Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2 (May 30, 2025)

Introduction In this engaging episode of Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR), host Matt Jones along with co-hosts Ryan Lemond, Drew Franklin, and Shannon The Dude delve into a variety of hot topics surrounding Kentucky sports. From the latest developments in college basketball and football to fan interactions and memorable sports moments, the KSR crew offers insightful commentary and lively discussions. This summary captures the key points, notable quotes, and the overall flow of the conversation for listeners who missed the episode.

KSR Golf Scramble Highlights Timestamp: 02:14 - 03:02

The episode kicks off with the hosts attending the KSR Golf Scramble, sponsored by Clark's Pumping Shop and Cornbread Hemp. Drew Franklin enthusiastically recalls past events, noting, “There are some people I think who have played in this almost every year” ([02:27]).

Ryan Lemond introduces a fun twist to the scramble: “You get to pick your own walk-up music and they're gonna play your walk-up music” ([02:40]). This innovative idea adds a personal touch to the golfing experience, creating memorable moments for participants.

SEC’s New Policy on Field-Storming Timestamp: 03:02 - 07:22

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Southeastern Conference's (SEC) recent decision to impose a hefty $500,000 fine on fans who storm the field or court without prior warnings. Matt Jones raises the question: “Do you think schools now... bringing the police force out to try to keep the students off the field?” ([03:02]).

Shannon The Dude expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of the fines: “It's a naive idea. If you think that's actually going to stop anybody from rushing the court or the field... I'm going to be on the field” ([03:35]).

Ryan Lemond echoes this sentiment, highlighting the challenges of controlling large crowds: “They'll probably try that... You got five police officers down there” ([04:10]).

The conversation touches on the recurring issue at UK basketball games, with Drew Franklin noting, “We see it more happening to UK basketball. Just happened last year” ([06:01]).

Notable Insights:

• Effectiveness of Fines: The hosts express doubt that financial penalties alone will deter fans from storming the field, emphasizing the passion and persistence of sports enthusiasts.
• Potential Safety Risks: Concerns are raised about the safety implications when large crowds interact with limited security personnel, potentially leading to injuries or confrontations.

Personal Anecdotes and Experiences Timestamp: 05:11 - 07:22

Matt Jones shares a personal story about his experience storming the field in 2007, mentioning, “I still have a scar on my leg from storming the field” ([05:21]). This anecdote underscores the deep personal connections fans have with their teams and the lengths they're willing to go to show support.

Drew Franklin adds, “I love it more than anything... Mario was like, look at your leg” ([06:01]), highlighting the camaraderie and shared experiences among the hosts.

College Football Hall of Fame Rule Change Timestamp: 07:22 - 11:04

The hosts discuss the SEC’s recent amendment to the College Football Hall of Fame eligibility criteria. Initially requiring a 60% winning percentage, the rule was adjusted to 59.5% to include the late Mike Leach, a revered coach: “They went from 60% to 59.5 in a rule change that's clearly meant for Mike Leach” ([07:22]).

Matt Jones questions the fairness of this amendment, stating, “you can't amend the rules for one person to 60 to 59.5” ([09:08]). Ryan Lemond adds a light-hearted perspective on numerical adjustments: “I'm a roundup guy... they put it to 59.5. Round it up to 60” ([09:07]).

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones: “You can't amend the rules for one person... what are you gonna do next time?” ([09:16])
• Drew Franklin: “I like this because you got to get the pirate in... Mike has got to get.” ([09:54])

Insights:

• Fairness in Rule Changes: The hosts debate the implications of altering eligibility criteria for individual cases, questioning the precedent it sets.
• Legacy and Recognition: Emphasizing Mike Leach's contributions, the discussion reflects on how individual legacies can influence institutional decisions.

Top Kentucky Basketball Players for Critical Moments Timestamp: 11:04 - 19:45

A dynamic segment where callers challenge the hosts to name the top three Kentucky basketball players they would rely on to make crucial three-point shots. The responses spark a lively debate:

• Matt Jones: Chooses “Kobe Bryant, R.E. Shepherd, Dante Allen” but later adjusts to include “Travis Ford” for his connection ([12:00]).
• Ryan Lemond: Picks “Andrew Harrison” along with "Antonio Reeves and R.E. Shepherd" ([12:16]).
• Shannon The Dude: Mentions “Prince” and “Keith Bogans” ([14:32]).
• Drew Franklin: Supports “Antonio Reeves” and praises other reliable shooters ([14:10]).

Matt highlights memorable performances, such as Jody Meeks’s astounding scoring games, stating, “There is no highlight mix better in Kentucky basketball history” ([19:07]).

