In short
Hour 2 of The Rich Eisen Show covers two main things: (1) a Bears-Packers game reaction and playoff implications, and (2) an interview with Rams QB Matthew Stafford.
Bears-Packers topic
The Bears, led by new head coach Ben Johnson and QB Caleb Williams, were described as dangerous after turning the offense more under-center and using play-action and running. The Packers’ Jordan Love and receivers (Christian Watson, Jaden Reed, Musgrave) responded, but the game swung when Caleb Williams made plays and then threw a late red-zone interception on a play similar to one used vs the Eagles.
Key claims
Bears’ defense created early takeaways; Packers’ defense got “gassed” by time of possession; Bears’ remaining schedule is brutal and a Lions path to playoffs was outlined.
Guests
Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams QB). Background: veteran QB; praised for red-zone play with Devontae Adams and Puka Nacua; discussed offensive line success and leadership.
Notable examples
Stafford highlighted Adams’ “phone booth” winning ability and Nacua’s contested catches; also referenced Blake Corum’s two-touchdown return after a knee injury.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOBattery Comparisons and Duracell
0:00 to 0:30
Learn why Duracell stands out in the battery market.
“That's like asking if all soccer players are the same.”
Battery Comparisons and Duracell
0:34 to 0:56
Learn why Duracell stands out in the battery market.
“It can help you with practically anything on the web, like restoring a vintage motorcycle from a 50-page restoration block, or finally break down that long article you've had open for weeks.”
Upcoming Travel and Show Plans
1:26 to 2:06
Rich discusses travel plans for the show coming from New York.
“The Rich Eisen Show from the Rich Eisen Show studio in Los Angeles.”
Bears vs. Packers Rivalry Insights
2:06 to 4:00
Explore the historical context and significance of the Bears-Packers game.
“We'll be watching the game on the flight, right?”
Game Highlights and Player Performances
4:00 to 6:00
Detailed recap of key moments and player performances in the game.
“And hit us with a follow or subscription.”
Caleb Williams and Bears' Strategy
6:00 to 8:00
Discussion on Caleb Williams' performance and the Bears' strategy.
“then this game turns into a Packer fest where Love is making his throws and Christian Watson is scoring his touchdown and Jaden Reed is back from injury reserve doing things in this offense that are clearly being missed.”
Packers' Season Outlook
8:00 to 10:00
Analysis of the Packers' current standing and future challenges.
“Now, again, Caleb missed too many passes.”
LaFleur's Coaching Success
10:00 to 12:00
Insights on Matt LaFleur's coaching achievements and strategies.
“and they need both Seattle and the Rams to get tripped up.”
Closing Thoughts on NFL Season
12:00 to 14:00
Rich shares final thoughts on the NFL season's developments.
“Oh, it's just, I think, a quick handshake.”
Bears-Packers Game Analysis
14:00 to 15:54
Analyzing player performances and coaching records from the Bears-Packers game.
“with three or more passing touchdowns, and Christian Watson has his first back-to-back touchdown performance in two years, and Josh Jacobs had 86 on the ground in a rushing touchdown.”
Show all 15 chapters
Matthew Stafford Interview
18:31 to 28:00
Matthew Stafford discusses his season, team dynamics, and challenges ahead.
“We're back on ESPN Radio presented by Progressive Insurance.”
Matthew Stafford Discusses Team Dynamics
28:00 to 31:50
Matthew Stafford shares insights on team camaraderie and support among players.
“In terms of what you said before, too, in the few minutes I had left with you, Matthew, You said something along the lines of that everybody around here, the teammates, coaches, are about the right thing.”
Blake Corum's Journey and Performance
31:50 to 37:32
Discussion on Blake Corum's comeback from injury and his recent performance.
“Because I looked that up, that you not only played with Calvin Johnson, but you went to the same high school as Clayton Kershaw.”
Shador Sanders' Impressive Game
38:34 to 42:00
Analysis of Shador Sanders' performance and its historical significance.
“more everybody David in Dallas, Texas let's take his phone call, what's up David?”
Analyzing Shadour Sanders' Performance
42:00 to 46:50
Discussion on Shadour Sanders' performance and the coaching decisions surrounding him.
“Every single analyst or analytics person in my life will explain to me, well, you want to go for two as early as possible so you know how many points you need.”
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:00Rich Eisen:Are all batteries the same? That's like asking if all soccer players are the same. Take Messi, the most decorated player ever. Is there any other player who has achieved that? No, just him. Now take Duracell. Is there any other battery with Power Boost ingredients inside? No, just Duracell. Remember, goats only trust goats because they're built different. And Messi only trusts Duracell.
0:31Rich Eisen:This episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. You think you know a browser, but Gemini and Chrome, that's new. It can help you with practically anything on the web, like restoring a vintage motorcycle from a 50-page restoration block, or finally break down that long article you've had open for weeks. Gemini and Chrome is here for it. Ready to make anything online make sense? There's no place like Chrome. Check responses set up required, compatibility and availability varies 18+. This is the Rich Eisen Show. Hey, everybody. Can't get enough of The Rich Eisen Show? You're in luck. You can find us everywhere.
1:05Watch us weekdays on Disney Plus from noon to 3 Eastern. Miss the show? We've got a podcast so you can listen anytime. But here's the best part. Our YouTube channel. Subscribe at youtube.com slash richeisenshow and you'll never miss a moment. Now, on with the show.
