in my pocket. Partly because you'd have to do a perfect fold. Like what if you had a lot of phlegm and it gets on your shorts or your jeans or whatever? It's just disgusting.
Starting point is 00:37:02 But I do think that historically for a lot of people that grew up of a certain generation, maybe they didn't have clean out like boxes of Kleenex, maybe they were expensive. I don't know. But he was not alone with that move. There were a lot of people that used to pull that out of their back pocket. Traditional cable versus internet. I know what you have been harping on this for a while, but there was a pivotal moment that happened over the weekend that pushed me to make the switch.
Starting point is 00:37:30 I'm a Niners fan living in North Carolina, and therefore the regional game is always the Panthers. For the opening week of the season, the television game at 1 p.m. was the Panthers and Saints. No matter how terrible the score got and how awful the play was, they refused to change it to a different game. I felt like Malcolm McDowell and Clockwork Orange having my eyes forced open to watch the horrors of Bryce Young in that offense.
Starting point is 00:37:54 Never again! Sharing for those who were like me and choose the comfort over change. YouTube TV is where it's at. Now here's the thing. If I didn't have the NFL package on my YouTube TV or you didn't and you were living where you live, you only get multiple regional games.
Starting point is 00:38:13 So you get whatever your regional game is and then depending on how the day is set up another game because that's a Fox game, a game on CBS. But you don't get unlimited games unless you pay for it, which is the Sunday package, which I gladly pay for. but just because you have YouTube TV, you can still get put in that predicament.
Starting point is 00:38:35 You are at the control of the network changing the game. I never understand this, and clearly there are rules and, you know, when it comes to networks, but like you get to a point, and it doesn't happen that often in the NFL, but the Saints game, I stopped paying attention after like a couple of minutes in the third quarter. It was so over.
Starting point is 00:38:58 And there were other games going, on in the NFC that, you know, people want to watch, uh, or just that are more interesting. Now, I, I also struggle, like, understand if I was running a network, it's one thing if this was baseball and you play a hundred and, you only play 17 of these. So you don't get that many bites of the apple to watch a team. Now, it's not exactly like this is the Dallas Cowboy. You're talking about the Carolina Panthers, but I hear you. But just know this.
Starting point is 00:39:25 If you get YouTube TV, you don't just automatically get all the games. Like, you have to. purchase that, which should be an easy purchase if you're a football fan. I get a lot of this because obviously getting married in, you know, about six months about the Fugazi of wedding costs. And I'll go back to the vet thing. Like the vet thing, my issue with that is it's like I can't speak to my dog. So the dog's being sick and she's just battled. I mean, she is a tough little dog.
Starting point is 00:39:57 She beat the disease, I think. Feels normal now. But like the communication's impossible. Even with human health care, at least the individual can say like, that's not right. I don't feel that. Or something's off. You've got to check this. The dog's helpless.
Starting point is 00:40:14 It can only bark and lick. Right. So the wedding, I get a lot of this, like how crazy your wedding costs. Well, everything costs are high. So someone hit me up. Like, what's the cheapest budget non-courthouse? Which was my idea, but got shot down fast. you've ever seen for a wedding that successfully execute.
Starting point is 00:40:32 I think the thing with other people getting married, unless you're really close friends with them or they're a family member, it's not like you brag or really promote what you spent on the wedding. Everyone just kind of knows it's expensive, right? And depending on how many people you have. We're trying to do a smaller wedding and it's still going to, like, what's the budget for your own wedding? There's not like a specific budget,
Starting point is 00:40:57 but I mean had a ballpark you know we're going to Nashville I don't know we hope like 50 grand probably end up being 75 but again we're doing a smaller wedding you know there might be 60 people there like I said I would have been cool with going to the courthouse I'm about to be 40 years old I didn't need it but I do understand the importance of it not just for her but for family so I I've not only come around Like I want to do it. But like she's very hands-on with this. The costs are high. I mean, and I'm talking non-the-venue.
Starting point is 00:41:35 I mean, we're getting married to four seasons. But the actual venue actually wasn't that expensive. It really wasn't, especially because maybe it's just Nashville's different than like Los Angeles or Scottsdale or New York or whatever. In terms of price. But where they really get you is like the flowers. I mean, the price of flowers, but like, whatever the price was, when you hear some of these numbers,
Starting point is 00:41:59 like if you know someone like, yeah, we spent 60 grand on a wedding in 2016. Well, it's not really comparable. It's like, yeah, I bought this car for 40 grand, 2014. Well, yeah, that car now is $79,000. So it's like you can't, you do it with housing all the time. Like, God, you bought that house for $400,000? Yeah, well, it was 2010. One of the craziest financial crisis in the,
Starting point is 00:42:24 the history of the world just happened. So, like, it's not apples to apples. So I don't get as angry, like I do. Like, every time I go to Starbucks and our order is just too large cold brews, I get half and a half. She gets a little cold foam. Sometimes, you know, I'd like, I make coffee most mornings, but every once a while, you're just like, you know what? I just want a Starbucks cold brew, get in the car like 615 in the morning go there. The line's always long. And then they hand me the thing. And it's like $16. And it's like, listen. I, you're working, uh, I, I can't tip you though. If you told me my two cold brews were, I don't know, $7.50, I'd have no problem just giving you a 10 and telling you to keep it.
Starting point is 00:43:07 But when you're handing me two cold brews for $17 or whatever it turns out to be every morning, like, I feel zero shame tipping. Where like, I do get the wedding. Like I, I haven't been turned off, but the flowers are kind of crazy. But everything else, I kind of go, yeah, it's just. No matter what you do now, you need to get your house painted, you need whatever. I mean, you know, buying clothes, you name it. Everything is dramatically more. In a weird way, you just kind of be able to come numb to it and just try to figure out either a way around it or hit up as many people. I would say the best part about 2024 is it's never been easier to like source or crowd source, right?
Starting point is 00:43:52 So it's like, okay, you're offering me, let's just pick a number. You tell me the flowers are going to be $10,000. I'm just picking an even number. I'm going to hit up 10 more people and see what I can find. And I'll promise you, if you're willing to do the work, you find someone that will give you the same thing for $6,200. So you've always had the yellow pages or whatever, but it's never been easier with Instagram, DMs, internet.
Starting point is 00:44:19 Like, you can find a lot of options. takes effort and takes some time but I think and I've said this forever like the difference of my generation and my parents generation my parents would use the same people for every task no matter what it was
Starting point is 00:44:34 like they would go to the same car wash my entire life they would have the same people if they needed you know wanted to remodel something they would use that same guy for everything they ever did whether he's good or bad there was like very loyal that you know people older people were just very loyal you just use to use I'll use you if you suck I'll get
Starting point is 00:44:51 a new guy. I went through three landscapers. I'm like, this guy's kind of fucking me. And you're like, oh, this guy's kind of screwing me too. Because you just kind of ask around, you're like, God, they're charging you, what? And just things change quick. And I would say the ease in which you can find different options now, you've always been able to find different options,
Starting point is 00:45:11 but it's never been easier to contact those options, I would say. And just find more options that might not have been the phone book or whatever, just because of the internet. So that's been using that, not me. I haven't done anything, to be honestly. But she has. It just takes effort.
Starting point is 00:45:34 Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal, but encouraged. It's the enhanced games. Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle.
