Gridiron Gut Check

Listen Now - REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana Nov 12, 2024

Behind the closed doors of government offices and military compounds, are hidden stories and buried secrets from the darkest corners of history. Each week, Luke Lamana, a Marine Corp Reconnaissance Veteran, pulls back the curtain on what once was classified information exposing the secrets and lies behind the world’s most powerful institutions. From the hitmakers at Wondery and Ballen Studios, we bring you REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana. The stories are real, and the secrets are shocking.

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Listen Now: Criminal Lives Oct 28, 2024

What drives a regular person to risk it all in the criminal underworld? On Wondery's Criminal Lives, host Danny Gold takes you inside the minds of some of America’s most successful black market entrepreneurs. From a larger-than-life steroids kingpin to the self described "Original Gay Gangster" who had a gift for numbers and an addiction to luxury, each reveals the rules of the game, the adrenaline-fueled highs, and the missteps that brought it all crashing down. Forget what you've seen in the movies. Criminal Lives brings you the unvarnished truth of what it really means to choose a life of crime.

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Gut Check Time for Mahomes, Purdy, Caleb & Kliff | 58 Feb 08, 2024

There’s one game left in the NFL season, and one final episode of Gridiron Gut Check so we’re going out with a bang! Shek and Shazier are talking all things Super Bowl and getting right into the matchup between the young GOAT, Patrick Mahomes, and Mr. Irrelevant himself, Brock Purdy. The guys also chat about former linebacker Zach Orr replacing Mike MacDonald as the Ravens’ new DC, how we feel about Caleb Williams trying to force his way to the Commanders, and why in the WORLD any team would buy what Kliff Kingsbury is selling.

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Gut Check Time for Purdy, Mahomes, Lamar, and Josh Allen | 57 Feb 01, 2024

On his way to setting the ALL TIME post season receptions record, America’s sweetheart Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs are going back to the Super Bowl to play the Niners in a rematch of their 2019 showdown. But who has more to prove, Mahomes or Purdy? Shek and Shazier are jumping into all the post-Championship weekend takes like: What really caused the Lions to blow their first half lead? Why the Ravens really struggled all day vs. KC? What it REALLY will take for a QB to beat Mahomes when it matters most? And the realization that Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson just might never win a ring as long as Mahomes is in the AFC. Plus the guys dissect Lions OC Ben Johnson’s decision to stay in Detroit rather than take a head coaching gig and if Arthur Smith as OC for the Steelers makes any sense at all.

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Gut Check Time for Josh Allen, Lamar, and the Lions | 56 Jan 25, 2024

It’s conference championship week but all people still want to talk about is Jason Kelce slamming beers, shirtless in 22-degree weather. But Shek and Shazier are ready to talk ball! What does Buffalo’s latest heartbreak really mean for Josh Allen and the Bills’ chances as legit SB contenders? Are the lovable Lions really America’s team? Does the Super Bowl really go through San Fran? Plus, the guys weigh in on how big of an apology EVERYONE owes Lamar Jackson and whether his stellar play this year will be enough to overcome his past playoff demons against the more experienced Chiefs.

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Gut Check Time for Stroud, Love, and Josh Allen | 55 Jan 18, 2024

Oh the joy and pain of the NFL playoffs! Shek and Shazier are ready to tackle every inch of Wildcard Weekend and beyond including the latest Dallas debacle and what this really means for Dak’s future, if Coach Tomlin is really staying in Pittsburgh, and if this is really the year Josh Allen slays the Patrick Mahomes dragon. Plus, Shazier cuts through the hype of CJ Stroud and Jordan Love’s dominant performances last weekend, whether either of them can win another round and if Pete Carroll is really done coaching for good.

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Gut Check Time for the Cowboys, Chiefs, Lamar & Michigan’s Future | 54 Jan 11, 2024

And the award goes to…. With the NFL season wrapping up, it’s time for Shek and Shazier to pick their favs for all the end of season hardware! Is Lamar the runaway MVP? Is anyone else even in the convo? Plus, the guys weigh in on which QBs playing this weekend should scare the Ravens the most, why people aren’t afraid of the Chiefs, and if Mike McCarthy is coaching for his job if the Cowboys don’t get to the Super Bowl. Then, Shazier comes to terms with Michigan’s recent dominance and speculates about how long it will last.

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Gut Check Time for Michigan, Philly, Puka and CJ | 53 Jan 04, 2024

The Wolverines are one win away from the natty and Shazier doesn’t wanna talk about it! Shek’s grabbed all the most ridiculous hot takes from around the NFL and CFB this week and Shazier is ready to call them like he sees them! Is the whole country really rooting for the Huskies after the show Penix put on against Texas? Are the Eagles really completely cooked after the Cardinals hung 35 points on them? Is there anything Nick Sirianni can do to fix the Birds before the playoffs? The guys dive into all of it plus what an expanded CFP next year could look like and if it’ll be enough to save college bowl season from opt-outs, if Puka Nacua can edge CJ Stroud for OROY, and finally, there’s a ton of QB drama in Pittsburgh – is Mason Rudolph really the answer even with Kenny Pickett healthy?