1:26Rich Eisen:This is the Rich Eisen Show. Another pick for Houston. There is your dagger. A leaping interception. The Rich Eisen Show from the Rich Eisen Show studio in Los Angeles. Stafford Surgical in L.A. is blowing out Arizona. On today's show, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. College football playoff breakdown. And now, it's Rich Eisen. hour number two of the rich eyes and show on the air hey as soon as we're done here today we're all heading to the airport because this show will come to you from the espn studios in new york city for the rest of the week um that's right um and um and everybody should should know i did not pack a checked bag i'm gonna be carrying on i was able to pull this uh heist off i got a a couple of i got a couple of ways that i got through i got some suits because you know i'm i'm hosting the booyah event in honor of steward scott's memory and also the jimmy v foundation and um so that's coming on wednesday night we got guests we're doing it from the get upset over the next few days so you shipped your suits i did not i've got them i've got them all here how how you sound like you've been hoodwinked and bamboozled and led astray i thought we all decided collectively together as a unit that you know we were just gonna do whatever you want to do and i just went high register i know that but do whatever you want to do how he can say that because we're not sharing a car with him yeah see that's it now if we're sharing a car to go in and somebody's checking a bag and i didn't know that's a problem yeah well you know he's at that At a different hotel than us.
3:14Rich Eisen:We're flying today. We'll be watching the game on the flight, right? I'll be watching Monday Night Raw and the game. Oh, that's right. Both of them. I don't know how I'm going to do it. Look at you. Yeah, how many TVs you got on the flight? Exactly. We are commercial, right? I mean, we are. I don't know. We are. I don't know where he's. We are. But he's flying. Commercial. 844-204-RICH is the number to dial. We're here on Disney+. We're here on ESPN radio presented by Progressive Insurance, Sirius XM Channel 80. Of course, the ESPN app every day. There's our YouTube channel as well. YouTube.com slash Rich Eisen Show.
3:50Rich Eisen:A lot of folks sending us their year end raps that they're in the top. Oh, one point one percent of our fans. Yes, we appreciate it. Doesn't matter what percentage. Just if you watch a couple of videos, that's all we have. And hit us with a follow or subscription. our overreaction monday show that's also airing in a cut down version at 4 30 eastern on espn 2 later today that is available right now on our youtube channel youtube.com slash rich eyes and show 844-204-rich number to dial we'll take your calls in a minute matthew stafford in 17 minutes that's gonna be exciting the last time the bears and the packers played one another in week 14 or later where both teams entered the game at 500 or better last time that happened was never indeed these rivals have been playing each other since herbert hoover was battling inflation and um this is the first time we've ever seen a contest like this one and on top of it the bears are the one seed in the entire conference coming into this game.
4:55And on top of all that, Ben Johnson, the new head coach there, who started 0-2 in division, has turned this franchise and program and city upside down and has gotten his quarterback under center
5:15Rich Eisen:in a way that this kid, Caleb Williams, never played this much under center, which opens up the playbook, which opens up play action for a running game like the one that they have. This is what we're talking about. And if he can go under center and boot out, and he can, that makes the Bears a dangerous team, especially when they're taking the ball away like they did on the first drive in the first quarter, taking the ball away from Jordan Love, who, by the way, had not thrown a touchdown pass at home since week six. So the defenses are showing up first quarter. And then this game turns into a Packer fest where Love is making his throws and Christian Watson is scoring his touchdown and Jaden Reed is back from injury reserve doing things in this offense that are clearly being missed.
6:20Rich Eisen:Musgrave is making catches like Kraft. They're getting their yak and cheese on. But that's when Caleb Williams started making plays and the defense started making plays. And suddenly the time of possession has gotten Micah Parsons and that Packer defense so gassed that they got to run the ball when they get the ball back because obviously that's part of their offense, but they can't just throw their defense back on the field because the Bears are wearing the Packers out just like they wore the Eagles out the day after Thanksgiving. And I'm sitting here at game tied at 21 apiece thinking this can happen.
6:55Rich Eisen:And if the Bears pull this one off, well, then all bets are off.
7:04Rich Eisen:But the Packers did what they needed to do. They come up with an eight play 65 yard drive after Colston Loveland scores on a gorgeous play where Ben Johnson isn't celebrating the touchdown. He's flipping out because one of the tackles that were eligible that was out on a route got cut out at his ankles. But there's Loveland wide open on the other side. An easy play for Caleb. Touchdown, tie game, but the Packers march down the field in 4 minutes and 28 seconds and hand the ball back to Caleb and say, you do something. And unbelievably, with the game on the line, inside the old red zone there, right there, they run the same play that they ran on the Eagles to put the nail in the coffin where Caleb rolls to his left against the grain and flips the ball to Cole Comet in the end zone, except this time he threw it a little too late.
8:11Rich Eisen:And it's intercepted. And that's the game. Now, again, Caleb missed too many passes. 19 to 35. You got to give it up. This is a tough defense. And what an environment. Lambeau Field in December when the four dreaded words feels like five degrees. Oh, man, it was cold. You know what I mean? Like, this is not what Caleb, you know, is. everyone thought soft this that the other thing coming in he's tough as nails man and at least bears fans you know there were mistakes you could have had it but just don't make those mistakes and even up the series in a couple of weeks and win your games the rest of the way the problem is is doing that is a tough one their schedule the rest of the way is brutal they do pay play the packers again in two weeks.
