If We Had The Pencil

Sean Green & Matt Jackson

Two military vets look at WWE and try to predict the storylines using any information they can get on.

  1. 5d ago

    S2E33 WWE Ladies Night

    The women's division took over SmackDown and Raw this week, so Sean and Matt give them the spotlight. The Boys discuss how women dominated recent SmackDown and Raw match cardsThey weigh Crown Jewel’s reported financial stakes against performer safety, citing reports of $60–80 million at risk for Crown Jewel and potentially a quarter-billion dollars if Crown Jewel and WrestleMania were lost.They praise Blake Monroe’s street fight, including character-fitting props such as hairspray and a mirror, and call it a breakout performance.They debate why Cody Rhodes’ presentation feels overly manufactured and whether Randy Orton’s current heel role is convincing.They examine CM Punk’s sit-down segment with Kevin Owens, arguing that Owens controlled the exchange and that Punk’s current character lacks authenticity.They highlight Trick Williams’ fluid performance in a multi-person tag match and discuss his potential move toward the world-title picture.Sean and Matt praise Sami Zayn’s Raw promo for drawing on his Bloodline history, while discussing Jeyvon Evans’ expressive, response and the resulting WWE title match.They credit Triple H with giving talent rest and opportunities, even as they acknowledge that WWE creative can frustrate fans.The hosts announce a planned Veterans Day special episode featuring military stories and experiences. Sean and Matt praise the Lyra Valkyria-Bayley No DQ match, distinguishing its strong feud storytelling from the mechanics of other recent women’s matches.They criticize commentary from Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett, while crediting Wade with occasionally correcting or clarifying the call.They argue that frequent interference, from Judgment Day, makes matches feel repetitive and robs performers of credibility.They say the Bloodline reunion feels too friendly and ignores prior tensions, while questioning the group’s direction after WarGamesThey joke about the repeated confirmation required to cash in.Sean floats a speculative storyline in which Sami Zayn aligns temporarily with 9-4-6 to weaken Roman Reigns, potentially opening a path for Penta to cash in.They suggest Roman Reigns would benefit from chasing rather than immediately occupying a title picture, and discuss possible future routes involving Oba Femi.They agree Judgment Day needs a meaningful change, with Sean specifically saying Roxanne Perez needs out.They close by promoting their Veterans Day livestream and inviting listeners to follow and share feedback on their podcast platforms.Look for the announced Veterans Day special episode; the hosts say they will share military experiences and provide advance notice of the live time.Chapters00:00 Rocky Horror, music tastes, and the Veterans Day special06:07 Women take over WWE’s weekly match cards06:55 Crown Jewel’s safety concerns and financial stakes12:07 Sami Zayn, Trick Williams, and the women’s storylines17:15 Blake Monroe’s breakout street fight18:06 Why Cody Rhodes’ character feels manufactured22:40 Tag-title changes and Triple H’s approach to talent26:38 Kevin Owens gets the better of CM Punk30:00 Trick Williams shines in the SmackDown main event33:03 Sami Zayn’s Raw promo rewrites his Bloodline story36:22 Jeyvon Evans makes his presence felt38:26 A WWE Championship match is made38:56 Tag-title possibilities for Penta and Je'Von Evans41:16 Lyra Valkyria and Bayley tell a violent No DQ story43:03 Why the commentary team distracted from the matches46:15 The case against constant interference47:45 The Bloodline reunion erases too much history54:44 Big Cass and Ethan Page, then a worked-injury question56:18 Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan deliver a main-event performance01:00:06 Tiffany Stratton’s teased cash-in and the briefcase debate01:05:06 A wild Sami Zayn, 9-4-6, and Penta theory01:09:22 Should Roman Reigns have to chase the title?01:13:23 Why Judgment Day needs a new direction01:15:43 Veterans Day livestream and show sign-off