Starting point is 00:45:56 So great. Listen to Superhuman on the IHard radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what I'm saying. Yep, that's me, Clifford Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, the reactions, my journey from basketball to college football, or my career in sports media. Well, somewhere along the way, this platform became bigger than I ever imagined.
Starting point is 00:46:21 And now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifford Show. This is a place for raw, unfiltered conversations with some of your favorite athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard, but celebrated. One week, I'll take you behind the scenes of the biggest moments in sports and entertainment, and the next we'll talk about life, mental health, purpose, and even music. The Clifford Show isn't just a podcast, it's a space for honest conversations, stories that don't always get told, and for people who are chasing something bigger. So, if you've ever supported me, or you're just chasing down a dream,
Starting point is 00:46:53 this is right where you need to be. Listen to the Clifford show on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok. Hey, this is Robert from the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast. Joe and I are both lifelong Star Wars fan, so we're celebrating May the 4th with a brand new week of fun,
Starting point is 00:47:14 thought-provoking Star Wars-related episodes. Join us as we tackle science and culture topics from a galaxy far, far away, such as the biology of ton-tons and wampas on the ice planet hot, or the practicality and corporate business sense of the Sith rule of two. Listen to stuff to bowl your mind on the iHeart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tap Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs?
Starting point is 00:47:40 Or when Kanye said that George Bush didn't like black people. I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with Little Kim? Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam J. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick it here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it.
Starting point is 00:47:58 Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill, waxing all about crack in the 80s. To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because of crack. I'm down to talk about crack on day, but just so y'all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second episode where we've discussed crack. So I'm starting to see that there's a through line. We also have AIDS on the table right now. Thank you for.
Starting point is 00:48:20 sentence. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Really? Yeah. For me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Starting point is 00:48:36 Welcome to my new podcast, Learn the Hard Way with me, your host, and your favorite therapist, Kear Games. And in recognition of mental health awareness month, I'm bringing over a decade of my own experience in the mental health field and conversations with so many incredible guests. I'm talking.
Starting point is 00:48:50 Tripp Fontaine, Ryan Clark. Sometimes when we're in the pursuit of the thing, we get so wrapped up in the chase that we don't realize that we are in possession of the thing. And we're still chasing it. And we don't know when we've done enough. Because people scoreboard watch. Life becomes about wins and losses. Steve Burns, Dustin Ross.
Starting point is 00:49:11 Because you find it important to be a good person while you hear on earth? Or are you a good person because you're afraid? Because that's two different intentions, bro. Absolutely. And that's two different. levels of trust. I want you to just really be a good person. Join me,
Starting point is 00:49:24 Kear Gaines, as we have real conversations about healing, growth, fatherhood, pressure, and purpose on my new podcast, learn the hard way. Open your free
Starting point is 00:49:33 our heart radio app. Search, learn the hard way and listen now. Okay, back at it again with my main man Stucky from the Action Network, action network podcast.
Starting point is 00:49:47 I was actually watching it last night on YouTube, laying in bed. He had some takes that I, I'm interested to hear. And big bets on campus. The college slate, I got one game.
Starting point is 00:49:59 Maybe we can hit at the end. But it's not sometimes these early weeks, the first two weeks, you get some good matches. This week's kind of bad. But the NFL, even the first couple weeks on paper, doesn't look that great. But whatever, it's the NFL. I know, Stucky, you have some great nuggets in terms of week two, the overreactions. the stats on teams to get their ass kicked, on teams that lose. Because this is always a big swing week because I hate it when people like, don't overreact.
Starting point is 00:50:32 Well, we only have one game sample size to go out. What are we supposed to do? Just pretend the game didn't happen. Like, yeah, Deshawn Watson might be okay. No, he might not be. You know, the Giants and the Panthers have sucked for a while. But gambling, you got to be careful with that, especially when we're talking point spreads. Just week two, the vibes going into week two for you, trends.
Starting point is 00:50:53 look forward to. Yeah, yeah, the college slate is not great. I mean, every Saturday and Sunday from the start of football season to the end, I mean, I'm either on my couch or on a bar from noon until three in the morning. But, you know, if you're not like me and you have a significant other that's been hounding you to spend more quality time on a Saturday, this would be the one if you had a pick to like sneak out and do something. And then, you know, get some brownie points for the rest of the season because the rest
Starting point is 00:51:30 of the Saturdays going to be good. But this one, I mean, game days in Columbia for South Carolina LSU. That's that tells you all you need to know. Kentucky, Georgia comes to Kentucky. I was hoping Kentucky didn't get completely blown out last week against South Carolina. It was embarrassing game. I thought game day was going to come here. I was potentially going to go to the game on Saturday night, Kentucky, 24-point underdogs.
Starting point is 00:51:58 It was ugly. But, yeah, not the greatest college football slate. But before I get to NFI, we'll say, whenever you think the college football slate, though, isn't good, then it ends up being chaotic. So, who knows? I agree. You saw Northern Illinois beat Notre Dame. You might have a couple upsets that no one sees coming this week. But, yeah, NFL week too.
Starting point is 00:52:19 Is that one of the biggest underdogs to win in a long time in college? Yeah, I think in like two to three years, I remember the biggest that I can remember. One year, this was like 10 plus years ago. Stanford beat USC one year is like 40 point underdogs. It was Harbaugh's first year. Yeah. The biggest that I can remember, it was a weird one.
Starting point is 00:52:47 This is like three or four years ago. UNLV lost to Howard. an FCS team in the opener. They were 45 point underdogs. But 28 and a half, yeah, it's rare. It's, it'll probably be, I mean, college football is a lot weirder now with all the roster turnover. Maybe you get another huge one.
Starting point is 00:53:10 But it'll probably be the biggest upset of the season from a point spread perspective, you know, something that happens like once every couple of years. So, yeah, it was. It wouldn't have been on the level, but there were two games. I did a little. like just $100 parlay on all the huge favorites and none of them covered.
Starting point is 00:53:27 I mean, Alabama, USF owns them. But Boise was almost a 20-point favorite, or I mean underdog, and they easily could have won that game. Houston, Houston, who looked, I mean, atrocious week one, gave Oklahoma everything they could handle. That was, I think that line was like 24, 25. So, I mean, there were obviously Notre Dame lost the game, but there were other teams holding on for dear life.
Starting point is 00:53:54 Yeah, I argue Boise State should have beat Oregon. Oregon had two special teams touchdowns in that game. Without that, they should have lost. Genti was amazing. I think he's the best back in the country. And I think that Houston arguably should have won, too. Oklahoma. But they play Tulane this week, and they got Tennessee in that defensive line.
Starting point is 00:54:19 Next week, and their offensive line is a mess. I mean, they're down their center, their tackle, their backup center. They're playing another kid who has one arm, not literally one arm, but it's, but it basically has one healthy arm. Be tough to play a line. They reset their entire off there. They lost all five starters in their offensive line from last year. So their office line's a mess.
Starting point is 00:54:37 They've had receivers hurt. So, yeah, but yeah, we could have had a couple other ones easily last weekend. But transition to the NFL, week two is one of my favorites every year. And, you know, it's sober reaction week. And, but you know it. You have to, you have to balance. You can't just say, oh, all the teams that look bad, I'm just going to bet them. And then all the teams that looked really good, I'm going to fade them.