9:09Rich Eisen:They're home against Cleveland. Shador bringing in his 300-yard, three touchdowns and one on the ground on top of it, performance. Just assuming the Browns won't take him off the field with the game on the line. And then they got a visit to San Francisco in Week 17 before the one that could really be it. If the Bears do not win more than they lose the rest of the way prior to week 18. That's the Lions' path to the playoffs. That week 250 burger absorbed by Ben Johnson and the Bears, the Lions could go into Soldier Field, win that one, and that's how they punch their ticket to the playoffs. Because I don't think the Packers are going to get caught by the Lions.
9:56Rich Eisen:I mean, the Packers are now 9-3-1. They're two in the conference right now. and they need both Seattle and the Rams to get tripped up. Rams and the Seahawks play each other to kick off week 16 on a Thursday night. So the Packers have a shot at the whole shooting match, having everybody come through Lambeau at the end of the day.
10:23Rich Eisen:And the Lions, though, have already been swept by them. Bears better be careful. They dropped all the way down to seven. One down to seven. The Niners are above them. That game in week 17 is going to be lit. Some real serious playoff implicating action. And the Bears almost pulled this one off. I don't think it was too big of a moment for Caleb. Gotta like that if you're the Bears. These things happen. It's a tough series. Of course, everyone was talking about the number one swim move that we saw on Lambeau Field. after the game that was what everyone was talking about that swim move was matt lefleur shaking ben johnson's hand
11:05Rich Eisen:now then ben johnson as we know took the job and bears fans know when your head coach is introduced as the new head coach of the chicago bears they're mandated to say something to throw the red meat out at the fan base about how they're going to beat the Packers. Remember that was what Lovie Smith did when he took over. And Ben Johnson did it saying that he enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year. So that won't be happening in his first year as head coach of the Bears now that this happened. And it was just a quick handshake. They did kind of make eye contact. If you saw it, there was like a left hand with a play sheet kind of giving of an attaboy as he just kept walking.
11:54Rich Eisen:They didn't stop. They didn't have a conversation. They didn't do any of that. So, of course, that's what everyone was talking about afterwards. Hit it. Oh, it's just, I think, a quick handshake. I mean, we'll see him again in two weeks. Because it's not often where my head coach will call out another one. Any extra satisfaction with this? No, absolutely not. It was just, I mean, it's Packers-Bears. It's a great rivalry. and certainly with what was at stake in regards to positioning in the NFC North. I mean, that's the only thing that matters. Sure, that's it. As the Packers are now 4-0 in division.
12:32Rich Eisen:4-0 in division. LaFleur was asked afterwards, which one is this now, Mike Hoskins? It's about him talking about the importance of being in first place in this division in which they're now 4-0. Hit it. It means nothing right now. I mean, it means a lot, but it also, there's four weeks left, and you've got to take it day by day. You've got to really embrace that grind, embrace the challenge. It's not going to be easy from here on out. We've got a great test in Denver coming up, and our guys really got to push and try to find any competitive advantage that we can get in order to go there on the road against a really quality opponent and find a way to get a win.
13:20Rich Eisen:That's right. Denver next week. Oh, baby. Playoff Super Bowl preview? Question mark? Could easily be. One seed versus the two seed. Then there's that game in Chicago before their home against Baltimore and then at Minnesota to try and maybe go 6-0 in the NFC North, which would be quite an accomplishment. Even 5-1 in this division would be an amazing accomplishment. But it's also part and parcel of what you get with Matt LaFleur. Let me hear. Do you hear the Packer fans calling for his job or wanting to give up a play calling after Jordan Love has his second straight game with three or more passing touchdowns, and Christian Watson has his first back-to-back touchdown performance in two years, and Josh Jacobs had 86 on the ground in a rushing touchdown.
14:10Rich Eisen:Wait a minute. Did I hear that? No, that's very silent. Put it up. His first seven seasons as head coach in the National Football League. Matt LaFleur has now won 76 games tied with Paul Brown. You heard about Paul Brown? I was talking to my son Cooper. The reason why the Cleveland Browns are named that is for Paul Brown, who then went and created another franchise called the Bengals. That's the Paul Brown. Oh, and Holmgren, he's got a street out there. Holmgren's got a street out there. He'll figure that. He should have 75 wins. He'll have a bus soon, probably. LaFleur's got more wins in his first seven seasons as the Packer head coach than Homeward.
14:47Rich Eisen:That's wild. Oh, okay. You know why? It's because the man hydrates. The man drinks a lot of water. This is what we saw when we came to the airport for the draft. His first round pick was hydration. Brockman, didn't you think his job was on the line a couple weeks ago? Everybody did. I mean, yeah, to say that's only my thought. Well, because the new president there, Ed Policy, is like, let's play it out. Okay, let's play it out. I don't really pay attention to the room, though. Come on, man. Thank you. Jordan Love is heating up. During the four-game win streak, nine touchdowns, only one pick. You know, if the Packers wanted to let it play it out with LeFleur, you think the Giants would take him?
15:25Rich Eisen:Hook him up with Jackson Dart. What do you think? Hey, Packers fans, you just want to flip Matt LeFleur to the Giants? What do you want to do? Really?
15:35Rich Eisen:Coming up on this program, another quarterback, caping for his head coach says if we keep winning, maybe he shuts you all up. That's what Aaron Rodgers had to say after the Steelers beat the Ravens on behalf of the beleaguered Mike Tomlin. 844-204-RICH is the number to dial. Let's take a break. Quarterbacks are usually pinpoint on time. Matthew Stafford, potentially the MVP of this league joining us with four games to go for the Rams.