  2. Oct 21

    S2E32 WWE Hiits a Lull

    Wrestling fans, prepare for a no-holds-barred discussion that dives deep into the heart of the current wrestling scene! In this episode of the If We Had the Pencil Podcast, Sean Green and Matt Jackson dissect the highs and lows of recent wrestling events, delivering insights that every die-hard fan needs to hear.Join Sean, battling through shoddy hotel internet, and Matt, the ever-enthusiastic Florida man, as they navigate the ups and downs of wrestling storytelling. They tackle the concerning trends in WWE where champions are viewed as underdogs, and the missed opportunities to elevate fresh talent. You’ll discover why Trick Williams is emerging as a standout star, how Sammy Zayn’s evolving heel persona is affecting the dynamics of established characters, and why the women’s division is crying out for a shake-up.They break down key moments from recent shows, including the intriguing promo from Trick Williams, the lackluster performance of established stars like Paige and Nikki Bella, and the genuine concern over R-Truth's injury. You’ll hear candid opinions on how stale storylines are impacting viewer engagement and why the wrestling world needs to embrace new narratives and characters to stay relevant.With stakes higher than ever, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand the current wrestling landscape. Sean and Matt lay it all out, revealing the consequences of ignoring new talent and the urgent need for storytelling innovation. Don’t miss out on the compelling insights that could change how you view the wrestling business today.Perfect for wrestling enthusiasts craving authentic commentary, this episode is a blend of humor, critique, and passionate fandom that will leave you eager for more. Tune in to the If We Had the Pencil Podcast for the raw, unfiltered take on the wrestling world!key topicsWWE storytelling and booking issuesBloodline storyline and Roman Reigns' roleCharacter development of wrestlers like Gunther, Sami Zayn, and Cody RhodesImpact of outside interference and match qualityFuture directions for WWE storylines and roster moves sound bites"Trick has got it.""The women's division has come a long way.""Roman is like Mighty Mouse."Chapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview02:00 Wrestling week recap and initial thoughts03:57 Analysis of the Sacramento episode and segment highlights07:02 Discussion on Trick Williams and Johnny Gargano promo10:04 Character analysis of Sami Zayn and the bloodline dynamics15:08 Raw and SmackDown match reviews and storytelling critique19:57 Discussion on WWE's booking patterns and long-term storytelling25:01 Analysis of the Intercontinental title scene and wrestler potential30:01 Bloodline story arc, Roman Reigns' booking, and future plans35:02 Tag team division and overall roster management39:58 Fan reactions, social media influence, and WWE's creative direction44:58 Closing thoughts and next week's outlook

  3. Oct 13

    S2E31 WWE Money in the Bank Recap/ Raw Review

    In a world where wrestling storylines can make or break careers, Sean Green and Matt Jackson dissect the latest WWE drama that has fans buzzing. As Roman Reigns faces LA Knight in a highly anticipated showdown, the stakes couldn't be higher. Will Knight break through the glass ceiling, or will Reigns continue his reign of dominance? Tune in to find out why this match is more than just a title bout—it’s a pivotal moment in WWE history. Join Sean and Matt as they reflect on a weekend filled with adrenaline and action, featuring a breakdown of the Money in the Bank event that left fans divided. With Roman Reigns’ recent performances sparking debate, you'll hear insights on his character evolution, the concept of "Roman fatigue," and the potential future for LA Knight after a valiant showing against the Tribal Chief. You'll discover: - The shocking dynamics of Reigns' match against Knight and what it means for their careers. - Why the pacing of the match had fans on the edge of their seats, and what it reveals about WWE's storytelling. - The implications of LA Knight’s performance and how it might set the stage for his next big opportunity. - Key moments from the women’s Money in the Bank match that wowed the audience, including standout performances and jaw-dropping spots. - The future of WWE's narrative arcs, including the looming tensions leading to upcoming events like War Games and Crown Jewel. This episode is essential listening for wrestling fans looking to stay informed about the latest shifts in the WWE landscape. Sean and Matt's candid discussions and deep insights will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the current state of wrestling. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into the wrestling scene, this episode promises to deliver the excitement and analysis you crave. Don't miss out on the conversation that's heating up the wrestling world—hit play now!key topicsRoman Reigns' match work rate and crowd fatigueLA Knight’s performance and storyline prospectsWomen's Money in the Bank ladder match highlightsIntroduction and rise of the 946 factionStoryline developments for Crown Jewel and future eventsWWE commentary and announcer analysisPotential storylines for Tiffany Stratton and Liv MorganBloodline saga and Solo Sikoa's roleWWE roster shake-ups and upcoming returns sound bites"Roman has really put the work in his matches""Roman kicks out of everything, crowd fatigue is real""The bloodline story is so convoluted and hard to follow"Chapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview01:37 Roman Reigns' match analysis and crowd fatigue01:51 LA Knight’s performance and storyline potential01:53 Women's ladder match highlights and key moments01:54 Rise of the 946 faction and its impact02:01 Storyline predictions for Crown Jewel and cash-in scenarios02:23 Commentary on WWE announcers and commentary analysis02:46 Bloodline storyline and Solo Sikoa’s role02:50 Roster shake-ups and upcoming WWE returns03:17 Closing thoughts and episode wrap-up

