Fred was out today, so Erik hosted the first show since Randy Moss re-signed. After a long discussion on Moss’ contract and the Patriots’ decision not to franchise him, the guys moved onto Samuel’s signing with the Eagles, the Patriots’ cornerback position, and how teams will attack the Pats in 2008. With the news that Andy is (trying) to grow a beard, the discussion turned personal with topics such as Tom’s eligibility to run for President and Fred’s weight problems.

After a call from Rich in Central Florida, who spawned a discussion on Chad Jackson, it was time for some draft talk. The guys deciding that the Jets would probably be where stud, Vernon Gholston would end up. This prompted talk of the Jets’ offseason moves and how teams like the Jets need to attack free agency to catch up with the Patriots. They also announced their draft prospect videos and draft podcasts for the upcoming draft season.

After the break, the guys immediately critiqued Erik’s host performance, which Andy thought was better than his guest spots since he was actually doing something as a host. Brett Favre’s retirement then came up, followed by a look back on his career. Fred waltzes in halfway through the show and is promptly questioned by Erik on the etymological origin of ‘cutting the mustard’. Fred then predicted that the Eagles would finish in fourth place in 2008, while Tom thinks they are the best franchise in the NFC. The guys then delved into a discussion on whether free agency or the draft is the best approach, if the Patriots’ inactivity in free agency is a cause for concern (Fred’s opinion need not be stated), and how the rapidly growing salary cap hurts teams like the Pats.

After Chris Simonelli called in, claiming to have the origin of ‘cutting the mustard’ it was back briefly to salary cap talk, before Erik tried to initiate a discussion on the Pats’ minor free agent signings, which the guys had none of. Tom gives a scouting report on Erik: “He’s quick out of the box, but then he runs out of stamina,” so Fred recommends that he eats some lunch; Erik brought “a salad, fig newtons, and an apple.” In response to an e-mailer’s question on who would win a race, they get into a discussion on Erik’s physical activities (Andy: “You look like you have cancer!”) and his sporting endeavors of yesteryear. After some more draft talk, the show ended with Lori stopping in to announce some cheerleader updates, and talk about Erik’s trip to “Columbine…I mean Combine.” Fred announced NewEnglandFootball.com prompting Erik recalls some hazing stories from his prep school, where Erik fought back at someone who “took it too far.”

[mp3]http://library.kraftsportsgroup.com/20080304_neplor.mp3[/mp3]

Today’s team: Fred Kirsch, Paul Perillo, Andy Hart, Tom Casale, Erik Scalavino

Lunch provided by:

Callers in: Rich in Central Florida, Chris Simonelli

Special guests: Lori Baranski

Urban dictionary word of the day: Indianapolis finish line

Andy Hart Erik Scalavino Fred Kirsch Paul Perillo Tom Casale