Pod of Fame

Hall of Fame wide receiver Raymond Berry sadly passed on May 25th at the age of 93. Jim spends this week covering all things Berry, from his performance in the 1958 NFL Championship game to his place on 20th Century Wide Receiver Rushmore.

The World Cup start this Thursday and with 48 countries represented across 12 groups for the first time in the history of the tournament, there is more information than ever to digest on the countries playing and their players. Jim first provides some fast facts about the World Cup on US soil since 1994 (8:01). Then, Jim takes you through Groups A-L, mispronouncing countries and player names left and right in the process (18:34).

Adam Darowski of Sports Reference joins Jim to break down the career and HOF candidacy of former New York Yankees catcher Elston Howard. First, they cover the importance of Howard breaking the color barrier in 1955 for the most storied franchise in baseball history (9:59). Next, they discuss Howard's clutchness in Game 7 of the 1958 World Series and why Buster Posey getting into the HOF could help Howard's case (18:53). Finally, they rank the best catchers of the 1950s and 1960s (45:05), before making a final call on whether Howard belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (59:49).

Jim is joined by NFL Writer for CBS Sports Bryan DeArdo to discuss the Hall of Fame candidacy of former Seattle Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander. First, Jim and Bryan discuss the significance of Alexander having a membership to the 100 TD Club (6:50). Next, they cover Alexander's 2005 NFL MVP season and how he compares to the short career kings better known as Earl Campbell, Gale Sayers and Terrell Davis (21:49). Finally, they cover how Alexander compares to the other great RBs of the 2000s (40:32), before making a final call on whether or not Alexander deserves a place in the Pro Football HOF (51:31).

Jim welcomes award-winning sports journalist and New York Times bestselling author Tim Brown to discuss his new book, Nolan: The Singular Life of an American Original. First, Jim and Tim explore Nolan Ryan’s deep connection with the state of Texas (13:02). Then, they debate whether Ryan had the greatest fastball in MLB history, decide which of Ryan's seven no-hitters was the most significant, and consider which of his records could actually be broken (20:40). Finally, they tackle Ryan’s place on the all-time pitcher list, deciding whether he’s overrated, underappreciated, or properly rated (40:19).

Twitter baseball personality Not Gaetti joins Jim to break down the HOF candidacy of former MLB first baseman Will Clark. First, they cover how Clark had no real weaknesses on a baseball diamond and how he would have been able to perform in any era in baseball history (6:30). Next, they discuss Clark's masterful perormance in the 1989 NLCS against the Chicago Cubs, how his career numbers easily trump Kirby Puckett, and how Clark compares against other Hall of Fame hopefuls who manned 1st base like Paul Goldschmidt and Joey Votto (18:02). Finally, they dig into just how clutch Clark actually was (56:22), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Clark deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (1:06:20).

Sportswriter Neil Paine joins Jim to break down the HOF candidacy of former Angels left fielder Garret Anderson. First, they cover how Anderson is the unofficial "Mr. Angel" of the Angels franchise and how Anderson, not Mike Trout or Shohei Ohtani, is the name you will find most at the top of the Angels recordbook (10:20). Next, they discuss Anderson's huge at-bats in Game 6 and 7 of the 2002 World Series, his big weekend at the Midsummer Classic in 2003, and where he ranks among the best left fielders of his era (23:15). Finally, Jim introduces the "Bobby Abreu Test" to Neil to hear his feedback (56:00), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Anderson deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (1:08:11).

Jim welcomes New York Times best-selling author and co-author of Jerry West's autobiography West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life, Jonathan Coleman, to discuss the recent Jerry West documentary released on Amazon Prime, as well as all things West. First, Jonathan provides his thoughts on the documentary, commenting on what he liked, as well as a few key parts of West's life he thought deserved more attention (15:53) . Next, Jonathan details what it was like living with West while writing the autobiography (32:30). Finally, Jonathan helps Jim decide whether West or Oscar Robertson was the better guard (1:11:29), before they both give their opinion on what West's legacy was (1:19:29).