  4. Oct 7

    S2E29 WWE Time for MITB

    In the world of wrestling, every moment counts, and this week, Sean Green and Matt Jackson are breaking down the electrifying highlights from the latest episodes of SmackDown and Raw. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of insights, as they unravel the secrets behind the energy that has fans buzzing and the matches that are changing the game. If you're a wrestling fan looking to stay on top of the action, this episode is a must-listen!Sean and Matt dive deep into the captivating world of Money in the Bank qualifiers, sharing their thoughts on standout performances from stars like Tatum Paxley and Tiffany Stratton. You'll discover how the dynamic between veteran wrestlers and emerging talent shapes the outcomes of these crucial matches, and what it means for the future of WWE. Plus, they discuss the unexpected twists and turns that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.Highlights include the crowd's undeniable energy during Raw, insights on the explosive six-man tag match featuring Ray Phoenix and the War Raiders, and a look at the backstage antics of fan-favorites like Danhausen. Sean and Matt also explore the evolving storylines, including the intriguing setup for the upcoming PLE and the potential impacts of Cody Rhodes’ presence in the ring.The stakes have never been higher in the wrestling world, and not understanding these developments could leave you out of the loop. With Money in the Bank just around the corner, this episode will arm you with the insights you need to enjoy the matches like never before. Don't miss out on this engaging discussion that promises to elevate your wrestling knowledge and excitement!Perfect for die-hard fans and casual viewers alike, this episode is essential listening as Sean and Matt guide you through the highs and lows of the latest wrestling action. Tune in and get ready to hit play key topicsRoman Reigns' role in the bloodline story and its necessityCody Rhodes' character development and fan perceptionGunther's character evolution and potential face turnAnalysis of Money in the Bank match build and participantsSami Zayn's heel promo and storyline implications Bloodline faction dynamics and Roman's leadershipMoney in the Bank ladder match build-up and predictionsRoman Reigns' strategic moves and Solo Sikoa's roleCharacter development of LA Knight and other wrestlersStorytelling nuances in WWE's recent episodes takeawaysRoman's leadership style is under scrutiny as faction tensions rise.The build-up to Money in the Bank is more nuanced and less crayon-like than previous years.Solo Sikoa's involvement hints at deeper storylines and potential betrayals.LA Knight's mini heater indicates a rising star with strategic positioning.WWE's storytelling is becoming more intricate, engaging fans with layered narratives. sound bites"Roman's teeth could glow in the dark.""Roman finally asks about Jacob.""Solo is gonna partner with the Usos."Chapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview04:07 Tatum Paxley's match and storyline implications07:56 Danhausen's background and Gunther's character12:06 Sami Zayn's promo and storyline development14:59 Backstage segments and character interactions16:58 Gunther and Danhausen's potential dynamic20:00 Blake Monroe vs Julia and match analysis22:11 Johnny Gargano vs Kevin Owens and match build24:01 Cody Rhodes' character critique and fan perception26:05 Roman Reigns' promo and bloodline storyline27:51 Summary and upcoming predictions for Money in the Bank41:27 Bloodline faction dynamics and Roman's involvement42:20 Roman's teeth and character quirks43:01 Match setups and backstage segments44:14 Usos' backstage antics and Roman's questions45:17 Jacob and the 946 storyline46:45 Roxanne Perez and women's division highlights47:57 In-ring action and talent performances48:30 Women's Money in the Bank and character notes49:55 Roman's strategic moves and Solo Sikoa's role

