The Longest NFL Day Ever, Cowboys Fever, Incompetence Galore, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal

Update: 2024-10-07

Digest

This episode of the podcast features Bill Simmons and Cousin Sal discussing the latest NFL news and offering their takes on various topics. They begin by analyzing the Cowboys' victory over the Steelers, highlighting Dak Prescott's performance and the Cowboys' dominance in all facets of the game. They then debate whether the Cowboys are a legitimate playoff contender, considering their 3-2 record and the competitive NFC East. The conversation shifts to the Ravens' impressive 4-1 record and their ability to win games in different ways, leading to a discussion about the Ravens' offensive firepower and their potential to be a top contender in the AFC. The hosts then delve into the unpredictable NFC West, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the 49ers, Cardinals, and Seahawks. They also debate whether Aaron Rodgers is still a top-tier quarterback, considering his recent struggles and inconsistent play. The discussion then turns to Sam Darnold's performance in the Jets' loss to the Vikings, questioning whether he can be a reliable quarterback in the long term. The hosts then discuss the impressive performances of rookie quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Bryce Young, considering their potential to be MVP candidates. They analyze their strengths and the overall state of the MVP race, ultimately discussing their own MVP picks. They also discuss Daniel Jones' impressive performance in the Giants' victory over the Seahawks, highlighting his ability to control the game and lead the Giants to a surprising win. The conversation then shifts to the Bengals' offensive resurgence, highlighting Joe Burrow's performance and the contributions of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. They analyze the Bengals' potential and their ability to compete in the AFC. The hosts then engage in a "Week 5 Incompetency Draft," where they select the most incompetent players, coaches, and teams from the week's NFL action. They discuss the Browns' struggles with Deshaun Watson, the 49ers' sloppy play, and the Jaguars' inconsistency. The discussion then moves to a critique of the WNBA's scheduling, advocating for better placement of games to attract casual fans. The conversation then shifts to the NFL's concussion spotters, with a specific example of Josh Allen's apparent concussion during a game. The hosts discuss their "incompetence groups" for the week, highlighting players and teams that have underperformed. They note the surprising lack of referee-related complaints, given the usual focus on officiating. The conversation turns to sports betting, with the hosts discussing their picks for the week. They express frustration with over/under bets, comparing them to roulette due to their unpredictable nature. The hosts engage in a friendly competition, making predictions for the upcoming week's NFL games. They discuss their reasoning for each pick, considering factors like team performance, injuries, and home-field advantage. The hosts highlight the significance of the Ravens-Commanders game, noting its rarity as a matchup between two teams with winning records. They discuss their picks for the game, with differing opinions on the point spread. The hosts discuss the Saints-Buccaneers game, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the NFC South. They express their frustration with the division's inconsistency and their picks for the game. The hosts discuss the Lions-Cowboys game, with one host adjusting their pick based on the other's confidence. They acknowledge the Lions' strong performance against Pittsburgh but question their ability to replicate that success against Dallas. The hosts discuss the Eagles-Browns game, with a significant disagreement on the point spread. They debate the Eagles' dominance and the Browns' potential for an upset, ultimately disagreeing on the predicted outcome. The hosts discuss the Packers-Cardinals game, highlighting the Packers' surprising victory despite a pick-six. They also touch on the increasing use of win probability statistics in sports broadcasts. The hosts express their strong dislike for win probability statistics, arguing that they detract from the excitement and unpredictability of sports. They criticize the overuse of these statistics and their potential impact on viewership. The hosts continue their critique of win probability statistics, arguing that they are irrelevant and intrusive in social settings. They imagine a scenario where these statistics become commonplace in everyday conversations, leading to awkward and unnecessary discussions. The hosts discuss the Chargers-Broncos game, with one host comparing the Broncos to a "poor man's Pittsburgh." They discuss the Broncos' surprising record and their potential for a surprising upset against the Chargers. The hosts debate the identity of the best defense in the NFL, considering various teams and their recent performances. They ultimately agree that the Kansas City Chiefs have the most reliable defense, particularly in crucial moments. The hosts discuss the Steelers-Raiders game, highlighting the Steelers' strong pass rush as a potential problem for the Raiders. They also note the historical trend of favorites with a seven-point spread or more losing, suggesting an upset might be in store. The hosts discuss the Colts-Titans game, with one host predicting a close victory for the Colts. They also mention Raheem Palmer's tendency to bet on underperforming teams, suggesting this game might be a good pick for him. The hosts discuss the Falcons-Panthers game, with one host arguing that the Panthers should not be getting a four-point spread against a 500-nup team. They make their picks for the game, with differing opinions on the point spread. The hosts discuss the potential value of betting on bad teams, particularly in blowouts. They note that bad teams often get blown out, creating opportunities for high-paying bets. The hosts discuss the Bengals-Giants game, with one host expressing concern about the Bengals' vulnerability against the Giants. They acknowledge the Giants' potential for an upset, particularly if their receivers perform well. The hosts discuss the Bills-Jets game, with one host predicting a Bills victory and the other predicting a Jets upset. They acknowledge the Jets' potential for a surprise win, particularly if their defense performs well. The hosts discuss the potential for renewed hype surrounding Aaron Rodgers after a recent victory. They question whether the public will be quick to jump back on the Rodgers bandwagon after a successful performance. The hosts discuss the emotional rollercoaster of being a sports fan, particularly during the playoffs. They describe the intense highs and lows of watching their teams compete, and the impact it has on their overall well-being. The hosts discuss the importance of shared sports moments with their children, highlighting the lasting impact these experiences can have. They recall specific moments that have created lasting memories and bonds with their families. The hosts discuss their shared passion for UFC, particularly their admiration for fighter Alex Pereira. They describe their excitement watching Pereira compete and the special bond they have formed through their shared interest. The hosts suggest that watching UFC can be a good way for parents to connect with their children and appear "cool." They note the popularity of UFC among younger generations and the potential for shared experiences and conversations. The hosts promote their various podcasts and media projects, including "Against All Odds," "Through the Ringer," and "The Rewatchables." They also announce a giveaway for a 50-inch TV, encouraging listeners to participate.

Outlines