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Gut Check Time for Shek & Shazier’s Best & Worst Takes of 2023 | 52 Dec 28, 2023

Win, place, and show, we’ve got a best takes and worst takes of 2023 episode coming your way! Shek and Shazier are throwing it back to when they predicted Tyreek Hill would top 2,000 receiving yards and that the Cowboys would take the East. They’re also covering some of their WORST takes like when they predicted Deion Sanders and Colorado would take over college football and that Ohio State would win the CFP. Plus the guys are jumping into some of the biggest surprises in 2023 like who knew the Tush Push would become the most unstoppable NFL play of all time or that Taylor Swift would be a weekly player in the NFL news cycle? Finally, they cap off 2023 with predictions for 2024: Will Travis Kelce retire? Will Jim Harbaugh lead Michigan to a National title and then leave for the NFL? And what the eff are the Bears gonna do in the draft: Keep Justin Fields and trade the pick the Panthers owe them or draft another QB and start all over again?

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Gut Check Time for Hurts, Flacco, Baker and the Cowboys | 51 Dec 21, 2023

Another week, another shakeup atop the NFL. Shek’s got the hottest takes from around the internet and Shazier’s ready to either co-sign or call bs on all of them including: Can the Cowboys really contend if they can’t win on the road? Have Jalen Hurts and the Eagles really become the most predictable team in the NFL or did CMC get lucky with his call on the Manning cast? Plus, Shazier’s gut reactions to Chip Kelly’s plan to fix CFB, how far Joe Flacco can take the Browns, what really went wrong or the Chargers this season, and if Baker Mayfield is just flat-out a winner.

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Gut Check Time for Tommy Cutlets, Justin Fields, Travis Kelce & Dak’s MVP Case | 50 Dec 14, 2023

Dak Prescott might be playing some of the best football of his career but Shek and Shazier are ready to chew on all things Tommy Cutlets! Shek gathered all the hottest takes flying around the Giants and beyond in the NFL this week and Shazier can’t wait to tackle each of them like: Has the Philly hype train REALLY gone completely off the track? Is Travis Kelce REALLY washed? Would the Bears REALLY consider moving on from Justin Fields for a rookie QB? Could Colorado REALLY make the CFP next year? Plus are the Lions frauds and could this be Mike Tomlin’s last year coaching the Steelers? Strap in, it’s Gut Check time!

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Gut Check Time for the College Football Playoff, Brock Purdy, Jordan Love, & TD Celebrations | 49 Dec 07, 2023

The College Football Playoff Committee has made their decisions and WOW, the guys are fired up! Shek’s got all the hottest takes ready to fire at Shazier including why FSU and OSU didn’t make the cut, if Brock Purdy really has a shot at NFL MVP or if his supporting cast of CMC, Deebo, and Kittle have more to do with his success, if Jordan Love is really the next generational QB in Green Bay, the truth about how much time players really put into choreographing TD celebrations before playing a bad opponent, and if Texas is FINALLY back.

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Gut Check Time for Ryan Day, Jalen Hurts, CMC, and Rookie QB’s | 48 Nov 30, 2023

Thanksgiving week in the NFL is in the books and Shek is bursting at the seams with hot takes to throw at Shazier including if the OC change in Pittsburgh really led to the 400 yard explosion of offense by Pickett and the gang, if the Buckeyes third straight loss to rival Michigan really means Ryan Day’s days are numbered at OSU, if Jalen Hurts’ overtime heroics vs. the Bills really locked up his MVP chances, and if CMC is more important than Purdy for the 49’ers. Plus, the guys weigh in on just how much coaching plays a role in rookies Bryce Young and CJ Stroud’s seasons, if Jordan Love is the guy in Green Bay, and if NFL teams ever try to lose on purpose.

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Gut Check Time for CJ Stroud, the Lions, Cowboys, & Coach Prime’s Next Gig | 47 Nov 16, 2023

The Gridiron Gang is back! Shek’s firing all the hottest NFL takes by Shazier to get his unguarded, gut check on which ones are BS and which ones are facts. Are Josh Allen and the Bills really in a free fall? Does CJ Stroud really have a chance at winning MVP as a rookie quarterback? And is winning ugly really just part of the plan in Pittsburgh? Plus Shek & Shazier dive deep into what has to happen in Dallas for Mike McCarthy to keep his job and who could replace him if Jerry makes a move?

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Gut Check Time for Tua, Taysom Hill, The Tush Push & Belichick | 46 Nov 09, 2023

It’s the first episode of Gridiron Gut Check and Dave Dameshek is gathering all the most talked about, bandwagon NFL narratives blowing up our group chats and running them past former All Pro linebacker, Ryan Shazier to see which ones are complete BS and which ones might actually be true. This week, Shek & Shazier tackle how much playing overseas in Germany really affected Tua’s performance against the Chiefs, if Bill Belichick is really on the hot seat in New England, if it’s too soon for the Panthers to regret taking Bryce Young 1st overall, if Taysom Hill’s hybrid success has created a new prototype for future NFL QBs, plus Ryan drops some truth bombs about the Tush Push.

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2 Comebacks and a HUGE Announcement | 45 Nov 02, 2023

We’ve got TWO comeback stories AND some HUGE news to share! First Olympic medalist Gabby Thomas on her long road back from injury and her goal of a triumphant return at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Then Shek and Shazier welcome Virginia state wrestling champion, Adonis Lattimore, who is changing everything we thought was possible on the mat. Adonis was born without a right leg, and a left leg that ends at his thigh, and one finger on his right hand. But Adonis didn’t let that stop him from pursuing his dreams of becoming a state champ wrestler! Plus, this is the last episode of Don’t Call It a Comeback, BUT Shek & Shazier aren’t going anywhere! They’re making a comeback of their own NEXT WEEK with a brand new show! Check out Gut Check for a different kind of NFL coverage. Shek will collect all the most questionable narratives that have football fans and media losing their minds, and Shazier will tackle each one like the ferocious, All Pro linebacker that he was. He’ll either call BS on the take and stop it dead in its tracks or let it run free to paydirt. No take gets a free pass on Gut Check!