  5. Sep 30

    S2E28 WWE 946 Ups the Anty

    In a world where tailgating traditions collide with wrestling fandom, Sean Green and Matt Jackson bring you a hilarious and insightful discussion about the latest in sports, food, and life. Whether you’re a Bills Mafia die-hard or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, this episode is packed with unforgettable moments and light-hearted banter that will keep you entertained from start to finish. As Sean shares his milestone birthday experience, including a comical encounter with AARP, Matt chimes in with anecdotes from his own family traditions. You'll discover the unexpected joy of spiking your hot chocolate with Fireball at the Bills game, as well as the latest stadium innovations that celebrate the true essence of tailgating culture. Join them as they break down key topics, including: - The bizarre yet delightful concoction of Fireball and hot chocolate - The new stadium features that honor Bills Mafia traditions - A heartfelt tribute to the late wrestling star Pac, aka Neville - A detailed recap of the recent SmackDown events, including cage matches and standout performances This episode isn’t just for wrestling fans; it’s a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the camaraderie of sports culture and the hilarity that often accompanies it. If you’ve ever wondered about the significance of tailgating traditions or the impact of wrestling on pop culture, this is the episode for you. Perfect for sports enthusiasts, wrestling fans, and anyone who enjoys a good laugh, tune in for an episode that promises to entertain and inspire. Hit play now and join Sean and Matt for a wild ride through sports, food, and friendship!In this episode, Sean and Matt dive into WWE's latest storylines, wrestler dynamics, and fan traditions, offering insights into the current state of wrestling entertainment. They analyze key matches, character developments, and speculate on future directions, providing fans with a comprehensive overview of the wrestling world. In this episode, we analyze WWE's current storylines, wrestler performances, and backstage dynamics, including Roman Reigns' role as tribal chief, the bloodline storyline, and upcoming matches. We also discuss wrestling talent development, roster management, and behind-the-scenes insights into WWE's creative process. sound bites"Who will win Money in the Bank this year?""Cody's storyline feels forced and frustrating.""Future WWE storylines are full of potential."Chapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview01:37 Bloodline storyline: Who's the real tribal chief?01:53 Money in the Bank qualifiers: Top contenders and surprises01:58 Cody Rhodes' storyline frustrations and fan reactions02:02 Finn Balor, Gunther, and the underdog challengers02:12 Sami Zayn's character turmoil and backstage insights02:30 Innovative Survivor Series War Games ideas02:34 Danhausen's character development and Gunther's humanization02:40 Nostalgia for classic cage matches and match history02:49 Milwaukee Raw and SmackDown highlights and fan traditions03:00 Future WWE storylines and wrestler trajectories03:02 Roman Reigns' role as tribal chief and family issues03:07 Bloodline faction dynamics and heel/face debate05:02 WWE roster management and talent development08:08 Upcoming matches and storylines for Money in the Bank12:12 Backstage insights: WWE creative process and talent coaching15:44 Dragon Lee, LA Knight, and new star potential19:33 Fan engagement, storyline twists, and future directions

