Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: Wild Card Weekend Recap
Podcast Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Episode: Hour 1: Wild Card Weekend Recap
Release Date: January 13, 2025
1. Opening and Personal Acknowledgments (00:28 - 01:59)
The episode begins with a heartfelt moment as Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg extend their condolences to their co-host, Alan Hahn, following the passing of his sister, Deborah Marie Hahn. Alan shares information about donation links for those who wish to honor his sister's memory:
- Don Hahn (00:28): "Don and I just wanted to jump on the air and send our love to our brother and compadre on the show, Alan Hahn."
- Alan Hahn (01:20): "All donations are being taken@peoplesarc.org or citizens-inc.org."
This segment sets a compassionate tone for the episode, emphasizing the show's community spirit.
2. Wild Card Weekend NFL Recap (01:59 - 15:58)
Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Alan Hahn leads the discussion on the Commanders' playoff performance, expressing mixed feelings about the game:
- Alan Hahn (02:27): "I kind of knew [their opponent] could get that. I kind of knew could get that. Of course the doink was extra dramatic..."
He analyzes the Commanders' defensive struggles and strategic decisions, particularly criticizing coach Dan Quinn's aggressive fourth-down strategies:
- Peter Rosenberg (05:28): "He decided to go for it. On fourth down the previous possession, and that's the one I disagreed with."
Comparative Team Analysis
The hosts delve into comparisons between the Commanders' current roster and previous seasons, notably drawing parallels with the Giants of 2022:
- Alan Hahn (06:32): "The Commanders are closer to a 9 and 8, 10 and 7 team than a 12, 5 team."
Peter Rosenberg counters by highlighting the Commanders' quarterback, Jaden Daniels, showcasing his exceptional rookie performance:
- Peter Rosenberg (10:13): "The guy had 12 touchdowns in the fourth quarter. No rookie quarterback had ever done that. He has shown you he's ready now..."
Playoff Structure Critique
Peter offers a critical perspective on the NFL's playoff system, emphasizing concerns about team qualifications:
- Peter Rosenberg (11:35): "It's the dirty little secret in the NFL... the Chiefs get to sit there, and deservedly so, at 15-2."
Alan supports this by questioning the meritocracy of the current playoff entrant system:
- Alan Hahn (14:10): "Are these good teams? I really cannot tell whether these teams are just horrible or not."
Steelers and Coaching Carousel
The discussion shifts to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where Alan and Peter debate the future of long-time coach Mike Tomlin:
- Peter Rosenberg (17:11): "If I'm the Jets, I'm right there waiting... I'd drive it to Pittsburgh."
- Alan Hahn (18:51): "I dare someone, I dare a Jets fan to call up and tell Don legreca that you wouldn't want Mike Tomlin."
Peter defends Tomlin's coaching prowess despite recent playoff shortcomings, while Alan contemplates the need for organizational changes.
Chargers' Performance and General NFL Observations
The Chargers' disappointing playoff performance sparks further debate:
- Alan Hahn (15:31): "He [Justin Herbert] showed me the Chargers really chocolate."
- Peter Rosenberg (16:01): "Their problem is they can't score."
Both hosts agree that the Chargers' quarterback struggles were a significant factor in their loss.
3. Listener Calls and In-Depth Team Discussions (15:58 - 33:39)
Call from Griffin in Connecticut (14:10 - 39:12)
Griffin offers a critical analysis of the Steelers' defensive strategies and the broader coaching philosophy within the organization:
- Griffin (30:05): "The team's offensive philosophy in 2025 can be considered outdated. 3 yards in a cloud of dust doesn't work."
He contends that the Steelers' repeated playoff losses warrant a reevaluation of coaching and management:
- Griffin (31:18): "We've never had a Mike Tomlin coordinator ever."
Discussion on Team Stability and Legacy (33:39 - 47:32)
The conversation broadens to include reflections on team legacies and coaching stability:
- Peter Rosenberg (34:33): "If I'm the Jets, if the Giants were looking for a coach, I'm getting Mike Tomlin."
- Alan Hahn (34:07): "We've had only three coaches since 1969."
The hosts debate whether the Steelers' managerial stability under Tomlin is a strength or a hindrance, with Peter emphasizing Tomlin's ability to maximize team potential despite organizational challenges.
Call from Corey in Tom's River (33:39 - 36:33)
Corey expresses support for Mike Tomlin, highlighting his impact on the team culture and stability:
- Corey (34:22): "Mike Tomlin brings culture, he brings stability."
He underscores the importance of leadership in reviving the team's fortunes, aligning with Peter's defense of Tomlin's capabilities.
4. Weekend Warrior Segment (40:35 - 43:29)
In this interactive segment, Don and Alan select their "Weekend Warriors" based on player performances and game outcomes.
Selections and Justifications
-
Alan Hahn: Chooses Jaden Daniels for his outstanding performance despite his team's struggles.
- Alan Hahn (42:29): "I believe Daniels wins."
-
Peter Rosenberg: Supports Alan's choice but also highlights Josh Allen's impressive stats.
- Peter Rosenberg (43:16): "Yes. No, it's you. You win."
Points and Rankings
The hosts discuss their current standings in the Weekend Warrior leaderboard, emphasizing the competitive nature of their picks and the importance of strategic selections.
- Alan Hahn (43:16): "I'm currently sitting in first place as well."
5. Closing Remarks and Community Engagement (43:29 - End)
The hosts wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to support those affected by the California wildfires:
- Alan Hahn (44:26): "Please help those who've been affected by the California wildfires. Donate@redcross.org ESPN that's redcross.org ESPN."
They also engage in light-hearted banter about personal experiences and potential future guests, reinforcing the show's personable and community-oriented atmosphere.
- Peter Rosenberg (48:35): "Just watch. You got to put this guy on a pedestal because this is what I saw last."
Finally, Don and Alan remind listeners to subscribe and rate the podcast to support their continued broadcasting:
- Alan Hahn (40:30): "If you're not subscribed on the podcast, guys, we need you to go subscribe to Don Hanna Rosenberg."
- Don Hahn (40:35): "Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts."
Key Takeaways
- Emotional Support: The episode begins with a compassionate acknowledgment of personal loss within the co-hosting team.
- Playoff Performance Analysis: In-depth discussions on key NFL playoff games, focusing on team performances, coaching decisions, and player impacts.
- Coaching Debate: A significant portion is dedicated to debating the future of Mike Tomlin with the Steelers, highlighting leadership's role in team success.
- Fan Engagement: Interactive segments and listener calls provide diverse perspectives, enriching the conversation.
- Community Focus: Encouragement for charitable actions and community support underscores the hosts' commitment beyond sports commentary.
Notable Quotes
- Alan Hahn (02:27): "I kind of knew [their opponent] could get that. I kind of knew could get that."
- Peter Rosenberg (10:13): "The guy had 12 touchdowns in the fourth quarter. No rookie quarterback had ever done that."
- Peter Rosenberg (17:11): "If I'm the Jets, I'm right there waiting. I'd drive it to Pittsburgh."
- Alan Hahn (15:31): "He [Justin Herbert] showed me the Chargers really chocolate."
- Peter Rosenberg (34:33): "If I'm the Jets, if the Giants were looking for a coach, I'm getting Mike Tomlin."
This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg provides a comprehensive recap of the Wild Card Weekend, blending expert analysis with passionate debate and personal touches. Whether you're a seasoned NFL follower or a casual sports enthusiast, the hosts deliver insightful commentary that captures the excitement and complexities of playoff football.