Digest

The podcast begins with a discussion of CD Lam's new contract with the Cowboys, highlighting its implications for both the player and the team. The hosts then delve into their "Takes We're Afraid to Say Out Loud," offering critical analyses of several teams, including the Patriots, Steelers, Giants, Broncos, and Browns. They express concerns about the Patriots' quarterback situation, the Steelers' lack of depth at wide receiver, and the Browns' offensive line struggles. They also believe that the Giants might be better than expected, the Broncos could be a surprise team, and the Browns' offense could be a disaster. The hosts also discuss their disappointment with the new kickoff rule changes, arguing that they will lead to more conservative play and fewer exciting returns. Finally, they share their surprise at Kirk Cousins' off-season antics, finding his behavior both charming and unsettling.

Outlines

00:00:00

NFL Season Preview: Bold Predictions and Controversial Takes

The podcast begins with a discussion of CD Lam's new contract with the Cowboys, highlighting its implications for both the player and the team. The hosts then delve into their "Takes We're Afraid to Say Out Loud," offering critical analyses of several teams, including the Patriots, Steelers, Giants, Broncos, and Browns.

00:04:11

Patriots' Quarterback Situation and Coaching Concerns

The hosts discuss their concerns about Bill Belichick's influence on the Patriots' current coaching staff and roster decisions. They express skepticism about the team's quarterback situation, particularly with the offensive line's struggles and the coach's public comments about Drake May.

00:19:19

Steelers' Quarterback Uncertainty and Lack of Depth

The hosts discuss their belief that Mike Tomlin's streak of never having a losing season will end this year. They cite the quarterback situation, with Russell Wilson expected to start despite reports of Justin Fields performing better, and the lack of depth at wide receiver.

00:27:05

Disappointment with New Kickoff Rule Changes

The hosts discuss their disappointment with the new kickoff rule changes, arguing that the league hasn't gone far enough to incentivize teams to avoid touchbacks. They believe the rule will lead to more conservative play and fewer exciting returns.

00:35:18

Giants' Potential for Surprise Success

The hosts discuss their belief that the Giants might not be as bad as many expect, citing their strong pass rush and the potential for Malik Neighbors to be an impact player. They acknowledge the offensive line's struggles but believe the team could be competitive.

00:43:34

Broncos' Potential for a Turnaround Season

The hosts discuss their belief that the Broncos could be a surprise team this season, citing the potential for Russell Wilson to turn things around. They acknowledge the team's struggles but believe Sean Payton's coaching could make a difference.

00:46:19

Kirk Cousins' Off-Season Antics

The hosts discuss their surprise at Kirk Cousins' off-season antics, including his newfound focus on health and fitness, his water park outing with the Falcons, and his involvement in a birthday playlist for the team. They find his behavior charming and unsettling.

00:54:28

Browns' Offensive Concerns and Defensive Strengths

The hosts discuss their belief that the Browns' offense could be a disaster this season, citing the offensive line's struggles, the uncertainty surrounding Nick Chubb's return, and the continued inconsistency of Deshaun Watson. They believe the team's defense will carry them, but the offense will be a major weakness.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the hosts' concerns about the New England Patriots' quarterback situation?

  The hosts are concerned about the Patriots' offensive line, which they believe is a major weakness. They are also skeptical about the coach's public comments about Drake May, suggesting that he may be talking himself into a corner.

• Why do the hosts believe Mike Tomlin's streak of never having a losing season will end this year?

  The hosts believe the Steelers' quarterback situation is a major weakness, with Russell Wilson expected to start despite reports of Justin Fields performing better. They also cite the lack of depth at wide receiver and the team's tough schedule.

• What are the hosts' concerns about the new kickoff rule changes?

  The hosts believe the league hasn't gone far enough to incentivize teams to avoid touchbacks, leading to more conservative play and fewer exciting returns. They believe the rule will ultimately be changed, but not anytime soon.

• Why do the hosts believe the Giants might not be as bad as many expect?

  The hosts cite the Giants' strong pass rush, the potential for Malik Neighbors to be an impact player, and the possibility that Daniel Jones could be a competent quarterback. They acknowledge the offensive line's struggles but believe the team could be competitive.

• Why do the hosts believe the Browns' offense could be a disaster this season?

  The hosts cite the offensive line's struggles, the uncertainty surrounding Nick Chubb's return, and the continued inconsistency of Deshaun Watson. They believe the team's defense will carry them, but the offense will be a major weakness.

Show Notes