NFL Wild Card Reactions, Steelers–Texans Preview, and a Moment of Awe with A’ja Wilson

It’s a packed Monday edition of Sports IQ with Larry Smith as the NFL postseason heats up and college sports deliver headline moments across the board.

Larry opens the show with a full recap of Wild Card Weekend, including Indiana’s dominant College Football Playoff performance, major transfer portal news, and a whirlwind of NFL results that reshaped the playoff picture. From comeback wins and defensive stands to coaching decisions under the microscope, it was a weekend that reminded everyone why January football hits different.

The spotlight then turns to Monday Night Football as Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) joins the show to break down Steelers vs. Texans. The conversation dives into Aaron Rodgers’ late-season resurgence, the impact of DK Metcalf’s return, Pittsburgh’s underrated running back room, and why veterans like Cam Heyward continue to define playoff football. Ray also explains what must happen early for the Steelers to control the game and where Houston could pose real problems.

Later, Daniel Arwas (Heavy.com / Sports Illustrated) joins Larry for an in-depth NFL playoff conversation. They break down the Bears’ stunning comeback win over Green Bay, Caleb Williams’ fourth-quarter brilliance, Ben Johnson’s culture shift in Chicago, and what lies ahead against the Rams. The discussion expands to the 49ers, Seahawks, Patriots under Mike Vrabel, Drake Maye’s development, and why the Broncos–Bills matchup could steal the weekend.

Producer Tony closes the show with coaching grades from Wild Card Weekend — handing out A’s, F’s, and hard truths about in-game adjustments, postseason preparation, and why some teams fell short when it mattered most.

The episode wraps with a powerful Moment of Awe, spotlighting WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson, who surprised a young fan at a Chicago Bulls game by gifting her a signed gold basketball — a reminder that greatness is measured not just by trophies, but by moments of humanity.

Guests Featured

• Ray Fittipaldo — Steelers Beat Writer, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

• Daniel Arwas — NFL Writer, Heavy.com & Sports Illustrated