Jim welcomes former MLB manager and player Clint Hurdle to discuss his life in baseball. First, Clint and Jim cover the beginning of Clint's MLB career, including what it was like stepping into the batter's box in the 1980 World Series and what made his teammate, Hall of Famer George Brett, so special (4:35). Next, Clint provides his most fond memories of managing the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, as well provides details about his new book "Hurdle-isms" (14:29). Finally, Clint, with nearly 50 years of MLB experience, builds his Baseball Mount Rushmore (34:25), before providing his insights on Shohei Ohtani (36:45).

The 2026 Basketball Hall of Fame was announced on Saturday, headlined by Candace Parker and Doc Rivers. Jim reviews the entire class and provides his thoughts:Candace Parker (8:54)Amar'e Stoudemire (15:59)Chamique Holdsclaw (22:53)Elena Delle Donne (30:00)Mark Few (36:24)Doc Rivers (39:18)Mike D'Antoni (41:05)1996 US Women's National Team (43:15)Joey Crawford (45:13)

Jim is joined by sports podcaster Alex Chester to break down the HOF candidacy of former Minnesota Twins first baseman Kent Hrbek. First, Alex and Jim debate whether Hrbek was a good or great defensive 1st baseman, as he never won a gold glove, yet was known for his glove (10:44). Next, they discuss several of his memorable World Series moments, compare Hrbek to his teammate Kirby Puckett, and decide where Hrbek ranks among the best 1st basemen of the 1980s (13:22). Finally, Alex and Jim try to determine whether Hrbek is the best player in MLB history to make one or fewer all-star teams (39:00), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Hrbek deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (46:55).

Jim is joined by longtime baseball writer and Baseball HOF voter Ken Davidoff to break down the HOF candidacy of New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada. First, David and Jim cover the "Core Four" and Posada's role on all of those World Series teams (10:45). Next, they discuss Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, how much credit should go to a catcher when they catch a perfect game, what Posada and Buster Posey have in common, and where Posada ranks among his contemporaries (15:42). Finally, Ken and Jim discuss winning catchers throughout baseball history (34:10), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Posada deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (43:24).Ken's new book "101 Lessons from the Dugout is now available. Go check it out here (https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/101-lessons-from-the-dugout-9798765163016/)

On our 6th annual March Madness preview show, Jim is joined by Kentucky correspondent, college basketball expert, and Mrs. POF, Shannon Miloch, to talk about everything you need to know before you fill out your bracket. First, Jim and Shannon provide their immediate reactions to the selection show (4:20). Then, they give provide their Final Four picks (14:10), top guys to watch over the next few weeks (18:03), and guys that rock (34:55).

In Part 2 of our first Pod of Fame Rewatch episode, Jim, Wando and Trajko continue their deep dive into the iconic Simpsons episode "Homer at the Bat."We cover the final three segments in Part 2:Power Ranking the Ringers (2:05)Casting What-Ifs (15:50)2026 Ringers (38:15)

In Part 1 of our first Pod of Fame Rewatch episode, Jim is joined by longtime friends and Simpsons fanatics Wando and Trajko for a deep dive into the iconic Simpsons episode "Homer at the Bat."We cover the following four segments in Part 1:Favorite Scene (27:15)Best Quote (40:49)Favorite Reason a Player Missed the Game (48:23)Nits to Pick (51:59)

Jim welcomes award-winning journalist and New York Times best-selling author Keith O'Brien to discuss his new book, “Heartland: A Forgotten Place, an Impossible Dream, and the Miracle of Larry Bird." First, Keith and Jim discuss Larry Bird's unsung supporting cast on the 1979 Indiana State team (14:42). Next, they cover the "what if" scenario of Larry Bird playing all four seasons of his college career for Bobby Knight at Indiana University, before deciding who the GOAT of Indiana basketball is between John Wooden, Larry Bird, and Oscar Robertson (19:06). Finally, they debate whether we will ever see another Larry Bird again in college basketball (40:06).

In this edition of POF Book Club, Jim welcomes author Luke Epplin to discuss his latest book, “Moses and the Doctor: Two Men, One Championship, and the Birth of Modern Basketball." First, Jim and Luke dive into why Moses Malone and Julius Erving are so overlooked when discussing the greatest players in NBA history despite being two of the top 25 guys to ever play the game (6:37). Then, Jim and Luke speculate what life would have looked like without the ABA, details about his interview with Erving, and whether Luke ranks Malone or Dr. J higher in his all-time player rankings (11:33). Finally, Jim and Luke cover the greatest NBA combos to win a championship (28:23).