Starting point is 00:55:06 You have to balance, and this is true in every sport, especially when you're setting power ratings and like setting your own numbers. You have to balance, okay, what am I going to overreact to? Because you want to, you want to be reactive in certain cases. And then what am I not? because the sample size is so small. So what are some extenuating circumstances? Was it a bad matchup, or their injuries? You know, was there a lot of turnover on the roster?
Starting point is 00:55:30 We're like, okay, it makes sense that maybe the quarterback didn't play in the preseason so there was rust. And there was a lot of moving pieces and a new staff. So maybe, hey, let me not overreact too much here. So and then it comes down to the number. But big picture, you know, if you look historically, underdogs in week two, like 55, 56%. It's the best dog week of any week. If you bet dogs that lost in week one,
Starting point is 00:55:56 you're looking 57, 58% home dogs that lost like 60%. Those are big numbers in the NFL. So, yeah, I look for, I like to look for underdogs that might be undervalued for various reasons. A perfect example of one where I did overreact. but not as much as the market did is I played the Panthers last weekend. Probably the worst bet that I'll ever make in the NFL. Lost by 37.
Starting point is 00:56:32 Yeah. But the NFL, in college football, college basketball, there's every weekend, every Saturday, I can turn on a game within 10 minutes. I'm like, oh, I have the wrong side here. That really happens in the NFL with the point. spread like it's you know you're going to be a back and forth game it's a turnover it's a play here play there you rarely are like oh my god i have the wrong side um i mean Bryce young's first
Starting point is 00:56:59 pass was picked off so and they look the Panthers look horrendous they couldn't get any pressure with the Saints offensive line so Carr tore them apart i think they only had two pressures and the Saints offense line though good i think that just might have been a product of the Panthers we'll see big big thing that i'm watching for this week is the Saints offensive line against the The Cowboys team that can get pressure from all over. It's a much better defense. If that Saints offensive line looks good in Dallas, we have to start taking them much more serious
Starting point is 00:57:27 because their offense, like we talked about last week, I think 30% more play action, 40% more pre-snap motion. You have that Shanahan influence now. It's a much more serious offensive coordinator. Good things, good modern things for that offense. And, you know, Carr's whole career, numbers fall off when he's under pressure.
Starting point is 00:57:47 but he's great when he's kept clean. So if that offensive line, you know, and they have weapons with that new modern offense and more pre-stom motion, more flaxion, very encouraging signs for the Saints. But the Panthers were so bad. They did nothing well. There's nothing to, the offensive line did play a little better, but Young just looked so lost. And there was no progression. There was none of the things I thought from the offensive staff, too, with Canales.
Starting point is 00:58:14 So, but I'm going to bet on this week. I'm hoping to get a seven. The reason, well, first, almost always in the NFL, the biggest overreaction spot, and this isn't just unique to week two. Whenever a team loses by more than 35 points in the NFL, 63% historically. Talking about a sample size is about 150 games. Covering by about a field goal per game on average, underdogs 60, 30, and 5 against the spread, 67%.
Starting point is 00:58:48 Underdogs of more than four coming off of the loss of 35 or more points, 48, 18, and 2, 73% over the past 30 years. So why am I saying those stats? Well, it's for a number of reasons. One, and you're seeing this play out now, when a team loses by more than 35 in the NFL, it's not too common. One, no one wants to bet that team the next week. They just looked so bad.
Starting point is 00:59:13 Who wants to put their money on that team that just lost? So the market is going to react pretty aggressively, and you might not have a lot of buyback on the other side. Well, it doesn't happen very often, so it is pretty jarring to see a number that big. Yes. But on the flip side, these are still professional athletes, like as bad as the Panthers are.
Starting point is 00:59:34 Are they going to get that teams. Yeah, you might be right to ask that. But you're probably going to get their best effort, right? After getting embarrassed like that, they're probably going to have a fully focused, motivated, especially early on in the season, practice. And then it also encourages change. So the Panthers will say, wherever the team might be,
Starting point is 00:59:54 oh, all right, look, we lost by 40. Nothing that we did work. Let's do this, right? So it introduces some uniqueness to the game plan that the other team might not be prepared for. You might change some things up that didn't work, so you're more likely to have success. So I downgraded the Panthers.
Starting point is 01:00:11 I thought they were going to be improved this year. I didn't really see it. They lost their best defensive lineman. Derek Brown for the season. That's a big loss. Couldn't get any pressure. So, but it's a new offensive staff. And look, the look ahead line for this game was around a pick.
Starting point is 01:00:27 And now you're talking six, seven. That's a massive, I can get to like four. Because the charters didn't really look great. The first half, they had drives of five yards and five yards. They got a bunch of turnovers from, I mean, Minshu at one point just drop the ball. And, you know, Antonio Pierce was making some crazy fourth down decisions. The only thing they did, they had a couple of Dobbins broken off runs.
Starting point is 01:00:50 Like, that's basically what the offense said. They don't have great receivers. It's a team that wants to, like, run the ball, grind the game down. The reason this total is 39. So you're looking at a home dog near a touchdown. I just, I just can't get to this number. What X's and O's can I get you? I don't know.
Starting point is 01:01:09 What can I tell you that's great about the Panthers? After last week, I can't. But I just can't get to this number, especially if it gets to seven. So I'm hoping, like, there's just apparently nonstop charges money. And I don't buy, I don't think about your average better. Who wants to bet the Panthers after what they saw last week? Nobody. It's one of the best parts about gambling.
Starting point is 01:01:26 Sometimes you're just like, I just got, I just, this is what I'm playing. I mean, the stats aren't on my side, but especially early on in the season. Well, let's, you brought up the Saints and all these lines presented by draft kings. Obviously, they can change over the next couple days. but they were a team. You and I talked about kind of on the season preview. I loved them. I just, the value to win the division at 4 to 1.
Starting point is 01:01:48 You get them to make the playoffs, I think it was like plus 170. And clearly the Panthers are probably a three or four win team at best, but it doesn't mean they can't cover spreads over the year. But the saints fucking destroyed them. And the reason I liked them, one, I think their defense is good and is going to be solid. Like, you have valid question marks when,
Starting point is 01:02:09 when Derek gets rattled, he's not exactly like Andrew Luck sitting in the pocket, taking shots, delivering strikes. But this offense is very quarterback friendly. So you hire Kubiak, who I continue to say, might as well, that family, and now his sons are all, you know, in the NFL, once for Kyle and now one's the offensive coordinator, they might as well just be renamed the Shanahan's because Gary played for Mike, Kyle worked for Gary. They're all the same.
Starting point is 01:02:36 They run the same philosophically. the offense, like McVeigh's offense has changed, right? The Kubiaks is Kyle, because Kyle is the Kubiaks. They're all in one. And this is very quarterback friendly and Derek looked really good. The other thing is in that offense, you've got to run the ball as we saw with Kyle over the last five years. That's how you get successful and it was made him successful as an offensive coordinator. No team has more invested in the running back room than the Saints.
Starting point is 01:03:03 I like them. So now, maybe over the course of the season, I'll be proven wrong. but right now, like I feel pretty good. And I'm getting six points. Like that's a lot. Now, Dallas looked good too. I mean, they both kicked ass and obviously Dallas is a very, very public team. But I'm hammering the six because just I liked them to begin with.
