SMQBs
A sports podcast that doesn't suck for fans who want a deep, sometimes controversial, dive into the world of sports.. Who is the punchable face of the week? Grab a beer and join the conversation.
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SMQB Madness: Bracket Upsets and the Fight for the Seventh Amendment
03/31/2026
SMQB Madness: Bracket Upsets and the Fight for the Seventh Amendment
Bison and House hold down the fort this week, starting with a toast to Arthur Green, a 109-year-old veteran who has been an Orioles fan since before they left St. Louis. Then it’s Region 3 of the SMQB Best Sports Competition bracket! Listen in to find out why Bison is exacting "revenge" for the Indy 500 by pushing the Daytona 500 through, and how the NCAA Final Four remains a powerhouse seed. The guys also preview the USMNT’s upcoming matches and the final qualifying spots for the World Cup, involving a high-stakes showdown between Sweden and Poland. In the legal corner, the discussion centers on your right to a jury trial. Bison and House break down why the Brian Flores case is a win for the Seventh Amendment and a "fatal flaw" for the NFL’s unilateral control over disputes. Whether you’re a lawyer or just a fan of the game, you’ll want to hear how these "forced arbitration" clauses in your credit card and cell phone contracts are finally being challenged in the sports world.
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Madness, Major League Previews, and the "Balls" of Dylan Darling
03/24/2026
Madness, Major League Previews, and the "Balls" of Dylan Darling
A deep dive into the first two rounds of March Madness. The crew breaks down the biggest shockers, from the ACC’s disappointing showing to the "mini Lasso" story of High Point’s Cinderella run. They also dissect the coaching blunders that led to Florida's early exit and celebrate the legendary "balls" of St. John’s Dylan Darling, who called his own game-winning play against Rick Pitino’s better judgment. Beyond the court, the guys switch gears to the diamond for a massive 2026 National League preview. They break down every division, debating if anyone can actually stop the Dodgers’ "juggernaut" rotation and which NL East "aging stars" or "hurting Braves" have the best shot at a deep October run.
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March Madness, Bracket Busters, and The "Real" Champions
03/17/2026
March Madness, Bracket Busters, and The "Real" Champions
The SMQB crew is diving headfirst into March Madness. They break down the West and South regions, highlighting under-the-radar storylines like Purdue's Braden Smith chasing the all-time NCAA assist record and the tragic yet inspiring turnaround at USF under Brian Hodgson. The guys don't hold back on their Final Four locks, debating whether Florida’s size can bully the South or if Arizona is destined for another early exit. Beyond the court, the crew introduces a new "March Madness" bracket of their own: the 64 greatest sports competitions of all time. They spark some serious debate right out of the gate, weighing the prestige of the Masters against the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest and delivering a shocker by picking the Manchester Derby over the Ryder Cup.
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F1 Tech Wars and the "Profile in Courage" Award
03/10/2026
F1 Tech Wars and the "Profile in Courage" Award
The crew gets into the weeds of the F1 regulation changes, debating the new "power boost" strategy over the old DRS system. While drivers like Max Verstappen deal with technical "gremlins" like locking brakes, the fans are enjoying a record-setting 146 overtakes in Melbourne. The guys also offer a "public service announcement" for fans trying to find the Sky Sports broadcast on Apple TV to avoid the "dull" new announcing crew. To wrap up, the podcast recognizes the investigative work of Pablo Torre, awarding him a hypothetical "Profile in Courage" for his deep dive into the business dealings of Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. The episode concludes with some "buzzer beaters," including Jason Tatum’s remarkable return from an Achilles injury and the Raiders' aggressive moves to bolster their defense in free agency.
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Hard Truths & Hot Takes: The Annual "Punch" List
03/03/2026
Hard Truths & Hot Takes: The Annual "Punch" List
It’s that time of year again where the crew hands out their "punches." Rooster doesn't hold back on Yankees GM Brian Cashman, criticizing the team's reliance on "broken down old stars" like Giancarlo Stanton. The segment moves to a broader critique of AI-altered images and the handling of the US hockey team's White House visit. As spring training heats up, the guys analyze the latest NFL combine results, marveling at the "scary" athleticism of 236-pound linebackers running sub-4.4 40s. They highlight potential draft steals like Jeremiah Love and discuss the impact of veteran releases across the league. The discussion wraps up with a look at some of the wilder stories hitting the wire, including a bizarre eligibility investigation involving a USC basketball player. It’s a fast-paced look at the controversies and "buzzer beaters" defining the sports week.