16:06Rich Eisen:The Rich Eisen Show Podcast.
16:33Rich Eisen:Riley's stand-up part, the professional parts people. Oh, oh, oh, O 'Reilly. Auto Parts.
16:47Rich Eisen:Rich Eisen here. You can always tell when something big is happening in a city. I know what it's like when I'm traveling for big games and events. I remember being in Pittsburgh earlier this year and experiencing the beautiful architecture and passion those fans have for their home teams. that was so infectious. Now, it was a great trip. But you know what it's like dealing with the travel. The airport is packed. Hotels are booked up. Restaurants, all busy. And when you have that kind of influx of visitors in your city, a lot of them are searching for a place that feels a little bit more like home during their trip.
17:19Rich Eisen:That's why this can be a smart time to think about listing your own space on Airbnb. If you've got plans to be away this summer, consider listing your space on Airbnb while you're gone and earn some extra cash. It's simple. You're already traveling, so your place doesn't just sit empty while your city is busy. And from my experience on the road, having a comfortable home base can change the whole experience of a trip. So whether it's a big sports weekend, a concert series, or a major event coming to your area, this could be the right time to list your space on Airbnb. Your home might be worth more than you think.
17:53Rich Eisen:Find out how much at Airbnb.com slash host. While the world watches the stars of the FIFA World Cup, Hyundai has its eyes on the next generation of talent. Future stars who are already turning heads at age 14. Because Next doesn't wait for an invitation, and neither do we. Hyundai has always moved the future within reach. We did it when we made advanced safety standard on every vehicle and engineered EVs with ultra-fast charging capability. And we're still doing it every day. Because the future isn't some far-off concept. It's already here. Next starts now. Hyundai, an official partner of FIFA.
18:30Rich Eisen:I've got Matthew Stafford here on the Rich Eisen Show. We're back on ESPN Radio presented by Progressive Insurance. How are you feeling, man? It looks like everything is obviously going well, but what's your perspective on your remarkable season to date, Matthew? I feel good. My body feels good. I'm having a blast playing the game that I love with a bunch of guys that I couldn't be happier to go to work with every single day. Our coaches, our players on our team, team everybody's all about the right kind of stuff and um you know that's that's the best part about it you know we have a process we go about it we've won more games than we lost this year but even the games that we lose man we just go back to work understand what we got to do to clean it up but you know don't get outside our lane too much just understand that our process works we trust it and go to work and uh you know winning more games than we're losing at the moment and playing pretty good ball so it's a lot of fun walk me through what it's like inside the five yard line and you're in the same huddle as Devontae Adams.
19:26Rich Eisen:Can you put me in your shoes what it's like for you with him, Matthew? It's awesome. You kind of feel like you have a cheat code because we're going to get down there, we're going to have big people on the field, and our offensive line is doing a hell of a job when we are handing it off of just knocking the other team into the end zone and us running it in. We had three rushing touchdowns in the last couple weeks, and guys are doing a hell of a job down in there too. But if they want to play one-on-one coverage, he's as good as anybody I've ever been around. He's probably as good as anybody that's ever played in this league at winning in short areas and making plays in the red zone.
19:58He was a touchdown maker when he was in Green Bay. I remember standing on the other sideline, hating every minute of it as he was scoring against us, and to have him in the same huddle as me, I pinched myself and realized that I'm getting to play with a special guy down there.
20:10Rich Eisen:Yeah, I know, and for you to say that, for those young 'uns out there, you played with a guy named Calvin Johnson, I just confirmed it. For you to say that, right? So, sir, for you to say that about another player, obviously Devontae is going to be wearing a gold jacket one day. We all know that. But does it remind you of any of those Megatron moments for you? Yeah, they do it in a different way. You know, Calvin just waking up and getting out of bed and being that big and that physical and the ability to go up and get it. And Devontae's ability to win and create space, you know, in a phone booth basically is unbelievable.
20:45unbelievable I uh I had so much fun playing with him and I had a ton of fun playing with Calvin obviously but um Devontae's got this just this confidence down there um you know when he gets his opportunities to go win he's going to do it and shoot he had should have had a touchdown against Arizona I missed him on a fade ball um you know on the first drive of the game if I just give him a chance I mean he left the corner standing at the line of scrimmage so um he's still doing it even though he didn't get a touchdown last week um he's still playing at an unbelievable clip and obviously helping us get in the end zone and score points yeah and Puka had
21:14Rich Eisen:too he's on i mean his contested catching is absurd uh you put it in a spot where where he can go get it he's gonna go get it doesn't matter who's around i mean this is a perfect picture to give you an idea and this is the one where he caught this one high pointed and then backed into the end zone there was another one over the middle where where you threw it where only he could get it he did yeah right i mean that was on what's that like for you from the pocket when you see that yeah I mean it's it's awesome I don't take it for granted you know I understand what a special player he is as well you know he does some great stuff with the ball in the air like you're saying but his physicality for our team is such a separator and sometimes that he's you know going up and making that play or or finding a way to get in the end zone when he catches it on the five-yard line that physicality but even in the run game you know run after catch all the stuff that he does for us man he's such a tone setter a joy to be around a great teammate you ask anybody on our team, how they feel about that guy.
22:10He's just an absolute stud, brings a ton of energy, and helps us be who we are.