Starting point is 01:03:21 They look good. Dallas is good too. What if these are just two playoff teams, which I thought. I mean, I thought Dallas was going to be good. So I wasn't shocked to see Dallas. My problem last week is I didn't bet individual. I had a lot of parlayes. Like I liked Tampa against Washington.
Starting point is 01:03:35 I think Washington stinks. I like New Orleans against Carolina. I think Carolina stinks. I took Dallas Money Line, put the Jags and Doug Peterson. Just, I mean, what a disaster. Should have went up 24-7. I was sitting on my couch with my feet up, thinking like, today's going to be a good day.
Starting point is 01:03:52 But the Saints were a good day, and I just like that number. Obviously, there's going to be a lot of hype in this game. There always is Dallas's home opener. But I think that's a lot of points for a team that I think when the dust settles could be a double-digit win team. and be a division champ. So to me, that's value. And I'm hammering the Saints there.
Starting point is 01:04:11 I would, I would wait to see if you can get a seven, which you might be able to, six and a half at some places now. But it's cut, it's come down. Like it was six and a half. Yesterday I checked this morning on draft kings,
Starting point is 01:04:22 it was six. So I wonder if that, that half point, I don't know. You're right. Yeah. I would, I would watch it.
Starting point is 01:04:28 The reason I think you might get a seven is because you have Laddimore and Honey Badger didn't practice. and they're banged up. They would be big losses, losing a starting safety in your best corner. Well, Radamore would probably chase around CD, I would imagine if it was fully healthy. Yeah.
Starting point is 01:04:48 And, you know, Saints play a lot of man, which, you know, Dak and CD Lamb rip apart historically. And you don't have your, you don't have Latimore, you don't have Matthew. I mean, that could be problematic. The offensive line, I also dealing with a couple injuries that already had questions. I'm probably staying away from this game.
Starting point is 01:05:06 I want to see this offensive line against the Dallas D. The, like, Dallas in this role has still, you know, under DAC, who's who's been unbelievable as a favorite. I mean, he's just been, it didn't been dying about it. I could pull up the numbers here. And the reason for that is, I mean, yeah, he's 50 and 36 against the spread as a favorite, 27 and 13 since 2021. That's the best mark in the NFL, only behind Jared Gough.
Starting point is 01:05:36 Ryan's just something I'll cover every week. But the reason for that, it's not just DAC. It's that the Cowboys against teams that are inferior to them, you know, their offense is clicking. And then that's when their defense can tee off, right? They get a lead. They're really good front runners. They get a lead.
Starting point is 01:05:52 And then that aggressive defense says, okay, we know you have the pass now. And then they're teed off causing turnovers, getting sacks. And then it's kind of just a snowball effect, which is why the Cowboys in recent seasons have been. Well, they look like the 49ers when they have. a lead. They just smother you. The differences the Niners can come back. They usually kind of fold. Yeah. So the Saints
Starting point is 01:06:11 in that scenario, you know, you have some secondary injuries. You know, Dennis Allen is too high. A lot of cover one man. You don't have your secondary pieces. Cowboys get out to a lead in that offensive line, which has questions, you're not going up against the Panthers front. And then cars
Starting point is 01:06:29 under pressure and then it kind of just snowballs from there. So that's what I would be concerned about. I'm probably staying away from this game, but I'm going to be watching closely because I really want to see, especially if they're all healthy. I think the Guaga, their rookie left tackle, I think he's dealing with an injury. So is their guard, Patrick, who I don't think is any good. But, you know, especially if like Henning and this rookie and this offensive line doesn't have to look great because you're probably not going to look great against the Cowboys. But if they could just
Starting point is 01:07:04 hold their own, it would be a very good sign for the Saints, and I'll definitely take notice. So I'm probably watching. I would watch that line, though, in like the injury news and see if the Cowboys will probably be a public side, see if you can maybe get a seven. In that case, I think that that's where I would go as well. Okay, Packers Colts. Obviously, the Packers have a pretty devastating injury. Luckily, it's not out for the season. They lose a quarterback. they have invested in quarterbacks over the last couple of years and they cut them both after the preseason right uh Penn State kid and the Tulane guy and they trade from the Leake Willis and I'm using an analogy here I'm not a day trader I love the stock market but I've made a couple
Starting point is 01:07:48 big day trades in my life trying to get like a get rich day and I've been hit in the teeth both times and it was on Snapchat and that's classic like kind of a public just a lot of buzz about that company, and it always underperforms. And whoever is shorted that company over the years on the day that the earnings come out always makes a ton. And I have the logic when you start a backup quarterback who I think sucks. And Snapchat clearly just sucks. They never make any money. And the stock always goes down on earnings. And Malik Willis, I'm pro guys like Malik Willis in the draft. I like
Starting point is 01:08:27 physical attributes. And you get the right coach. maybe you make them into something. But the majority of those type players don't work. That's why they're called like projects. And he obviously he had to play a couple games, I think three games when he was a rookie and he was atrocious. And remember Vrable, I know you know this, but people listening, like,
Starting point is 01:08:48 thanks to him for Dobbs, who they got off the street and they were immediately better. Obviously Dobbs are a better quarterback. But at the time, it was kind of crazy because they had just drafted this guy and he was just bad. Then he hasn't really played over the last couple of years. And then they trade for this guy like two weeks ago.
Starting point is 01:09:05 I saw a headline today. It's like he's going into overdrive to try to learn this offense. So my logic is simply like I think he has a chance to just, he's not an NFL player. Now, maybe I'm proven wrong over the next couple weeks. But also I think it's fair to say if Malik Willis is just the Malik Willis that we saw in Tennessee and like you can't function and they get their ask, like he won't play next week.
Starting point is 01:09:25 Like they'll just have to go sign another quarterback or bring those guys back. and I'm just betting on him being not able to function. And it's not like this team is the Ravens or the Chiefs or the Niners where it's like, well, hey, this week, we just, our defense has to dominate. Because, I mean, I thought their defense would be better with Halfley. I get it. They're playing the Eagles with $150 million invested in the skill guys. But they look just like the Packers of old, which is a defense that you can't really trust.
Starting point is 01:09:55 Now, this game's in Lambo. I just under no circumstances. And I get Indy has question marks. Anthony Richardson, I mean, really, it's just too big place. Like, it's not like he was. Nine and 19. Yeah, Philip Rivers back there, 24, 28 or something. But he is an explosive player, came out of the game healthy. Defense for them is a question mark. But I'm not worried about Malik Willis. So I get this game. I mean, this line would not have looked like this two weeks ago if Jordan Love was in there. I am just 100% shorting Malik Willis. Like, there's a chance.
Starting point is 01:10:28 Sunday ends we're like, that's the worst player in the NFL. It's not, I mean, he seems like a nice guy, but I mean, he just might not be an NFL play. I actually think it's kind of crazy. Hear me out. Is it nuts that the Packers traded for him and then just immediately made him their backup quarterback? Like, I think that's a pretty bold move.
Starting point is 01:10:48 Yeah, I, it's, yeah, I mean, I guess that you think that just, hey, I mean, I'll talk, I'll give you the upside of having him as your. backup right now. Because, yeah, all the data that we have, it's the small sample size is that he's awful. And I do think that he's awful. So, but I will say historically, if you bet backup quarterbacks as underdogs in their first start, you're around like 57% against the spread. Market usually overreacts to the drop off.
