
Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on ESPN NY
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Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Ryan Clark
That sounds like heaven to me.
Peter Rosenberg
Listen live weekday afternoon starting at 3.
Don Hahn
On 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.
Peter Rosenberg
505 NFL playoff weekend college Football Playoff tonight, the Cotton Bowl, Texas and Ohio State right here on all ESPN properties. 10:50am to start, then 8:80 after the Knicks thunder. And of course you can watch on many, many ESPN vehicles on television. Don, are you locked in tonight?
Ryan Clark
Yeah, I'll check in. Locked in strong, but I'll have it on.
Peter Rosenberg
You were going so. So you were more locked in yesterday just because in your eyes, sort of the east coast sexiness of a Notre Dame, Penn State matchup.
Ryan Clark
Yeah, that was, that was. I mean, I had the Rangers, I was doing the pre and post, but I had the game on, on the computer and I listened to the fourth quarter on the way home. I was genuinely interested in the final of that game. I'm not as one. Notre Dame, Penn State. I was, I was motivated by, by that game. I think that that was a, that was a sexy game to me. This one not so much good.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, not great. No, it's it. By the way, though, I have a sneaky hunch it's going to end up being a sexier game to watch.
Ryan Clark
No, it might be. Like I said, like there was a competitive game. You know, it was tied at 24 at one point, tied at 10 early after Penn State jumped out to a 10 nothing lead. But it was very conservative, both coaches. I thought that that fourth quarter was almost like let's not make a mistake and then what ends up happening? It's a mistake that cost Penn State the game.
Peter Rosenberg
Before we get to RC here in a couple of minutes and dive back into all the football and get to these phone calls, guys. And we're going to get to all of you. Don. Rangers get a win they needed last night and it's sort of the opposite of what happened two nights ago. They end up forcing, getting to overtime and this Time getting the win and another overtime loss just would have been absolutely brutal. How did you come away feeling from. From last night's win?
Ryan Clark
Well, it kind of was eerily similar to the way they won games last year. They scored two power play goals. First time since November 30th they had multiple power play goals. They killed all three of the Devils power plays, which is saying something. Devils have one of the best power plays in the league. So special teams really bailed them out of a game where they really didn't do much, five on five. So that's the way they won last year. And Igor came back and I don't think he was overly tested, but he made some big saves when he had to. And then if I tell you that Panarin, Zabanajad and Carrick are going to get three glorious opportunities in overtime, which guy's going to score? You wouldn't think it would be Sam Carrick. He ends up getting the game. We're in overtime. They had been 02 in overtimes, so it was a nice win. Now you got to try to follow it up, have one back to back games. And in almost two months here, they got to go to Vegas to take on, you know, the best team in the NHL right now in the Golden Knights. But I thought it was a really fun, entertaining game. I thought, you know, Rempe played, you know, seven plus minutes. He didn't get much action in the third period. There were no fights, there was no, you know, he had, he had a decent amount of hits. But I really thought that they did a really good job against the team that outscored him 10:1 in the two games that they met. So that was a really nice game. Now, now you got to follow it up with another one. They're only four points out of a playoff spot, Peter, which is nice, but they're also only three points away from being the worst team in the conference. So there's a lot of work to be done. Well, that's these next 41 games.
Peter Rosenberg
So I was watching last night and what struck me about that game is, Don, we talk so much about how frustrating this team is and then you, you watch the fans, Don, and you forget how incredible the fan base for the Rangers is. Don, if you didn't know anything and you threw on that game, you would not think the fans watching that game were fans who've been watching a team absolutely fall apart for four or five weeks.
Ryan Clark
You know, it's interesting you say that because they've had three home games recently during this really tough stretch. And Boston, they won 2 to 1. They lost the game in overtime to Dallas, and last night, the overtime win, and this team was not playing well. And you know how it is in New York. They'll get on you. They'll boo you. And I. And I thought the fans were very supportive in the Boston game. They were into it. They won the game they were in, and they were into it. Last night, some Devil fans got into the building as well. So they didn't seem overly down on the team. Team responded. Now they go on this road trip. It's going to be a tough one, but hopefully they get at least, you know, three or four points out of these three games and then start the second half of the bang.
Peter Rosenberg
All right, so super excited right now to bring on Ryan Clark. My episode of his incredible podcast, the Pivot, just went live on YouTube everywhere. Just search for the Pivot, find the podcast and the video on YouTube. I was so honored to do it. And Don, I got to tell you, I made the joke in the episode, and I'll say it to you right now, Listen, there's a reason the man won an Emmy. Such a damn good interviewer. And also today, I know Ryan, such a damn proud father. What was it like watching your son Jordan play in the College Football Playoff last night?
Anthony
Hey, man, thank you guys for having me. First of all, bro, I felt like I was going to throw up for two and a half hours. It was literally, man, like the most nerve wracking thing I've been through. At one of the points in the game, my wife started clearing her emails because she couldn't handle the stress like that.
Peter Rosenberg
That's the sort of.
Anthony
That's the sort of night it was. But, you know, we talked about this a little bit, Peter, when you were on our show, man. Just the love you have for your kids. And his excitement that I could see from the stands when he was on the field, and they won that game. I mean, it means everything to me. I know all the work he's put in, everything that, you know, he's gone through to get to this point. And I know how everybody has doubted him and his teammates throughout this college football playoffs. You know, it was, they couldn't beat Georgia, and they did that. They couldn't beat Penn State, and they did that. And to see those kids and those young men come together and accomplish some of their goals, man, was truly amazing.
Ryan Clark
You know, it's so difficult to live up to your dad's expectations for any son, but how does he handle Having to do that when his dad is somebody that played in the NFL.