22:15Rich Eisen:And McVay, in your ear, I think I saw an NFL films snippet a couple weeks ago where you were basically like, I get it, get out of my ear. How often does that, did I nail that right? I mean, I know I'm kind of paraphrasing in a way. That's about right, that's about right. You know, he's an energetic guy. He loves the game of football. and he loves the one-way mic um i can't talk back he's taking full advantage especially during tv timeouts when we got a little down time he can he can chirp at me but he's always just you know giving me coaching points for the guys or to relay this personnel or that um he's a joy to play for i know all the guys on our team appreciate him so much and the just the consistent energy and passion this guy brings is unmatched i've never been around anything like it um he sets the tone for our building day in and day out and that's a big responsibility and he does it you know in an unbelievable manner with you know compassion but at the same time you know challenging guys I mean it's it's a really unique leadership role that he plays on our team and we're uh we're appreciative of him how much do you have with the game plan though like how much are you going and saying I think this and he sits down and you guys have a meeting on that how often Well, we have constant dialogue.
23:33You know, we have constant dialogue on, hey, we love this. We like this. Hey, can we tweak this? Hey, let's throw this one out. Let's try to add this. You know, he's the mastermind behind it all. He and Mike and all of our coaches do an unbelievable job. And then, you know, we just have dialogue on tweaks and things that either I'm comfortable with or they really like or whatever it is. And we try to just develop a thought process of, hey, here's how we want to play the game. Here's how I'm going to call it. Here's what we're thinking when we call these plays so that there's intent with each play that we call.
24:02We're not wasting plays. And I just try to do my best to go out there and execute them.
24:06Rich Eisen:Matthew Stafford here on the Rich Eisen Show. So you mentioned your offensive line. I don't know if you're aware. You had yesterday ninth game of the season, more passing touchdowns than sacks taken. That was the ninth time you had that. The only season in which you've had a better game total was you had 11 such games in 2021. Does this remind you of that Super Bowl season as you're going through this with a month to go, Matthew? In some aspects, yeah. I mean, obviously, we're playing good football. Our record speaks for itself. You know, yet to be seen how we finish this thing up. There's a lot of football to be played between now and whenever that game is.
24:47But, you know, our offensive line is playing outstanding football. You know, they deserve a ton of credit. I'm a firm believer in the fact that, hey, you want good quarterback play, you need 10 other guys around you to be playing well, and especially those five guys in front of me. And they are playing in an outstanding clip. Communicate and play tough and physical in the run game. Shoot, we rushed for 250 yesterday too. So they're doing a great job in the run game and the pass game. A ton of credit for our success should go to those guys. Everybody gets enamored with, like you just said, watching Puka go up in one hand one or Devontae just dice somebody down low or our backs break off a run.
Read the full transcript
25:22But all that has started, you know, with the guys up front. They do a hell of a job for us. You know, happy to have all those guys. And it is a team and group effort up there. They all pull for each other. And it's a fun group to get to work with.
25:35Rich Eisen:And then, obviously, you've got the Lions this week. Are you over the whole business with the Lions? It's just another game or no? Yeah, I mean, I just know how good of a football team they are. I got a ton of respect for, you know, the talent that they've been able to acquire and how they go about their business. You know, I think Dan does a hell of a job getting those guys ready to play week in and week out. Jared's playing at a high clip. Their defense is explosive as well. So it's a big challenge for us. You know, they've gotten the best of us the last couple times we've played them. It's been good games each time.
26:06So I imagine it will be another tight one. You know, two really talented teams going at it and, you know, just give it our best shot.
26:13Rich Eisen:But it's your fourth game against them now since Parton Ways and going to Los Angeles. us any any thoughts when you see that you know Honolulu blue across the way at all Matthew um you know not really not as much as I used to you know obviously the first time we played him in 21 I knew 80 percent of the roster was still there and all the guys were still there and um it's a it's a small number of guys that I you know was able to play with when I was in Detroit that are still there um some of those guys really you know great teammates great friends will be for forever but at this point in the season where we are, man, I'm just trying to do everything I can to win football games.
26:50Obviously there's history, there's a storyline and all that kind of stuff, but once the ball's snapped, you know, I'm dealing with that defensive side of the ball, trying to do what I can to help us score, and, you know, it'll just be another football game.
27:00Rich Eisen:What do you think of when you hear the MVP talks surrounding you? You know, I appreciate it. I also know that whoever gets that award, it's an unbelievable team accomplishment. I'm not throwing touchdown passes to myself I surely am not getting open in the slot or doing any of that kind of stuff whoever gets it it has been for years it's such a team and group award I am obviously humbled to be in the conversation I have a great respect for all the guys that play this game now that have played it before me I'm an NFL fan I'm in awe of a lot of the people that do what we do it's humbling and I do appreciate it.
27:42Rich Eisen:Do you feel like you're playing your best football? I feel like I'm playing pretty darn good football, that's for sure. And it's just because of guys around me, the work we're putting in, the group we have. I'm having more fun than I've had in a long time playing this game, and that's something to be said. So at this age with this many grays in my beard, still having a good time, it's fun. I love it. In terms of what you said before, too, in the few minutes I had left with you, Matthew, You said something along the lines of that everybody around here, the teammates, coaches, are about the right thing.
28:15Rich Eisen:What do you mean by that? Can you give me some examples of what that means, Matthew? Well, some of my favorite stuff when you watch our games is, you know, I throw a touchdown to Puka, and Devontae's the first guy there to celebrate him. Or I throw one to Devontae, and Puka's there hyping him up. Or we hand one off to one of these backs, and they get in the end zone, and nobody's happier than myself and all the guys. We all cheer for each other's successes. We understand that all that stuff's going to come around. Our defense, landman gets a pick or knocks one out. Man, we're all hyped up for them.