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Mikaela Shiffrin’s Uphill Battle for Downhill Success | 44 Oct 26, 2023

We’re hitting the slopes with Mikaela Shiffrin! The ski superstar joins Shek and Shazier to navigate all the twists and turns that led her back from family tragedy and career threatening injury to reclaim her spot as a slope GOAT and the all-time winningest skier in FIS World Cup competition. Plus the guys tackle the Michigan sign stealing scandal and Shek breaks down his biggest takeaways from this past weekend’s Steelers vs Rams game.

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The Countless Comebacks of Mo Hasan | 43 Oct 19, 2023

All aboard the Mo Hasan rollercoaster ride! This week Shek & Shazier go under center with quarterback Mo Hasan whose college playing career had more twists and turns than Space Mountain. From D1 to JUCO and back plus flashes of greatness, injuries, transfers, NFL tryouts and more comebacks than you can throw a football at, Hasan shares every up and down with the guys. Plus Shek & Shazier dig into Colorado’s regression since their 3-0 start and show some love to Zach Wilson for emerging from Aaron Rodgers’ spotlight in NY.

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Pacman Jones is a Real One | 42 Oct 12, 2023

Pacman’s back! But not on the field, this time he’s a standout in the game of life. Pacman Jones joins Shek & Shazier for a candid conversation about his extraordinary post-football life including the role he’s had in the life of Chris Henry Jr, who is one of the top receivers in the ’26 class, a future Ohio State Buckeye, and the son of Jones’ former Bengals teammate and close friend, the late Chris Henry. Jones opens up about the close bond he had with Chris Henry throughout their NFL careers, the reputation the Bengals had while they both played in Cincinnati, and the process of Chris Henry Jr committing to OSU. Plus, Shek and Shazier weigh in on the Ravens up and down season and if the USC Trojans are a true championship contender.

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Coaches are the New Black with Marty Smith | 41 Oct 05, 2023

Move over multi-million-dollar athletes ‘cause coaches are hogging all the spotlight lately. ESPN’s Marty Smith joins Shek & Shazier to dive into his new book, Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles from Championship Coaches. From what Deion Sanders does so well that sets him apart from other coaches; to whether Saban might hang it up after this season; to how sustainable the SEC’s dominance is… Smith coaches the guys up on all of it. Plus Shek and Shazier jump in on which NFL teams have outplayed expectations the most this season and which young NFL QB has the best chance of a career comeback this year!

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An Astronomical Comeback Story in Houston with Jon Singleton | 40 Sep 28, 2023

MLB Playoff SZN is right around the corner and with it an ASTRONOMICAL comeback story. 10 years after being drafted, Jon Singleton is finally making an impact for the Astros, leading Houston in their fight for a wild card playoff spot. He joins Shek & Shazier to talk about the pressure of being the first player to sign a multiyear, multimillion dollar contract before his major-league debut, struggling with addiction, almost losing it all, his second chance with the Astros in 2018 and how it all led him and the ‘Stros right into the thick of the NL playoff picture this year. Plus, the guys marvel at Tua and the Dolphins hanging SEVENTY points on the Broncos last weekend, and Josh Dobbs making the most of his chance with the Cardinals.

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Is Colorado PRIMED for a Breakout Season? With Pat Forde | 39 Sep 21, 2023

Is Colorado for real?? After the double OT thriller last week versus Colorado State, the Buffalo are the most talked about team in college football! Shek and Shazier are joined by renowned sportswriter and Colorado native, Pat Forde to dive into how Coach Prime has brought Colorado football back to life and changed the face of college football. Forde weighs in on how long the boys in Boulder can keep this going, how Travis Hunter’s absence will challenge the Buffs, and what the realistic expectations are for CU this year. Plus, Shek and Shazier go full “Swiftie” breaking down the Travis Kelce / Taylor Swift romance rumors.

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Pat Pete’s Steel City Second Act | 38 Sep 14, 2023

Expectations are always high for the Steelers after 17 straight winning seasons. But last year, the streak was almost broken after Pittsburgh eked out a 9-8 record. Enter Patrick Peterson, the longtime highlight reel cornerback brought in to sure up the Steel City secondary. Shek and Shazier catch up with the former All Pro, who bounced back in a big way last season after an injury-riddled first year with Minnesota. The guys tackle how Pat Pete’s style meshes with Coach Tomlin’s defensive philosophy, how his experience can help the young DB’s on the team, just how high the Steeler’s ceiling is this season and if Super Bowl expectations are realistic. Plus Peterson’s POV on being a part of the greatest comeback in NFL history as a Viking last season. Then, Shek and Shazier weigh in on if the Jets D can carry Zach Wilson to a title and if Jalen Milroe is the right guy to lead Bama back to the CFB playoffs this season.

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Jason Kelce is the Center of Attention | 37 Sep 07, 2023

Football is back! With the NFL season kicking off this week Shek and Shazier called in the big guns! Jason Kelce has manned the middle of the Eagles’ offensive line since 2011 reaching sure-fire future HOF status as one of the best centers to ever snap a football. Now, going into his 13th – and possibly final - season, after last year’s crushing defeat in the Super Bowl, can the Eagles’ iron man, lead his team on one more championship run? The guys dive into Kelce’s take on Jalen Hurts’ success, what it’s like as an O-lineman playing in a QB-driven league, and how the Eagles stay motivated heading into the season as heavy favorites to win it all. Plus, Shek and Shazier unpack Ronald Acuna Jr’s dramatic comeback season for the Braves and if Burning Man is truly the worst place in the world to be stranded?