Jim is joined by author Paul Knepper to discuss the Hall of Fame candidacy of former NBA guard World B. Free. First, Jim and Paul debate whether World B. Free is the greatest name in NBA history (14:55). Next, they cover Free's 1979 and 1980 seasons, what Free and Pete Maravich have in common, and whether Free was better than Calvin Murphy (24:06). Finally, they rank Free among the best guards of the 1970s and 1980s (47:22), before making a final call on whether or not Free belongs in the Basketball Hall of Fame (1:01:20). Then, Jim discusses the legacy of Chris Paul, who retired last week after a 21-year NBA career (1:10:33).

Larry Fitzgerald, Drew Brees, Adam Vinatieri, Luke Kuechly, and Roger Craig have been officially elected to the Football Hall of Fame. First, Jim provides his thoughts on the careers and legacies of all five newly elected Hall of Famers (5:06). Then, Jim provides his thoughts on Bill Belichick not getting enough votes to join the other five in Canton (38:53).

Jim is joined by former sport columnist for The Baltimore Sun and author John Eisenberg to discuss the Hall of Fame candidacy of outside linebacker Terrell Suggs. First, John and Jim cover the 2003 NFL Draft and Suggs' rookie season in Baltimore (9:33). Next, they discuss Suggs vs. Ben Roethlisberger, how rare it is for an outside linebacker to win NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and just how overlooked Suggs was as a result of being a member of the same defense as Ray Lewis and Ed Reed (18:35). Finally, John and Jim debate whether Suggs is the greatest outsider linebacker of the 21st Century (34:37), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Suggs belongs in the Football Hall of Fame (47:34).

Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones have been officially elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. First, Jim covers the complete voting results and breaks down just how hard it is for center fielders to get voted into Cooperstown (0:40). Next, Jim provides his thoughts on the careers and legacies of Beltrán and Jones (15:18). Finally, Jim pays homage to every single player who fell off the ballot, saying mostly nice things outside of when speaking on Ryan Braun (29:55).

Jim is joined by friend of the pod Dave "Wando" Wandolowski to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former NFL running back Frank Gore. First, Jim and Wando discuss the nearly unprecedented length of Gore's career at the most taxing position in football (16:47). Next, they cover Gore's performance in the 2012 NFL playoffs, why he reminds them both of Curtis Martin, and where Gore ranks among the best running backs in NFL history (22:40). Finally, they take a deep dive into the premiere running backs of the 21st Century (56:10), before making a final call on whether or not Gore deserves a place in the HOF (1:03:04).

Jim is joined by baseball writer at MLB.com Manny Randhawa to break down the HOF candidacy of Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. First, Manny and Jim cover how Tulowitzki is one of the biggest "what if" guys of the 21st Century (15:55). Next, they discuss what only Babe Ruth and Tulowitzki have in common and ranks Tulowitzki among shortstops of the last 25 years (26:40). Finally, Manny and Jim debate just how great Tulowitzki's peak really was (45:14), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Tulowitzki deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (49:47).

To kick off the year, Jim reviews the 2025 Hall of Fame Classes for Cooperstown, Canton, and Springfield, as well as teases what is to come for Pod of Fame in 2026 (3:10). Then, Jim previews the 2026 Hall of Fame Classes for Baseball, Football, and Basketball (15:30).

Jim is joined by former Kansas City Royals beat reporter for MLB.com and Hall of Fame voter Jeffrey Flanagan to break down the HOF candidacy of Royals left fielder Alex Gordon. First, Jeffrey and Jim cover the 2014 and 2015 Kansas City Royals and try to determine who the best player on those back-to-back American League Championship teams was (11:07). Next, they discuss Gordon's home run in Game 1 of the 2015 World Series and run through some of Gordon's greatest defense plays (14:36). Finally, Jeffrey and Jim make the case for Gordon being the greatest defensive left fielder in MLB history and how much that designation should matter (27:20), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Gordon deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (33:35).