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Legends, Lasso Stories, and the Quad God: SMQB's Ultimate Reel Special
02/24/2026
Legends, Lasso Stories, and the Quad God: SMQB's Ultimate Reel Special
Michael “Rooster” Phelan The "Moral Dilemma" Punch: Rooster delivers a powerful segment questioning his fandom for the New York Giants after disturbing emails surfaced regarding co-owner Steve Tisch. He takes a firm stance, stating he cannot support the team if Tisch is not forced out, sparking a deep debate on the morality of sports ownership. The "Bald Vanity" Rant: In a lighter but equally passionate moment, Rooster "punches" male athlete vanity, specifically mocking LeBron James and Jalen Brown for using hair polish and a boxer whose toupee flew off mid-fight. Homer Hopes: Rooster expresses his "homer" hope for the Giants to hire a disciplinarian coach like Tom Coughlin or John Harbaugh to bring structure to the team's young talent. Chris “Bison” Nace National Catchers Day Celebration: Bison brings an entire roster of legendary catchers—including Josh Gibson, Johnny Bench, and Gary Carter—to "the bar" in honor of National Catchers Day. The Washington Post Defense: Bison delivers a stinging "punch" to Jeff Bezos for the decline of The Washington Post's sports section, lamenting the loss of embedded local reporting and the impact on the sports community. Skepticism of the "Upstart" Patriots: Bison mockingly refers to the New England Patriots as an "upstart franchise" that has never been to a Super Bowl, before acknowledging his genuine annoyance that "they're f***ing back". Bryan Pope The Olympic History Buff: Pope shines as the resident expert on the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, sharing details about Lindsey Vonn’s attempt to be the oldest medalist and the unique "luxury resort" setting of Cortina in the Dolomites. "Sir Barks-a-Lot" & Tennis: Pope explains how his 13-year-old golden retriever, Carmichael (aka Sir Barks-a-Lot), waking him up at 3AM led to him becoming an accidental expert on the Australian Open. The "Pope Stat": He provides the unique trivia that Charlie Puth is the first Jewish singer to perform the national anthem at the Super Bowl. Tobi “House” Millrood The "Birding" Quarterback: House brings fellow "birder" Sam Darnold to the bar, celebrating the quarterback's redemption arc as a "Lasso story" while defending his own hobby of ornithology and bird calls. The Manchester United Haircut Bet: House tracks the viral story of Frank Illett, a fan who hasn't cut his hair in 485 days, betting that if the team wins two more games, they will have him on the pod for a live head-shaving. The "Breaking Away" Comparison: House compares the long-suffering Indiana Hoosiers fans' recent success to the movie Breaking Away, celebrating their journey from "all thin" to a "colossal all-time ride". Patrick “Milk” Mickler The "Quad God" Aficionado: Milk stuns the other hosts with his knowledge of figure skating, introducing them to Ilya Malinin (the "Quad God") and explaining the emotional weight of the team's history following a tragic plane crash. The "Cycle of Hell": Milk provides a cynical but realistic breakdown of the "NFL cycle of hell," where good offensive coordinators are immediately hired away as head coaches, leaving teams like his Buccaneers in a constant state of turnover. The Outdoor Hockey Hype: Milk celebrates the success of the Stadium Series in Tampa, describing the "phenomenal" scene of outdoor hockey in 38-degree Florida weather.
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Olympic Memories and All-Star Experiments
02/17/2026
Olympic Memories and All-Star Experiments
This week’s show centers on the "Helmet of Memory" worn by Ukrainian skeleton rider Vladislav Heraskovich and the IOC’s decision to ban it. The group explores the perceived hypocrisy of sporting bodies that allow certain displays while prohibiting others, using historical examples from Jesse Owens to Colin Kaepernick to frame the current debate over political speech in competition. Shifting gears to the hardwood, the hosts analyze the NBA's attempt to revitalize the All-Star Game with a multi-team, international-themed format. They highlight standouts like Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Edwards, but don't hold back on their criticism of the dunk contest’s over-reliance on props. The episode wraps with a look at the "punchable faces" of the week and a heartfelt tribute to former NFL lineman Trey Johnson.
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From Super Bowl Hangovers to Spring Training: The Sports Transition
02/09/2026
From Super Bowl Hangovers to Spring Training: The Sports Transition
The recent Seahawks-Patriots Super Bowl, which most of the crew found "less than riveting" and bordering on boring. They dive into the contrasting performances of the QBs, praising Sam Darnold's "ghost-free" game management while critiquing Drake May’s "deer in the headlights" struggle against a suffocating Seattle defense. With the football season wrapped up, the pod shifts gears toward the diamond. Chris brings the entire MLB roster of pitchers and catchers "to the bar" as they report for spring training, signaling the official start of the baseball season. The guys debate the legendary status of Sonny Jurgensen following his passing at age 91, cementing his place on the "Mount Rushmore" of DC sports. Meanwhile, the conversation doesn't stay on the field for long. The crew hits on the NBA trade deadline, analyzing the Wizards' high-stakes moves for Trey Young and AD, and the Celtics' masterclass in cap management. It’s a classic bridge week where the gridiron meets the hardwood and the dirt.
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Prop Bets and Surprise Halftime Guests to Olympic Alpine Dreams
02/03/2026
Prop Bets and Surprise Halftime Guests to Olympic Alpine Dreams
This episode features a look at the more unpredictable and entertaining elements of the Super Bowl and the NFL offseason. The conversation includes prop betting on everything from the over/under length of the National Anthem—which is 120 seconds—to whether any team will score in the last two minutes of the fourth quarter. They also speculate on the first commercial to air, with a sentimental Budweiser ad being a strong candidate. The hosts delve into the halftime show, providing rumors and insights about Bad Bunny's performance, including a potential costume choice and a major surprise guest, with names like Cardi B and Shakira tossed around. They also analyze the Super Bowl broadcast team, joking about the color commentary. On the Olympic front, they express hope for alpine skier Lindsey Vonn, who is aiming to become the oldest Olympic medalist in her event despite a recent crash and skiing on a knee replacement. On the gridiron, they salute Sam Darnold for becoming the first USC quarterback to make a Super Bowl appearance. Later in the episode, the Winter Olympics take center stage. The team gets excited about the return of NHL players to the men’s hockey tournament for the first time since 2014, and they cover new and unique events like the grueling Ski Mountaineering (Ski-mo). They also offer names to watch, including Layla Edwards, the first African American on the US Women's Hockey team, and Swiss downhill favorite Marco Odermott.
