Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 4: NFL Binge
Release Date: January 7, 2025

Introduction

In the Hour 4: NFL Binge episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the final week of the NFL season. The trio combines their diverse backgrounds—from sports broadcasting to hip-hop and WWE commentary—to provide a dynamic and engaging analysis of the latest NFL happenings, key player performances, and playoff predictions.

NFL Week 18 Highlights

Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Victory

The episode kicks off with a detailed breakdown of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' crucial Week 18 victory over the New Orleans Saints. Don Hahn highlights the Buccaneers' second-half surge, which saw them outscore the Saints 21-3, securing the NFC South division title.

• Don Hahn [01:55]: "The Bucs needed a win to take the NFC south or a loss from the Falcons. And both, of course, ended up happening, which was a theme for the day."

Mike Evans' Milestone

A significant moment discussed is Mike Evans reaching 1,000 receiving yards for the 11th consecutive season, tying Jerry Rice's longstanding NFL record.

• Don Hahn [03:08]: "He cried like a baby. Cried like an absolute, by design, unbelievable movie."

• Peter Rosenberg [02:53]: "He already is. He also received a $3 million escalator for receiving 70 receptions, 10 receiving touchdowns, and a thousand receiving yards."

Analysis of Key Matchups

Commanders vs. Buccaneers

The hosts analyze the impending matchup between the Buccaneers and the Washington Commanders, with the Buccaneers favored by three points.

• Don Hahn [03:39]: "The Commanders will take a trip to Tampa Bay where the Buccaneers will host the Commanders on Sunday night football."

• Peter Rosenberg [03:39]: "This is basically, I think, a trip to Canton for him."

Commanders' Quarterback Situation

The discussion shifts to the Commanders' quarterback Jaden Daniels, who was rested during the second half due to injury. Don emphasizes the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback.

• Don Hahn [04:16]: "By the way, you know, Jaden Daniels got a little dinged up yesterday. They rested him in the second half yesterday."

• Peter Rosenberg [04:41]: "Yeah. No, I'm just saying I just think the south is the south, man."

Broncos in the Playoffs vs. Chiefs

Don and Peter discuss the Denver Broncos securing a postseason spot for the first time since the 2015 season by shutting out the Kansas City Chiefs.

• Don Hahn [06:06]: "For the first time since the 2015 season, the Broncos are headed to the postseason."

• Peter Rosenberg [06:37]: "I still think they can be had. Not based off of what I saw yesterday, but I just think they're gonna be had."

Playoff Predictions and Discussions

Todd Bowles' Comments

The team shares insights from Commanders' coach Todd Bowles, who expresses satisfaction with the team’s performance despite numerous challenges throughout the season.

• Todd Bowles [05:32]: "It feels great. We went through a lot of ups and downs this year."

• Don Hahn [05:49]: "A big Todd Bowles guy. Didn't Todd Bowles get rooked by Arians getting to get the Super Bowl?"

Upcoming Playoff Games and Predictions

Don and Peter make predictions for upcoming playoff games, including the Buccaneers vs. Commanders and Bills vs. Broncos matchups.

• Don Hahn [08:38]: "The Bills are nine-point favorites at home against the Bronco."

• Peter Rosenberg [08:40]: "Yes, that's my pick."

Listener Interactions and Thoughts

Edward's Pool Win

Congratulations are extended to Edward from Bushkill, Pennsylvania, who won the ESPN New York Survivor pool by correctly predicting all 22 outcomes through 18 weeks.

• Don Hahn [26:42]: "Congrats to Edward from Bushkill, Pennsylvania, for correctly picking all 22 picks through 18 weeks."

Richard's Christmas Memories

Listener Richard shares nostalgic memories of watching a significant 49ers game on Christmas Eve 22 years ago, blending his love for sports with personal traditions.

• Alan [27:56]: "22 years ago, January 5th, Christmas Eve, I was in church and listening to that giant 49er game."

Matt's NFL Opinions

Matt from Nashville voices his frustrations with the Titans and Giants' poor performances and criticizes the Commanders' coaching and quarterback decisions.

• Matt [33:21]: "The quarterback play is not good but it's... Coaches are able to score more than a touchdown at home. It's embarrassing."

• Peter Rosenberg [35:20]: "I really honestly believe Matt that the reason is very simple. He went through three coaches in six years. He doesn't want to have to go through it again."

Other Sports Discussions

Alex Ovechkin and the NHL

The hosts pivot to discuss NHL star Alex Ovechkin's remarkable performance, including his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record and the Washington Capitals' strong season.

• Peter Rosenberg [40:12]: "Alex Ovechkin is the greatest athlete to come out of D.C. in the last 75 years."

• Don Hahn [40:12]: "Alex Ovechkin is who Aaron Rodgers wants to be like."

Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the excitement of the NFL playoffs, share humorous anecdotes, and interact with last-call listeners. They also promote upcoming episodes and encourage listeners to subscribe and engage.

• Don Hahn [44:11]: "Hear more of Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Don Hahn [01:55]: "The Bucs needed a win to take the NFC south or a loss from the Falcons. And both, of course, ended up happening, which was a theme for the day."

• Peter Rosenberg [02:53]: "He already is. He also received a $3 million escalator for receiving 70 receptions, 10 receiving touchdowns, and a thousand receiving yards."

• Don Hahn [03:39]: "The Commanders will take a trip to Tampa Bay where the Buccaneers will host the Commanders on Sunday night football."

• Don Hahn [06:06]: "For the first time since the 2015 season, the Broncos are headed to the postseason."

• Don Hahn [08:38]: "The Bills are nine-point favorites at home against the Bronco."

• Peter Rosenberg [26:42]: "He must have got the script ahead of time."

• Matt [33:21]: "The quarterback play is not good but it's... Coaches are able to score more than a touchdown at home. It's embarrassing."

• Peter Rosenberg [40:12]: "Alex Ovechkin is the greatest athlete to come out of D.C. in the last 75 years."

Conclusion

The Hour 4: NFL Binge episode offers a comprehensive and lively discussion on the culmination of the NFL season, highlighting standout performances, strategic playoff predictions, and engaging listener interactions. Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg blend their unique perspectives to deliver an insightful and entertaining podcast episode that keeps listeners informed and entertained as the NFL playoffs approach.

For those who haven't listened, subscribing to the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast will keep you updated with expert analysis, spirited debates, and entertaining conversations on the latest in sports and beyond.