Anthony
Well, he talked about it before. He said he hated it, being younger, you know, he said, and then he learned to embrace it. And he also said, you know, I, I also realized that it got me at least like opportunities that maybe other people wouldn't get. And so I wanted to take advantage of those. And I think that's all he's done, he's embraced it. And, you know, I told him this a couple of days ago. He's done so many things that I didn't do. You know, he became a four star recruit and an Under Armour All American. I obviously wasn't around him, but I wasn't that sort of recruitment. I wanted to go to Notre Dame. It was my dream school. And, you know, through him I've got to live that experience. You know, he was invited to a senior All Star game. You know, I wasn't invited to one of those. And so there's so many things that he's done and accomplished, at least, you know, at this point of his life, that are so far beyond what I did. And I think any parent wants their children to accomplish greater things, be better humans than they are. And my son certainly is man. And so it's a testament to God, it's a testament to my wife and the way that she raised him. And I'm just so grateful.
Peter Rosenberg
So I'm not a huge college football guy, rc. And I'm watching last night and Marcus Freeman really just impressed me. This is a guy who started his head coaching career at Notre Dame a couple years ago and started with three losses. And now you look up and the guys playing for a national championship while Brian Kelly's trying to figure out what the hell's going on with his career. I'm sure you've interacted with the man. He's only, he's only 39 years old. I can't help but thinking we're all talking about what players are going to come out of that game. I'm wondering what NFL team is going to come after Marcus Freeman. How impressed have you been with the coach at Notre Dame?
Anthony
You know, like you, Peter, he's been a guest on our show the Pivot. And so that was my first interaction with him two summers ago before the 2023 season. We sat with him and I was just thoroughly impressed. I mean, honestly, that was why once they began to recruit my son in the transfer portal, I was like, this is a visit you have to take. This is a man you have to sit with. And I think what he's done is he's understood traditions and the tradition of Notre Dame, but he's also understood this generation of players, this generation of. Of young men. And so he's gotten people to buy into the tradition of Notre Dame, but also the dog that you need when you're going to play the Georgias and the Penn State of the world and the way that you need to be together as a team. I think more than anything, y'all, he's a leader of men. And we know sometimes it's not all about just the X's and O's. It's about can you get people to follow what you say, what you feel and how you lead. And he's been able to do that now.
Ryan Clark
You know, looking at the games in the NFL coming up this weekend, I look at the. The rookie quarterbacks, like what Jaden Daniels is going to go through and what Bo Nix is going to go through. But even Sam Darnold is not a rookie, but he's going to play in his first postseason game coming up on Monday. What. What can they expect? The difference in gear, speed, pressure, regular season, the postseason.
Anthony
I think the, the thing you said is pressure, you know, and it's like, I remember every game, the pressure tightening, right? And if you make a mistake, the feeling of that mistake in the divisional round, the wild card round, the AFC Championship, as opposed to a regular season game, is just different. You know, it means more. And it's so funny because most of these guys will be getting paid so much less to play in these games than they get in the regular season game, right? Because everybody gets paid the same thing. But I just remember if you give up a play, how much more stress it adds to you and how some guys can't just get back into who they are and get back into themselves and go make plays. And I think Lamar Jackson has had to deal with this. So think about a Jaden Daniels, think about a Bo Nicks, a Sam Donald, who still have so much to prove. They have to understand that you can't get those bad plays back, and you can't erase those. You have to just move forward, not make those same mistakes again. But they can expect more speed, they can expect more intensity, they can expect more attention to detail and definitely more pressure.
Peter Rosenberg
We're talking to the great Ryan Clark. You may know him from NFL Live, you may know him from Get Up First Take or his podcast, the Pivot. My episode with Ryan and the gang came out today. You can find it on YouTube, wherever you find podcasts, I love the conversation. I hope you guys check it out. And Ryan, I know you spent a lot of time talking about Lamar Jackson and with good reason.
Ryan Clark
He's.
Peter Rosenberg
He's pursuing a third MVP and may get it. Don and I was talking earlier. The amount of pressure this guy though is going to face this playoffs is amazing.
Ryan Clark
Who.
Peter Rosenberg
Who has more pressure on them in this playoff, Lamar Jackson or Josh Allen?
Anthony
Lamar Jackson. And I don't think it's close. And here's why I say that. Guys, we have had conversations about how well Josh Allen has played in playoff games and still lost, right? Think back a few years to that divisional round playoff game in Kansas City. How great it was, how well Josh Allen actually played Patrick Mahomes. And the Kansas City Chiefs offense was just better. In their losses to the Kansas City Chiefs, they've averaged 28 points. It hasn't been a Josh Allen problem, it's been a Kansas City Chiefs thing and how good they are. We haven't seen that from Lamar Jackson in Lamar Jackson's playoff losses. We haven't felt that Lamar Jackson has played at an MVP level and an all pro level and the rest of this team has let him down. And so I don't think it's just about winning for Lamar Jackson. I think it's about being a reason, if not the reason the Baltimore Ravens win, which we see all through the season, the regular season. I think what we're asking of Lamar Jackson, which we've already seen from Josh Allen, is this. We're not asking you to be better than we've seen you. We're just asking you to be at the very best that we've seen you. And we haven't seen that in playoffs from him yet.
Ryan Clark
Now the reverse. I don't know how much pressure's on the Rams. I don't know if there's any expectations around them, but I know their quarterback is one. I know their head coach is one. How dangerous are the LA Rams?
Anthony
I think the Rams are extremely dangerous because they're playing with house money. Not only have they won, but they were a team that in early parts of the season didn't even seem like a playoff caliber team. You come back, Fukunokua gets healthy, this young defense starts to play well and you go on a run to end the season that puts you in the playoffs. And now you're playing a Minnesota Vikings team that has 14 wins. Many people are going to pick the Minnesota Vikings to go in and win. Not only to mention guys Just in this game alone. These are guys who are dealing with friends and family and loved ones who are dealing with one of the most dangerous and devastating natural catastrophes in the history of our country. And so now they're displaced. There's so much going against the Los Angeles Rams that there will be no pressure on them this week to perform. We'll all accept and understand if they aren't at their best. And sometimes that's when teams can be the most dangerous.