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Fantasy Camp Glory, Steelers' Head-Scratcher, and the Baffling Bills Job
01/26/2026
Fantasy Camp Glory, Steelers' Head-Scratcher, and the Baffling Bills Job
This episode kicks off with the hosts tackling the latest uncharacteristic move in the NFL coaching carousel: the Steelers’ hiring of Mike McCarthy. Given Pittsburgh's history of picking young, up-and-coming head coaches like Mike Tomlin, Bill Cowher, and Chuck Noll—all hired in their mid-30s—the crew is baffled by the choice of the 62-year-old McCarthy. The conversation then shifts to the perplexing situation in Buffalo, where the Bills’ head coaching job seems to be strangely unappealing. Philip Rivers was interviewed and then withdrew his name after Mike McDaniels canceled his interview. The hosts can't figure out why a job with a generational quarterback like Josh Allen would be such a hard sell. The main event this week is the incredible run of the "Eustacoods," champions of the first-ever Washington Nationals Fantasy Camp. The guys relive the entire experience, including an intense, competitive championship game where the team had to rally from a 7-5 deficit in the sixth inning to beat the previously undefeated Lawn Chair Legends. They break down the high level of play, the use of Field of Dreams whiskey and champagne, and the clutch moments, including a game-ending play at first base against one of the camp's best players, and the highly debated "beautiful bunt" laid down by Cousin Justin against a former Major League pitcher.
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MLB Talk, The Bills' Coaching Debacle, Bears' Near-Miss, and Baseball's Billion-Dollar Problem
01/20/2026
MLB Talk, The Bills' Coaching Debacle, Bears' Near-Miss, and Baseball's Billion-Dollar Problem
The episode kicks off with an exclusive, inside report from one of the hosts, "Bison," who is currently living out a dream at the Washington Nationals fantasy baseball camp. Hear about the full major league treatment—from using the Nationals' spring training facility and clubhouse to getting a pre-game pep talk from the legendary Johnny Bench. Plus, find out how Bison performed in his first live action, driving in the first run of the whole camp, and how he ended up catching most of the game after a teammate got hurt. He even shares a tidbit about having dinner with Ryan Zimmerman. Bo Nix news and what that means for his team's Super Bowl chances. The focus quickly shifts to the surprising decision by the Buffalo Bills' GM to fire a successful head coach, with the hosts questioning the wisdom of the move and the GM's continued inability to find decent wide receivers for Josh Allen. The crew also gets into an intense debate about Allen, with one host calling him a "turnover machine" and arguing he is not deserving of the "best to never" narrative. The NFL talk continues with a look at the Bears' unbelievable final drive that tied the game, dissecting the play-calling from Ben Johnson, who was criticized for being too conservative in the red zone. Finally, the show tackles the wild spending in MLB, where they argue the luxury tax structure is now a profit source for owners of low-payroll teams, creating a "sick" situation that is bad for the competitive balance of the sport.
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Who is the Next Liam Cohen? & The New Face of College Football
01/14/2026
Who is the Next Liam Cohen? & The New Face of College Football
The SMQB team is trying to figure out where the next great coaches will come from. They explore the NFL's constant churn, dubbed the "cycle of hell," where good offensive coordinators are quickly promoted, leaving a vacuum of poor play-callers like the Eagles' recently-fired Patullo. The conversation turns to the current head coach vacancies and the prospects of potential hires like John Harbaugh or a rebound coach like Kevin Stefanski. The question of who the "next Liam Cohen" (a successful coordinator-turned-head coach) might be is top of mind. The biggest questions, however, are in college football, where the transfer portal has totally reshaped the landscape. The guys discuss the absurdity of the market, including the $6.5 million NIL offer for Ty Simpson, and whether the sport can function with players coming and going every year. They also honor a massive underdog story from the world of soccer that takes the "Ted Lasso Moment" award and find a way to give LeBron James a "full slap" for his latest piece of ridiculousness.
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From Ovechkin to the World Series: Recapping the Legendary Sports Year of 2025
01/06/2026
From Ovechkin to the World Series: Recapping the Legendary Sports Year of 2025
Take a trip down memory lane with the hosts as they look back on the sports stories of 2025 that they believe will be impossible to top. Bison leads with the one that can't be missed: Alex Ovechkin scoring his 895th goal, passing Wayne Gretzky to become the greatest goal scorer of all time. Pope highlights the drama of the World Series, which featured a seven-game series with extra innings and an 18-inning game. House celebrates two deeply personal moments: winning a Super Bowl with his Eagles in his hometown of New Orleans and his beloved alma mater, Tulane, making the College Football Playoff. The conversation also touches on other significant events, including Rory winning his career Grand Slam with the Masters, the "worst trade ever" (the Luca trade), and the "fall from grace" of Bill Belichick. The show moves to the biggest shockers in sports from the past year. Rooster highlights the unbelievable fall of quarterback Shadour Sanders from a projected top-three pick to being drafted 144th in the fifth round. The group is also amazed by the drama in other sports, including a three-way finale for the F1 driver championship and the rising rivalry of Alcaraz and Sinner in three major tennis matches.