Starting point is 01:11:15 And there's also like that star effect that you see in the NBA for one game. It's not really sustainable, but everyone else kind of steps up, elevates their play. you know and the coach has put in like the new wrinkles and you everyone kind of just elevates for that one game but this is just too much so that I had this line of about minus six on Packers was like a six point favorite at home against the Colts if Jordan Love was healthy yeah if everyone was healthy and the look at line I'm lower on the Colts than the market look at line is like four and a half so let's call it five like do you view do you view the Colts as a play team the way you're talking i take it no i don't know um so their their defense is bad which i'll get to
Starting point is 01:11:59 in a sec but the the and richardson still isn't there as a passer i don't think um but so let's call the line five but now we're at plus three that's a eight point move across key number of three and four eight point difference that's like a Andrew luck to Scott Tolzeen. That's like Aaron Rogers to Tim Boyle, who was I don't, and the Packers always have these
Starting point is 01:12:35 They have Hall of Fame backups or the worst backups in the NFL. Tim Boyle was the guy who played at Yukon one season. He had one touchdown and 13 interceptions, and he was the backup to Aaron Rogers. Malik Willis has no touchdown passes in the National Football League three picks.
Starting point is 01:12:51 I get it, but at least he's played. He's better than Tim Boyle, he's better than Scott Tolzeant. At least he's played. It's not eight, and Jordan, Jordan Love isn't Aaron Rogers MVP, you know, Andrew Luck, Patrick Mahomes. He's not the elite elite elite. The biggest drop you'll ever see from an elite elite elite quarterback, the best, and then it depends how bad your backup is, is, you know, seven, eight points. But Jordan Love isn't there yet. I mean, we still have the greatest sample size. I mean, I had a hell of, I think he's a top-down quarterback, but it's not like we know that he's, we're not saying he's Mahomes yet. So, and Malik Willis, I don't think is the worst backup of all time.
Starting point is 01:13:30 So I only think it's like a six-point drop-off. So I can't get to plus three. I'll also, this Colt, if you want to put a backup in any situation, it's this one. You have a little, a couple extra days to prepare. He's prepared for the Colts defense twice a year since he's been in the league because he was in Tennessee and they played each other twice year in division games. And the Colts defense is so basic, so easy, so static, so outdated under Gus Bradley. What they do every year is they run a ton of cover three, some cover two, and they don't blitz.
Starting point is 01:14:00 That's it. And what do they do last week? Cover three, cover two, 80, 85% of the time, no blitzing. So it's not a complex defense. They also lost their top corner in Juju Brents to an injury last week. DeForest Buckner, Quitty Pay. They're starting safety. They all might not play.
Starting point is 01:14:17 The defensive line is supposed to be the strength. This secondary is bad and now dock down its top corner. You have a ton of weapons. You know, you have a running back, a good offensive line. It's a much better offensive situation that Willis is in than he was in when he was in Tennessee. So, you know, good coach. I think they'll come up with a good game plan here. And it's just, it's a defense that he's the least familiar with.
Starting point is 01:14:37 And it's a bad defense. It's a defense that's not going to blitz you. It's not going to, it's pretty simple what he has to do here. If they miss the playoffs, Gus Bradley is getting fired written all over him. I don't know how he's not. He wasn't. Gus Bradley, you can run his, you can still run some of his concepts. I mean, everyone from that, that Pete Carroll tree, which trickled down into, like, the Sala,
Starting point is 01:15:01 they've all evolved. And, you know, even Dan Quinn has gone completely different. They've all evolved. They've run a, the jets run a ton of quarters. And Bradley is still the same defense. The league already has all their cover three beaters. You can still run it. Cover three is the biggest base defense.
Starting point is 01:15:20 I mean, everyone runs everything. But the way that the Colts run it is a very static out, the eight of cover three. But you need elite, elite defenders. Like, what made that work for Seattle is you had guys like Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman and Camp Champs. You need elite defenders in space to make play. And their defensive line was elite.
Starting point is 01:15:42 Yeah. And the Colts don't have the, not only they're not, not an elite defensive backfield, they have one of the worst in the NFL. oh, I don't know why Chris Bauer didn't address it. And I don't know why they keep sticking with Bradley. But yeah, I just, this is too much of an overreaction to me. And you could be right. And Wills could just be a disaster.
Starting point is 01:16:00 And the colds could win by 14, 21. And I did, okay, there's a lot of variance with Richardson, too, with like, does he hit a couple deep shots? Does he make a couple mistakes? But I just can't get the plus three at home. Like, it's like a five to six point drop to me. There was also like a 1% chance that love play. So, and if he's back there, even if he can't move, you know, him just thrown around would obviously be a lot better than Willis back there. LeFlec left the door, left that opportunity.
Starting point is 01:16:32 I don't think he's going to play, but he said there's a chance that he might play. I just think they're playing games, so the Colts have to prepare for him too. But there is at least the chance of that. But this is the situation that you want him to play. are with a bad defense, doesn't blitz, at home, a couple extra days to repair. He's already familiar with it. And you have good weapons, good offensive line, good coach around you. I expect the Packers D to be better. And the Colts are dealing with a lot more injuries on defense. Across the defensive line, lost top corner, and safety. So I took the three, but I can't
Starting point is 01:17:09 blame you or anyone else for wanting to fade Malik Willis. Okay, this is my favorite, I think, bet of the weekend. And it's the NFC East Toilet Bowl. I got it. This is some stucky logic here, Giants plus two. I looked this morning, I think it was two and a half, so people have been kind of, there's been some money coming in on the Giants. This goes to my Panthers and just my logic coming into the season.
Starting point is 01:17:33 I think Washington's going to be drafting in the top five. Now, I don't think the Giants are good either, but they're going to have their moments. They did last season. Like, I've seen Dayball over the course of a season, like they will just have some upsets. Like, to me, they're more likely to win six than they are two or three. And I don't think it's inconceivable that Washington just doesn't win many games at all.
Starting point is 01:17:55 And that's not like an indictment on Dan Quinn or Adam Peters. Their roster stinks. And last week against the Giants, you know, Sam Donald might just turn out to be solid. Maybe not what we thought he was going to be the number three overall pick. But like he's kind of resurrected his career, I think it's safe to say. He's going to be in a league for a while. As a starter, as a backup, I mean, time will tell this season. But like, he's got a positive momentum.
Starting point is 01:18:19 them. They also have Justin Jefferson who's like a $200 million wide receiver. And to me, I watched Washington last week. That was one of my favorite bets, Tampa to kill him. One, I just didn't think like they could score. Obviously Baker and Mike Evans and Godwin went nuts. But like I just think that this is a spot. Now they've invested a lot in their defensive line that I wonder if it's going to be a little bit harder for him just to kind of run wild on him. Now he's, he is a fast runner. But like as a passer, you saw last week, they're passing game. I just don't think it's going to be good. This is crazy, but I don't know if it was flipped
Starting point is 01:18:55 and Washington was getting two points. I'd probably stay away, but I'm hammering the Giants, getting points. Divisional games, you talk a lot about these divisional underdog, whether they're good teams or bad teams, it is your classic spots.