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones: “If you go back and watch the first half of the year... it was money” ([15:04])
• Drew Franklin: “Antonio Reeves can hit contested with two” ([13:00])

Insights:

• Player Reliability: The hosts emphasize the importance of having dependable shooters in high-pressure situations.
• Historical Performances: Reflecting on past games showcases the legacy and impact of standout players in Kentucky basketball history.

Kentucky Football Season Analysis and Coaching Timestamp: 20:55 - 32:43

The conversation shifts to Kentucky football, where Matt Jones addresses the underwhelming season performance: “Most of it falls on stoop in the staff” ([20:55]).

Discussion points include:

• Quarterback Depth: Analyzing Cutter Bowley's development and Ryan Lemond’s positive remarks on his offseason work ethic: “They were really impressed with his work ethic and getting in the film room” ([22:07]).
• Coaching Evaluation: The hosts evaluate Head Coach Mark Stoops's offseason efforts, with Drew Franklin awarding him a high grade for his recruitment and team-building strategies.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones: “You can't nitpick... it's an A” ([29:33])
• Ryan Lemond: “Some of the stuff he said about Travis Perry was kind of endearing” ([31:29])

Insights:

• Offseason Success: Mark Stoops is commended for his strategic moves in recruiting and enhancing team depth.
• Fan Confidence: While there is appreciation for Stoops, some doubt remains about the team's potential to replicate past successes.

Controversy Surrounding the Pacers Game Timestamp: 33:44 - 37:53

A heated discussion arises from a recent Pacers game where host Ryan Lemond addresses a controversy: Pat McAfee, a Pacers fan, used strong language against visiting celebrities, prompting criticism from John Mellencamp.

Matt Jones poses the question: “Are you team McAfee or are you team Mellencamp on this?” ([35:05]).

Shannon The Dude and Drew Franklin share their stances, with Shannon siding slightly with Mellencamp while Drew strongly supports McAfee, reflecting the polarized opinions among fans.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Lemond: “Mellencamp has become a grumpy, grumpy, grumpy old man” ([35:27])
• Drew Franklin: “Everybody's being soft. I'm 100% McAfee” ([36:05])

Insights:

• Fan Behavior: The incident highlights the passionate and sometimes volatile nature of sports fandom.
• Celebrity Involvement: The presence of celebrities in arena seating raises questions about fan interactions and league policies.

Prospects for Breaking Scoring Records in Kentucky Basketball Timestamp: 37:53 - 44:10

Caller Kendall inquires whether Kentucky will see new all-time leading scorers given the current landscape: “Do you think that we are done seeing all-time leading scores at the college level?” ([40:50]).

The hosts discuss the impact of the transfer portal on player tenure and the likelihood of future players staying long enough to break existing records.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones: “If Antonio Reeves Ryan had come here out of high school... a top five to top ten scorer of all time” ([42:36])
• Shannon The Dude: “A guy just like Otega... comes back for three years” ([43:29])

Insights:

• Transfer Portal Effects: Increased player mobility may hinder the establishment of long-standing records.
• NIL Impact: Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals incentivize players to stay longer at Kentucky, potentially aiding in record-breaking pursuits.

Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events Timestamp: 44:10 - End

As the episode winds down, Matt Jones shares updates on upcoming games, training facilities, and promotional events. The hosts reaffirm their commitment to delivering comprehensive sports coverage and engaging with the Kentucky sports community.

Notable Moments:

• Promotions: Mention of Bluegrass Roofing and Consulting offering discounts with code KSR ([39:03]).
• Engagement: Encouragement for listeners to participate in events and stay connected through various channels.

Conclusion This episode of KSR Horse Hour 2 offers a blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth sports analysis, and spirited discussions on controversial topics. The hosts provide a balanced perspective, celebrating Kentucky's rich sports heritage while critically examining current challenges and future prospects. Whether it's debating the fine line of fan behavior, evaluating coaching strategies, or reminiscing about legendary performances, the KSR crew ensures listeners are both informed and entertained.

Notable Quotes Summary:

• Shannon The Dude: “It's a naive idea... I'm going to be on the field” ([03:35]).
• Matt Jones: “You can't amend the rules for one person... what are you gonna do next time?” ([09:16]).
• Ryan Lemond: “Mellencamp has become a grumpy, grumpy, grumpy old man” ([35:27]).
• Drew Franklin: “Everybody's being soft. I'm 100% McAfee” ([36:05]).

Relevant Timestamps for Key Discussions:

• Golf Scramble: 02:14 - 03:02
• SEC Field-Storming Fines: 03:02 - 07:22
• Hall of Fame Rule Change: 07:22 - 11:04
• Top Basketball Shooters: 11:04 - 19:45
• Football Season Analysis: 20:55 - 32:43
• Pacers Game Controversy: 33:44 - 37:53
• Scoring Records Discussion: 37:53 - 44:10

Listeners are encouraged to tune into KSR for more detailed conversations and up-to-date discussions on all things Kentucky sports.