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The Michigan Mess, Mercenary Players, and the Sirianni Punch
12/23/2025
The Michigan Mess, Mercenary Players, and the Sirianni Punch
In the latest episode Bison, Pope, and Rooster dive into the tumultuous world of college football, tackling everything from scandals at the University of Michigan to the playoff system's inherent inequities. With a professional yet conversational tone, they explore the challenges facing college football today and what it means for the future of the sport. The Michigan Scandal The guys start with a shocking revelation about the University of Michigan, where co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss has been indicted for hacking into 15,000 student accounts to obtain compromising photographs of female students. College Football Playoffs Pope highlights the controversial inclusion of teams like Alabama, who many believe didn’t deserve a spot due to their inconsistent performance. The guys analyze whether teams from the Group of Five (G5) conferences, such as Tulane and James Madison, should be included in the playoffs. The conversation also touches on the trouble with proposed expansion. The podcast wraps up with a discussion on the future of college football under the changing regulations and the implications of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals. The hosts are skeptical (to say the least) about whether the current system can adequately support fair competition, given the influx of talent and resources favoring certain programs.
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Fantasy Playoffs, the Plaxico Picks, and the 'Providence 40s' Loser Penalty
12/16/2025
Fantasy Playoffs, the Plaxico Picks, and the 'Providence 40s' Loser Penalty
Get the full breakdown of the season's crucial fantasy football drama as the hosts discuss a nail-biting playoff match between Pope and Rooster. Pope, who has been on a six-game winning streak and has a "shrine" dedicated to winning a league ring, is battling Rooster, who barely squeaked into the playoffs with an injury-focused strategy. The outcome of the game hinges on the Miami Dolphins vs. Pittsburgh defense matchup, with one host desperately needing an injury to Jalen Waddle on the first drive. The hosts also tally the results from the previous week's betting segment, "Plaxico," where the collective went 3-2, with House leading the overall standings at 12-2-1 and Pope trailing with the worst record at 3-12. For the new week's picks, the group offers their best bets, including the Bills minus 10 against Shador Sanders, the Eagles minus six and a half against the Commanders, and the Niners minus six at the Colts. The segment concludes with a wild revelation about a separate league's loser penalty involving women's clothing, a public golf course, and a beer-shotgunning stipulation
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Is Money Ruining College Football? The CFP, Conference Champs, and Notre Dame’s Hissy Fit
12/09/2025
Is Money Ruining College Football? The CFP, Conference Champs, and Notre Dame’s Hissy Fit
The panel tackles the underlying issue plaguing the college game: money. They argue that the entire structure of college football is now overwhelmingly "playoff-driven," causing the conference championship games to lose their significance. Winning a conference used to be a huge deal, but now teams like Notre Dame feel that if they aren't in the CFP, the season is effectively "done," and they're shutting down. This discussion leads to a sharp condemnation of Notre Dame's decision to sit out its bowl game, which the hosts call "the worst sportsmanship". They emphasize that this move sends a terrible message and deprives younger players and fans of a chance at postseason play. One host predicts that all this hand-wringing will eventually lead the NCAA to create a completely separate playoff for the Group of Five schools, effectively formalizing a "P4 playoff" to quiet the ongoing controversy.
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Lane Kiffin's $91 Million Headache and the GM Debate Sweeping College Sports
12/02/2025
Lane Kiffin's $91 Million Headache and the GM Debate Sweeping College Sports
Lane Kiffin's move to LSU is the main financial story of the week, with the hosts confirming he signed a $91 million, seven-year contract at $13 million annually, a figure usually reserved for coaches with national championships. While debating if Kiffin deserves the money, they generally agree LSU is a superior job with more resources and a massive 102,000-person stadium, making it the better choice for long-term success compared to Ole Miss’s 60,000-person stadium. Pope points out Kiffin’s departure was particularly messy because he leveraged his position and took several offensive staff members with him, effectively "decimating" the Ole Miss offense. The most crucial detail of Kiffin's hiring saga is his refusal to accept the University of Florida's condition of having a general manager. Milk, initially disappointed in losing Kiffin, admits that hiring a GM is now a necessity, as the coach should be focused on beating opponents like LSU, not managing NIL, contracts, and the transfer portal, which is the GM's job. Bison argues that Kiffin's demand for full control over a program, therefore, makes him a "disaster" for the new era of college football. Beyond the headlines, the guys get into the ridiculousness of the current NCAA calendar and take a vote on whether this level of coaching carousel chaos will finally force a change. Plus, it wouldn’t be an episode without the picks! Don’t miss the breakdown of the "Short Timers Bowl" featuring two teams whose coaches are leaving, the debate over whether Ohio State is actually any good, and all of the college football picks for the week. Grab your drink and settle in for a barn burner!