Starting point is 01:19:10 And my main logic is I just don't think Washington's good. I just think they're going to have a long fucking season. Now, they got more going for them than the Panthers. Because, like, I would much rather have Jane Daniels than Rice Young sitting here today if I was a GM, if I was a fan, whatever. But I like the Giants in this ball. I like him to just win the game. Yeah, I mean, look, who am I to? I was going to say, man, you know, this is sick.
Starting point is 01:19:36 It's a horrible game. But I just gave my, I just, the two bets that I just said I like to have Malik Willis and Bryce Young is the quarterback. So who am I to judge anyone? If I had to, if I had to take the, yeah, I would take the Giants for what it's worth. Underdogs in week two in a match of winless teams, 50, 25 and 3 against the spread since 2003, 67%. These two teams are so similar. Like bad offensive lines, horrible defenses, some talent on the defensive line, the Giants have a really good defensive line.
Starting point is 01:20:09 You know, the commanders of Payne and Allen in the interior. Questionable quarterbacks who have mobility. and you've got a star receiver on both sides. These two teams are so similar. And Washington, it's a divisional game. Homefield is already not much. And Washington has almost no home field anyway. So, yeah, if you're going to take,
Starting point is 01:20:33 if you're going to bet this game, and I would agree with you, you just take the team catching points. Probably a true coin flip, in my opinion. One number that jumped out to me, my first indication was like, God, that's a lot of points. I mean, Tampa, one thing is when those two wide receivers are healthy, whether it's Tom or Baker, they're just as good of a one-two combination as there is in the league
Starting point is 01:20:58 with Mike Evans and Godwin. So that team can score. And Baker obviously has changed the narrative on his career. Now, playing Washington and playing the Lions is a little different animal. But that number over a touchdown, I looked this morning, seven and a half. I hadn't really thought much about it, but I would have assumed that number would have been closer to five and a half six
Starting point is 01:21:21 if it was going to be that high. I guess Tampa's getting no respect. You had mentioned they had some injuries right before we jumped on, but that number seems pretty high to me after we just saw them go toe to toe in an NFC divisional game in Tampa. I mean, what's the record the last year in a game? I mean, they played pretty good, especially the last half of the season, and then, like, they look pretty solid.
Starting point is 01:21:44 The other thing is Todd, you know, at one point in time, it's like, is he going to survive long? He is a good defensive coach, right? And Detroit, like, I'm not trying to overreact that they underperformed, whatever the Rams are good, tough opponent, McVeigh all offseason. Stafford was fucking lights out. But the one thing is when you go from, like, the little engine that could, the team kind of, like, everyone's taken Detroit.
Starting point is 01:22:09 I mean, I would imagine on a weekly. basis, they're getting approached in the meetings and practice and game plans, no different than you would, playing the Ravens Chiefs for 49ers, right, at this point. So it's like, you're approaching them like a Super Bowl level team. And that number just jumped out to me, Stucky. Yeah, it seems a little high, but I, you know, I'm close to a touchdown because I had to downgrade the bucks a bit this week and adjust this projected spread because of their injuries in the secondary. A couple of their corners are hurt. They have two or three guys they're dealing with injuries there.
Starting point is 01:22:46 Antoine Winfield, probably their best player. All-Pro caliber safety is out. That's huge. And going up against this lion's offense, you know, you have the best offensive line in the NFL. I think last week golf didn't play in the free season. You know, there was, you always see with these quarterbacks in week one that didn't play in preseason a dip in production.
Starting point is 01:23:06 Usually see a jump, tick back off in week two. So I expect under Ben Johnson, I think, call it a pretty poor game. They were all over time. They were definitely off. I expect them to be back on here against a buck's secondary that has a ton of question marks and the lion's offensive line should be able to handle the blitz that you think Bowles is going to.
Starting point is 01:23:27 Now maybe Bowles just says, look, I'm going to sit back and I'm going to sit back more and, you know, shells with my safety's not blitz because I know I have injuries and I know the offensive line I'm going against and the weapons and I'm just going to not. prevent the explosive play, try to capitalize on a mistake, get stops in the red zone. That could be an approach there. Jameson Williams banked up. Yeah, which is worth known. If he can break out this year, that offense, that's really what they're missing,
Starting point is 01:23:54 is that second wide receiver to take off, and he looked good last week. But that's what I would be worried about with the Bucks is just those secondary injuries against the Lions offense I expect to be much better. But over a touchdown, I don't mind to look at the Bucks. Can I get you out of here on this? We'll go back to college. I think it might be one of, if not the only game with two ranked opponents. I was at the gym on Saturday morning and watching K-State Tulane was on one of the big TVs.
Starting point is 01:24:20 I mean, K-State was in trouble. And then I think they got like a fumble return. They kind of changed around the game. Arizona, I read a good article on the, I didn't realize Fafita and McMillan. That his last name? I think of a different wide receiver. Yeah, McMillan. These guys are like.
Starting point is 01:24:39 been playing together since high school. Obviously, they both could have made a lot of money and left to Washington. They decided to stay. I mean, McMillan's going to be a top, I don't know, 10, 12th pick, depending on how fast he runs. I mean, he's a star. This game's Friday night. Arizona's, you know, it's in Manhattan, Kansas.
Starting point is 01:24:59 But this is a team that, you know, some people thought if they could just be solid on defense, we know how good their offenses could compete to win this conference. And now that what's the quarter? quarterback who's played 75 years for Utah got thrown. Did you see the play where he got thrown into the bench and hurt his hand? So like, you know, obviously Utah with him and without him become a completely like they're a playoff team and then it's like what the hell am I watching? But to me, Arizona is a pretty big wild card. I know they look shitty against northern Arizona. But that's kind of your classic like they came out the gate swinging week one scored like 100 points. A little let down. This is a really, really big spot. I'm tempted to dabble a little bit on the money line here. It's not like K State is fucking Alabama. Now, you get, you get them plus seven,
Starting point is 01:25:49 but this is a pretty intriguing game to me. Yeah, it should be a fun one. Both offenses are pretty fun. I'm worried about, but the Kansas State defense was very worrisome against Tulane. I mean, they were starting, Tulane was starting a young kid, who they didn't even know he's going to be the starter until, like, late in camp.
Starting point is 01:26:08 and he was throwing all over. And there was coverage busts all over. That's definitely concerning when you're going up against McMill and one of the best receivers in the country. But I'm really worried about the Arizona defense, especially up front. So Kansas State's quarterback, A.B. Johnson's still limited it as a passer, electric runner. They have a really good backfield with Giddinson company.
Starting point is 01:26:28 The Arizona defensive front lost a lot. I mean, you go back to the game against New Mexico. New Mexico was scoring at will with Devin Dampier. and like a mobile quarterback. They were running on them. So I'm just afraid that Kansas State's going to be able to run at will here because that Arizona defensive front does not look great. Lost a couple of key guys there.