28:45It's such a fun group to go to work with. And then that's what everybody gets to see on Sundays. And then being in this building throughout the week with these guys and see the work that we put in, the steadiness that we have, no matter the result from the game before, whether we win a game by a bunch of points or lose one in a heartbreak fashion, whatever it is, it's a steady group. We understand what it takes to go out there and give ourselves the best chance to win. And we do it every single week, and that's a fun thing to be a part of.
29:13Rich Eisen:Yeah, it's interesting you mention the backs, obviously, because there's only one guy you can hand the ball off to. There's multiple receivers you can target. You've got Kyron, and you've got, you know, I'm biased. You know I'm a Michigan guy. Watching Blake Corum score twice yesterday, including that was your last snap of the game. I think it was a handoff to him. He went 46 yards, ended your day. but just seeing him high stepping on this field too uh i want to share a photograph with you because uh michigan played in the college football playoff semifinal in that building a couple of years ago and blake couldn't play because he blew his knee out and there he is with my son who's now 6 '2 but there he is at on that field smiling being there for his teammates he came back the next year and then he gets drafted by you guys where he's waiting his turn and he's being what he's doing whatever he can just seeing him on that field where he was with crutches doing that man that's what it's about matthew really no doubt you know he's another one and you know you got to give a lot of credit to our front office to bring in the right kind of guys like you said you know you find the blake quorums in the draft you find the kyron williams that you know we're going to come in and be great teammates together but also help our team you know be successful and our guys in the front office and coaching staff have done a hell of a job of bringing in all sorts of the right kind of guys.
30:34Mix your personalities and all that kind of stuff, absolutely, but guys that are all about the right stuff. Blake's definitely one of those guys who was super fired up for his success yesterday. A hell of a run there to cap it off, and I got to put the ball cap on for the rest of the day, so it was nice.
30:49Rich Eisen:That sure did. Was Kyron running angry because Notre Dame got left out at the college football playoffs, Matthew? Was he pissed? I would assume so. There was a little extra pep in the step for that one. That was a tough pill to swallow for those guys, I'm sure. Okay. Last one for you. You mentioned multiple times how much fun you're having, and it's obvious how much fun you're having. You're playing at the top of your game. You look great, and it looks like you're having fun. How much longer do you want to do this? You know, you're going to keep getting these questions, so I guess I'm honored to be one to ask, if not the first, over the last month.
31:22Rich Eisen:Are you already thinking, like, this is not the end? You're playing too well to even think about it? Matthew? I feel really good. You know, you've got to finish out a season and see where it takes you. I'm enjoying every moment that I have right now. If I'm in the year, I'm healthy, hypothetically, and all those kind of things, sure, I would surely entertain coming back and playing some more. We'll see how it goes. But I'm just enjoying where my feet are right now, having a blast playing ball with this group, and we'll figure out the future when we get there. Okay, brother. Thanks for the time.
31:53Rich Eisen:I assume that is a Dodger cap, right? That's a Dodger cap? Okay, I just want to make sure. Yeah. Because I looked that up, that you not only played with Calvin Johnson, but you went to the same high school as Clayton Kershaw. I heard about that. Little known fact. Little known fact. Take care of yourself, Matthew. Thanks for your time. Appreciate it, brother. Appreciate it, Rich. That's Matthew Stafford, buddy. Los Angeles Rams quarterback playing at the top of his game. Legend. Yes, that is, in fact, a true story. No way. Yeah. Man, I didn't know. I heard rumblings. Yeah, Ryan Fetch, Patrick went to Harvard.
32:22Rich Eisen:I don't know how many more of those there are in sports. From Betis is from Detroit, yeah. The Atlanta Rams are just, you know, I have them at the top of my power rankings They deserve it. They deserve it. And they've got their hands full with the Seahawks in a couple weeks. They've got the Lions this week. They're playing meaningful ball. And he is just balling the F out, man. Looking great. I hope he does stick around here. So does everybody here in Los Angeles. Yes, absolutely. I mean, let's go. Let's figure this thing out. You guys remember a while back Sanchez was here, and I told a story about him coming to my birthday party one summer during his college career.
32:57Rich Eisen:Stafford was at that party, too. Dude, I interviewed Matthew Stafford with Sanchez the night before the draft in New York City. Oh, yeah? Stafford stayed. Sanchez went back to Southern California that night only to fly back to New York the next day because he got drafted. The Jets traded up to go get him. Wasn't the story that he had like five bucks in his wallet or something? The story was, because I'll tell you what it was, because I interviewed Stafford again the night before he got drafted. he had just he was he was not signed yet his agent i believe signed him that night after our meeting and our meeting our our like i was a it was a q a for a bunch of sponsors and i asked stafford how'd you get here tonight he walked from the hotel with his buddies in new york city by himself so cool okay and then he showed up i'm like how much money is in your wallet right now because this was back in the day when he was the high he immediately became the highest paid player in the history of the league yeah he had two singular dollars on him two dollars two bucks two american single dollars in his wallet well that was you know i mean obviously i'm i'm so you know honored to be able to be around this um sport for such a long time i could tell a story like that i interviewed him the night before his draft and now i've just interviewed him on this show when he is in line to be MVP of the league.