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From Hot Seats to High Speeds – Eagles Meltdown, Burrows is Back, and F1’s Wild Scandal
11/25/2025
From Hot Seats to High Speeds – Eagles Meltdown, Burrows is Back, and F1’s Wild Scandal
House kicks off the show with an absolute firestorm, still reeling from the Eagles' loss to the Cowboys. He brings Miami Heat coach Eric Spoelstra to the imaginary bar to teach Nick Sirianni a lesson in attention to detail, criticizing everything from the play-calling to the team's ability to beat itself. The rant is fueled by House's unique, on-court perspective of Spoelstra's intense, immediate adjustments during the Heat-Sixers game. The crew debates whether the Eagles' roster is truly superior to the surging Bears, and Milk doesn't hold back on the Buccaneers, calling for defensive coordinator Todd Bowles' job over "negligence" after Baker Mayfield re-injured himself. They cap the NFL talk by setting the odds for a wild set of Thanksgiving games, making their official Week 13 picks, and debating who the best team in the AFC actually is. The conversation then speeds over to Formula 1, where the team is stunned by the hyper-technical drama surrounding a recent race. After Lando Norris pulled comfortably ahead in the Drivers' Championship, both McLaren cars were disqualified due to skid plates being worn "too thin by millimeters." The SMQBs can't help but wonder if the whole thing is "rigged" to keep the championship fight alive against the lurking Max Verstappen with only two races left. Finally, in college football, the crew looks at the potential American Conference Championship game between Tulane and a high-scoring North Texas team, and the inevitable carousel of SEC jobs (Florida, LSU, Ole Miss, Auburn) that will open up as everyone tracks Lane Kiffin's private jet.
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NFL International Woes, Eagles' Fixable Offense, and the CFP Cinderella Race
11/17/2025
NFL International Woes, Eagles' Fixable Offense, and the CFP Cinderella Race
The main event this week was the NFL, starting with a passionate take on the league's international push into places like Madrid, Brazil, and Australia. The crew agrees that while it's a win for the NFL brand, it's a "raw deal" for players due to the travel disrupting their prep and rhythm, leading to a call for increased player compensation and a complete end to Thursday Night Football (unless both teams are coming off a bye week). The discussion then turned to the Eagles, where defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is single-handedly "saving their season" with a masterful scheme, drawing comparisons to legendary DC Jim Johnson. However, the offense is a different story; while talented, the play-calling is critiqued as "ridiculous," and the team is dealing with the "massive loss" of Lane Johnson on the offensive line. Elsewhere, the AFC playoff picture is described as "boring," with teams like the Steelers and Jaguars, and the Kansas City Chiefs' 5-5 record is raising eyebrows about whether they can even secure the 10 wins needed to make the postseason. In the NFC, the West is shaping up to be the most terrifying division, with the Rams, Seahawks, and 49ers all looking like teams you "would not want to get anywhere near" in the playoffs. Ultimately, the consensus prediction for this year is that defense will win the championship, favoring teams like the Broncos, Rams, and Eagles. The episode wraps up the NFL segment with a breakdown of the Plaxico betting picks, where House is leading at 9-21. An intriguing discussion about the Group of Five team getting the 12th playoff seed pits the American Conference (AAC) against the Sun Belt, specifically setting up a potential winner-take-all matchup between Tulane and North Texas for that coveted spot, although James Madison is also in the running. Before diving into the gridiron, the episode also touches on the NBA, celebrating Cade Cunningham becoming the sixth active NBA player with a Nike shoe deal.
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Burrow's Back, Rams are Scary Good, and ACC Playoff Chaos
11/11/2025
Burrow's Back, Rams are Scary Good, and ACC Playoff Chaos
The episode begins with the traditional "Who's who you bring into the bar" segment. Hot topics include placing Mavericks executive Nico Harrison in the hot seat due to the team's "pathetic start" and celebrating Joe Burrow's return to practice after injury. A dramatic highlight is House’s enthusiastic (and loud) tribute to Gus Johnson's commentary on an Indiana game-winning catch against Penn State, describing the spectacular, contorted play. Baseball talk surfaces with the mention of Japanese power hitter Munetaka Murakami becoming a free agent. College football takes over as the final segment, centered on the nail-biting Indiana victory over Penn State and the physics-defying catch that won the game, declaring the Hoosiers are now on a "collision course with Ohio State for the Big Ten Championship". The SEC picture is discussed, with Texas A&M being declared the best team until proven otherwise. There's significant attention paid to Texas (UT), which, if they "run the table" and beat Georgia and Texas A&M, could potentially secure a spot in the College Football Playoff. Finally, the hosts analyze the chaotic situation in the ACC, where multiple one-loss teams like Pitt, Georgia Tech, and SMU are vying for the championship. There's a concern that if the ACC champion is not a top 25 team, the conference could miss out on a College Football Playoff spot entirely.
