Episode description

Episode 376 of the "Sports Illustrated Media Podcast" hosted by Jimmy Traina features two interviews.

First up is Chris "Mad Dog" Russo of SiriusXM, MLB Network's "High Heat" and now ESPN's "First Take."

Russo explains how his weekly appearance on "First Take" came out, the role Stephen A. Smith played in it and the overwhelming reaction from fans. Russo also discusses still being in demand at 62 years old, the bond fans still have with the old "Mike and the Mad Dog" show, how gambling has impacted his daily radio show, his thoughts on celebrities attending sporting events and much more.

Following Russo, Mike Florio of "Pro Football Talk" joins the podcast to talk about the latest NFL news regarding Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Deshaun Watson. Florio also explains why he thinks Tom Brady will be the San Francisco 49ers starting quarterback in Week 1 of the 2022 NFL season.

The podcast closes with our weekly "Traina Thoughts" segment featuring Sal Licata from WFAN radio and SNY TV in New York. This week, the Jimmy and Sal get into a heated debate about the Calvin Ridley suspension.