Peter Rosenberg
How do you think my commies are going to turn out on Sunday night? You think Jaden is up to the task? And, you know, listen, and let me say this also about the team, Ryan. Like, they're, they've. They've been a great team. They've exceeded expectation. They've also won some nail biters that they kind of had no business stealing.
Anthony
Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
So. So you told me you liked how Jaden's going to be. You think this team can beat Tampa?
Anthony
Yes, I do, actually. It's funny. My best friend is the defensive coordinator in Washington, Joe Witt, and he's talked about the way his team has progressed. He says he feels extremely confident in the game plan and it's all about execution. That's what the playoffs are about, especially in games like this when teams are similar in talent. I think the thing I feel great about Jaden is he committed to Arizona State the same year my son did. So I've watched this kid play since he was 18 years old. I saw it three years at Arizona State. Obviously, he transfers to my alma mater, lsu. So I watched it for five years. And he's been the same exact person. He's been calm. He's always accepted pressure as a privilege. And I think we'll see the same thing from him this week. I think the true test is going to be how you stop the run defensively and how you approach Baker Mayfield in the pocket if they don't allow him to escape and create second play opportunities. I think this could be a great game for this commander's defense and I believe they'll score points on Todd Bowles defense.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, me and your best friend Joe Whit got great news today. Marshawn Lattimore active for the Commanders against the Bucs on Sunday, which is such they are a different team when that guy is playing. Hey, Ryan, thank you so much for having me on your show and thank you so much for joining us today, man. You were perfect.
Ryan Clark
Thanks, man.
Anthony
Hey, man, I want to say this, man. I've said it to a lot of people since we filmed, man, I thought it was one of the better conversations we've had. I thought it was layered. I thought it was diverse. I thought it was honest. And so I appreciate you giving us the time and more importantly, man, being open and vulnerable to some questions that we ask that are truly personal, man. So I appreciate you listening as well now.
Peter Rosenberg
You were great. You guys were all awesome, man. Thank you so much. The great Ryan Clark of the Pivot and of course, espn. Go check out that episode, Don. I posted the trailer on my. My Instagram. They. They put up a trailer for this podcast, Don. It makes me look like a superhero.
Ryan Clark
I was gonna say. How personal did this get?
Peter Rosenberg
Very.
Ryan Clark
Wow.
Peter Rosenberg
It's legitimately the most personal conversation I've probably ever had on air. I'll say that. We went. We went it. We went there. Like there are things, you know, that are in there. You know, like you think there are things, you know, that I've never shared publicly before. But we went pretty deep, man. I trusted them and they were like, they're really, really solid. I'm sitting there the other day talking to Fred Taylor and I'm going, you know, all the times I watch Mark Brunel and Fred Taylor, Don just put up points on the Jaguar. I never thought I'd be having deep life conversations with the man.
Ryan Clark
Went there. I did. I'm going to have to give this a listen.
Peter Rosenberg
I'm going to. I'm going to send you the link. I really, I really, really enjoyed it. But go find the Pivot, wherever you find podcasts. R.C. and I came to the company at the same time and obviously, you know, him being a former Redskin, you know what I forgot. Do you know that Ryan, he is the first of the. Of the athlete turned broadcasters, he was the first, first one to get on the air while still a player. So, like, you know, when talking about him making an Emmy, winning an Emmy, there's a reason he's so good. This guy has been going for it and wanted to do this. He's not someone who, like, hated the media and then decided to become the. He always wanted to also broadcast. Takes it really seriously and obviously is really good at it. We have a huge 5 o'clock hour. So psyched to talk to you guys. Next NFL playoff picks. We're going to go through every game next and get to all your calls.
Allen
Peter. Peter. Yeah, Big feature coming up. We gotta let the people know, please.
Peter Rosenberg
Go ahead, Anthony.
Allen
Listen, tell them the name.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay?
Allen
Listen, everybody understands that. There's the football frenzy on DNR and they do a tremendous job.
Peter Rosenberg
Sure.
Allen
We want to do something called the NFL Hurry up. Okay.
Peter Rosenberg
All right.
Allen
All football. Okay.
Peter Rosenberg
Know how you're saying is we're saying is you're saying we ripped their thing off, but we did it well, is what you're saying.
Allen
Oh, no, no, no. They do a fantastic job. We're just trying to get a little bit of that juice because we think it's also just a fantastic idea to get as many football calls as we can. You could tweet Don, you could tweet Peter, you could tweet the show. But know how you doing? I love you on hot. Don. You're my favorite broadcaster of all time. Here's the greatest thing in the world. What is my question and move on. We're going to get as many calls as we can in this segment. Big Football Friday.
Peter Rosenberg
All right. So that the NFL Hurry up. Is next. Know how you do and how's the back of your belly? Here's the crib you should buy. Just jump right to your football points. It's all coming up next right here on Don Hahn and Rosenberg.
Don Hahn
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Peter Rosenberg
Why?
Don Hahn
Because it's Infiniti's most luxurious full size 3 row SUV. It's full of customizable and advanced features. I'll tell you all about the great speaker system, the fact that you can take calls that say isolated to the driver's seat so it's personal. You don't have to have the whole car here. Your conversation, that's awesome. There's all kinds of customizable things in it as well. And by the way, so you know, my youngest daughter plays hockey. And so we have tournaments to go to, we have practices to go to and we always carpool with other families. We had three hockey bags, three girls from the team and of course my wife, myself and my other daughter. All in the Infinity all together, all comfortable, going for the ride, watching some hockey. And Callie had a hat trick, by the way. She was player of the game. So that's the kind of thing I'm talking about. This is the perfect family car. So I just gave you a few of the many amazing new features available on the all new Infiniti QX80. But how about you discover you just right? Visit infinityusa.com to learn more about the all new Infiniti QX80. Availability of features may vary by trim level, packaging and options.
