How To Say You're Sorry
Sep 24, 2026 · 34m
Summary
Bruce Nolan opens by defining the structure of a proper apology, distinguishing it from simply "taking an L" by emphasizing recognition of harm, reasoning, and response. He applies this framework to publicly acknowledge his incorrect scouting assessment of Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Dion Walker, who has significantly outperformed his initial mid-day 3 grade. Nolan analyzes Walker’s improved leverage, conditioning, and ability to utilize his length, comparing his leap in performance to Josh Allen’s 2020 breakout. The episode concludes with a brief performance review of other Bills player…
Topics discussed
Show intro and host introduction
Personal anecdote on marriage and communication
Defining the difference between taking an L and apologizing
The three parts of a proper apology: Recognition
The reasoning component of an apology
The response component and a full apology example
Revisiting the distinction between Ls and apologies
Taking an L on Dion Walker: Context and original tweet
Dion Walker's statistical improvement and impact
Comparing Walker's growth to Josh Allen's breakout
Film analysis: Walker's leverage and length
Re-evaluating the Jordan Phillips comparison
Specific film examples of Walker's improved play
The value of multi-way winning for defensive linemen
Walker's improved conditioning and body composition
Evaluation vs. projection and the coaching factor
The limits of scouting: Character and medical info
Why the error was hard to predict and humility
Conclusion on taking the L and lack of a response
Sponsorship breaks
Bills vs Lions pie awards and Dalton Kincaid
Analysis of Gregory Rousseau's improved performance
Pie awards for Dwayne Carter and Keon Coleman
Keon Coleman's development and role clarification
Outro and sign-off
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