Andrew Whitworth and Dylan Strome on NFL Playoffs, Ovi’s Record, and Mike Tomlin’s Resignation
The divisional round is set, and the Texans have officially ended the Aaron Rodgers era in Pittsburgh. It was a classic Mike Tomlin performance where they dragged the opponent into deep water, only to realize the opponent had gills and they were the ones drowning. Big Cat and PFT broke down how the Texans' defense is essentially the AFC version of the Legion of Boom, swarming every play and making CJ Stroud’s first-half struggles irrelevant.
The 2026 Steelers are exactly the same team we've seen since 2018
They are the exact same Steelers team that we've seen since 2018 every single year. ... The Steelers were doing exactly what they've done all year, and almost in a position to potentially steal this game. Except the Texans defense is just so good.
The biggest news of the week, however, was Mike Tomlin finally stepping down after 19 years. It felt like the right time for a change, even if the Steelers don't technically believe in firing people. The cycle of going 9-8 and losing in the Wild Card had finally reached its expiration date.
The Patriots can beat any defense with their current offense
I just think offenses are a strong suit. I think [the Patriots] can beat any defense and I'd rather be playing a team that is known for their really good defense than their really good offense.
While the search for a new coach in Pittsburgh begins, PFT has a destination in mind for Tomlin that would provide the stability a certain NFC East franchise is desperate for.
Aaron Rodgers will retire sooner rather than later
I'm excited to see how long [Aaron Rodgers] can drag out this off season with his decision to retire or not. I actually think it's gonna be sooner rather than later. I think that he's probably gonna walk away.
Andrew Whitworth joined the show to break down the upcoming matchups and explain why he's not ready to give up on the NFC West just yet. As a former Ram, he still sees that division as the powerhouse of the league, and he even put his reputation on the line with a bold Super Bowl prediction that would break the hearts of everyone in Western New York.
Aaron Rodgers will play again because he loves holding everyone hostage
I also think he's gonna play again. 'cause he's gonna love holding everyone hostage. I also think he could go to Minnesota. ... I feel like the Steelers were the perfect fit for him in terms of like looking for a seasoned quarterback to lead their offense.
Whitworth also touched on the weather factor for the dome teams traveling to Chicago and Foxborough. He admitted that while he used to be a tough guy, living in LA has softened him up to the point of needing an overcoat for anything under 50 degrees. Speaking of old legends, Big Cat made a plea to Al Michaels to give the fans a proper heads-up before he finally hangs it up.
Mike Tomlin resigning was the right move for both sides
I actually think that this was the right move by Mike Tomlin. I do believe that this was his call. The Steelers are never gonna get better to a point where they're competing for Super Bowls. I think he's a really good coach. It got stale.
In the second half of the show, Washington Capitals star Dylan Strome stopped by the studio. He’s a legitimate PMT superfan and shared incredible stories about playing with Alex Ovechkin, including the fact that Ovi seemingly only drinks Coke and coconut water. Strome was on the ice for the historic 895th goal and admitted he celebrated like a little kid because he knew he was witnessing history.
Tony Romo is the worst broadcaster in football
He's been the worst, you guys. ... We've never been more right about anything. ... People are calling us haters. ... He's so bad.
Strome also went deep on his superstitions, which include feeding a teammate a specific colored gumball and timing his skate-tying down to the exact second on the clock. He even provided a hilarious theory for why the Capitals have been so abysmal in shootouts this season.
This has to be Al Michaels' last year
I do think this has to be Al Michaels' last year. Next year has to be. I would appreciate if Al Michaels would do a retirement tour. If he was like, this is it, I would not complain about him at all because he is a legend of the game.
Before letting the guys go, we hit Hot Seat Cool Throne, where we checked in on Zac’s sleeping habits and LeBron’s potential retirement plans. Big Cat thinks the writing is on the wall for the King, especially with the Lakers hosting the All-Star game this year.
Marcus Freeman is essentially a young Mike Tomlin
I told [Jersey Jerry] like Marcus Freeman is pretty much young Mike Tomlin. He's defensive coach run the football leader of men. I think he'd be like in that same mold.
Make sure to check your clocks, uninstall the 'goop' from your life, and get ready for a massive weekend of playoff football.
I hope your personal trainer is gay and your gumballs are the right color.