Peter Rosenberg
What's the best time of day to get a deal? All day with Jack in the Box's all day Big deal meal. You get to choose from four entrees like the supreme croissant and five tasty sides plus a drink starting at $5. So hurry in or take your time. You've got all day at Jack. Every bite's a big deal. Rated RP to M. You're listening to.
Anthony
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Peter Rosenberg
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Ryan Clark
Thought so.
Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
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Don Hahn
Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg Podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch the show on demand whenever you want.
Peter Rosenberg
Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.
Anthony
Here we go.
Peter Rosenberg
This is the NFL. Hurry up. Oh yeah. You hear the music, you understand the vibe. You know what's happening. It's an NFL Playoff Friday. The first ever on Don Han and Rosenberg Allen dealing with some family issues today. It's Peter and Don. We are amped up and ready to go. And Don, it's the first ever NFL hurry up Now Don, do you want to give any pass to people or if when we pick up they don't get right to their football question, we dead them.
Ryan Clark
I want this to start off on the right foot. So kill him.
Peter Rosenberg
All right. So guys, there it is. NFL Hurry up. 1-800-919-3776. That means you can give your immediate playoff take, thought, question, concern, but nothing else. There's no, hey, I'm a big fan. How's the back of your belly? You'll be out of here. We just get right to it. All right? Now, this is going to be challenging. Can he do it? We don't know. He's a big back of the belly guy, but he's got to live up to the rules. We go to Danny on Long Island. Hey, Danny on the fly, by the way. Richard, The.
Anthony
The Vikings.
Peter Rosenberg
You. That's something.
Ryan Clark
Come on. You couldn't be. You couldn't explain it better.
Peter Rosenberg
Wait, Don. How could he do it?
Ryan Clark
How.
Peter Rosenberg
How could he make me do that?
Ryan Clark
It's kind of on you. Because I'm not surprised it happened. I'm really not surprised it happened.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay, 1-800-A line is now open. 1-800-919-37376. Let's go to Joe and Chappaqua. Hey, Joe.
Anthony
So if the Giants get or have.
Ryan Clark
The number three pick, who are they going to take?
Anthony
Since Allers not in the draft or.
Ryan Clark
He'S not going to declare for the draft, is there another player that they can take?
Anthony
Quarterback?
Peter Rosenberg
Don?
Ryan Clark
I would think the guy that's going to go first is Sanders. So the question is, what will happen at 2 if there is no quarterback taken or they're not interested in either of the two quarterbacks? I think they're gonna trade down. They need so much. I think that's probably gonna be the better play for them. And if I had to say somebody they pick, I think I say because the secondary is weak and they need another weapon, they go, Hunter.
Peter Rosenberg
1-800-919-3776. Remember, it's NFL. Hurry up. You get right to the question or you get. You get dropped.
Ryan Clark
Hurry up.
Peter Rosenberg
Hirsch. Hirsch in Valley Stream. Hey, Hirsch.
Anthony
I don't care if The jets interview 6,000 candidates. The only two candidates that are logical that should be considered at this point are Brian Flores and Aaron Glenn.
Peter Rosenberg
I will tell you that Flores was.
Anthony
My first choice and then Glenn. But I'm really getting attached to Glenn.
Peter Rosenberg
Seeing a lot of stuff I like about him.
Anthony
I think they should make an offer.
Peter Rosenberg
As soon as they're allowed to. What do you guys think about that?
Ryan Clark
It seems like a natural fit. He's a former Jet. He looks like he really wants the job. He will have other opportunities, so we'll see if he would take it. Ultimately, I don't love the fact that he's got no experience as a head coach. I think this is too important. But I like him more than Flores. So if you're giving me those two choices, then I think it'd be Glenn and Peter. I feel like he's starting to get the inside track. Starting to feel that it might be.
Peter Rosenberg
Glenn for some reason. I'm feeling that way too. And I don't know, Don, what to take from this, but I personally have started feeling that way, like I wasn't hot on Aaron Glenn and now I am. So I'm. Maybe there's just something in the, in the ether. I'd be curious to why he has no interest in Rex. But you know what? Maybe it's just he's a logical man and knows that the idea of it, while it's fun, if you remove all of the kind of chit chat about it, is kind of silly when you have these other options, in my opinion. Let's go to Stephen Roosevelt. Steve, what do you got?
Anthony
Roman Gabriel never played with the Rams. Please tell Richard that. And also he's mixing up games from 50 years ago.
Ryan Clark
Oh, no. What? In what sense?
Anthony
He. He said Roman Gabriel and Fran Tarkin 10, 50 years ago and somebody threw a bottle on the field afterwards. That's a game the next year against the Cowboys in Minnesota and they knocked the ref out in the end zone. So you guys need a, we need a fact checker on him or something because I know our eyes glaze over usually when he comes on, but Roman.
Ryan Clark
Gabriel did play the majority of his career with the rams, but in 1974, 75, he was an Eagle. So you're right that the game that he's talking about was not that game, but Roman Gabriel did play for the Rams.
Peter Rosenberg
All right, now that, now the phones are coming fast and furious.
Ryan Clark
There we go.
Peter Rosenberg
Now we got no time. Juan and Union go.
Ryan Clark
Josh Allen and.
Peter Rosenberg
The Bills will go scorch thirds.