Jim is joined by Kelly Dwyer, pioneer of the NBA blogosphere, to break down the hall of fame candidacy of former center Brad Daugherty. First, Jim and Kelly cover the ill-fated 1986 NBA Draft, which featured Daugherty, Len Bias, and Chris Washburn (7:13). Next, they discuss Daugherty's performance in the 1992 playoffs and how he compares to other injury riddled NBA stars of years past (12:40). Finally, they rank Daugherty among the best centers of the 1980s/1990s (40:38), before making a final call on whether or not Daugherty deserves to be inducted into the Basketball HOF (54:57).

Jim is joined by USA TODAY sports reporter and Hall of Fame voter Steve Gardner to break down the HOF candidacy of former pitcher Cole Hamels. First, Steve and Jim cover just how devastating Hamels' changeup was throughout his career (9:42). Next, they discuss his historic 2008 postseason performance, compare Hamels career to CC Sabathia, and debate who the best starting pitcher is on the 2026 HOF ballot (15:01). Finally, Steve and Jim determine what tier of pitcher Hamels belongs to in the 21st Century (42:20), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Hamels deserves a plaque in Cooperstown (48:30).

Jim first covers yesterday's election of Jeff Kent to the Baseball Hall of Fame (1:12). Then, Jim welcomes author Paul Knepper to discuss his latest book, “Moses Malone: The Life of a Basketball Prophet." Jim and Paul cover a number of topics, including Moses Malone playing pickup basketball inside a prison (40:12), the various reasons Malone sometimes gets lost in NBA history (42:23), Malone's offensive rebounding prowess (51:12), and of course, conduct an all-time NBA center draft (1:00:28).

Jim is joined by Fernando Ramirez, Chargers reporter for The Sporting Tribune, to break down the HOF candidacy of former quarterback Philip Rivers. First, Fernando and Jim debate whether Rivers belongs on Chargers Mount Rushmore and how he stacks up against Dan Fouts (12:48). Next, they cover his one appearance in the AFC Championship and examine just how few quarterbacks have made the HOF without winning a Super Bowl (23:41). Finally, Fernando and Jim discuss where Rivers rank among the best quarterbacks of his era (32:22), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Rivers deserves to be inducted into the Football Hall of Fame (35:00).

Jim is joined by baseball Twitter personality Not Gaetti to break down the HOF candidacy of former New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly. First, they cover the lack of postseason success Mattingly experienced despite playing for the New York Yankees for 14 years (8:42). Next, they discuss his 8-game home run streak in 1987, just how dominant his peak seasons were, and where he ranks among the best first basemen of the 1980s (18:01). Finally, they decide who is the greatest New York Yankee not in Cooperstown today (44:30), before making a final call on whether Mattingly belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (48:49).

Jim is joined by Adam Darowski of Sports Reference to break down the HOF candidacy of former MLB pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. First, Adam and Jim discuss Valenzuela's unique pitching delivery and devastating screwball (8:41). Next, they cover "Fernandomania" from start to finish and take a deep dive into the best pitchers of his era (16:15). Finally, they determine where Valenzeula ranks among the 1980s players featured on this year's Veterans Committee ballot (57:34), before making a final call on whether he belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (1:17:56).

Jim is joined by NBA analyst Mat Issa to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former NBA forward Rashard Lewis. First, Jim and Mat cover Lewis' jump from high school to the pros and how it was a bit different than most (8:40). Next, they discuss Lewis' performance in Game 2 of the 2009 NBA Finals, what Lewis has in common with Carmelo Anthony, and just how rare his 3-point making ability at his height really was (13:30). Finally, they rank Lewis among the best forwards of the 2000s (32:50), before making a final call on whether or not Lewis belongs in the Basketball Hall of Fame (39:01).

The Los Angeles Dodgers are World Champions once again following a 7-game World Series that will not be forgotten anytime soon, not only for how it ended, but because of the talent featured on the field. Jim runs through the three tiers of future Hall of Fame candidates who played in the World Series (16:08), before bringing Mrs. POF on to discuss the top 3 storylines from this year's postseason, including Humpy the Salmon lore (1:01:34).