Starting point is 01:26:51 And then the offense is not as good as it was last year. Arizona was a team I was always betting. Number one, I love Jetfish who they lost. I think he just designed such a beautiful offense. He was putting the feet in just the best possible places on the field and giving them such easy throws and Paphita's good, don't get me wrong. But they also had a pro
Starting point is 01:27:11 an NFL left tackle. Who's... Jordan Morgan is on the Packers now. They had a really good second receiver in cowing, so they don't really have that now. It's all just like McMillan. Like in that New Mexico game, yeah, they won. I think they were trailing at the half
Starting point is 01:27:30 or it was almost tied at the half. He had 320 yards. So the next week, all the attention was on him. And yeah, I think he only had like two catches or like 15 yards. And Arizona's offense couldn't do anything. So I would assume that's Kansas State's game plan here. Can they execute it?
Starting point is 01:27:50 I mean, they couldn't. So I'm worried about this Arizona team. The offensive line is worse. The wide receiver room is worse. You just, you kind of have to just take away McMillan. They're running back. Their back field is worth, too. They lost their starting running back who's now starting at Washington.
Starting point is 01:28:04 So I think the Kansas. state will be able to run. If you can stop the run against Kansas State, make Avery Johnson. He's still limited as a passer. That's how you beat him. I'm not sure they'll be able to do it. But yeah, if you want to take a shot on a Friday night on Arizona, Money Island and McMillan goes off, I don't hate it. But I have concerns about both of these teams for sure. That's some good nuggets because I guess, you know, I saw a quote from their defensive coordinator last year who's up with, or one of the coaches who's with Jed. He's like, I thought by the end of the season we were playing, we're like a top 10 team in the country.
Starting point is 01:28:37 And now when you think about it, the left tackle who's on the Packers and who's technically their third tackle, but I mean, he's going to be a starter in the future. Cowing is a starter for the Niners. He's a starting punt returner, and he's going to,
Starting point is 01:28:49 as the season goes, play more on offense because of a speed and you lose your starting running back. Like that, with Fafita and McMillan, like that team was kind of stacked. Right. I mean, last year,
Starting point is 01:28:58 like, they were really, really good. I mean, and a really good running back is no longer there. Yeah. I mean, if Jed is a better offensive play caller than Brennan, who's an offensive guy too. But I just, maybe it's a homer pick, but I'm kind of, I'd like to see Arizona. Arizona's got a tough little stretch.
Starting point is 01:29:17 They play K. State and they play Utah next week. This is kind of their season, you know, if they want to compete for the Big 12. Yeah, the other thing I'll quick mention, the only other play that I have was Titans plus three and a half. Another, a week two trend, which is a pretty crazy one. teams that had the ball as little as the Jets did last week in week one. In week two, they're six and 25 against the spread. That's 19% over the past 20 years. If you watch the Jets 40-in, which I know you did,
Starting point is 01:29:47 the defense is on the field the entire game. You're not all the way up into game shape yet. Fatigue really hits hardest in week two. And they're going Monday night on the road to a number. another road game on a short week. Teams in that spot historically don't do well. And that Jets defense is just not the same. I mean, Chattahan ripped them apart, knew the solid defense, but the defensive line is
Starting point is 01:30:11 not the same. You don't have Huff, you don't have Franklin Myers, Reddick's holding out. And maybe the secondary regresses a little bit. They've been so good. But the defensive line is not getting as much pressure. They're able to be pushed around because they lost some key pieces there, not as talented. So I think the Titans catching over a field goal. Really good spot here.
Starting point is 01:30:34 Historically, teams that blow big leads in week one also are good bets in week two. But the Jets are still figuring out the offense of the line needs time to jail. Rodgers needs to still work out the kinks. It's like a, I know that I got one whiteouts. But yeah, you're just throwing it to one guy. I like the Titans additions. They added out Ernest Jones. The sweat kid from Texas look good up front with Simmons.
Starting point is 01:30:55 Now they have two veteran solid. solid corners. So I like what I saw last week from the defense. And yeah, you got to worry about just, hey, they're going to throw it to Wilson on the left side. I mean,
Starting point is 01:31:08 I saw a funny meme. It showed the passing chart of Aaron Rogers and then a picture next to it and he had an eye patch on his right eye. So, yeah, it's a very limited offense. Mike Williams isn't going to give you much right now
Starting point is 01:31:22 until he's fully healthy. So I like the Titans. catching over a field goal at home against the Jets. I heard you say it on your show that, like, classic reaction, because if you just weren't super locked into that game, look at the final score, Titans were kicking their ass, and they got a punt block for a touchdown,
Starting point is 01:31:44 and then the Will Levis, Daniel Jones type play. You know, you remove those two. The Bears don't win. The Titans defense was dominating. The Bears didn't have 150 total yards and didn't score an offensive touchdown. And now a June day's hurt and Keenan Allen's banged up. Yeah.
Starting point is 01:32:02 They somehow came back. It's one of the worst beats of the season. I had some money on the Titans, unfortunately. Up 17-0. The opposing offense doesn't get to 150 total yards for the game. Never scores an offensive touchdown. Not only do you lose, which is like a one-and-a-million chance of losing that kind of game. You don't cover four and a half.
Starting point is 01:32:19 It's crazy. Crazy. But I think you got to take this line should be a field goal max. So I think you've got to take the hook at home. Well, and the Jets, they got to. this game and then I think they play Thursday night right I mean they got like it could unravel on them really fast I think they play the Patriots on Thursday night yeah get used to the jets they're on I think like in the next starting a week one to like week nine um they're on like six times on an island games
Starting point is 01:32:43 I think ones like international they're on like five times in prime time but yeah they're the Notre they're the Notre Dame of the NFL the hype machine behind them and you watch them it's like yeah they got some good players but give me a break yeah they uh they have have the all the short week next week. They're starting three games in 10 days. It's a brutal stretch. They host the Patriots on Thursday. So short week to short week after back-to-back road trip.
Starting point is 01:33:10 Not great, but I will say I was impressed with the 49ers defense. It just looked livelier. There was more adjustments, more nuanced. So I think it was a good debut for Sheridan. and I'll be curious to watch like the staley influence if there's more wrinkles but it just looked more lively
Starting point is 01:33:33 like their defense was kind of cult-esque in the past. Now they have more talent and they would just rely on their front and they didn't really do much it was pretty consistent but they kind of got stale at the end under Wilkes
Starting point is 01:33:47 I thought it was a really good debut and everyone just looked a lot lively on that side of the ball. Well they got a couple things going for him. Last year with Wilkes, unlike D'Amico and Sala, there was like a disconnect between the players and him. They knew those two guys so well. And Fred Warner, who's basically like there Ray Lewis or Ed Reed, like his communication with the defensive coordinator, they got to be on the same page. And he felt like the communication was off between those two guys.
Starting point is 01:34:17 The other thing is coming. I think Bosa came out and said some stuff too. Yeah, they didn't, they just didn't like him. They didn't think he knew what he was doing. You add Floyd, so they get an extra pass rutscher. They were in Hargraves' ass this offseason. Like, we paid you a lot of money. Last year was not a great year for the hype. So, like, he comes in motivated. How many teams in the NFL have two good corners? It can't be many, right? So Ward is a good corner. And Lenore this offseason, and listen, I hate giving this guy credit, but Lenore's credit him. Brandon Staley's worked closely with him. They think, like, they're going to let Ward walk after this season in a perfect world, and Lenore will become that guy. They go.
