The Chiefs Escape (Again), 2024 NFL Zags, and Million-Dollar Picks Return With Peter Schrager and Joe House
Digest
The podcast begins with updates on the Ringer Podcast Network, including a new "Re-Watchables" episode and a new WNBA show. The hosts then delve into a breakdown of the Chiefs vs. Ravens game, highlighting Lamar Jackson's performance and the Chiefs' offensive firepower. They discuss the impact of the game on various players' legacies and shift their focus to the upcoming 2024 NFL season, making predictions for teams like the Jets, Cowboys, and Broncos. They also introduce their "Zags" - unexpected teams they believe will make the playoffs. The discussion then turns to the potential of former NFL player, Bell Check, as a sports analyst. The hosts debate whether he will be critical and insightful or more of a comedian, comparing him to other former players who have transitioned to broadcasting. They explore Bell Check's film study skills and his ability to break down plays, comparing his approach to that of other analysts on "Inside the NFL." The hosts then discuss the return of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick to the media landscape, speculating on their potential impact and success in their new roles. They share a personal anecdote about meeting Brady at a Fox event and discuss the value of production meetings in sports broadcasting, arguing that they provide valuable insights and information that can enhance the broadcast. The conversation continues with a discussion of Brady's passion for football and his potential to be a successful broadcaster. The hosts believe that his competitive nature and deep knowledge of the game will make him a valuable asset. They also speculate on whether he will be able to resist the urge to return to playing. The hosts then discuss the possibility of Brady returning to the NFL, believing that his competitive nature and physical condition make it a real possibility, especially if a team with a chance to win the Super Bowl needs a quarterback. They also discuss the desire of athletes to continue playing even after retirement, using examples like T.O. and Tyson to illustrate this point. The podcast concludes with a discussion of the Chiefs' social media presence, their reluctance to boast about their success, and their focus on team unity. They contrast this with other teams, like the Patriots, who are more willing to celebrate their wins. They also discuss the NFL Network's Top 100 Player List and its potential to motivate players. The hosts share their predictions for week one of the NFL season, including their Million Dollar Picks, and briefly discuss the upcoming Netflix series "Spin Sick."
Outlines
Ringer Podcast Network Updates and Chiefs vs. Ravens Game Breakdown
The podcast begins with updates on the Ringer Podcast Network and then dives into a breakdown of the Chiefs vs. Ravens game, highlighting Lamar Jackson's performance and the Chiefs' offensive firepower.
2024 NFL Season Predictions and Bell Check's Potential as a Sports Analyst
The hosts discuss their predictions for the 2024 NFL season, including their "Zags" - unexpected teams they believe will make the playoffs. They then delve into the potential of former NFL player, Bell Check, as a sports analyst, debating whether he will be critical and insightful or more of a comedian.
Inside the NFL and Film Study
The hosts discuss Bell Check's film study skills and his ability to break down plays, comparing his approach to that of other analysts on "Inside the NFL."
Brady and Belichick's Return to Media and Production Meeting Value
The hosts discuss the return of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick to the media landscape, speculating on their potential impact and success in their new roles. They also discuss the value of production meetings in sports broadcasting, arguing that they provide valuable insights and information that can enhance the broadcast.
Brady's Passion for Football and Potential Return to the NFL
The hosts discuss Brady's passion for football and his potential to be a successful broadcaster. They also speculate on whether he will be able to resist the urge to return to playing.
Athlete's Desire to Play After Retirement and Chiefs' Social Media Presence
The hosts discuss the desire of athletes to continue playing even after retirement and the Chiefs' social media presence, their reluctance to boast about their success, and their focus on team unity.
NFL Network's Top 100 Player List and Week One Predictions
The hosts discuss the NFL Network's Top 100 Player List and its potential to motivate players. They then share their predictions for week one of the NFL season, including their Million Dollar Picks.
Million Dollar Picks and Netflix Series "Spin Sick"
The hosts discuss their Million Dollar Picks for week one of the NFL season and briefly discuss the upcoming Netflix series "Spin Sick."
Steelers vs. Falcons Game Breakdown
The hosts discuss the upcoming Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Atlanta Falcons game, highlighting the Steelers' strong defense and the Falcons' lackluster offense.
Jets vs. 49ers Matchup and Lions vs. Rams Game
The hosts debate the Jets vs. 49ers matchup and discuss the Lions vs. Rams game, highlighting the Lions' strong offensive potential and the Rams' uncertainty.
