Episode 245: That’s So Bubby

Introduction

• 00:00:59–00:02:30:
  • Hosts Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines open the first episode of the new year with lighthearted banter about New Year’s Day and the unique challenges of starting 2025.

College Football Playoff Commentary

• 00:02:30–00:06:42:
  • Discussion about the broken playoff system, with complaints about conference winners receiving automatic bids and top seeds often being underdogs.
  • Reflections on the Texas-Arizona State game, including Quinn Ewers’ rumored $6 million NIL offer and standout performances by Arizona State players.

Running Backs Missing Records

• 00:07:46–00:09:21:
  • Saquon Barkley falls 100 yards short of Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record as the Eagles decide to rest their starters.
  • Reflections on running back Ashton Jeanty’s near-break of Barry Sanders’ single-season record, falling 27 yards short.

Pop Culture and Documentaries

• 00:09:47–00:14:39:
  • Chris recommends Netflix’s Kings of Tupelo, a wild documentary involving Elvis impersonation, organ trafficking, and a presidential assassination attempt.
  • Other documentary mentions include Tickled, a bizarre tale about competitive endurance tickling.

NFL Week 18 Game-by-Game Discussion

Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens (00:14:52–00:17:12):

Analysis of the Ravens’ need to stay sharp and their chances of clinching the AFC North title against a Browns team experimenting with backup quarterbacks.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (00:17:54–00:19:57):

The Bengals aim to secure a playoff spot while battling Pittsburgh, with both teams navigating playoff implications.

New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills (00:20:12–00:21:21):

Buffalo locks up the #2 seed, with the Patriots playing out the string and debating their draft position.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers (00:28:00–00:29:19):

Falcons aim to clinch the NFC South title with a win, while Carolina’s struggles continue.

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears (00:30:28–00:30:45):

Packers rest starters, and the Bears have little to play for beyond pride.

Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans (00:31:00–00:32:26):

Texans plan to play their starters despite clinching a playoff spot, while the Titans face an uncertain offseason.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (00:32:37–00:34:15):

Colts’ solid play contrasts with the Jaguars’ tumultuous season, with Indianapolis seen as a favorite.

Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants (00:34:15–00:36:11):

Eagles’ backups face a Giants team looking to make a statement.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders (00:36:42–00:37:47):

Commanders seek to prove their worth, facing a disorganized Cowboys team.

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs (00:37:47–00:38:48):

Chiefs rest starters, while the Broncos aim to secure a playoff berth.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets (00:38:48–00:40:49):

Dolphins are slight favorites, with the Jets out of playoff contention and Aaron Rodgers reflecting on his tumultuous time in New York.

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers (00:42:02–00:44:18):

Chargers look to maintain momentum, while the Raiders play out their season.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals (00:44:39–00:47:54):

Injuries plague the 49ers, giving the Cardinals an edge in this matchup.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams (00:47:54–00:48:22):

Both teams have little at stake, leading to an unremarkable game.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions (00:48:22–00:52:16):

Lions’ offensive dominance sets them apart as playoff contenders, but concerns about their defense remain.

Coaching and Team Dynamics

• 00:50:17–00:52:13:
  • Discussion on potential coaching departures, including Ben Johnson from the Lions and Aaron Glenn, highlighting the challenges of replacing high-caliber coordinators.

Closing Thoughts

• 00:52:16–End:
  • The hosts conclude with reflections on the Lions’ playoff potential and the broader state of the NFL heading into the postseason.