Key Takeaways

  • Jason Kelsey attended the NFL Owners Meeting to advocate for the “tush push” play, which was ultimately not banned.
  • The NFL will introduce a new “Protector of the Year” award for offensive linemen, spearheaded by Andrew Whitworth.
  • The NFL is considering allowing players to participate in Olympic flag football, sparking debate about team selection.
  • Wayne Gretzky shared insights on his career, records, the evolution of hockey, and the importance of multi-sport participation for young athletes.
  • The Buffalo Bills and the NFC East will be featured in upcoming seasons of HBO’s Hard Knocks.

Segments

Olympic Flag Football Debate (~00:31:00)
  • Key Takeaway: The NFL’s potential involvement in Olympic flag football raises questions about how teams will be selected, with current flag football players expressing concern about NFL players joining.
  • Summary: The hosts discuss the NFL’s consideration of allowing players to participate in Olympic flag football. They explore the debate around whether NFL players should be included and how teams should be chosen, referencing comments from a current USA flag football quarterback who believes NFL players aren’t needed.
Protector of the Year Award (~00:47:00)
  • Key Takeaway: A new “Protector of the Year” award for offensive linemen is being introduced to the NFL, with Andrew Whitworth being a key figure in its creation.
  • Summary: The introduction of the “Protector of the Year” award, an offensive lineman award, is discussed. Jason mentions that Andrew Whitworth was instrumental in its creation, and it will be presented at the NFL Honors.
Hard Knocks: Buffalo Bills and NFC East (~00:57:00)
  • Key Takeaway: The Buffalo Bills will be featured in the upcoming season of Hard Knocks, with the NFC East being the focus of the in-season edition.
  • Summary: The hosts discuss the upcoming Hard Knocks seasons, with the Buffalo Bills featured in the training camp edition and the entire NFC East division in the in-season edition. They express excitement for the access this provides to the teams.
Discontinued Snacks and Childhood Memories (~01:10:00)
  • Key Takeaway: The hosts reminisce about discontinued snacks from their childhood, with Choco Tacos and Fruitopia being particular favorites.
  • Summary: During the “No Dumb Questions” segment, the hosts discuss discontinued snacks from their childhood, prompted by a question about what they’d bring back. Choco Tacos and Fruitopia are highlighted as particularly missed items.
Interview with Wayne Gretzky (~01:25:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Wayne Gretzky shared personal anecdotes about his career, the importance of multi-sport participation, and his admiration for current athletes.
  • Summary: Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky joins the podcast to discuss his incredible career, his records, and the evolution of hockey. He emphasizes the value of playing multiple sports as a child and expresses respect for modern athletes like Caitlin Clark and Alexander Ovechkin.
Gretzky on Hockey Culture and Mentorship (~01:45:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky highlights the unique culture of hockey, characterized by respect, toughness, and mentorship, passed down through generations of players.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky elaborates on the strong culture within hockey, noting the respect and camaraderie among players, even after intense rivalries. He traces this culture back to legends like Gordie Howe and Bobby Orr, emphasizing its continuation through current stars.
Gretzky’s Coaching and Olympic Experience (~02:05:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky reflects on his coaching experience and highly recommends participating in the Olympics, emphasizing the unique thrill and camaraderie.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky discusses his time coaching and his experience with Team Canada in the Olympics. He strongly advises anyone given the opportunity to participate in the Olympic Games, highlighting the unforgettable experience and the vibrant atmosphere of the Olympic village.
Gretzky’s Childhood and Dad’s Influence (~02:12:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky’s father played a crucial role in his development, fostering his love for sports through backyard rinks and consistent support across multiple athletic pursuits.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky shares heartwarming stories about his father’s dedication, including building backyard ice rinks and supporting his participation in various sports like baseball and lacrosse. He credits this diverse athletic background for his success in hockey.
Gretzky’s Favorite Stanley Cup Story and Hockey Fights (~02:35:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky’s favorite Stanley Cup memory involves the initial uncertainty of what to do with the Cup, and he believes fighting is not necessary in modern hockey.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky recounts his favorite Stanley Cup story, which involves the initial confusion about how to handle the trophy after his first win. He also shares his opinion that fighting is not essential to hockey and can be detrimental if overused.
Gretzky’s “White Tornado” and “Doc” Nicknames (~02:42:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky discusses his early nickname “White Tornado” and his preferred nickname “Doc,” which originated from an honorary doctorate.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky talks about his nicknames, including the “White Tornado” from his early playing days and his favorite, “Doc,” which he received as an honorary doctor. He shares the story behind how he acquired the latter nickname.
Gretzky’s Mount Rushmore and GOATs (~02:50:00)
  • Key Takeaway: Gretzky names Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr, Mario Lemieux, and Mark Messier for his NHL Mount Rushmore and identifies Michael Jordan, George Brett, and Tom Brady as GOATs in their respective sports.
  • Summary: Wayne Gretzky reveals his NHL Mount Rushmore picks, including Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr, Mario Lemieux, and Mark Messier. He also shares his greatest of all time (GOAT) selections for the NBA, NFL, and MLB.