  6. Sep 23

    S2E27 WWE's Downs and Ups

    Ever felt like the excitement of sports commentary is fading? In this episode, Sean Green and Matt Jackson dive into the art of play-by-play and color commentary, dissecting what makes some legendary while others leave us wanting more. If you’re a fan of wrestling or sports commentary, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation that reveals the secrets behind what keeps audiences engaged. Sean and Matt kick things off with a humorous yet relatable discussion about the frustrations of driving in Florida, quickly pivoting to the electrifying atmosphere of a Bills game. They share their experiences, from the iconic bison to the stunning stadium visuals that have fans raving. But the fun doesn't stop there; they transition smoothly into the world of sports commentary, spotlighting the highs and lows of various announcers. You'll discover: • Why Joe Tessitore's transitions from college football to wrestling might be falling flat. • The undeniable charm of Al Michaels and Jim Ross that captivates audiences. • How color commentary can either enhance or detract from the viewer's experience, and why Michael Cole and Wade Barrett shine in their roles. • The critical difference between engaging storytelling and flat narration. This episode isn’t just for sports fans; it’s a masterclass in communication, showcasing how the right words can elevate a moment. The stakes are high—without the right commentary, the action on screen can feel lackluster. Sean and Matt explore the broader context of sports commentary and its impact on fan engagement, making this conversation essential listening for anyone invested in the future of live sports entertainment. Perfect for fans of wrestling and sports alike, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the voices that narrate the action. Tune in for a blend of humor, insight, and passion that will have you rethinking your favorite commentators! Sean Green is your host, bringing passion and wit to every discussion, while Matt Jackson adds his distinct perspective, making this episode an engaging dialogue you won't want to miss.key topicsPenta's potential push and impact on WWELA Knight's storyline and chances at Money in the BankCommentary quality and its effect on viewer engagementStoryline developments with Roman Reigns and the BloodlineUpcoming qualifiers for Money in the Bank and their implicationsCharacter development of Johnny Gargano and othersThe role of factions and alliances in WWE storytellingAnalysis of WWE's strategic decisions for WrestleMania and beyondSound Bites"Penta is about to get a rocket shove up his ass""LA Knight is carrying the feud without Roman""Jim Ross makes you feel the moment"Chapters00:00Introduction and episode overview02:02Penta's recent performance and potential push830:32:03LA Knight's storyline and his chances at Money in the Bank1697:12:03Commentary analysis: Jim Ross, Joe Tessitore, and others2494:25:29Storyline updates: Roman Reigns, Bloodline, and family dynamics3333:18:51Upcoming qualifiers for Money in the Bank and predictions41861:05:46Backstage moments and character interactions49861:05:52Review of Raw and SmackDown: highs and lows58166:39:16Future storylines and strategic WWE moves66777:45:56Closing thoughts and subscriber shout-out