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From Tributes and Tearful Farewells to World Series Debates and Coaching Carousel Chaos
11/04/2025
From Tributes and Tearful Farewells to World Series Debates and Coaching Carousel Chaos
The latest SMQBs episode opened with a poignant and heartfelt tribute to "The Hen," Laura, Rooster's wife. The crew shared personal stories that celebrated her genuine kindness, her ability to make everyone feel special, and her spirit as a dedicated Commanders and F1 fan, making it a difficult but necessary dedication to her memory. She will be missed. Once into the sports talk, the World Series immediately took center stage, with the crew dissecting the razor-thin margins of Game Seven. The most memorable moment wasn't a highlight-reel catch or home run, but the infamous "deciding gaffe" by IKF, the Blue Jays runner on third base. His minimal lead led to him being thrown out at the plate "by a millimeter" to end a scoring threat, a blunder the panel noted was the critical error that ultimately decided the championship. The drama in the NBA, with House bringing up Victor Wembanyama for his "Bring Him to the Bar" pick. The discussion centered on the rookie's astonishing all-around production, particularly his ability to impact the game from inside the paint, beyond the arc, and on the defensive end. The guys agreed that his historic start suggests a talent level that could eventually eclipse many of the league’s all-time greats. To hear the full tributes, the complete sports debates, and all the Plaxico picks, be sure to listen to SMQBs Episode 240!
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It's THE Sports Equinox! CFB Coaching Carousel, and NFL Blowouts!
10/28/2025
It's THE Sports Equinox! CFB Coaching Carousel, and NFL Blowouts!
The episode kicked off with a nod to the unique "Sports Equinox," a day when MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL all hit the field, court, and ice simultaneously. There was even a lively debate about whether MLS could sneak into this exclusive club or NOT! The "Bring to the Bar" segment, where Milk discusses Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes suffering a massive 53-7 loss to Utah. Rooster praises Eagles linebacker Zach Bond for his sportsmanship after injuring an opponent, and House talks about John Somerall, a coach from Tulane who is expected to get a big new job. Pope brings up Lane Kiffin and the college coaching carousel, while Bison highlights Lando Norris's lead in the 2025 Drivers Championship. The conversation then shifts to the NFL Week 8, where "House" notes that almost every game was decided by 10 points or more, calling it "blowout week." They discuss Jonathan Taylor's MVP-caliber season for the Colts, who are surprisingly the highest-scoring team in the NFC. The hosts also delve into the Dallas Cowboys' inconsistent performance, calling them a "quintessential Cowboys team" that flashes potential but won't reach the Super Bowl. They touch on the Packers' improved play with Christian Watson back and the Buccaneers' tough upcoming schedule. The episode concludes with a look at the Commanders' chances against the Chiefs and some fantasy football picks, followed by a college football discussion about Brian Kelly's termination from LSU and the controversial topic of massive coaching buyouts in college sports.
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The $52M Firing, Ohtani's Cheat Code, and Why Your Team Still Sucks
10/20/2025
The $52M Firing, Ohtani's Cheat Code, and Why Your Team Still Sucks
The latest episode of SMQB has Bison and Rooster delivering the hottest takes and the most head-shaking facts in sports. First, they dive into the financial insanity of college football. We’re talking about coaches who’ve barely won a thing getting *tens of millions* just to go away, including a staggering $52 million buyout for Brian Kelly and $45 million for James Franklin. Where’s the outrage? The guys lay into the greedy system, but still find a few bright spots on the field, including the shocking rise of the **Indiana Hoosiers** into the top 5 and the ACC-wrecking **Virginia Cavaliers**. Then, the focus shifts to the truly unbelievable: Shohei Ohtani's single-game postseason performance. Three home runs and ten strikeouts in one game? The hosts debate if it's statistically the greatest performance of all time and why his two-way dominance leaves him with only one comparison: Babe Ruth. They also break down the drama of the ALCS Game 7 between the Blue Jays and Mariners, shouting out Vlad Guerrero Jr. for stepping up as a true franchise hero. Finally, the segment wraps with a look at the NBA, where the guys call out the league for pushing the aging stars while the new, international crop of talent (Jokic, SGA, Giannis) is ready to take the crown.
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College Football: Powerhouses, Underdogs, and Coaching Speculation
10/13/2025
College Football: Powerhouses, Underdogs, and Coaching Speculation
The episode kicks off with the hosts, Bison, Milk, Pope, and House, discussing the recent trend of coaches being fired in college and NFL football. Milk expresses his frustration with the University of Florida's interim president for not firing Billy Napier, despite a seemingly low buyout. Pope then brings up Rico Dowdle's departure from the Cowboys, wanting to understand what happened and how to retain talented players. House criticizes Kevin Patullo, the Eagles' offensive coordinator, blaming him for recent losses and Jalen Hurts' interception. Bison adds his "punchable face" pick, Tyreke Stevenson, a Bears cornerback who made a costly error last year. The conversation then shifts to NFL week 6, with House expressing annoyance at the Steelers' consistent winning record and the Cowboys' embarrassing loss to the Panthers. Pope attributes the Cowboys' struggles to their defense and the trade of Micah. The discussion moves to college football, with Milk highlighting the surprising success of the University of Indiana and their impressive coach. House and Pope debate James Franklin's future at Penn State, with concerns about his inability to win big games and the financial implications of his buyout. The SEC is then covered, with the Red River Rivalry between OU and Texas, Georgia's narrow escape against Auburn, and upcoming big games for Ole Miss and Alabama. Milk criticizes Billy Napier's coaching at Florida, while House and Pope discuss the potential for Urban Meyer or Lane Kiffin to take over. The episode concludes with rapid-fire segments, including punchable faces, buzzer beaters, and shout-outs, covering topics like the Las Vegas Aces' WNBA dynasty, F1 racing, college basketball polls, and the Army 10-Miler.
