From Tributes and Tearful Farewells to World Series Debates and Coaching Carousel Chaos
The latest episode of the SMQBs podcast, “SMQBs Episode 240,” hit the airwaves with a mix of heavy hearts and spirited sports debate. The guys—House, Pope, and Milk—had a lot to unpack, from a moving dedication to a breakdown of a legendary World Series and the latest NFL madness. Grab a drink and settle in for a taste of what you missed, but you’ll have to tune in to the full episode for all the unfiltered takes!
A Heavy Heart: The Hen’s Lasting Legacy
The episode starts on a somber note, as the crew pays a heartfelt tribute to “The Hen,” Laura Falonin, beloved wife of Rooster, who recently lost her two-year battle with brain cancer. Laura was a dear friend and a huge fan of the pod, and her kindness and ability to make everyone feel special were the common themes of remembrance.
It was a tough conversation, but one Rooster wanted them to have to honor her memory, which included her love for the Commanders and getting into F1. You’ll want to hear the stories about her legendary cackle and the epic trip to Ireland with Pope and his wife.
“Bring Him to the Bar”: Who’s Buying the Drinks?
After the dedication, the guys lighten the mood with their weekly tradition: picking a figure from the sports world to bring to the bar.
- Milk is bringing Todd Golden, the Florida Gators basketball coach, to talk about the new season and the Gators’ potential for another deep run after reloading with some big off-season pickups.
- Pope has an international table for two, bringing Yamamoto and Otani to discuss their phenomenal season and the “burgeoning dynasty” they’re building.
- House (Tobi Millrood) is taking the highest seat for Victor Wembanyama, whose early NBA statistics are “surpassing any great in the NBA of all time,” a performance so bananas he could win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player in a single season.
Baseball’s Best: Was This the World Series of Our Lifetime?
The World Series proved to be an instant classic, with the guys debating if it was the best they’ve ever witnessed.
The discussion dives deep into the strategic risks taken by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, including the defensive replacement with Pogesson and the gutsy call to bring in Yamamoto on no rest. But the most critical moment, according to Pope, was the deciding gaffe—a third-base running mistake by IKF that was out by a millimeter and should have ended the series right there.
Also, how did the Dodgers win with Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman having quiet series? The answer is a dominant Yamamoto and the contributions from the bottom of the lineup. Plus, the Blue Jays’ incredible plate discipline, which almost took them to the title, gets a shout-out. The question now: Is this Dodgers team a new dynasty?
NFL: Mad, Wacky, and Wild
The NFL conversation starts with the “joke” NFC South, where the Falcons continue to disappoint.
- The Commanders Conundrum: Bison sends his thoughts on the “unbelievable” decision to leave Jaden Daniels on the field in a 38-7 blowout, risking injury and sparking a debate that mirrors the scrutiny Shanahan faced years ago.
- Locker Room Fire: The Bears-Bengals game had a wild finish, but the real drama was the rumored post-game fight between Jamar Chase, Chase Brown, and the defense.
- The Vikings and Lions: The Vikings’ defensive line dominated the Lions’ offensive line to secure a shocking win.
- Plaxico Picks: The guys lock in their Week 10 picks, with House taking a chance on the Panthers, Milk riding the Ravens train, and Pope taking the Colts in their international game in Berlin.
The NFL segment wraps up with a nod to the new 68-yard field goal record and a prediction for Brandon Aubrey to hit 70 yards this season—a feat Pope is hoping to witness in person.
College Football’s Chaotic Carousel
Finally, the guys dive into the fast and furious college football coaching carousel, with Auburn, LSU, Florida, and others on the hunt.
They discuss the rumors of the Auburn job going to UTSA’s Trailer—a hire Pope says isn’t a “splash”. And, of course, the big question: Is Lane Kiffin going to Florida? Milk thinks personal ties will bring him to Gainesville, but Pope believes he’s staying at Ole Miss. The overall theme is the absurdity of quick firings and unreasonable expectations, especially at a program like Auburn, which has burned through four coaches in seven years.
To hear the full tributes, the complete sports debates, and all the Plaxico picks, be sure to listen to SMQBs Episode 240!