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Fantasy Forecasting Quarterbacks, Running Backs and Comebacks with Michael Smith | 36 Aug 31, 2023

Football is back baby! Shek and Shazier are joined by Amazon’s Thursday Night Football correspondent Michael Smith, talking all things Fantasy football. The guys are diving into who should go number one in your drafts? If WRs should go before RBs? Which QBs are worth grabbing this year? And then Shek and Shazier pick Michael’s brain on if Russell Wilson can bounce back from his nightmare first season in Denver, what it means for the 49ers now that Brock Purdy has the starting QB job locked up, and if Lamar Jackson and OBJ can recapture their old magic as fantasy superstars on the Ravens this year. Plus with Shek and Shazier’s alma maters Indiana and Ohio State duking it out this weekend in their season opener… they engage in some gentlemanly trash talk about if the Hoosiers can pull off the upset.

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Miki Sudo Spills the Beans on Chasing Chestnut – With Miki Sudo | 35 Jun 29, 2023

Hot Dog! This week Shek & Shazier sink their teeth into a frank conversation with women’s competitive eating champion Miki Sudo about her recent dominance at the Nathan’s Famous 4th of July Hot Dog Eating Contest. Has she bitten off more than she can chew coming for Joey Chestnut’s record of most hot dog eating competitions without a loss? What foods does she refuse to eat competitively? And what’s it like dating a fellow competitive eater? They get into all the juicy details of Miki’s life as a competitive eater. Plus in a special edition of “The Check Down” the guys look into their comeback crystal ball and try to predict the biggest comebacks that haven’t taken place yet including whether the Eagles can get back to the Super Bowl, if a Pac-12 team can make the CFB Playoffs and if the Sid the Kid and the Penguins have one more run left in them.

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A Hollywood Ending for the Magnificent Mr. Maggi – With Drew Maggi | 34 Jun 22, 2023

Wow! A Pittsburgh story on Don’t Call it a Comeback? Shocker! But Drew Maggi’s climb to the major leagues is truly so incredible it defies all hometown bias! The inspirational infielder joins Shek and Shazier this week to tell them how he FINALLY got his shot to show the MLB what he can do as a 34-year-old rookie. Originally drafted way back in 2008, Maggi bounced around college and the minor leagues for 13 grueling seasons before finally getting the call in April – a call btw that went super viral and touched the hearts of baseball fans everywhere. And he didn’t disappoint! Plus, the guys dive into the wild NBA offseason including the blockbuster deal that sent Bradley Beal to Phoenix and if Wemby-mania can sweep the Spurs to one more Finals before Pop retires.

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From NFL to XFL and Back – With Ben DiNucci | 33 Jun 15, 2023

Ben DiNucci is BACK in the NFL after crushing it in the XFL, and now he’s on the pod! Shek and Shazier chat with Ben about his crazy 2020 season, going from the Cowboys’ 3rd string QB to starter and the roller coaster that led the XFL Seattle Sea Dragons to come calling in 2023. The former Cowboys’ QB set the league on fire, throwing for a league high 2,671 yards leading Seattle to the playoffs. This offseason, DiNucci turned his XFL success into a tryout at the Denver Broncos’ rookie minicamp and earned himself an NFL contract backing up Russell Wilson for the 2023 NFL season. The guys also offer some advice to the entire NBA on how to try to stop Jokic next year, handicap if Connor McGregor will ever fight professionally again and shout out Florida as the comeback capital of the sports world right now,

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The Comeback Vibes are Strong This NFL Offseason – With John Gonzales | 32 Jun 08, 2023

Just because it’s the NFL offseason doesn’t mean there’s any shortage of comeback stories to talk about! Wondery’s own John Gonzales from the Lead: Starting Five is in the house talking all the mini-comebacks coming out of NFL mini-camps! Gonzo, Shek and Shazier whiz through Philly’s chances of staking another Super Bowl run, how much of an impact Aaron Rodgers will make for the Jets this season, which free agents might have the biggest impact on their new teams, and if the Steelers can make a playoff run. Plus, the guys go in on the PGA’s decision to take LIV’s money and Shazier drops his list of must-see summer concerts.

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Totally Blind Jake Olson Goes From Long Shot to Long Snapper – With Jake Olson | 31 Jun 01, 2023

There are miracle comebacks and then there’s the story of Jake Olson! He’s a blind cancer survivor who played long snapper for the USC Trojans and he joins Shek & Shazier this week to tell his amazing story. From losing his sight completely in high school to returning to the field despite his predicament his junior year, to walking on to the Trojans as a D-1 college athlete, and later becoming a US National Blind Golf Champion, the former Pac-12 special teams player of the week is a walking “against all odds” story. Plus, the guys dive into the Heat vs Nuggets NBA Finals matchup, weigh in on a possible Le’Veon Bell return to the Steelers, and if there’s another comeback up Tom Brady’s sleeve.

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Wemby-Mania Running Wild in San Antonio – With Michelle Beadle | 30 May 25, 2023

Did lightning just strike twice in San Antonio? The Spurs have gone through a bit of a rough patch since their dynasty ended, but that’s what happens when Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili retire and Kawhi Leonard decides to leave town… BUT with Wemby on the way, the comeback has to be right around the corner, right?! Shek & Shazier welcome NBA expert and lifelong Spurs superfan Michelle Beadle to the pod to discuss if the Spurs can take back the West now that they’ve won the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes, who stacks up as their chief rival these days, and if it’s time to move on from Coach Pop. Plus, the guys chat about Jamal Murray’s incredible comeback from a torn ACL to tearing up the playoffs, if the Nuggets can secure the chip this year, and whether the right Batman is returning to the big screen.

