NFL Divisional-Round Picks With Mark Schlereth. Plus, Why the Pacers Had to Make the Siakam Trade.
Jan 19, 2024
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Super Bowl champion and Fox Sports analyst Mark Schlereth joins Ryen Russillo to make NFL Divisional-Round picks. They also discuss the Pacers' trade for Pascal Siakam, personal training experiences, player moves in football, Rubik's Cube frustrations, and humorous topics like shots and beach tips.
Tampa Bay's dominant defense in the wild card game may not be as successful against Detroit due to adjustments and the Lions' offensive play calling.
San Francisco's versatile offense and strong defense make them a tough matchup for Green Bay.
Baltimore's physicality and athleticism on both sides of the ball make them a strong contender in the playoffs.
Detroit's offensive versatility and energy on defense pose challenges for Tampa Bay's defense, making them a competitive matchup.
Deep dives
Tampa Bay's Defense Dominates Philadelphia in Wild Card Game
Tampa Bay's defense put on a blitz fest against Philadelphia in their wild card game, recording the most free rushers and pressures in any game all season. The dominant performance by Tampa Bay's defense led to a comfortable victory. However, replicating this level of success against Detroit seems unlikely, as the Lions will have studied the game film and may make necessary adjustments. Additionally, the Lions' offensive play calling, led by Ben Johnson, has shown promise, particularly in their run game and creative second and third down packages. While Todd Bowles' aggressive defense has been formidable, Detroit's ability to run the ball effectively and Jared Goff's skill in tight windows, coupled with the energy of Aiden Hutchinson on the defensive side, could offer the Lions a chance to compete in this game.
San Francisco's Versatile Offense Matches Up Well Against Green Bay's Defense
San Francisco's highly versatile offense has the ability to cause problems for Green Bay's defense. The 49ers' complex blocking schemes and personnel groupings, combined with the talent of playmakers like Deebo Samuel and Kyle Juszczyk, provide multiple offensive options and create mismatches against opposing defenses. Green Bay's defense may struggle to contain San Francisco's multifaceted attack, particularly considering the recent defensive inconsistencies observed in the Philadelphia game. While Green Bay's offense has showcased strong performances this season, they may face challenges against San Francisco's formidable defensive unit, which excels in disrupting routes and pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Overall, San Francisco's offensive versatility and defensive strength make them a tough matchup for Green Bay.
Baltimore's Physicality and Athleticism Make Them a Formidable Contender in the Playoffs
Baltimore's strength lies in their physicality and athleticism on both sides of the ball. They excel in winning the battle at the line of scrimmage, both when running the ball and defending the run. Defensively, their front seven, led by exceptional linebackers like Patrick Queen and Livan Te'David, possess great athleticism, which allows them to create pressure and excel in coverage. Offensively, Lamar Jackson's growth as a quarterback, coupled with the talent of playmakers like Zay Flowers, presents challenges for opposing defenses. Their ability to extend plays and create second options behind the initial play offers a potent offensive threat. The overall physicality and athleticism of the Baltimore Ravens make them a strong contender in the playoffs.
Detroit Relies on Offensive Versatility and Defensive Energy in Matchup Against Tampa Bay
Detroit's offensive versatility, led by offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, makes them a formidable opponent for Tampa Bay's defense. Their ability to run the ball effectively from various personnel groupings, combined with Jared Goff's proficiency in throwing in tight windows, poses challenges for opposing defenses. Additionally, the return of CJ Gardner-Johnson injects energy and toughness into Detroit's defense. While Tampa Bay's defense showcased an outstanding performance against Philadelphia, replicating this level of success against Detroit might prove more difficult as the Lions may adjust to Tampa Bay's blitz-heavy approach. The overall offensive versatility and defensive energy of the Detroit Lions make them a competitive matchup for Tampa Bay.
The Legacy of a Legendary Hoop Performance
The protagonist of the story recounts a memorable basketball performance during a company outing. Due to a lower rim height, he appeared to play like a superstar, dunking on everyone and shooting lights out. The performance became legendary in the office, and now, years later, another company outing with basketball planned is coming up. Worried that his legacy will take a hit if he reveals the truth, the protagonist contemplates faking an injury or pretending to be sick. He seeks advice on how to handle the situation without diminishing the current image he has established.
Embrace the Legend and Be a Humble Coach
Rather than faking an injury or illness, the protagonist could choose to embrace the legendary performance and adopt a more humble approach. He could offer to coach during the company outing, allowing his coworkers to experience the game while he takes a backseat. By doing so, he can reinforce his basketball knowledge without stealing the spotlight and maintain the positive image he has cultivated.
Let the Legend Live On
Instead of taking any action, the protagonist could simply let the legend of his impressive basketball performance continue untouched. Acknowledging that the hype may be based on a misunderstanding due to the lower rim height, he can allow his coworkers to believe what they want without revealing the truth. This way, his legacy remains intact, and he can enjoy the admiration and respect from his colleagues.
Russillo starts the show by sharing his thoughts on the Pacers' trade for Pascal Siakam (0:38). Then, he’s joined by Super Bowl champion and Fox Sports analyst Mark Schlereth to break down all four divisional-round games and get Mark’s picks along the way (18:31). Plus, Life Advice! An update from vending machine guy (47:13)!
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Host: Ryen Russillo
Guest: Mark Schlereth
Producers: Steve Ceruti, Kyle Crichton, and Mike Wargon