34:26Rich Eisen:His rookie contract was six years,$72 million. Oh, my goodness. 2009. And he's just killing it, man. Absolutely killing it. And just one more time. Blake Corum or Balake Karum. Thank you very much. Balake Karum. Balake Karum. Balake, career highs with 128 rush yards and two rushing touchdowns. and his week prior, he set his previous career high of 81 rush yards. Second straight game with a rushing touchdown, his first career game of more than one rushing touchdown. 28 games into his career. And it comes on a field where when I last saw him, again, this is the only joyous moment of the day Yeah, because they started to play games with TCU later on in Arizona, in Phoenix.
35:23Rich Eisen:I saw him on the field before the game. He was with Coop. He was happy to take a photograph with him, if you don't mind putting that back up. There it is. He had just blown his knee out and had surgery. He was as smiling and as cool and as approachable as ever. His teammates are warming up behind him. He's not playing in the most important game that Michigan had played to date with J.J. McCarthy and Team 143 for Jim Harbaugh. And he's not out there. He stayed, we all know. They won the national championship the next year. The Rams draft him. And there he is on that field where, I don't know, he had to sit there going, will I rehab well from it?
36:04Rich Eisen:I have no idea. and there he was yesterday with his first career two touchdown game high stepping it in the end zone and it may be that very end zone we took to photograph it based on the angles of both of these pictures you never know pretty awesome man yeah more importantly a proud member of john lennon's hot tub oh is that right he's on your team yeah excellent in the doingham is he aware of it uh you didn't start him yesterday did you i did hey wow yeah good for you Yeah, I put up 180. I don't want to talk about that right now because Jay Feli got 90 million points. It might be knocking me out of the playoffs.
36:43Rich Eisen:We'll take a break. 844-204-RICH. Number to dial right here on the – I don't want to hear from you. Quite frankly.
36:53Rich Eisen:The Rich Eisen Show, the podcast.
37:01As you know, managing maintenance, repair, and operations is never easy. But for the ones who always rise to the challenge, Grainger has your back. From professional-grade products you can count on to fast, dependable delivery, they're there to help you keep things running smoothly. Plus, their technical product specialists are here to help answer your toughest questions. And because Grainger knows safety is always a priority, they're committed to being your partner in protecting both your people and your facilities. Call 1-800-GRAINGER, click grainger.com, or just stop by. This episode is brought to you by State Farm.
37:34You know those friends who support your preference for podcasts over music on road trips? That's the energy State Farm brings to insurance.
37:41Rich Eisen:With over 19 ,000 local agents, they help you find the coverage that fits your needs. So you can spend less time worrying about insurance and more time enjoying the ride. Download the State Farm app or go online at statefarm.com. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.
38:00Rich Eisen:As you know, I care deeply about pediatric cancer research and awareness. This is why I talk about Hyundai Hope on Wheels. Hyundai is very proud, and they should, because for over 27 years, every Hyundai sold has helped fund life-saving pediatric cancer research thanks to over 850 dealers nationwide working in tandem. They've raised more than$277 million, supporting over 25 ,000 kids in their fight against cancer. At Hyundai, Hope isn't optional. It comes standard. please visit HyundaiUSA.com and search Hyundai Hope on Wheels to learn more everybody David in Dallas, Texas let's take his phone call, what's up David?
38:43Rich Eisen:that's line 3 David, you there? alright, David? adios, Troy in Arizona let's take Troy in Arizona's phone call, what's up Troy? is this working? I don't know, I can't hear anything I can't either You sure this is working to Jay Feli? We haven't already moved this stuff over to New York City, have we? We haven't done one of those things. All right, pop that back on. That's possible. Figure that out. No, Adam's talking to him in the back. All right, 4-4-2-0-4-RICH is the number to dial. So guess what happened? When? Yesterday in Cleveland, Ohio. Oh. Shador Sanders got better. A little bit. Yeah.
39:21Rich Eisen:Everybody makes fun of him saying, just look what happens if they get more time. Don't just know me in the middle of a game. Give me some time. See what we can do for a week. give me a week he you know obviously folks had their fun because he said could you imagine what this will look like with a full offseason that's what he said after his first win yeah oh my gosh but hey gotta love the moxie guess what he's doing it's right there guess what shador is doing he's giving his team a chance to win unbelievable man he scores 29 and the defense against Tennessee can't do a darn thing to stop them.
40:00Rich Eisen:I mean, this defense that has been lights out against so many other opponents, San Francisco being one that just leaps to mind recently. They didn't win, but boy. The Browns, Watt Shadur, come up with career highs and completions, 23. Passing yards, 364. Passing touchdowns, three. Rushing yards, 29. And a rushing touchdown. Do you know who's the last and only other rookie quarterback in the Super Bowl era to have a game with 350 or more passing yards, three or more passing touchdowns, or rushing touchdowns in a single game? His name is Joe Burrow. Just took a handful of starts before Shador put up a stat line that only other person is Joe Burrow to put one up in the Super Bowl era.
40:57Rich Eisen:of course, is the only quarterback to lose a game with that stat line this year. Would you believe, you want to know the list of Browns quarterbacks who have had 300 or more, 350 more pass yards, three passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown in a game? You want to know the list? Well, we got to flip through the book because there's like 80 of them. Good bit. You know what the bit is? Me doing my bit. He's the first. No one's ever done it. It's the Browns. 1.0 and 2.0. How about this one? The only other quarterback this decade to have four or more completions of 50 or more yards in his first three career starts.
41:37Rich Eisen:Aaron Rodgers.