Ryan Clark
Now that he didn't, he's not going to win mvp. So run right through the AFC and.
Anthony
Win the Super Bowl.
Ryan Clark
Oh, I hope you're right. I hope you're right. And I, I have a sense that, that that's my team. I, I think Josh Allen is going to be huge.
Peter Rosenberg
And I'll tell you what, man, the Bills Lions would be such a sexy game. Like when you, when you think of the options that are out there, like I've been telling you guys how strongly I feel about the Rams and I am bullish on them. A Rams chief super bowl is like a gun to the head. It is just when you think about two weeks of getting ready for a Rams chief Super Bowl. Give me two weeks of Bill's Lions talk. I am here for it.
Ryan Clark
Yeah. What I don't want is the Chiefs against the Rams or the Chiefs against the Eagles. Can we agree on that?
Peter Rosenberg
Yes. Oh, you know, oh, I went right to Chiefs, Rams, Chiefs, Eagles. I move. I don't. I don't want to be a part of this nation anymore. I can't do it. Let's go to Joe in Brookfield. What do you got, Joe?
Ryan Clark
Do we think we're going to see.
Peter Rosenberg
Lion Vikings redemption or.
Anthony
And non playoff related. Do the jets do something with Jordan Travis next year?
Ryan Clark
Every time I bring up his name. Correct me if I'm wrong, Peter. I don't get anybody that's have anything indicating that he's any part of their future. He was hurt most of the year. We've brought that up right about maybe he can be the quarterback of the future. We asked it from Versus in back. Nobody seems to feel that way. So I think it's more of a fan thing than a reality. Here's the thing. I don't think the Vikings are winning Monday. And if they did win, I don't see them beating the line. So I don't think there'll be a redemption story, do you?
Peter Rosenberg
No. In all likelihood not. I don't think so. Let's go to Ritesh and Edison. Go.
Anthony
Hey, guys. Tonight, Texas, Ohio State minus six or plus six.
Ryan Clark
I would say I'm gonna go Ohio State.
Peter Rosenberg
Unfortunately, this is NFL though, so I can't even dignify two things.
Allen
He said hello. He said just, all right, you know what?
Ryan Clark
You know, that's on me. You know, I made a mistake by not disconnecting him. Peter's mistake was going to Danny.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, you're right. I made two mistakes. We're both. Let's just get it right here with Brandon on the west side. What's up, Brandon?
Anthony
What's up? Commanders by 14 making it to the NFC championship, and they're gonna wipe the floor with the Buccaneers.
Peter Rosenberg
I, I. Brandon, I love. We, we agree with you. You know, I'm trying to be modest because I just don't feel like having, like, a Tessa or whoever else want to, like, rub it in my face. I've been very modest about this team all year. They're not a perfect team, but this is the perfect matchup. I think Tampa will get theirs, but they will not stop Jaden Daniels on Sunday. I do not think this will look like game one. Speaking of which, Swami in Brooklyn has a similar thought.
Anthony
Washington 27, 21 over Tampa Bay.
Peter Rosenberg
Thank you very much. All right there. It's that easy. He's calling not a 14 point win, but a cover of the number either way there. The commanders are getting three though, Don, which makes me think Vegas does see this obviously different than we do.
Ryan Clark
I think they see it because the Buccaneers are home. I think they see the whole stat with the rookie quarterbacks and the fact that Todd Bowles has had success defensively against younger quarterbacks. But I just look at the fact that the division they came through, having to win it the last day of the season, almost losing out to Atlanta. I just don't think the Buccaneers are as good a team as Washington, period.
Peter Rosenberg
Mateo and Mawa, what do you got out of all the NFL playoff matchups coming up this weekend? Which one has the highest potential for an upset? Well, I mean, the one we're talking about is an upset, so it has to be, I guess the commander.
Ryan Clark
Yeah, I would think so. Right there. A three point dog. That's the one I feel really good about. It's my six point play. So I guess that that would have to be my answer.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, I would have said the packers if they were in better shape, but they're not. Oh, sorry. I. I also love the Rams, who are now a three point favorite because the game's been moved from Los Angeles. So I personally love the Rams. I'm taking the Rams, but I'd say the Commanders are your number one choice for an upset this weekend. Let's go to Rory. The Bronx.
Ryan Clark
The Rams are not. The Rams are getting three because the game moved to Arizona.
Peter Rosenberg
That's what I said. Their dog. I said given. Yeah, the Rams are a three point, but they were a one point point dog to start.
Ryan Clark
Right, right, right. That's the difference.
Peter Rosenberg
What do you got, Rory? Gentlemen, what is your thoughts on bringing back if we.
Anthony
If the jets don't get variable, what's your thoughts on giving John Gruden a.
Peter Rosenberg
Call and fixing this run game?
Anthony
Offense?
Peter Rosenberg
Jets finished 31st of 32 teams in.
Anthony
Rushing offense with an old immobile quarterback. I think that's something we need to address in this offseason.
Ryan Clark
But here's the thing. I. I haven't heard a peep about Gruden. Now listen, let's put all the email stuff aside, all right? Which I don't think the jets have an appetite to get into, so that's why I don't think they'd go there Gruden, he's an offensive guy, right? I mean, I, I, but there's just too much baggage there. I, but it's not even being talked about, Peter, so I don't think there's any chance it's going to be Gruden.
Peter Rosenberg
So, so by the way, we, Gruden's price tag, I've assumed has dropped by 90%.
Ryan Clark
Yeah, well, yeah, you would think, hey.
Peter Rosenberg
This would, this would be, as Don Leg Greco would call this would be a hat in hand situation. No, but it's just, it's, it's, I.