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Beyond the Box Score: Diving Deeper into the Week's Sports Drama
10/06/2025
Beyond the Box Score: Diving Deeper into the Week's Sports Drama
The episode kicks off with the hosts and guest Moosejaw diving into recent MLB playoff performances. Moosejaw highlights the incredible rookie pitching of Trejasiewicz and the offensive explosion from Dalton Varsho, both of whom absolutely dominated their recent games. Rooster, on the other hand, is channeling the ghosts of Yankees past, hoping Billy Martin can inject some life into manager Aaron Boone and Reggie Jackson can spark Aaron Judge. The conversation then shifts to college football, where Arch Manning's early struggles at quarterback are a hot topic, with some hosts suggesting he needs more time in college to develop. NFL Week 5 observations are next on the agenda, with a focus on "overreaction Monday." The hosts discuss the surprising losses of the Bills and Eagles, attributing the latter's defeat to a questionable offensive game plan that neglected Saquon Barkley. They also touch on the disappointing Baltimore Ravens and the quietly strong performances of the Colts, Lions, and 49ers. The segment wraps up with a look at the Chargers' recent struggles, the Dolphins' epic fourth-quarter collapse, and a quick shout-out to the resurgent Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, proving that a change of scenery and good coaching can make all the difference for talented quarterbacks Finally, the bizarre incident involving former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez, who was charged with a felony after a confrontation with a 69-year-old man, sparked a debate about his behavior and the need for more information. This story highlights the challenges public figures face when their personal lives intersect with legal issues, and the importance of due process before making judgments. The incident also serves as a reminder that even seemingly successful post-playing careers can be derailed by unexpected events.
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The Week in Sports: Unpacking the NFL, College Football, MLB, and Ryder Cup Highlights
09/29/2025
The Week in Sports: Unpacking the NFL, College Football, MLB, and Ryder Cup Highlights
The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about a "big weekend" in sports, particularly focusing on the Philadelphia Phillies' performance, the Ryder Cup, and NFL Week 4. The House congratulates the Phillies' manager, Rob Thompson, and players Trey Turner and Kyle Schwaber for their collective triple crown in the National League. Michael Phelan expresses admiration for Tom Watson's sportsmanship at the Ryder Cup, while Pope brings up Shane Lowry's celebratory antics. Bison discusses the retirement of Bob Carpenter and Michael A. Taylor, highlighting their baseball careers. Milk, on the other hand, is frustrated with the Buccaneers' special teams coordinator after two blocked punts and a blocked field goal. The conversation then shifts to NFL Week 4 takeaways, with House identifying the Lions, Eagles, Bills, and Chiefs as the top four teams. They discuss injuries impacting team performance, the surprising play of Jackson Dart, and the struggles of teams like the Packers and Chargers. College football is also a hot topic, with Milk celebrating UVA's upset over FSU and the impressive performance of Ole Miss. The hosts also delve into the Georgia-Alabama game, with Bison sharing his experience from the stadium and the controversial third-down play. The episode concludes with a discussion about the upcoming MLB postseason, the Mets' disappointing season, and a "punch" segment where the hosts criticize the behavior of New York fans at the Ryder Cup and the NBA's investigation into the Clippers. The Wild World of Sports: A Deep Dive into NFL, College Football, MLB, and the Ryder Cup This past weekend was a whirlwind for sports enthusiasts, packed with thrilling upsets, intense rivalries, and plenty of talking points across various leagues. From the gridiron to the golf course, here's a closer look at the major narratives that unfolded.
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NFL Week 3 Chaos, Thick Sixes & Ryder Cup Showdown
09/22/2025
NFL Week 3 Chaos, Thick Sixes & Ryder Cup Showdown
The crew kicks off the episode by highlighting their players of the week, shouting out impressive performances from guys like Jordan Davis, Baker Mayfield, and Marcus Mariota. The get into the surprising results from Week 3 in the NFL, where Super Bowl contenders like the Bills and Packers showed some unexpected struggles. There was a lot of discussion around the dominant Colts, the surprisingly competent Giants under Daniel Jones, and a deep dive into the Eagles-Rams game, where they praised the Rams' talent but criticized Sean McVay's Red Zone play-calling, which ultimately allowed Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown to take over in the second half. The focus then shifts to the college football landscape, with a preview of some massive upcoming SEC matchups, including a highly anticipated Georgia vs. Alabama game. They make their weekly betting picks for both college and the NFL, after recapping last week's mixed results. You'll also get a detailed breakdown of the upcoming Ryder Cup (led by Pope) analyzing the strengths of a veteran European team against an American squad with home-field advantage at the notoriously tough Bethpage Black. They give a "lasso" to the news that the Washington Commanders have secured a deal to build a new stadium and return to D.C., and "pour one out" in a heartfelt tribute to a late Philadelphia Flyers hockey legend, Then some quick hits on the MLB playoff race, a few final thoughts on the NFL weekend, and some breaking NBA injury news.
