Episode 408: Turducken Budget

The Underdog

Introduction 00:00:33 – 00:02:12 Matt jokes about the cold weather but considers going for a walk. Chris shares a story about the bug company visiting his house but facing issues with frozen water pipes. Pizza Debate & Local Favorites 00:02:12 – 06:36 Chris and Matt discuss favorite pizza toppings and local pizza places. Matt praises a bacon pizza and a chicken bacon ranch slice from a nearby shop. A debate about pickle pizza leads to Chris calling Matt an “adventurous pizza eater.” They discuss Domino's (“Dom's”) vs. Papa John's and Matt's regret about eating too much of it. Chris, a former pizza employee, shares behind-the-scenes info about the cleanliness of different chains. NFL Conference Championship Preview 1. Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Commanders 07:11 – 08:12 Eagles are favored by 6 points. Matt is mentally preparing for the Commanders' challenge, but he's not impressed by their season. They discuss how Jaden Daniels' poise has been a game-changer. Chris believes the Eagles are a better team, but media narratives favor Washington. 2. Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs 08:12 – 09:40 Chiefs favored by 1.5 points. Matt and Chris discuss how hard it is to pick against Patrick Mahomes. They acknowledge Buffalo's strong season, but Kansas City's playoff experience is unmatched. NFL Coaching Carousel: Pete Carroll to the Raiders 09:40 – 12:17 The Las Vegas Raiders hire Pete Carroll as head coach. Carroll, 73 years old, gets a three-year deal. Chris jokes that by the time Carroll's contract is up, he'll be the right age to run for president. Discussion of how the Raiders turned to Carroll after Ben Johnson chose the Bears. Baker Mayfield's Coaching Carousel Struggles 12:17 – 14:38 Baker Mayfield is about to enter his 8th NFL season with his 9th offensive coordinator. The only time he had back-to-back years with the same OC was 2020-2021 in Cleveland (Alex Van Pelt). Discussion on how difficult it is to succeed when constantly learning new systems. Liam Cohen Controversy & Jaguars Front Office Drama 14:38 – 17:25 Liam Cohen signed an extension with the Buccaneers, then suddenly left for the Jaguars. This coincided with Jaguars owner Shad Khan firing GM Trent Baalke. Matt and Chris discuss how Trevor Lawrence's development has been hindered by instability. Nick Sirianni's Lack of Recognition in NFL Awards 17:25 – 20:24 Nick Sirianni was not listed as a Coach of the Year candidate despite leading a 14-win Eagles team. Chris argues that Sirianni's lack of media friendliness hurts his reputation. Comparison to coaches like Kevin O'Connell, Dan Campbell, and Andy Reid who are receiving more praise. Media Bias Against the Eagles 20:24 – 23:40 Discussion of how sports shows focus on clickbait rather than real analysis. Matt criticizes media members still talking about A.J. Brown reading a book on the sidelines. They compare Eagles criticism to how the Commanders' schedule isn't scrutinized. NFL MVP Race: Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen 23:40 – 26:55 Lamar Jackson is the heavy favorite at -225; Josh Allen is +175. Chris and Matt debate whether Allen deserves it more based on value to his team. They acknowledge Lamar's consistency, but Allen had a breakthrough year. Pro Bowl & Fun Alternate Ideas 26:55 – 28:12 Chris suggests an NFL vs. College All-Star Game instead of the Pro Bowl. They joke about relegation, where the two worst teams play to stay in the league. Pickleball Commentary Idea 28:12 – 32:18 Chris and Matt talk about their willingness to become the lead commentators for professional pickleball. They imagine nicknaming players on the fly and making the sport more entertaining. Chris proposes recording a podcast while announcing a pickleball match. Final Thoughts 32:18 – End Chris and Matt conclude by discussing how media narratives affect awards and team reputations. They emphasize how experience matters in the playoffs, especially for the Chiefs.