Ryan Clark
Think it's a real, it's a, bringing him back into the NFL is going to be a PR nightmare for whoever does it. And I'm not saying it's not going to happen at some point and if he wins, everybody will forget about it. But are the jets willing to go there? But you know he's won a Super bowl, he's a winning coach. I know he took Dungey's team to the championship. I don't know. I don't think he's not being talked about. So I don't think it's going to happen.
Peter Rosenberg
NFL, hurry up. Last three calls. Let's go to Justin in Jersey. Justin, what do you got? Do my birds fire Nick Sirianni if the Eagles don't win the super bowl and Michael K. Who?
Ryan Clark
Well, listen, if they lose to the packers, he's gone months day. But not win the Super. No, I, I, I think if he wins a playoff game, he'll be all right. If they lose in the first round, he'll be gone.
Peter Rosenberg
How about, how about this? Win in the first round, get absolutely trounced in the second round.
Ryan Clark
Then, then, then I think it's, there's, there's an opportunity he could be fired if he only wins one playoff game. But you're telling me if they lose in the championship game or the super bowl, he gets fired. No, I don't think that's going to happen.
Peter Rosenberg
I, I, I'm with Don, but I, but if they lose this weekend, good night and good luck. Let's go to Darren and Newark.
Anthony
I'm a Jet fan and I still want to see history. I want to see the Chiefs and.
Ryan Clark
It'S going to be the Chiefs and.
Anthony
The Eagles and the Super Bowl. So put the gun to your head.
Peter Rosenberg
I hung up on. You're sick. You're making me sick. Who wants to see that again?
Ryan Clark
But that, that's the debatable thing is that he wants to see greatness. Yeah. To see A team win three straight Super Bowls, you know, it's never been done. I'm good. I just don't want to have to go. And listen, we know how you feel about the Eagles. If you're a fan of a team that's not the Eagles in the NFC East, I don't have any appetite watching them play again. They've already played the Chiefs already. The Chiefs a third straight time and how many Super Bowl. I can't, man.
Peter Rosenberg
I'm good.
Ryan Clark
I'm good. Screw history, all right? You know, I want to see history. How about making history? Things we've never seen before.
Peter Rosenberg
History would be the Bills and the Lions.
Ryan Clark
That would be his Bill's Vikings. I would take Bill's Vikings.
Peter Rosenberg
Let's go to last one. Dave in Queens. Your last on NFL. Hurry up. What up?
Anthony
Does Deion Sanders pull a Archie Manning in this draft?
Ryan Clark
Doesn't sound like it, does it, Peter? He keeps denying it, although he's making all the rounds. He was on GMA earlier today. He was on live. He's making all the rounds, but he keeps downplaying. How would it look if all of a sudden he hold him.
Peter Rosenberg
Listen, and Dion is capable of anything, but I wouldn't take much, you know, I, I, I can't take much from him making the rounds, Don, because let me tell you what, Dion loves some Dion. I mean, the man has a new TV show that's like on Hulu or one of the channels, right?
Ryan Clark
And then he loves, he loves to talk, but, but this would be the opportunity, right? He sees the landscape. He knows Cleveland's got the first overall pick, you know, so if he had an issue with it, wouldn't he just say now, just letting everybody know he, my son's not going to Cleveland, Guys.
Peter Rosenberg
That'Ll do it for the first ever NFL. Hurry up. I gotta tell you, I loved it.
Don Hahn
Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch the show on demand whenever you want.
Peter Rosenberg
Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. Football Friday, and It's presented by bet365. It's never ordinary at bet365.
Ryan Clark
Show me something, Alan. Show me something.
Don Hahn
Don Hahn and Rosenbergs.
Peter Rosenberg
Pick them all.
Anthony
I mean, give me the three.
Peter Rosenberg
Was that my crazed laugh at the end?
Ryan Clark
That is.
Allen
Oh, yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
A demented lunatic if ever there was one. God, you talk about a different world. And listen, Don, Don loved his 22 years with Michael K. For sure. The fact that he's now in the middle of a pick segment that's themed around Metallica. This has got to be a glorious moment.
Ryan Clark
Very nice. That would never happen.
Peter Rosenberg
Don, in. In the pick segment that was completely ruined. Don, of course won and dominated all year long. So with our playoff picks, AKA pick them all, you should lead off. Don, you got to pick six games and you got to allocate points through six. What do you got?
Ryan Clark
Well, I'm going to start with one and that's the Eagles covering the five against the Packers. The Eagles nine and three against the spread over the last 12 games. I think they're home. I think they're better than the Packers. I think they'll cover the five in advance to the divisional round. I think Saquon's going to have a big day. That's my one point play, my two point.
Peter Rosenberg
This is already an insane, I'm telling you right now, this is already an amazing segment. You'll know why when I get started.
Ryan Clark
All right, number two. You know, I, I am going to go against you. I think the Steelers are going to hang. They're not going to win the game. Ravens are going to win the game. But nine and a half is just too lofty for these two divisional rivals. And I think it's going to be a close game. Ravens will win, but the nine and a half I think is a little too strong. I'm going to go with the Steelers as my two to two point play, my three point play. Listen, I've been saying it. I think the Vikings are gonna be one and done. And I just think all the reasons that we said earlier in the show, Rams have no pressure but they got the quarterback, they've got the coach. And I just think the Vikings got a bit exposed against really good team on the road in Detroit. I love them. I'm rooting for the Vikings. I'd love for them to be able to win, but I'm digging, I'm digging the Rams and I think the Rams are going to take care of business in Arizona as a dog at home. Three point play is where I'm going there. My four point play. I like the Chargers, they're scoring a ton of points. I think Houston, that whole South, I, I don't like. I keep looking back at that jet game. They can be exposed. I think the Chargers are going to put up points. I think this is going to be a Herbert type of a day and I'm gonna think they're going to cover the three. And that's my four point play, my five point play. I love The Bills, you know, rookies and we'll get to this in a second with the Commanders, but I'm going to pay attention to it here. You know, Bo Nix kind of came on late in the season. Rookies 0 and 5 in the last 10 years in playoff games 1 and 4 against the spread. It's only eight points for the Bills. I think this is their year. I think Josh Allen's going to have a monster day. I like the Bills to cover the number as my five point play and as I've been saying all week, I locked it in on Monday. I love the Commanders. I know the rookie quarterback stat. I get it. But the Bucs come out of that central division where they had to wait till week 18 to finally win it over the Atlanta Falcons. I think it's a great story. I love Bulls but I think the Commanders are going to win. I'm getting three. I love it. I like the Commanders as my six, six six point play. So just a quick recap. I like the Eagles as my one point play, Steelers two, my three point play, the Rams. My four point play will be the Chargers. My five point play the Bills and my six point play the Washington Commanders.