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Scratching Off the 0-2 Teams: Have the Chiefs Lost Their Moxie?
09/15/2025
Scratching Off the 0-2 Teams: Have the Chiefs Lost Their Moxie?
In this episode, the guys dive straight into the fallout from NFL Week 2, starting with the surprising number of teams already sitting at 0-2. They quickly write off the seasons for teams like the Bears, Jets, and Titans, but spend a good chunk of time debating the Kansas City Chiefs' rough start. While some think the Chiefs look old, House argues they've simply lost their moxie and are missing key offensive weapons. The Giants also come under fire for their poor defense and coaching miscues, while the surprising 2-0 Colts get a nod for their hot start behind "Danny Dimes". The controversial "tush push" also sparks a debate, with Bison reversing his stance, saying it's just not interesting for the game. The conversation moves to college football, where the transfer portal isn't living up to the hype for high-profile QBs like Nico Iamaleava and Arch Manning. After Tennessee suffered a heartbreaking OT loss due to what the hosts call "coaching malpractice," the crew questions if Georgia is as dominant as in past years. Milk has resigned himself to misery, declaring coach Billy Napier has "destroyed" QB DJ Lagway and will be fired within weeks. They also call out the absurdity of 0-2 Notre Dame still being in the top 25 polls. "There is nothing worse than an amputated spirit." - Patrick Mickler Wrapping things up, the episode tackles the significant off-the-field controversy surrounding the LA Clippers, owner Steve Ballmer, and Kawhi Leonard. They break down the allegations of circumventing the NBA salary cap through a sham company - a story brought to light by podcaster Pablo Torre—and praise his investigative work. They also cover their weekly NFL and college football betting picks before concluding with "lassos", including Jared Goff paying off school lunch debt and Bills' coach Sean McDermott buying a house for a childhood friend who protected him from bullies. Enjoy!
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Fire the Coach! It's Week 1! Victory Monday, Meltdowns, and Philly Karen
09/08/2025
Fire the Coach! It's Week 1! Victory Monday, Meltdowns, and Philly Karen
The crew dives headfirst into NFL Week One, where they call out everyone from Ravens' coach John Harbaugh for conservative play-calling to Giants' owner John Mara for the team's abysmal start. Week one overreactions were in full swing, with Rooster delivering an all-time tirade against the Giants, demanding (again) for the coach be fired and Wilson benched for Jackson Dart. The guys broke down the Eagles-Cowboys game in detail, with House talking about Dak Prescott's lack of mobility, CeeDee Lamb's drops, and the pre-game "Spitgate" incident that saw Jalen Carter ejected. Other notable discussions included surprising performances from the Packers and Chargers, disappointment in the Lions and Dolphins, and an early look at Aaron Rodgers' successful return. Sadly for Milk, the conversation shifted to college football, where Milk unleashes his own epic rant about the Florida Gators after their embarrassing loss to in-state rival South Florida. He calls for coach Billy Napier to be fired, lamenting that the program is stuck with him due to an $18 million buyout and faces a brutal upcoming schedule. Following football talk, the crew makes their weekly "Plaxico" (NFL) and "Menteer Matters" (NCAAF) betting picks for the upcoming weekend's slate of games. The episode wraps up with punches and lassos featuring the viral story of "Philly Karen," a fan who took a home run ball from a child, and the subsequent lasso for player Harrison Bader, who made it right by giving the kid an autographed bat. We talk about a couple "Buzzer Beaters," touching on major injuries plaguing the Phillies, the fallout of the WNBA season following Caitlin Clark's injury, and a recap of the US Open. Finally, they poured one out for two sports legends who recently passed away: longtime MLB player and manager Davey Johnson and iconic NHL goalie Ken Dryden.
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Is Anyone Challenging the Eagles? Plus, Jerry Jones Gets Punched
09/01/2025
Is Anyone Challenging the Eagles? Plus, Jerry Jones Gets Punched
Football is officially back, and the guys—(well, at least Rooster, House, and Pope)—are all over it. This episode kicks off with a deep dive into the NFC, asking the big question: can anyone actually challenge the Philadelphia Eagles this year? You'll hear the guys break down the top contenders, with the Detroit Lions getting a lot of love as a team to watch out for. They also debate whether the Packers, Niners, and even the Bucs have what it takes to make a run. The real fun starts when the conversation turns to that massive Micah Parsons trade. Pope, a long-suffering Cowboys fan, unloads on Jerry Jones for sending a "generational talent" to the Green Bay Packers. He even compares the feeling to when Dallas lost Luka Dončić—yeah, it gets pretty heated. The guys switch gears to recap a wild opening weekend of college football, getting into Arch Manning's shaky debut for Texas, Alabama looking soft and getting shoved around by Florida State, and whether powerhouses like Notre Dame should be worried after a rough start. Plus, you'll get the crew's weekly betting picks with the "Plaxico Locks" for the NFL and their brand new college football segment, "Matier Matters". Stick around to find out who gets called out in "Punchable Face of the Week" and who gets praised in the "Lasso of the Week". It’s a packed show!
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