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A Soccer Star’s 7 Minutes of Redemption – With Lynn Williams | 29 May 18, 2023

The star forward at the center of the women’s soccer comeback story of the year is in the house! Lynn Williams joins Shek and Shazier for a deep dive into the horrific hamstring injury that left her career in the NWSL and the USWNT in doubt. From the blood curdling pop she heard while chasing the ball down the line during a Challenge Cup game in 2022 to finding out that her hamstring had been torn completely off the bone, to 10 months of grueling rehab and training, it all leads up to the pitch perfect story of her return a year later where 7 seconds into her first game back, Williams bent one past the keeper for a goal! Plus, the guys marvel at Jason Tatum’s game 7 performance lifting the Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals, debate if the Lakers’ bubble championship actually counts, and weigh in on which Disney musical has the greatest soundtrack of all time.

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X Marks the Spot for AJ McCarron’s Return to QB Glory | 28 May 11, 2023

The XFL is a breeding ground for comeback stories but none bigger or more emotional than AJ McCarron! After leading Alabama to back-to-back national championships in college McCarron flamed out in the NFL. Add to that a torn ACL in 2021 and his days as a starting QB looked long gone. But then the upstart XFL came calling and now McCarron is the league leader in touchdowns for the St. Louis Battlehawks and the XFL’s breakout player! Shek and Shazier talk to the QB about why he chose the XFL over the NFL, his experiences with The Rock, overcoming injuries, and doing it all so his kids could see him play. Plus the guys dive into the return of screen legend Joe Pesci in Peacock’s Bupkis, Max Duggan finding a new home in the NFL, and of course a look ahead to Mother’s Day.

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The Westminster Dog Show Returns in PEAK FORM - With Gail Miller Bisher | 27 May 04, 2023

It’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show season and there’s a new breed of excitement in the air! Shek and Shazier welcome on-air analyst and Director of Communications Gail Miller Bisher for a crash course on everything that goes into winning Best In Show. From why the the most popular dogs never win to the parameters of “peak form” to what it takes to become a WKC Dog Show judge. Plus the guys break down the GOAT matchup between Steph and LeBron and what it means for their EPIC playoff rivalry, which NFL franchise ACTUALLY had the best draft this year, and with Star Wars Day upon us, how the guys plan to celebrate! May the 4th be with you!

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Russillo Comes in Hot on the NBA Playoffs – With Ryen Russillo | 26 Apr 27, 2023

It’s NBA Playoff season and the drama is BACK! The Ringer’s resident flamethrower, Ryen Russillo joins Shek and Shazier to break down all the juiciest comeback storylines playing out in the playoffs like: Are the new-look Lakers good enough to get Lebron back to the Finals? Do the upstart Kings have enough juice left to keep the beam lit vs. the Warriors? And could a few key injuries determine who wins the chip this year? Plus the guys weigh in on whether Bijan Robinson cuts the mustard as a top ten pick in the NFL Draft, if he can single handedly put some respect back on the running back position, and if Aaron Rodgers is the answer to the Jets quest to finally emerge from the darkness of NFL purgatory.

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Can Davis/Garcia Usher in a Boxing Renaissance? - With Eddie Hearn | 25 Apr 20, 2023

Boxing mega fights are BACK! Shek and Shazier are joined by Matchroom boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, talking about this weekend’s MASSIVE super fight between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Ryan Garcia. Eddie gives his prediction on the fight, drops a hot take on if celebrity boxers like Jake Paul are here to stay, teases some potential upcoming mega fights like Joshua vs Wilder and Fury vs Usyk and the gloves come off when everyone makes their pick for boxing GOAT. Plus, Shek and Shazier weigh in on if Damar Hamlin’s return to practice is too soon, how NFL draft prospects are feeling right now leading up to the big day, if the Warriors can claw their way back to slay the Kings, and with Big George Foreman in theaters, the guys talk a little old school boxing!

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A World Series Hero’s Second Act is BANANAS - With Jonny Gomes | 24 Apr 13, 2023

It ain’t your grandfather’s brand of baseball but the Savannah Bananas are selling out stadiums all over the world by playing a new, fun-first style of America’s Past Time. And World Series hero, Jonny Gomes is helping them do it! Shek and Shazier are joined by the former Red Sox and Royals legend to peel back the layers on “The Harlem Globetrotters of baseball.” Plus OBJ is back, this time with the Ravens, but will his return convince Lamar Jackson to stay? Did we just witness Tiger’s last stand at the Masters? And Shazier recalls the time he and Le’Veon Bell almost came to blows!

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The Resurgence of Records, Stats, and Numbers - With Mike Greenberg | 23 Apr 06, 2023

Greeny's in the house giving us Big Digit Energy! That's right, numbers are at the heart of our collective sports obsession even as the games we love are constantly changing. But can the kind of long-standing records and stats that fascinated us as kids make a comeback? Shek & Shazier get up with ESPN legend Mike Greenberg to go inside the numbers on his new book, "Got Your Number: The Greatest Sports Legends and the Numbers They Own" for the deepest of deep dives into why those digits on the backs of our favorite athletes' jerseys and printed in the record books mean so darn much to us! If you ever wanted to see Shek geek the eff out, this is the episode for you! Plus in a special edition of the Check Down, the guys go even deeper into iconic player numbers like 7, 13, 23, 33 and more with a little game of jersey number association.

