Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast – Episode: Hour 4: Last Call Crew

Release Date: January 28, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Platform: ESPN New York and New Jersey

Introduction

In the "Hour 4: Last Call Crew" episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into a variety of sports topics, focusing primarily on NFL dynamics, team performances, and the intricate interplay between sports fandom and social media interactions. The episode is peppered with lively discussions, listener interactions, and insightful analyses, providing a comprehensive look into the current sports landscape.

NFL Team Performances and Super Bowl Aspirations

The conversation kicks off with Don Hahn reflecting on the prospects of local football teams making it to the Super Bowl. He humorously acknowledges the slim chances for many fans, particularly those supporting teams like the Eagles, Bills, and Chiefs.

Don Hahn [00:38]: "You may not have your football team playing in the Super Bowl... but there are other good things in life, right?"

Peter Rosenberg adds to the camaraderie by sharing a personal anecdote about his newborn daughter, highlighting how balancing family life with a passion for sports can be both challenging and rewarding.

Peter Rosenberg [01:08]: "I watched with her because... I did a good job not freaking out while holding her."

Weekend Warrior Controversy

A significant portion of the episode addresses a controversy brought up by their listener, Griffin from Connecticut, regarding the "Weekend Warrior" segment. Griffin points out an inconsistency where Alan Hahn reportedly mentioned having Saquon Barkley instead of Patrick Mahomes.

Griffin [01:45]: "Before I get to my point, there's a little thing with Weekend Warrior that we have to like controversy here."

Don and Peter express their confusion and disbelief over the mix-up, with Peter humorously conceding that Alan still wins regardless of the error.

Peter Rosenberg [02:32]: "I don't know what happened there... but he still wins anyway."

This exchange underscores the often unpredictable nature of live sports discussions and the challenges hosts face in maintaining accuracy under pressure.

Analyzing Game Strategies and Analysts' Perspectives

The hosts delve deeper into game strategies, particularly focusing on running versus passing touchdowns. Richard, another participant, engages the hosts with analytical questions about the recent game stats.

Richard [07:33]: "There were 18 touchdowns scored yesterday, fellas. How many do you think were done by the run and how many were done by the pass?"

Don correctly identifies the split, emphasizing the importance of a strong running game in crucial matches.

Don Hahn [08:30]: "13 run, five pass, which means the running game. And in the big games, you better have the best running backs you can."

Peter echoes the sentiment, discussing the fallacies in game decisions, such as opting for two-point conversions unnecessarily.

Peter Rosenberg [09:55]: "I really thought Skills made a huge mistake with the pursuit, with the penalty on their extra point when they could have made it 21-17."

Social Media Backlash and Handling Criticism

A substantial segment of the podcast is dedicated to addressing the negative feedback Don has received on social media regarding his support for the Eagles. Don shares excerpts of harsh comments that label him a fraud and question his sports knowledge based solely on his team allegiance.

Don Hahn [14:25]: "Some people just shouldn't have access. Not every voice is needed."

Peter and Anthony join in, discussing the toxicity of online interactions and suggesting ways to manage or ignore baseless criticisms.

Anthony [16:49]: "Say what you got to say and then keep it moving. Like, are you here for people's validation?"

Don emphasizes the frustration of being misunderstood or unfairly judged by fans who conflate personal team support with overall sports intelligence.

Don Hahn [16:25]: "You have to root against your division, Don. It's the rules you made earlier."

Listener Calls and Diverse Perspectives

Throughout the episode, listeners like Marvin and Chris call in to share their viewpoints, adding depth and diversity to the conversation. Marvin discusses team management decisions, particularly criticizing the acquisition of player Trevon Grimes and its impact on team dynamics.

Marvin [26:26]: "I don't really like the move we'd made for from Lattimore... he reminds me of a little brother trying to reach a ball from his bigger brother."

Chris, a Jets fan, engages in a spirited debate about team rivalries and personal frustrations with both the Chiefs and Eagles, highlighting the emotional investment fans have in their teams.

Chris [31:35]: "I just hate watch. Like, I can't sit there and pump my fist for anything positive that the Eagles do."

These interactions showcase the passionate and often polarized nature of sports fandom, enriching the podcast's discourse.

Handling Multitasking and Personal Lives

Don shares a personal glimpse into balancing hosting duties with family life, specifically managing his responsibilities as a new parent alongside his role on the podcast.

Don Hahn [25:34]: "I have to give credit to both these old pups. They've been pretty wonderful."

This segment humanizes the hosts, allowing listeners to connect on a more personal level beyond just sports discussions.

Upcoming Events and Promotions

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts promote upcoming events, including a live debut at the Tap Room in Rockville Center and a grand opening of a new Lids store in Times Square. These segments, while promotional, highlight the community engagement and real-world connections the podcast maintains with its audience.

Don Hahn [23:53]: "We will have our Big Game Live debut... happening Feb. 7."

Peter shares his enthusiasm for the live event, indicating a blend of entertainment and fan interaction.

Peter Rosenberg [24:34]: "It's all coming together, but I'm looking forward to it. Should be a lot of fun."

Conclusion

The "Hour 4: Last Call Crew" episode effectively balances in-depth sports analysis with candid conversations about the challenges of public persona and social media presence. Hosts Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg navigate through listener feedback, controversial topics, and personal anecdotes, delivering a multifaceted episode that resonates with both avid sports fans and casual listeners. The episode concludes with a look forward to future discussions and events, maintaining engagement and anticipation for the audience.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn [00:38]: "You may not have your football team playing in the Super Bowl... but there are other good things in life, right?"

• Peter Rosenberg [01:08]: "I watched with her because... I did a good job not freaking out while holding her."

• Griffin [01:45]: "Weekend Warrior that we have to like controversy here."

• Don Hahn [08:30]: "13 run, five pass, which means the running game. And in the big games, you better have the best running backs you can."

• Anthony [16:49]: "Say what you got to say and then keep it moving. Like, are you here for people's validation?"

• Chris [31:35]: "I just hate watch. Like, I can't sit there and pump my fist for anything positive that the Eagles do."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the "Hour 4: Last Call Crew" episode, highlighting the dynamic interactions between hosts, the depth of sports analysis, and the nuanced handling of listener feedback and social media challenges.