  7. Sep 16

    S2E26 Fun Weekend for WWE

    Football season is back, and so are the hot takes! Join Sean Green and Matt Jackson as they dive into the highs and lows of NFL week one while seamlessly transitioning into the electrifying world of professional wrestling. You won’t want to miss the insights on how preseason performances are shaping expectations and why the Bills and Patriots are in the spotlight this season.In this episode, the duo tackles the pressing questions: Is there a real problem with teams not starting their key players in the preseason? How does it affect their performance in week one? Get the inside scoop on the brutal matchups ahead for both teams, and hear their passionate opinions on the NFL’s biggest narratives.But it’s not just about football! Sean and Matt take you ringside as they recap an unforgettable weekend of wrestling, featuring the incredible atmosphere of Triple Mania in Mexico City. You’ll discover how the vibrant Mexican crowd changed the energy of the matches and the significance of a rare title change at a house show. Sean and Matt break down key moments from SmackDown, including Randy Orton’s unexpected return and Chelsea Green’s rising popularity among fans.With insights on the art of storytelling in wrestling, the guys explore how a well-crafted match can turn a house show into a memorable experience for fans. They also discuss the latest developments in storylines, including Johnny Gargano’s surprising push into the world title picture and the implications of Sami Zayn’s temper tantrum.This episode is a must-listen for both football fanatics and wrestling enthusiasts alike! Whether you’re looking to analyze your favorite NFL teams' performances or just want to relive the excitement of live wrestling, Sean and Matt provide the perfect blend of analysis, humor, and passion. Perfect for anyone who needs to stay ahead in the game—be it on the gridiron or in the ring. Tune in now and get in on the conversation!key topicsTriple Mania's top matches and momentsSmackDown's key storylines and crowd dynamicsNFL week one surprises and analysisWrestling storytelling and title change strategiesCrowd engagement and reaction in wrestling events Roman Reigns' performance and storylinesPenta's match and entrance impactEmerging talent like Lola Vice and Kalani JordanWWE storytelling coherence and future directionsMatch analysis: pacing, execution, and crowd reactionChapters00:00Introduction to the Weekend's Highlights02:01NFL Week One: Surprises and Analysis816:37:40Wrestling in Mexico: Crowd Energy and Key Matches1708:17:43Roman Reigns and Title Change Strategies2499:57:43SmackDown's Key Moments and Storylines3330:31:03Triple Mania: Top Matches and Spot Highlights49944:24:52Wrestling Storytelling and Crowd Reactions66749:58:26Raw Highlights: Rey Mysterio and Interactions83305:32:12Analysis of Match Snugs and Spot Execution99972:12:26Conclusion and Next Events in WWE and NFL

  8. Sep 2

    S2E24 WWE, Lucha Bros Put on a Show

    Sean Green and Matt Jackson break down a packed week of WWE TV, with SmackDown setting up multiple title feuds and Raw featuring one standout match that outshines a lot of the surrounding storytelling. They dig into the strengths and frustrations of the Bloodline saga, the rise of new names like Ethan Page and Tatum Paxley, and why the Penta vs. Rey Fenix match was the clear highlight of the week..Timestamps00:00 - Opening banter, back-to-school chaos, and the week ahead02:38 - SmackDown opens with Kevin Owens, CM Punk, Sami Zayn, and Gunther06:16 - Why SmackDown’s title picture works better than Raw’s right now07:19 - Chelsea Green, her mask, and the eye injury spot08:33 - Danhausen backstage comedy with Gunther11:00 - JC Jane wins and Nikki Bella’s involvement muddies the story12:35 - Cody Rhodes’ terrible suit steals the segment13:43 - Trick Williams and Lil Yachty help set up Baron Corbin15:58 - Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes play the classic bait-the-opponent promo game18:18 - KO crashing out when wrestling tropes get broken21:24 - Tatum Paxley’s debut and the weirdness around Charlotte and Alexa25:19 - Blair Monroe, Julia, and the next women’s feud setup27:24 - Shinsuke Nakamura’s return feels overdue28:42 - KO, Gunther, and Finn Bálor in the number one contenders match31:11 - The blurred blood shot from the Usos attack and the problem with the presentation34:27 - Jacob Fatu’s uncensored mic moment and why the taped show helped36:03 - Judgment Day interference fatigue37:36 - Ethan Page gets called out by Chad Gable and responds well40:15 - Raw and future cards in Mexico, Crown Jewel, and Wrestlepalooza41:38 - Roman Reigns ignores the attack on Solo and the Bloodline story frustrates both hosts45:17 - Roman, Solo, LA Knight, and the problem with too many overlapping feuds51:47 - Announcer complaints and why the Penta vs. Rey Fenix match needed Corey Graves55:51 - Stephanie Vaquer and Becky Lynch build toward the bigger long-term payoff56:23 - Why the Oba Femi vs. Bron Breakker build felt undercooked57:50 - Penta vs. Rey Fenix steals the show60:54 - Roman, Penta, and the concern about style mismatch heading into Mexico City69:12 - Podcast wrap-up and where to follow the show

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Two military vets look at WWE and try to predict the storylines using any information they can get on.