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The Road to Wrestlemania is Paved with Comeback Stories - With Peter Rosenberg | 22 Mar 30, 2023

It’s Wrestlemania season and Shek and Shazier are joined by Hot 97, ESPN, WWE personality and host of the Cheap Heat podcast, Peter Rosenberg to ACKNOWLEDGE all the juicy, star-studded comeback storylines on the card. From the return of the American Nightmare Cody Rhodes after six years away, to the Emmy-worthy, dramatic reconciliation of Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens as BFF’s and tag team title contenders, to John Cena’s long awaited in-ring comeback after his recent run in Hollywood, the guys go bell-to-bell on every major storyline heading into Wrestlemania 39. Plus it’s opening week for baseball season, Lebron is back just in time for the Lakers’ playoff chase, more March Madness Cinderella stories play out in the NCAA Tournament, and John Wick 4 sparks a deep dive into the best action movie villains of all time.

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Cinderella Madness in the NCAA Tournament - With Darryl Reynolds | 21 Mar 23, 2023

Chances are your bracket got busted after four major upsets took place in the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament. With Cinderella teams like Princeton, Florida Atlantic, Fairleigh Dickinson, and Furman advancing with upset wins over powerhouses like Arizona, Memphis, Purdue and UVA, Shek & Shazier catch up with former Villanova Wildcats National Champion (‘16) Darryl Reynolds to make sense of all these amazing March Madness comeback stories. Plus the guys shed some light on the Aaron Rodgers to the Jets rumors, dream about OBJ to the Steelers, and Shazier books his WWE2K dream match: Ryan “King Shay” Shazier vs. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson!

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Can Austin Aune Go From the Yankees to the NFL? - With Austin Aune | 20 Mar 16, 2023

He was a two-sport athlete in high school who had to choose between playing D1 quarterback or minor league baseball. Lucky for Austin Aune the New York Yankees made the decision for him, drafting him into their farm system with a million dollar contract. But after six years of bus trips and grinding in the minors, the Yankees released him. Was this the end of his dreams of playing in the pros? Not quite! Instead Aune returned to football, eventually finding his way back under center - this time for the University of North Texas. Now he’s a 29 year-old NFL draft prospect, hoping to have his name called on draft night and he joins Shek and Shazier to take them through every twist and turn along the way! Plus the guys dive into a special draft season edition of “The Check Down” with a look at CJ Stroud’s journey to possible #1 overall pick, if Jaxson Smith-Njigba can overcome an injury plagued 2022 season to reach his potential in the NFL, and what Joey Porter Jr. would look like as a Pittsburgh Steeler.

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The Stunning Return of Jon “Bones” Jones - With Megan Olivi | 19 Mar 09, 2023

Jon Jones, the UFC's most contentious superstar might be the most talented fighter to ever grace the octagon, but legal troubles, steroid scandals, and contract disputes forced Jones to give up his light heavyweight belt and step out of the spotlight... at least until last Saturday, when "Bones" returned with a vengeance, recapturing the heavyweight title in just two minutes. Does this stunning comeback-- as a heavyweight, no less-- cement Jones' status as the greatest to ever do it? To settle the debate, Shek & Shazier are joined by Megan Olivi, the UFC's lead ringside reporter. Plus, the guys discuss how KD's return from injury will impact the NBA playoffs, decide whether the Giants overpaid to bring back their stars, and debate whether or not they're in on the KFC Double Down.

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Matt Veretto’s Hoop Dreams Ain’t Over Yet - With Matt Veretto | 18 Mar 02, 2023

Matt Veretto never stopped loving basketball. He just needed a break. From high school player of the year in Connecticut to top recruit of the Delaware Blue Hens, it seemed like Veretto was living the ultimate hoop dream. But then he just walked away and put his life as a college athlete behind him. Until one day, three years later, when he decided to bet on himself, put his name in the transfer portal, and try again. Now he’s a 24-year-old, grad transfer leading the Vermont Catamounts to a likely NCAA tournament run and he joins Shek & Shazier this week to take them through every twist and turn of his amazing return to basketball. Plus the guys make some March Madness Cinderella predictions, debate which classic college hoops teams could hang with today’s players, and break down the new White Men Can’t Jump reboot.

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A Surprise Tiger Woods Return Wows the Riviera - With Jimmy Roberts | 17 Feb 23, 2023

After an unprecedented start to his career Tiger Woods’ perfect life imploded. First came personal turmoil, then a rash of nagging injuries, then a car accident that almost cost him his life. But never bet against Tiger Woods because he’s back, competing at the Genesis Open at the famed Riviera. Can the icon regain his legendary form? It sure looks that way, at least according to Shek and Shazier’s guest this week, Jimmy Roberts who’s covered Tiger for his entire career. Plus the guys marvel at Mac McClung’s epic Slam Dunk Contest performance, weigh in on Eric Bienemy’s move to DC, and argue over their favorite action movie franchises.

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Mahomes vs Brady, Who’s the Super Bowl Comeback King? - With Chris Hogan | 16 Feb 16, 2023

On the heels of leading the Chiefs to a dramatic comeback victory against the Eagles in Super Bowl LVII, Patrick Mahomes is becoming a GOAT right in front of our eyes. But can his Super Bowl comeback credentials even touch those of Tom Brady? Shek and Shazier recap the big game before looking back at Tom Brady’s legendary 28-3 comeback in Super Bowl LI with former Pats receiver Chris Hogan.

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A Super Bowl Full of Super Comebacks - With Geoff Schwartz | 15 Feb 09, 2023

It’s Super Bowl week and Shek & Shazier welcome former Kansas City Chiefs lineman, and NFL insider, Geoff Schwartz to break down all the super comeback storylines playing out in Phoenix this week including: is Andy Reid approaching GOAT coach status?; How the Eagles retooled so quickly after the Carson Wentz disaster; and all the Jason Kelce vs. Travis Kelce hype you can fit into one podcast! Plus the guys make their Super Bowl game and MVP predictions, weigh in on the futures of DeMeco Ryans in Houston and Brian Flores in Minnesota, and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip hop, Shazier names his favorite old school rapper.

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The Jeremy Reaves Rollercoaster Ride From Undrafted to All Pro - With Jeremy Reaves | 14 Feb 02, 2023

Washington Commanders special teams ace, Jeremy Reaves is about to play in his first Pro Bowl. But the road to get there was filled with more twists and turns than any roller coaster at Disney! The man himself, Jeremy Reaves, joins Shek and Shazier to take them through all the highs and lows on his long, strange journey to All Pro. From a broken back in high school to going undrafted after college, to surviving on the fringes of multiple NFL teams, to the shocking death of his mother, and everything it took to never lose focus and fulfill his boyhood dream.

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Brock Purdy’s Road from Mr. Irrelevant to the NFC Title Game - With Kurt Benkert | 13 Jan 26, 2023

No rookie quarterback has ever won the Super Bowl. Could Brock Purdy go from Mr. Irrelevant in the 2022 NFL Draft to the first to ever do it? Shek and Shazier are joined by Purdy’s former teammate and fellow Niners’ back-up QB, Kurt Benkert for a first-hand look at Brock Purdy’s unlikely ascension to starting QB for the Super Bowl contending San Francisco 49ers. Plus can a hobbled Mahomes lead the Chiefs to the big game, is winning basketball back in Philly, and Shazier shows some love for Kirk Herbstreit and The Last Duel.

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The Jags' Amazing Journey Back to the NFL Playoffs - With Maurice Jones-Drew | 12 Jan 19, 2023

Duuuuuuuvallll! That’s right, the Jacksonville Jaguars completed an amazing worst-to-first franchise turnaround this season culminating in not just a return to the NFL playoffs, but a jaw-dropping, 27-point comeback against the LA Chargers in the Wild Card round that shocked the entire football world. So who better to join Shek and Shazier to talk about this magical Jags transformation than a Duval legend, and future hall of famer, former Jags running back, Maurice Jones-Drew. Plus is Tom Brady planning ANOTHER comeback? The guys offer some tips on how the NBA Slam Dunk Contest can return to greatness… and a Waffle House vs. Primanti Bros. debate that will make Pittsburgh residents question Shazier’s loyalties!

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The NFL Playoffs are Chock Full of Comeback Stories - With Trey Wingo | 11 Jan 12, 2023

In case of emergency, call Trey Wingo! With Shek stuck in travel hell, Ryan is joined by ESPN legend and current PFN analyst, Trey Wingo for a supersized discussion on ALL the amazing comeback storylines heading into the NFL playoffs. From the resurrection of Geno Smith in Seattle, to the “worst to first” Jags, to Saquon and CMC leaving their “injury-prone” labels in the dust, to Brady being Brady AGAIN and Damar Hamlin’s miraculous recovery. Plus can we trust the Vikings? Are the Lions set up for a monster 2023? And where the heck do the Broncos go from here? So many comebacks, so little time!

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Ryan Shazier Speaks on Damar Hamlin | 10 Jan 05, 2023

Prayers up for Damar Hamlin. Ryan Shazier makes his first public comments on the scary incident in Cincinnati and the eerie similarities to his own on-field injury in a candid conversation with co-host Dave Dameshek.

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The Tackle that Changed Ryan Shazier’s Life Forever | 9 Dec 22, 2022

On a very special episode of Don’t Call it a Comeback, Shek and Shazier break format to talk Ryan’s incredible journey from high school standout in Florida, to college sensation at Ohio State, to becoming one of the best linebackers in the NFL, to that night in Cincinnati when his entire life changed in an instant. Hear straight from Ryan, candidly and in his own words about what it was like immediately following the "typical" tackle that left him paralyzed, when it hit him that he may never walk again, and how he willed himself to beat the odds and make his own miraculous comeback.

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Baker Mayfield’s Roller Coaster Comeback Ride | 8 Dec 15, 2022

In a comeback ripped from a Hollywood screenplay, former first overall pick and Cleveland Browns castoff quarterback, Baker Mayfield went from Carolina Panthers bust to LA Rams savior in 48 Hours! Shek and Shazier are joined by future Hall of Fame Browns tackle, Joe Thomas, to figure out just how the hell Mayfield pulled off a 98-yard game winning drive in under two minutes with no timeouts. Plus, the guys debate if hockey players are the toughest athletes, whether Reggie Bush should get his Heisman trophy back, and if the Detroit Lions are for real.

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TCU and Max Duggan are the Comeback Kids of College Football | 7 Dec 08, 2022

Quarterback Max Duggan has done it all for TCU since arriving in Fort Worth in 2019. He’s won the starting job, lost the starting job, survived a heart condition, and then won his job back again this year only to lead the Horned Frogs to a 12-0 regular season and an unlikely spot in the College Football Playoff. But can Duggan keep the comeback magic going for TCU all the way to a National Championship? Dan Rubenstein, host of the Solid Verbal podcast, joins Shek and Shazier to weigh in on Duggan’s improbable journey and TCU’s chances in the playoffs. Plus, is Tom Brady the fourth quarter comeback GOAT? Does anybody want an Indiana Jones comeback? And Shek has some bad news for Mr. Irrelevant, Brock Purdy and the 49ers.

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All HAIL Michigan’s Return to Big Ten Dominance | 6 Dec 01, 2022

Much to Ryan Shazier’s chagrin, the Michigan Wolverines are now roaring towards a possible National Championship run after a roller coaster last 15 years that only saw them beat rival Ohio State 3 times. If last season’s win against OSU in Ann Arbor was a fluke, the Wolverines' win in Columbus this season (their first at the Horseshoe since 2000!) has solidified Michigan’s recent comeback atop the Big Ten. So who better to join Shek and Shazier to gloat, trash talk, and rub it in 5-0’s face, than former Michigan great, NFL All-Pro Offensive Tackle, and host of Barstool’s Bussin’ with the Boys podcast, Taylor Lewan. Plus Shek and Shazier talk TCU’s unbelievable undefeated season and their chances in the CFB playoffs, Brian Robinson’s miracle comeback in DC, and Shazier’s current obsession with Fooooooootball.

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The USMNT Seeks World Cup Redemption | 5 Nov 24, 2022

The World Cup is back! And so is the USMNT after an agonizing 8 year drought. Shek and Shazier are joined by ESPN’s Luis Miguel-Echegaray to unpack the fallout of the USMNT’s crushing ouster in 2018, the wholesale changes it led to for the program – from the Federation all the way down to a totally revamped roster – and the team’s chances of shocking the world this year. On the heels of their crucial test against the UK on Black Friday, can Christian Pulisic lead the USMNT to a comeback of global proportions? Plus Shazier dishes on how NFL players really feel about playing on Thanksgiving and Shek goes ham on Shazier for dissing turkey and pumpkin pie!

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Is Geno Smith the Comeback Player of the Year? | 4 Nov 17, 2022

After being labeled a bust and bottoming out as a backup, Geno Smith suddenly has the Seahawks in playoff contention thanks to a comeback season that no one saw coming. Shek and Shazier are joined by Jody Mac of CBS Sports Radio to talk Geno's Cinderella story, from struggles and sucker punches in New York to transforming the Seahawks from rebuild mode to Division Leaders. Plus, does Pete Rose deserve another shot at the HOF, and after their epic comeback against the Bills, are the 8-1 Vikings for real? Also, after Alex Pereira’s comeback win at UFC 281, Shazier shares whether he ever considered a career in combat sports.

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Verlander, Mancini Comebacks Power Astros Championship | 3 Nov 10, 2022

The Houston Astros are a team full of amazing comeback stories! But can we root for them after their cheating scandal that rocked baseball? This week Shek and Shazier talk to Fox Sports baseball analyst Ben Verlander about why it’s ok to love the Astros again?; His brother Justin’s magical comeback season on the mound; How Trey Mancini’s inspirational return to baseball lifted the team, and how both players helped lead the Houston Astros to another World Series championship. Plus Brady’s fourth quarter comeback powers vs. Mahomes’, can Aaron Rodgers come back from an epic Weezy diss, and can Logan Paul make a WWE comeback after multiple knee injuries vs. Roman Reigns?

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HBCUs and Jackson St. Make a Primetime Comeback | 2 Nov 03, 2022

A HISTORIC comeback this week as Deion Sanders and the 8-0 Jackson State Tigers have thrust HBCUs back into PRIMETIME. Shek & Shazier are joined by HBCU Hall of Famer and former all pro sackmaster, Hugh Douglas to tackle the climb back to prominence for HBCUs in college football, if “Coach Prime” is long for Jackson St., and how sustainable the HBCU resurgence can be if Deion leaves. Plus, Shazier predicts if Tennessee can keep their comeback season going vs. UGA, shares why Tom Brady might NOT regret his comeback in Tampa, and dishes on the wildest locker room pranks he’s ever witnessed.

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Two Giant Comebacks in NY & Philly | 1 Oct 27, 2022

A Double Whammy for our very first episode! New York and Philly are the comeback capitals of the sports world this week. Shek and Shazier dive into the GIANT return of winning football in New York with NFL analyst Marcellus Wiley. Plus, how Bryce’s bomb capped off his own personal Rocky redemption story on the Phillies' improbable run to the World Series with MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki.

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Introducing: Don't Call it a Comeback Oct 27, 2022

Every fan loves a comeback story. There are few moments more thrilling or inspiring. From an athlete’s resurgence after being left for dead to a cellar-dwelling franchise who suddenly defies all odds, these sports comeback moments stay with us and get passed down through generations.

And no one knows how to come back better than host and former NFL star linebacker Ryan Shazier: Ryan suffered a devastating on-field hit that left him paralyzed, then scratched and clawed his way back until he could walk onto a football field on his own just a few years later. It’s the stuff movies are made of… and now it’s the stuff Wondery’s new series Don’t Call it a Comeback brings you every week.

Host Ryan “Five-Oh” Shazier is joined by his pal and co-host Dave Dameshek and a rotating group of guests to spotlight the week’s biggest sports comeback stories. They’ll shout out the underdogs, Cinderellas, unlikely heroes, and shocking achievements, tracking the highs, lows, and hurdles they went through to make it there. Don’t Call It a Comeback, cuz they’ll be here for years.

New episodes come out every Thursday.

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