September 08, 2025

Matt & Phil Simms: Russell Wilson takes a beating, Daniel Jones shines, Groundhog Day for the Browns

52 minutes

Matt and Phil Simms go live immediately after the 4 p.m. NFL games to break down the biggest storylines and performances from Week 1. They start by discussing the Giants’ disappointing loss to the Washington Commanders, analyzing both sides of the ball and what went wrong for New York. The pair debates the Giants’ defensive struggles against the run and their continued red zone problems, while also weighing in on Russell Wilson’s tough outing behind a shaky offensive line. Matt and Phil then hit key games around the league, including Baker Mayfield’s gritty performance against Michael Penix and the Falcons, Joe Burrow’s grind-it-out win over Cleveland, Daniel Jones’ strong debut for Indianapolis, and Pete Carroll’s impact on the improved Raiders.

-00:01:45 – Giants vs. Commanders Game Recap

Matt and Phil deep dive into the Giants’ 21-6 loss, covering defense, O-line struggles, Russell Wilson’s rough game, and general impressions.

00:04:13 – Giants Defensive Issues

Matt presses Phil on the Giants’ run defense, Jayden Daniels’ performance, and repeated problems stopping the run.

00:07:59 – Washington’s Defensive Line Dominance

More discussion of the mismatch at the line of scrimmage; Deebo Samuel’s debut for Washington.

00:09:42 – Key Game Stats & Red Zone Woes

Matt reads off crucial third-down and red zone stats, points out ongoing Giants’ scoring struggles.

00:12:13 – Buccaneers vs. Falcons: Baker Mayfield & Michael Penix

Analysis and praise for Baker Mayfield’s toughness and Michael Penix’s promising debut; Atlanta’s greater speed and physicality.

00:15:34 – Rookie Rundown: Bijan Robinson, Bucky Irving, Emeka Egbuka

Reviewing rookie performances and offensive highlights for both teams.

00:18:10 – Game Finishes: Younghoe Koo Miss & Final Thoughts

Recap of game-ending moments, what Atlanta and Tampa showed in the opener.

00:18:23 – Browns vs. Bengals: Flacco’s Rough Day & Cleveland’s “Groundhog Day”

Shaky finishes and dropped passes; analysis of Joe Flacco’s interception problems and Joe Burrow’s game management.

00:24:04 – Bengals’ Defensive Standouts & Defensive Player Performances

Quick review of defensive stars on both sides.

00:25:11 – Colts vs. Dolphins: Daniel Jones, Indy Offense Surges

Big praise for Daniel Jones’s Colts debut, Shane Steichen’s playcalling, Indy’s improved defense and offense.

00:28:49 – Colts Receiving Corps vs. Miami’s; Roster Builds

Phil and Matt discuss the different receiver group makeups and why Indy’s is more versatile.

00:31:13 – Daniel Jones’ Growth and Job Security

Positive outlooks for Daniel Jones, his rhythm and confidence.

00:31:21 – Raiders vs. Patriots: Pete Carroll Effect

Review of a tough, physical game and the impact of coaching changes (Pete Carroll and Mike Vrabel with the Raiders/Patriots), Geno Smith and Drake Maye’s performances.

00:35:12 – Raiders Defensive Standouts

00:37:50 – Cardinals vs. Saints: Kyler Murray & Spencer Rattler

Quick notes on Arizona’s methodical win, Kyler Murray’s conservative play, and rookie QB Spencer Rattler.

00:39:14 – Steelers vs. Jets: Justin Fields’ Breakout & Aaron Rodgers’ Debut

Deep focus on Justin Fields’ sharp passing, the Steelers’ run defense woes, Aaron Rodgers-Arthur Smith pairing.

00:44:40 – Jets’ O-Line and Playmakers - Highlighting Jets’ improved offensive line play and skill players’ performance.

00:47:11 – Friday Night Game: Chargers vs. Chiefs & Justin Herbert Praise

Quick take on Herbert’s huge performance and the new-look Chargers.

00:50:11 – Titans vs. Broncos & Young QB Struggles

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By Matt Simms

4.8

4141 ratings