Peter Rosenberg
All right now listen. This is why this, this is why pick them all is brilliant because Don and I have the same picks. All but one are the same.
Ryan Clark
Wow.
Peter Rosenberg
That all but one are the same but the point allocation is out of control different. Okay, I will go in order the way you did. Don't. How do you not like the Bills? You have to. It's a big lofty number and I feel like whenever I take the Bills of the big number I end up sweating it out. You know you give up a touchdown early and somehow now you got to make up 15 and a half points. But the Bills are obviously winning and I can't take Denver on the road. This Bill's offense is too potent. They want to do they have too high an expectation for this playoff. I love the Bills given to me -8.5 for my one point play. We talked about it earlier. New coach, same great quarterback, new future for this Chargers team. The Chargers are minus three in Houston. Make them my two point play. Don, we're in lockstep on this one. I'm with you. All week I've been telling you guys I love the Rams in this playoff to do something and it gets started by knocking off a young Sam Darnold. I'll take the Rams as my three point play getting three points. RC Ryan Clark talked about it earlier. This is A team that already had very low expectations and now the whole world is kind of rooting for LA and probably, you know, no one has expectations at all for this team at this point. Give me the Rams to overpower Sam Darnold and the vikings as my three point play.
Ryan Clark
333-33-33.
Peter Rosenberg
Here we go. I did make some changes, Don. The Ravens are no longer my six point play. I love the ravines. It is a big number and I guess as the week went on, I just started thinking too much about, you know, the possibilities and the struggles Lamar has had. I still like them a lot, but not as my six point play. I make the Ravens at minus nine and a half. My four point play, I couldn't make them my six because it would just be amateur hour. But I've said it for a reason. I really like this matchup for the Commanders. I am not sleeping on the bucks at all. The bucks will get theirs. Thank God the Commanders get back Marshawn Lattimore, which is a huge deal for Joe Whitt and the commander defense. However, it's the offense that's going to do it. I just think Jaden is going to provide tons of problems for the Tampa secondary. Give me the commies as my five point play. And here's the. Don, as you could tell, here's where you and I are just on complete opposite sides. I'm just feeling the Eagles at this point. Man, I hate to say it. The numbers 5. I don't know how deep this Eagles team goes. They've been great against the spread. It's at home. No Jair Alexander for the Green Bay packers. Down a key weapon on offense. It's been a good year for the Packers. I think it ends here. Give me the Eagles -5 as my six point play.
Ryan Clark
Well, I had that and Eagles.
Peter Rosenberg
No, but it's your one point play.
Ryan Clark
Yeah. Yeah. That's a big difference.
Peter Rosenberg
That's what I'm saying is so fun. I mean, Don, you might turn around now and be rooting against the Eagles.
Ryan Clark
I might have to. Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
So Bill's my. Bill's my one. Chargers, my two, Rams, my three, Ravens my four, Commies my five and the Eagles are my six. Anthony Allen has sent in his picks. How did he do it?
Allen
Yeah, we should be concerned about three games, gentlemen. We should be concerned about three games because you all picked them. Let's start with Allen's one point play. He goes with the Commanders as his one point play. So that is a game that no one has. The Buccaneers, not a soul A lot of adjustments here before we decide a point allocation changes. This, that and the other. Allen said, I will not be bullied into making Minnesota my six point play. As you guys know, when Allen picked it, it was minus one and a half. It is now Minnesota minus three. I would imagine that if Allen had the ability he would not want to make that his three point play. So it is now down to his two point play. He has taken the Minnesota Vikings minus three. So you guys are on opposite sides there with the three point play. This is another interesting one. Allen is going to go with the Green Bay packers plus five. So that is he is the only one on the side of the Packers. He believes in them to cover the spread. Chargers -3 is his four point play. All three of you in some capacity are on that game. Texans will probably win out right now.
Peter Rosenberg
Buffalo shut up.
Allen
Oh, thank you. Minus eight and a half as Allen's five point play. Another game where Bo Nix will shock the world and at least cover the spread against the Bills because you're all on it of course. And Baltimore minus nine and a half. Allen C six, six, six point play.
Peter Rosenberg
This is insane. It went from.
Ryan Clark
This is.
Peter Rosenberg
It went from being my top game to Allen's top game.
Allen
His top game. And not only is it his top game, Ballard jumped in early as he always does with his three picks. Heard what we said because he's a loyal listener to the show and he's got six picks. One point play, Rams plus one. Now remember, this is now Ballard doesn't have to play by our rules. He's got his own lines because he picked these two days ago at 12 noon.
Ryan Clark
Ballard.
Allen
Okay, that's right. Thank you, Michael. Two point play, Bucks plus three. Yikes. Sorry Peter. Three point play, Chargers minus three. Four point play, Broncos plus eight and a half. Five point play, Eagles minus four and a half over his Packers. Yeah, and a six point play, Ravens minus ten. He's right there with Allen, baby.