Starting point is 01:34:55 like four deep at safety. They're missing Greenlaw right now, but if you have a good defensive backfield and a good defensive line and Fred Warner in the middle and your defensive coordinator can communicate with your star player, like those guys can help you call the place. Like those guys know, so it's like, hey, let's do this.
Starting point is 01:35:11 We don't need, like, Bill Belichick, I don't need you to tell me everything I'm doing. Like, we got a pretty good idea what's going on. And then the physicality, like their physicality on offense. Like, obviously McCaffrey, in theory is a big blow, but like, Jordan Mason, like you can't play for Kyle or in this scheme if you don't run hard downhill. It's why the Packers wanted Josh Jacobs.
Starting point is 01:35:32 It's why forever the Kubiak guys have always had good running backs that get one cut, go. Beside Trent Williams, most of our guys aren't shoving people around, but there are creases. And then when that run, I mean, you have no chance against the 49ers if you're not going to slow down the run. That's when their defense gets control. The concerning thing to me in that game was,
Starting point is 01:35:53 if I'm a Jets fan, part of getting run, Rogers was getting this total package. And I know he was older. But like it's pretty clear. He's like a stronger arm Jared Goff. Like he's a pocket quarterback now. He's not going to be mobile. The difference is Jared Goff plays on a team that is stacked in an elite
Starting point is 01:36:10 offensive line with elite weapons. It's like Rogers has one guy. He can't move if their defense is no longer high end and just middle of the pack. They're kind of fucked. Everyone's like, don't overreact. The diners are great. Yeah, it's not necessarily about that. it's more just like physically the guy doesn't look the same,
Starting point is 01:36:27 which understandably. He's 40 years old coming off like everyone's shitting on cousins. Like yeah, Cousins has never been able to move. And now he's coming off Achilles. He's really not going to be able to move. Well, Rogers, who was kind of slowing down the last couple years,
Starting point is 01:36:40 now he's got an Achilles. He looked pretty stagnant to me. Yeah, he's not going to be able to move much. And if there's like one offensive line injury, it could all fall apart quick. Especially when they play good defensive. tackles they can rush up the middle, he'd be in major trouble. Yeah, and I think their defense is going to take a step back.
Starting point is 01:37:00 Their defensive line's not as good, and it's really hard to maintain how good that secondary was last year, and they were really healthy. You already saw a couple of guys getting nicked up. They should all play this week, but there definitely could be some regression on that side of the ball. But, yeah, I was really impressed with 49ers' date. And I think Staley's, he's a good defensive mind. You don't want him, like, managing anything or running anything, but he's good to have
Starting point is 01:37:21 working with defensive backs, you know, giving his input, adding some wrinkles to defense. I think it's like a perfect role for him. And he's such, he's so different philosophically that I think bouncing off ideas with him and Sheridan can only improve that defense. And yeah, I think Yadam,
Starting point is 01:37:40 who was terrible early in his career, he was really good last year. I think that was like a sneaky good pickup, their other corner who funga didn't even, he's going to come back too. He looks like one of the better safeties in the NFL. So there's a lot working, uh,
Starting point is 01:37:53 in favor of this defense. I was definitely impressed. Yeah, and the Niners' offensive line, beside Trent, has been a major question. It looks like they hit on this guy named Poonie, the Kansas Guard. Yeah, Dominic Cune. You look great. So all of a sudden now it's like, well, two of our five, like, Poonie could be a pro bowler. So it's like we have the best left tackle, pro bowler.
Starting point is 01:38:11 And then you just, like most teams, you just find a couple guys you can function with. Yeah, McKibitz isn't bad. So, yeah, we need to hit. He's not great, but he's not. Don't say that too loud. He's, I know, I know a nine or something. fans don't like him. He had a good game. Well, in past pro, he can, you know, like McGlinche, he's fine against the run. I think in past pro when he gets in one-on-one situations,
Starting point is 01:38:32 limited athlete can just, you know, no one can block the JJ, you know, the T.J. Watts, the Micahs, but yeah, no, no, he's definitely not up there as elite. But, yeah, if you get puny on the inside hitting, that's, that's huge. I'm rude for you guys, because you, all these elite players, we're going to have to pay party. So then that's when you got tired It's a big year. It's a big year. It's a big year, Stuggie. Yeah.
Starting point is 01:38:59 Okay, last question. That call from Doug Peterson, now they ended up missing a field goal, but to go for fourth down on your own 30 in that situation had some brandy staly vibes. Did it not? Yeah. Also, just sneak it. Like, I don't understand. You have a cool. Trevor Lawrence is such a good sneaker.
Starting point is 01:39:16 He's like seven foot tall. Sneaking on fourth and one, it's like 90%. I don't know what that play call was. It's not like the dolphins have this huge front that you can't sneak it on. If you're going to go for it there, sneak the ball. But yeah, they were just like melding down. There was the fumble, the 80-yard touchdown. And I think they were just like in panic mode.
Starting point is 01:39:39 Oh, my God. It was a hard. Is that the worst feeling as a better? Yeah, you could feel. You can control. And then it was like, oh, my God. And when that happens, you just know it's over. And then you're playing Tyree Kill.
Starting point is 01:39:52 because I got the Dolphins office. You know they can score so quick, and then they do. And then you're like, then they go for it on fourth. And you're thinking, I'm like, this is going to end 2117. So, yeah, that's the most helpful feeling. When there's a game that you're not worried about, and all of a sudden you're like, oh, God, I thought I had this banked as a win. This is going to change my afternoon.
Starting point is 01:40:12 So it's good to have the NFL. The best part about betting the NFL, man. You just, you know, them and the Titans, you can never get too cocky. And unless you bet the Panthers, then you know it's over in the first minute. Okay, Sucky, man. Have a good week. Talk to you next week. Absolutely, brother.
Starting point is 01:40:25 Have it going. The volume. Another podcast from some SNL, late-night comedy guy, not quite. Unhumor me with Robert Smygel and friends. Me and hilarious guests from Bob Odenkirk to David Letterman help make you funnier. This week, my guest, SNL's Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidel. Help an Acapella band with their between songs banter. Where does your group perform?
Starting point is 01:40:53 We do some retirement homes. Those people are starving for banter. Listen to humor. with Robert Smygel and friends on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal, but encouraged. It's the enhanced games. Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth.
Starting point is 01:41:27 to Superhuman on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, this is Robert from the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast. Joe and I are both lifelong Star Wars fan, so we're celebrating May the 4th with a brand new week of fun, thought-provoking Star Wars-related episodes. Join us as we tackle science and culture topics from a galaxy far, far away, such as the biology of tauntons and wampas on the ice planet hot, or the practicality and corporate business sense of the Sith rule of two. Listen to stuff to bowl your mind on the Iheart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what I'm saying. Yep, that's me, Clifford Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, my basketball and college
Starting point is 01:42:13 football journey, or my career in sports media. Well, now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifers Show. This is a place for raw, unfills of conversations with athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard, but celebrated. So let's get to it. Listen to the Clifford show on the IHeard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok's podcast network on TikTok. On the Look Back at it podcast. For 1979, that was a big moment for me.
Starting point is 01:42:42 84's big to me. I'm Sam Jay. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick you here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. with our friends, fellow comedians, and favorite authors. Like Mark Lamont Hill on the 80s. 84 was a wild year. It was a wild year.
Starting point is 01:42:59 I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is an IHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.

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