41:42Rich Eisen:I even misread that stat. It's this century. I was like, wait a second. Okay. okay and she starts playing the slow sports center theme because i just did that i just made a mistake let me just repeat myself yeah shador has done something that no browns quarterback has ever done and in terms of this century only rogers has done and in terms of super bowl era and rookie quarterbacks only joe burrow has ever done joe burrow all right yeah rich but so but hold on and i'm serious when i say this you know what the best part about it is they lost because they maintain a top five pick well i mean to get them better they already have you know two first rounders also oh the jaguars pick is getting better he threw a dot to harold fanon to lead a comeback of two scores down to give the browns a shot of having to go for a two-point conversion to tie because they went for a two-point conversion before for the life of me My goodness, that doesn't make sense to me.
42:47I will never get it.
42:49Rich Eisen:Every single analyst or analytics person in my life will explain to me, well, you want to go for two as early as possible so you know how many points you need. Or you just keep kicking extra points and go to overtime. How does that sound? Or if you want to win it at the end. Yeah, you can go for two at the end. You don't want to do that because you don't have any time left in which to make up for that mistake unless you need to make up for the mistake you just made by going for two in the first place. That was so infuriating, man. I never will understand it. Nope. I will never understand it. No matter how many times analytics people will sit me down and explain it to me.
43:26Rich Eisen:It's dumb. I will never understand it. I'm an old school guy. Kick extra points until you don't have to. You have to. Or you must have to. Yeah. You got to get. Oh, my God. At any rate, they have to go for two. And they take Shadour off the field. and they do some dipsy-doo stuff with Quinshawn Judkins, who clearly didn't run the play as intended. After the game, Stefanski was asked about that. What's supposed to happen on that last two-point conversion? Yeah, not going to get into all the specifics, Jeff, but obviously did not go as we thought it would. Did you make that call or did Tommy? Yeah, I make every call.
44:04I make every call. Why would you take him off? Yeah, again, it's a two-point play. didn't come through on our first two-point play. Got to the second two-point play. We didn't come through. But that's on me.
44:15Rich Eisen:It's on me. I would honestly, not to tell him how to do his job, although Browns fans certainly would like me to, two-time coach of the year and a frequent guest of this program. Wouldn't you want to see what Shador looks like? He was rolling, man. He's rolling. You play the hot hand. And if you saw after the touchdown, they took a shot at Shador, and he's walking, and he's pointing at himself. And I'm sure some people thought he was pointing himself like, yeah, it's me. He was like, am I coming out? And that's what it was. That's what he had to say afterwards. Did you wish you had the ball in your hand in that moment to tie the game?
44:53If I'm out there any play, you know, I would wish I would always have the ball in my hand. But that's not what football is. Sometimes you got to run the ball. Sometimes you got to kick a field goal. You know, everything. That's the game. That's the game. That's the most important thing is the ball. So in any situation, of course you would want to, but I know we practiced something and we executed it in practice and we just didn't seem to this day. So I would never go against, you know, kind of like what the call was or anything.
45:23Rich Eisen:It just seems every instance since he's been the starter, he's been put in a position in front of the microphone where he's either asked point blank something to contradict his coaches beliefs in him or play calls, play calls or set up to help him succeed. Indeed, every single situation has either been point blank asked of him or in this situation, the football gods place a legit question in front of him through the media saying, are you upset to be taken off the field? And he answered it, knocked it out of the park each time he's knocked out of the park, whether he's turning to somebody saying, oh, you're just trying to start trouble, huh?
46:04Rich Eisen:Or, hey, everybody wants the ball, but we practiced it. he could have easily been, why would you take me out in the same way you did? And it would be just, he's making it about himself. Oh, his dad's making videos of him coming to the game and hugging his son up before the game. It's only about the Sanders. Every single time he has nailed it, when put in a position by either the media or the football gods to second guess his coach, or the setup around him, or whether they want him or not. Well, these numbers certainly support him being the start of the rest of the season. And guess what was announced in the last hour?
46:41Rich Eisen:Shador Sanders, your starter now for the rest of the season. Yes. Huzzah. I mean, I understand why they started Joe Flacco, right? But we, I mean, at least I think we knew this was going to happen. Look, sir, all I know is we've hoped it and it's now happening. so we get to see him next at Chicago home for Buffalo, Pittsburgh and at Cincinnati that's fun I want to see him now I want to see him now we want to see him all along you bet where's our internet auntie from Virginia let's get her calling back in to end hour number two and get ready for hour three the Ridge Eisen Show podcast you can't reason with a son trust us We've tried.
47:30Rich Eisen:This summer, it's time to put that angry ball of fire on mute. Columbia's OmniShade technology is engineered to protect you from the sun's harsh rays that can burn and damage your skin. The sun is relentless, but so is our gear. Level up your summer at Columbia.com to spend more time outside and less time slathering on aloe lotion. You're welcome. Columbia. Engineered for whatever.
From the publisher
Rich recaps the Green Bay Packers massive win over the Chicago Bears to claim first place in the NFC North.
Rams QB Matthew Stafford and Rich discuss L.A.’s mindset as they sit atop the NFC with a 10-3 record, what it’s like throwing to uber-talented WRs Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, the “energy and passion” of head coach Sean McVay, his MVP-level play this season behind a stout offensive line, facing the Detroit Lions in a huge Week 15 NFC showdown, and more.
Rich weighs in on Shedeur Sanders’ 364-yard, 3 touchdown performance in the Browns’ Week 14 loss to the Tennessee Titans in which the Cleveland QB was inexplicably on the sidelines for the games deciding play.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices