NFL Week 17 Analysis, Music Industry, and Sports Commentary

Pardon My Take · December 23, 2025 · Listen to Original Episode →

Original Title: Ryan Whitney, Stephan Jenkins From Third Eyed Blind, Week 17 Picks And Preview + Someone Slept In Again

TL;DR

Here are the key takeaways from the podcast episode:

The podcast hosts are adapting their release schedule due to the holiday season, releasing this episode early to allow guests and listeners a break.
The show features interviews with musician Stephen Jenkins of Third Eye Blind and hockey analyst Ryan Whitney, alongside their usual sports commentary and predictions.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around NFL Week 17 matchups, playoff implications, and team performance, including specific team analyses and betting picks.
The hosts delve into the challenges and nuances of the music industry, discussing streaming revenue, AI's impact, and the creative process behind songwriting.
The podcast touches upon the upcoming NHL season, analyzing team performances, standout players like Connor McDavid, and potential playoff matchups.

Deep Dive

This podcast episode of "Pardon My Take" covers a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on NFL Week 17 predictions and discussions, interspersed with interviews and segments on other sports and pop culture. The hosts, along with guests like Ryan Whitney and comedian Shane Gillis, delve into the intricacies of the NFL playoff picture, team performances, and individual player narratives, while also exploring the music industry with Steven Tyler and the evolving landscape of sports commentary.

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the upcoming NFL playoffs, with detailed analysis of team matchups, potential upsets, and the implications for various franchises. The hosts debate the strengths and weaknesses of teams like the Ravens, Packers, Chiefs, and Bills, considering their playoff implications and historical performance. The inclusion of interviews with figures like Ryan Whitney, a former NHL player, allows for broader sports discussions, touching upon hockey, the Olympics, and the business side of sports.

The podcast also delves into the personal lives and opinions of the hosts and guests, touching upon topics like the challenges of content creation, the nature of fandom, and personal anecdotes. The presence of segments like "Hot Seat/Cool Throne" and "Guys on Chicks" provide a lighter, more conversational tone, allowing for humorous takes on current events and celebrity culture. The interview with Steven Tyler, for instance, shifts from sports talk to discussions about music creation, the challenges faced by artists in the digital age, and the evolution of the music industry. This blend of sports analysis, celebrity interviews, and personal commentary aims to provide a comprehensive and entertaining listening experience for a broad audience. The overarching theme is a casual yet informed dissection of sports, entertainment, and pop culture, reflecting the hosts' established personas and their engagement with current events.

Action Items

Analyze the podcast's discussion on player performance metrics versus win-loss records to develop a framework for evaluating team strength.
Identify recurring themes or narratives across the podcast episodes to understand potential biases or recurring talking points.
Summarize the key arguments presented regarding the impact of analytics versus traditional scouting in sports.
Note any specific predictions or forecasts made about team performance or player development for the current season.

Key Quotes

"We do Week 17 picks and preview, some Sunday clean up and talk playoff picture coming down theWe do Week 17 picks and preview, some Sunday clean up and talk playoff picture coming down the stretch (00:21:52-01:05:52)."

This quote highlights the typical content covered in the "Pardon My Take" podcast, specifically focusing on NFL analysis, including game predictions, season reviews, and playoff scenarios. It indicates the show's commitment to providing timely and relevant sports commentary for its listeners.

"Third Eyed Blind lead Singer Stephan Jenkins joins the show to talk about his career in music, making new albums, getting freaked, and tons more (02:10:22-02:58:53)."

This quote showcases the podcast's willingness to branch out beyond traditional sports topics, featuring interviews with notable figures from other industries like music. It suggests an interest in exploring the broader cultural landscape and engaging with guests on diverse subjects.

"The gametime app gives the advantage back to fans. It's the hack for unlocking amazing tickets and experiences in a few taps. It's incredibly easy to use and the Gametime guarantee means you can trust you'll get 100% authentic tickets on time and at the best price."

This segment demonstrates the podcast's integration of sponsored content, specifically promoting the Gametime app. It emphasizes the app's user-friendliness and reliability for purchasing event tickets, aligning with the show's goal of providing value to its audience.

"We're going to do a little bit out of order today this week so we are sitting here it's Monday morning right after we recorded the Sunday night podcast we're taping early because we want everyone to have an actual vacation here for Christmas."

This quote reveals the podcast's logistical considerations and dedication to its audience's well-being, particularly during holiday seasons. It shows a proactive approach to scheduling to ensure hosts and listeners can enjoy time off.

"The Raiders are playing for the number one pick. This is the toilet bowl. I like this is going to decide where these teams draft."

This quote highlights the podcast's candid and often humorous approach to discussing less successful teams. It uses colloquial language ("toilet bowl") to describe a matchup with significant draft implications, reflecting the show's informal and engaging tone.

"The MVP race is heating up and we're going to talk about it. Who do you think deserves it? Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, or Josh Allen?"

This quote indicates the podcast's engagement with major ongoing sports narratives, such as the MVP race. It suggests an interactive element where hosts might solicit listener opinions or debate the merits of different candidates.

Resources

External Resources

Books

"The Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac - Mentioned as an example of a band with internal tension that contributed to their creative output.

Articles & Papers

"The Athletic" - Mentioned as a platform where Ryan Whitney might be featured.

People

Aaron Rodgers - Mentioned in the context of having his phone number shared.
Adam Thielen - Mentioned as a difference-maker for the Steelers and Vikings.
Alex Tesca - Nominee for the Low Man Trophy.
Billy Corgan - Quoted on inspiration and creativity in music.
Bobby Witt - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Brady Cook - Mentioned in relation to the Patriots at Jets game.
Brandon Bussi - Mentioned as a surprising goalie for the Carolina Hurricanes.
Bryce Toren - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Caleb Williams - Mentioned as a potential top draft pick and given the nickname "The Iceman."
Connor McDavid - Mentioned as being on an "epic tear" in hockey and a potential Stanley Cup winner.
Corbin Carroll - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Dave Portnoy - Mentioned in relation to a question from Rory McIlroy and his own company's meeting.
Derrick Henry - Mentioned in the context of the Ravens' game against the Patriots.
Drake Maye - Mentioned in relation to the Patriots' game and a potential bust.
Ed Cooley - Mentioned as being on the hot seat due to throwing a water bottle into the stands.
Eli Heidenreich - Nominee for the Low Man Trophy, listed as a wide receiver but considered a fullback.
Eric Valentine - Mentioned as co-producer and engineer for Third Eye Blind's first album.
Jalen Carter - Mentioned in relation to the Eagles playing in a game.
Jauan Jennings - Mentioned in the context of fantasy football.
Jerry - Mentioned in relation to the Steelers and fantasy football.
Jim Harbaugh - Mentioned in relation to the Chargers and his coaching.
John Kuhn - Member of the Low Man Trophy committee.
Jordan Davis - Mentioned in relation to his contract and performance.
Josh Allen - Mentioned as a frontrunner for MVP.
Josh Johnson - Mentioned as a journeyman quarterback and valuable for Immaculate Grid.
Justin Herbert - Mentioned as a potential MVP candidate and the Chargers' quarterback.
Kyle riley - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Kyle Schwarber - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup and a topic of discussion.
Lamar Jackson - Mentioned in relation to an MRI and potential health issues.
Lane Johnson - Mentioned in relation to the Eagles playing in a game.
Leo Carlsson - Mentioned as a young star for the Anaheim Ducks.
Liam Cohen - Mentioned in the context of the Buccaneers letting him go.
Logan Webb - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Lorenzo Neal - Member of the Low Man Trophy committee.
Luke Combs - Mentioned as an artist whose music could be played in an Uber.
Luke - Mentioned in relation to the YouTube golf community and an impression.
Mark Kaboly - Mentioned as a Pittsburgh insider with a report about T.J. Watt.
Marshawn Lynch - Mentioned as the cousin of Josh Johnson.
Mason Miller - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Max Brosmer - Mentioned in relation to a game.
Max Bredeson - Nominee for the Low Man Trophy.
Mike Allstott - Member of the Low Man Trophy committee.
Mike Tomlin - Mentioned in relation to his contract extension.
Mitch Marner - Mentioned in relation to the Toronto Maple Leafs and his playoff performance.
Nolan McLean - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup.
Ola Adekunle - Mentioned as a player for the Chiefs.
P.F.T. - Mentioned in relation to a question asked by Rory McIlroy.
Pat Mahomes - Mentioned in relation to a potential 60-0 bet.
Paul Whitney - Mentioned in relation to golf and his grandfather.
Pedro Martinez - Quoted on the Yankees being his "daddy."
Quinn Hughes - Mentioned as the second-best defenseman in the world.
Rory McIlroy - Mentioned asking Dave Portnoy a question.
Rusty Van Wetzinger IV - Nominee for the Low Man Trophy.
Ryan Clark - Mentioned in relation to a traumatic Uber experience.
Sam Hart - Mentioned as a potential quarterback for the Commanders.
Sam Min - Mentioned as someone who does a Ryan Whitney impression.
Samford - Mentioned in relation to Ola Adekunle's college.
Scottie Miller - Mentioned as taking over a game.
Shane - Mentioned in relation to the Chargers and playoff scenarios.
Sherone Moore - Mentioned as being on the hot seat and active on social media.
Sidney Crosby - Mentioned as a comparison for Matt Corallini.
Stephan Jenkins - Mentioned as the lead singer of Third Eye Blind and a guest on the podcast.
Stu Huntley - Mentioned in relation to a past Ravens season.
T.J. Watt - Mentioned in relation to a punctured lung and potential season-ending injury.
Tanner - Mentioned as a defenseman for the Maple Leafs.
Ted - Mentioned in relation to the Panthers and potential Rookie of the Year award.
Tiffany Gomas - Mentioned in relation to a phrase being "all in your head."
Trevor Lawrence - Mentioned as potentially being in the MVP conversation.
Tyrod Taylor - Mentioned in relation to the Patriots and Jets game.
Will Smith - Mentioned as a player in the USA Baseball lineup and a prospect for the Anaheim Ducks.

Organizations & Institutions

49ers - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a record.
Amazon Music - Mentioned as a platform for ad-free listening.
Army - Mentioned in relation to the Army-Navy game.
Bills - Mentioned in relation to playoff clinching.
Boston College - Mentioned as the college where Will Smith played.
Browns - Mentioned in relation to a game and a "beta" question.
Buccaneers - Mentioned in relation to Liam Cohen.
Buffalo - Mentioned in relation to the Patriots' game.
California - Mentioned as a state where DraftKings Pick Six is available.
Carolina Hurricanes - Mentioned as a team in the NHL playoffs and their goalie situation.
Central Michigan - Mentioned in relation to Rusty Van Wetzinger IV.
Chicago - Mentioned as a city where Third Eye Blind has played and where the podcast is based.
Chiefs - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a potential game.
Cleveland Browns - Mentioned as a team Josh Johnson played for.
Colorado Avalanche - Mentioned as a dominant NHL team.
Commanders - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
Connecticut - Mentioned for gambling problem resources.
Dallas - Mentioned as a team in the NHL playoffs.
Detroit Lions - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
DraftKings - Mentioned as a sponsor for the podcast and various betting/fantasy games.
Eagles - Mentioned in relation to a game and Josh Johnson's interceptions.
Epic Records - Mentioned as a record label that did not sign Third Eye Blind initially.
ESPN - Mentioned in relation to playoff picture and the NBA.
Georgia - Mentioned as a state where DraftKings Pick Six is available.
Green Bay - Mentioned in relation to a fantasy football outcome.
Jaguars - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
Jets - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
Kansas - Mentioned for gambling problem resources.
L.A. Kings - Mentioned as a team Alex (Third Eye Blind bassist) follows.
Lions - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
Los Angeles Wildcats - Mentioned as a team Josh Johnson played for.
Madden - Mentioned as a game Josh Johnson used to learn player names.
Maple Leafs - Mentioned as a team in the NHL playoffs.
Minnesota - Mentioned as a team in the NHL playoffs.
New England Patriots - Mentioned in relation to a game.
New York - Mentioned as a state where DraftKings Pick Six is not available.
New York Giants - Mentioned in relation to draft picks and a game.
New York Jets - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
NFL - Mentioned throughout the text in relation to games and playoffs.
NHL - Mentioned in relation to previews and player performance.
Niners - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios.
North Dakota State - Mentioned in relation to Truman Wermire.
Oilers - Mentioned in relation to their performance and Connor McDavid.
Ontario - Mentioned as a jurisdiction where DraftKings Pick Six is void.
Pardon My Take - The podcast itself, mentioned multiple times.
Panthers - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and a game.
Pittsburgh Steelers - Mentioned in relation to games and player performance.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) - Mentioned as a data source.
Providence - Mentioned in relation to Ed Cooley.
Q101 Radio - Mentioned as a Chicago radio station that played Third Eye Blind.
Raiders - Mentioned in relation to draft picks and a game.
Ravens - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and games.
Redskins - Mentioned as a team Josh Johnson played for.
Sacramento Mountain Lions - Mentioned as a team Josh Johnson played for.
San Diego Fleet - Mentioned as a team Josh Johnson played for.
San Francisco - Mentioned as a city where Third Eye Blind played.
Seahawks - Mentioned in relation to playoff scenarios and games.
South Dakota State - Mentioned in relation to Ola Adekunle.
Spurs