Chargers vs. Raiders Game and Million Dollar Picks for Week 1
The hosts debate the Chargers vs. Raiders game and reveal their million-dollar picks for week 1 of the NFL season.
Keywords
Lamar Jackson
Quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, known for his dynamic playmaking abilities and rushing prowess.
Aaron Rodgers
Quarterback for the New York Jets, a four-time NFL MVP known for his exceptional accuracy and leadership.
Tom Brady
Former quarterback for the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
Bill Belichick
Head coach of the New England Patriots, a legendary coach known for his defensive schemes and winning mentality.
Sports Analyst
A person who provides commentary and analysis on sports events, typically for television or radio broadcasts.
Film Study
The process of analyzing game footage to identify strengths and weaknesses of players and teams.
Production Meeting
A meeting held by a sports broadcasting team to discuss the upcoming game, including storylines, potential talking points, and interview strategies.
Million Dollar Picks
A segment on a sports podcast where the hosts make predictions for upcoming games and bet on the outcomes.
Fandall
A sports betting platform that offers a variety of betting options, including money line bets, point spreads, and over/unders.
"Re-Watchables"
A popular Ringer Podcast Network series where hosts revisit and discuss classic movies and TV shows.
Q&A
What are some of the key takeaways from the Chiefs vs. Ravens game?
Lamar Jackson had a strong performance, showcasing his dynamic playmaking abilities. The Chiefs' offense looked explosive, particularly with their new weapons like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore. The game highlighted the importance of draft picks and the Chiefs' ability to reload their roster.
Why are the hosts so optimistic about the New York Jets' chances in the 2024 season?
The Jets have a talented roster, including a strong defense and a potent offense led by Aaron Rodgers. They also have a good coaching staff and a favorable schedule. The hosts believe that the Jets have the potential to make a deep playoff run.
What are some of the hosts' "Zags" for the 2024 season?
The hosts believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks are both capable of making the playoffs. They are particularly bullish on the Seahawks, who have a young and talented roster and a strong defense.
What are some of the concerns surrounding the Cleveland Browns' chances in the 2024 season?
The Browns have a talented roster, but there are concerns about Deshaun Watson's ability to bounce back from his legal issues and perform at a high level. The hosts are also unsure about the team's offensive line and coaching staff.
What are some of the factors that make the Houston Texans a potential Super Bowl contender?
The Texans have a young and talented roster, including a highly touted rookie quarterback in CJ Stroud. They also have a strong coaching staff and a favorable schedule. The hosts believe that the Texans have the potential to make a surprise run to the Super Bowl.
What are some of the key factors that will determine whether Bell Check will be a successful sports analyst?
Bell Check's success as a sports analyst will depend on his ability to be critical and insightful, rather than just a comedian. He needs to demonstrate a deep understanding of the game and provide valuable analysis, similar to other successful former players like Sean Payton and Pat Riley.
How does Bell Check's film study approach compare to other analysts on "Inside the NFL"?
Bell Check's film study skills are impressive, as he can break down plays and provide insightful analysis. He shares similarities with other analysts on "Inside the NFL," like Chris Long and Ryan Clark, who are known for their detailed and insightful commentary.
What are some of the challenges that Tom Brady and Bill Belichick might face in their new roles in the media landscape?
Brady and Belichick's transition to media might be challenging, as they need to adapt to a new environment and find their voice. They will also need to navigate the expectations of fans and the media, who are eager to hear their insights and opinions.
What is the value of production meetings in sports broadcasting?
Production meetings are crucial for sports broadcasting teams, as they provide valuable insights and information that can enhance the broadcast. They allow analysts to share their expertise and help the team develop storylines and interview strategies.
What are some of the reasons why Tom Brady might be a successful broadcaster?
Brady's competitive nature, deep knowledge of the game, and passion for football make him a potential asset to broadcasting. His insights and opinions could be valuable to viewers, and his ability to connect with fans could make him a popular figure.
Show Notes
The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Peter Schrager of NFL Network and Fox Sports to discuss the Chiefs narrowly surviving the Ravens in the incredible NFL season opener (3:01 ). They then talk about the loaded Jets roster, the bad-vibes 49ers, Jaguars optimism (23:25 ), their biggest "zags" on the 2024-25 season, Tom Brady and Bill Belichick on TV, and more (43:52 ). Finally, Bill is joined by Joe House to make the Million-Dollar Picks for NFL Week 1 (1:21:05 ).
Host: Bill Simmons
Guests: Peter Schrager and Joe House
Producer: Kyle Crichton
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