Jim welcomes New York Times bestselling author Shea Serrano to discuss his latest book, Expensive Basketball. Jim and Shea start by defining what "expensive basketball" actually means and debating whether Shawn Kemp or Dominque Wilkins had the most expensive in-game dunks (3:50). Next, they dive into how Shea conducted the research behind the book (19:25) and which four NBA players would make the best heist team to rob banks (32:26). Finally, Shea shares his thoughts on the championships in Victor Wembanyama's future (39:48) and whether Cooper Flagg will end up with more NBA MVPs than Luka Doncic (45:50).

Jim is joined by sportswriter Neil Paine to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former NBA forward Robert Horry. First, Jim and Neil cover Horry's role on seven NBA championship teams (12:15). Next, they take a deep dive into the many clutch playoff shots of Horry's career and attempt to decide which one was the most memorable (22:25). Finally, they discuss his high postseason counting statistics (1:00:23), before making a final call on whether or not Horry belongs in the Basketball Hall of Fame (1:18:07).

Jim is joined by Adam Darowski of Sports Reference to break down the career and HOF candidacy of former Negro League slugger Oscar "Heavy" Johnson. First, they cover how the Negro Leagues valued defense more than any other baseball league and why that may explain Johnson not being as famous as his contemporaries (14:52). Next, they discuss Johnson's 1923 Triple Crown season with the Kansas City Monarchs and why he reminds them both of Hack Wilson (25:05). Finally, they run through Johnson's ridiculous hitting numbers (40:02), before making a final call on whether Johnson belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (55:13).

Jim is joined by Jason Romano of Sports Spectrum to break down the HOF candidacy of former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. First, Jason and Jim cover Witten's expectational dependability, from both a performance and availability standpoint (9:59). Next, they discuss his record-setting, 18-catch performance in 2012 against the New York Giants, as well as where he ranks among the best tight ends of the 21st century (24:45). Finally, they walk through why Witten's touchdown numbers are lower than you would think (49:40), before making a final call on whether or not they believe Witten belongs in the Football Hall of Fame (53:35).

Jim is joined by author Dr. Paul Semendinger to break down the career and HOF candidacy of former MLB third baseman Graig Nettles. First, they cover the various characters of the Bronx Zoo and whether Nettles is the greatest 3B in Yankees franchise history (7:58). Next, they walk through Nettles' performance in the 1981 ALCS, why he reminds us a bit of Brooks Robinson, and where he ranks among the best 3B of his era (19:48). Finally, they discuss the significance of Nettles' low career batting average and on-base percentage (49:16), before making a final call on whether Nettles belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (1:01:46).

Jim is joined by Los Angles Angels Broadcaster Trent Rush to break down the career and HOF candidacy of former MLB third baseman Troy Glaus. First, they discuss all of the talent on the early 2000s Angels teams that Glaus starred for (6:25). Next, they discuss his World Series MVP, his short career, and his huge power numbers at third base (10:40). Finally, they rank Glaus among the best third basemen of the 2000s (27:40), before making a final call on whether he belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (36:21).

Jim is joined by friend of the pod Mike Cleary to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo. First, Jim and Mike cover the Chicago Cubs dominance from 2015-2018 and whether winning just one World Series was disappointing in retrospect (15:05). Then, they discuss Rizzo's elite defense at first base, take a deep dive into the 2016 World Series, and debate whether the Cubs should retire Rizzo's jersey (22:02). Finally, they compare Rizzo through age 26 with the likes of Freddie Freeman, Joey Votto, and Paul Goldschmidt (1:06:15), before making a final call on whether or not Rizzo belongs in the HOF (1:12:46).

Jim is joined by Larry Holder of The Athletic to discuss the career and legacy of former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees. First, Jim and Larry discuss how Brees is not only the greatest player in Saints history, but possibly the greatest individual to ever call New Orleans home (18:18). Then, they cover Super Bowl XLIV, how Brees put up video game numbers in the 2000s just like Dan Marino did in the 1980s, and how playing in the shadow of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning greatly impacts his legacy (20:38). Finally, they debate whether Brees is a top 10 quarterback in NFL history (35:10).