Ryan Clark
Wow.
Allen
Over the Stillers.
Ryan Clark
He likes the Broncos, huh?
Peter Rosenberg
The Broncos and the Bucks. Some interesting Ballard.
Ryan Clark
How about that? Good for. I hope he's wrong, but a good, good job.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, I hope he's wrong. But listen, he did a great job with kill with Pick Them All. So that is your Pick Them all segment. And now we reset everything.
Don Hahn
Listen to my Don Han and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't want to know how the.
Don Hahn
Sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 880 ESPN. The ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.
Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Episode: Hour 3: Ryan Clark, NFL Hurry Up, Picks Release Date: January 10, 2025
In the third hour of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg dive deep into the excitement of the NFL playoffs, dissect recent college football action, and engage in a heartfelt interview with ESPN analyst Ryan Clark. This episode, titled "Ryan Clark, NFL Hurry Up, Picks," provides listeners with a rich blend of expert insights, personal stories, and interactive segments that capture the fervor of the current sports season.
The episode opens with a comprehensive overview of the upcoming NFL playoff weekend and the College Football Playoff, emphasizing the significance of matchups like the Cotton Bowl featuring Texas and Ohio State. The hosts highlight the accessibility of playoff coverage across various ESPN platforms, ensuring fans can stay connected to the action wherever they are.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg [00:44]: "505 NFL playoff weekend college Football Playoff tonight, the Cotton Bowl, Texas and Ohio State right here on all ESPN properties."
The conversation shifts to the New York Rangers' recent overtime triumph, analyzing the team's performance and the critical role of special teams. Ryan Clark commends the Rangers for their strategic play, particularly noting their defensive prowess and the goaltender's impactful saves.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [02:10]: "Special teams really bailed them out of a game where they really didn't do much, five on five."
Peter Rosenberg praises the Rangers' fan base, highlighting their unwavering support despite the team's fluctuating performance over recent weeks. He remarks on the fans' ability to remain enthusiastic, portraying them as true loyalists who enhance the game-day atmosphere.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg [04:04]: "If you didn't know anything and you threw on that game, you would not think the fans watching that game were fans who've been watching a team absolutely fall apart for four or five weeks."
a. Personal Reflections: Watching His Son in the College Football Playoff
Ryan Clark shares a personal and emotional narrative about watching his son, Jordan, compete in the College Football Playoff. He describes the intense anxiety and immense pride he felt throughout the game, highlighting the familial bonds and the sacrifices made to reach this pivotal moment.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [06:13]: "It's a testament to God, it's a testament to my wife and the way that she raised him. And I'm just so grateful."
b. Analyzing Marcus Freeman’s Coaching at Notre Dame
The discussion moves to Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame's head coach, whose leadership has revitalized the team. Ryan Clark lauds Freeman's ability to blend tradition with modern strategies, effectively motivating players and fostering a cohesive team dynamic.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [08:49]: "He's a leader of men. And we know sometimes it's not all about just the X's and O's. It's about can you get people to follow what you say, what you feel and how you lead."
c. The Pressure on NFL Rookie Quarterbacks in Playoffs
Ryan delves into the immense pressure rookie quarterbacks face during the NFL playoffs compared to the regular season. He emphasizes the elevated stakes and the unforgiving nature of playoff mistakes, urging young quarterbacks to stay resilient and focused under intense scrutiny.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [10:10]: "You can't get those bad plays back, and you can't erase those. You have to just move forward, not make those same mistakes again."
d. Evaluating Playoff Contenders: LA Rams and Washington Commanders
The hosts and Ryan Clark analyze the prospects of teams like the LA Rams and Washington Commanders. They discuss the Rams' unexpected surge in the playoffs, attributing it to key player performances and strategic adjustments. Similarly, they explore the Commanders' potential, especially with the return of star defensive player Marshawn Lattimore.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [13:30]: "I think the Rams are extremely dangerous because they're playing with house money."
One of the highlights of the episode is the interactive "NFL Hurry Up" segment, where listeners call in to share their playoff predictions. The segment is characterized by lively debates, humorous exchanges, and passionate discussions about team performances and game outcomes.
Notable Interaction: Peter Rosenberg introduces the segment with enthusiasm, setting the stage for a rapid-fire prediction round. Don Hahn and Alan Hahn participate actively, offering their insights and sometimes playful disagreements with each other and with listener predictions.
Featured Listener Call Example:
Listener (Donny on Long Island) [24:15]: "If the Giants get or have the number three pick, who are they going to take?"
The hosts provide their takes, debating draft strategies and player potentials, showcasing their deep knowledge and differing perspectives on team management.
As the segment progresses, Ryan Clark presents his playoff picks, allocating points across six different categories. His selections include the Eagles, Steelers, Rams, Chargers, Bills, and Washington Commanders. The hosts compare their picks with Ryan's, noting areas of agreement and divergence.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [37:45]: "My five point play and as I've been saying all week, I locked it in on Monday. I love the Commanders."
Highlight of Discrepancies: Peter Rosenberg and Ryan Clark engage in a friendly debate over their differing selections, particularly regarding the Eagles and Bucks, illustrating the subjective nature of sports predictions.
The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the engaging discussions and the varying playoff predictions. They express appreciation for Ryan Clark's candidness and the depth he brought to the conversation, reinforcing the episode's blend of expert analysis and personal storytelling.
Notable Quote:
Ryan Clark [46:00]: "I'm a loyal listener to the show and he's got six picks. One point play, Rams plus one."
This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" masterfully intertwines expert sports analysis with personal anecdotes and interactive segments, providing listeners with a well-rounded and engaging exploration of the current sports landscape. Whether you're a seasoned sports enthusiast or a casual fan, the insights and lively discussions offer something valuable for everyone.