Peter Schrager, the ESPN NFL analyst, has come a long way since his days as a WFAN caller. In a Q&A with Post columnist Steve Serby, Schrager opens up about his journey and offers a glimpse into his broadcasting style. But here's where it gets personal...
Schrager's podcast, 'The Schrager Hour', is a unique hangout where he brings out the best in his guests. From coaches to former players and notable fans, he uncovers untold stories in a casual setting. His goal? To create an engaging experience, like a fun dinner with friends, for his listeners and viewers.
His broadcasting style is authentic and passionate. He admires broadcasters like Al Michaels, Troy Aikman, and Ian Eagle for their unfiltered approach, and he strives to maintain that authenticity. Schrager's love for football, New York, and storytelling shines through in his work, and he believes in keeping the fun in the sport.
Schrager's admiration for broadcasters extends to writers like Bill Simmons and Peter King, who influenced his first-person writing style. He also credits 'Mike and the Mad Dog' for their unfiltered discussions, which he was a part of as a caller. This experience, along with his love for storytelling, has shaped his broadcasting career.
Schrager's favorite interview subjects include Sean Payton, Sean McVay, and Kevin Burkhardt, with whom he shares a great rapport. He dreams of being a sideline reporter for the 2012 NFC Championship game, witnessing Eli Manning's courageous performance against the 49ers. And while he hasn't appeared on the 'ManningCast' yet, he hopes to be invited soon.
Schrager's passion for football extends to his work as a 'Monday Night Football' sideline reporter, a role he holds in high regard due to its rich history. He also reminisces about his time on 'Good Morning Football' and the special moments shared with his co-hosts. His favorite Combine memory involves a chance encounter with Caleb Williams, revealing his genuine interest in the people behind the game.
Schrager's mock drafts are a labor of love, starting as early as the Senior Bowl. He takes pride in his track record and enjoys the puzzle of sorting through information. He has attended electric events like the 2013 NFC Championship game and the 2017 Super Bowl comeback, and his favorite NFL moments reflect his love for the sport's drama.
Despite his cheerful demeanor, Schrager admits to having bad moods, which he keeps private. He's passionate about accuracy and is hard on himself when he makes mistakes. His Super Bowl pick remains Bills-Eagles, with the Bills as the eventual champions. He discusses the biggest threats to these teams and the surprises of the current NFL season, including the Jaguars' success.
Schrager shares his thoughts on various NFL figures, from Aaron Rodgers and Daniel Jones to Aaron Glenn and Brian Daboll. He also discusses the impact of injuries on the Giants and Jets, and his admiration for players like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Flacco. His predictions for the future of the NFL include the potential of young quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye.
Schrager's journey from WFAN caller to ESPN analyst is a testament to his passion and hard work. He's overcome numerous obstacles and remains grateful for the opportunities he's had. His love for storytelling and his ability to connect with people make him a standout in the industry. And this is the part most people miss—Schrager's genuine enthusiasm and authenticity are what set him apart in a world of sports broadcasting.