Jim is joined by Chicago Sports & News Columnist Dave Wischnowsky to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former MLB first baseman Derrek Lee. First, Dave and Jim cover Lee's legacy on the Chicago Cubs and how he is one of the better Cub players of the 21st Century (8:50). Then, they discuss his 2005 MVP-caliber season, Gil Hodges, and where Lee ranks among the best first basemen of the 2000s (13:10). Finally, they run through how Lee faired against every NL Cy Young winner from 2004-2010 (31:25), before making a final call on whether or not Lee belongs in the HOF (39:38).

Jim is joined by NFL and NBA writer for Action Network Brandon Anderson to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former NBA guard Gus Williams. First, Jim and Brandon build Seattle SuperSonics Mount Rushmore (9:40). Next, they take a deep dive into Williams' career from 1978-1981 and debate if he was better than Chauncey Billups, Tony Parker, and Pete Maravich (15:05). Finally, they rank Gus among the best guards of his era (59:10), before making a final call on whether or not Williams belongs in the HOF (64:08).

Jim is joined by author and sports historian Clayton Trutor to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former MLB first baseman Mo Vaughn. First, Clayton and Jim cover Vaughn's batting stance and his reputation as one of the most feared hitters of the 1990s (11:25). Then, they discuss the 1995 AL MVP race, the best first basemen of his era, and how he dominated some of the top pitchers in baseball history (16:49). Finally, they decide just how poor of a defender Mo really was (46:02), before making a final call on whether or not Vaughn belongs in the HOF (52:51).

Jim welcomes longtime editor at the New York Times and author Phil Coffin to discuss his latest book, “A Baseball Book of Days: Thirty-One Moments That Transformed the Game." Jim and Phil cover a number of topics, including Jackie Robinson's first game, Don Padgett's .399 batting average in 1939, Carlos Beltrán's Hall of Fame candidacy, and why Bob Gibson is on Phil's Baseball Rushmore.

Jim is joined by Texas Rangers Broadcaster Jared Sandler to break down the HOF candidacy of former Rangers outfielder Juan González. First, they discuss González's batting stance and his RBI prowess (9:50). Next, they cover González's huge performance in the 1996 ALDS against the New York Yankees, how he compares favorably to newly elected Hall of Famer Dave Parker, and debate why González, despite winning two AL MVP awards, is never talked about when discussing the PED era (15:49). Finally, they walk through the significance of winning six silver slugger trophies (45:10), before making a final call on whether he belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame (60:38).

Ichiro Suzuki, CC Sabathia, Billy Wagner, Dave Parker, and Dick Allen were inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame yesterday. Jim reads you each of their newly minted Hall of Fame plaques, reveals each of their best MLB seasons, and discusses each of their careers without using any numbers at all. Billy Wagner (5:25)Dave Parker (9:25)Dick Allen (14:22)CC Sabathia (19:00)Ichiro Suzuki (26:22)

Jim spent over 2 weeks driving through New England last month. He visited dozens of small towns along the way, but had extended stays in Stowe, Portland, Portsmouth, Boston, Nantucket, and Newport. Jim covers the highlights of each of those stops (4:03), before recapping the top four foods he eat during his time out East (39:15).

Jim is joined by writer for Bengals Talk, Mike Santagata, to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins. First, Jim and Mike cover the significance Geno's dominance despite his small statue as a defensive tackle (9:35). Next, they compare Atkins to Hall of Fame defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy (26:21) and debate whether Atkins was the 2nd best defensive tackle of his era after Aaron Donald (26:21). Finally, they discuss whether Atkins lack of a championship hurts his case (36:25), before making a final call on whether or not Geno deserves a place in the HOF (43:24).

Jim is joined by NFL Writer for CBS Sports, Jeff Kerr, to discuss the hall of fame candidacy of former NFL running back LeSean McCoy. First, Jim and Jeff reminisce about the 2013 Snow Bowl when the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Detroit Lions in a blizzard (7:20). Next, they compare McCoy's to Hall of Famers Marshall Faulk and Thurman Thomas, and discuss the significance of a running back reaching the 12,000 rushing yards milestone (17:40). Finally, they rank McCoy among the best running backs of his era (32:55), before making a final call on whether or not McCoy deserves a place in the HOF (37:01).