Kentucky Sports Radio - Episode Summary (July 8, 2025)
Hosted by Matt Jones, Shannon "The Dude" The Dude, Drew Franklin, and Ryan Lemond.
1. Introduction and Opening Remarks
The episode kicks off with Matt Jones welcoming listeners on a sunny day in Lexington, Kentucky. He mentions recent events, including a visit to Cincinnati where the Reds experienced a notable loss to the Marlins despite a challenging game situation.
Matt Jones [00:36]: "I was in Cincinnati last night, set through a rain delay, watch the Reds get one hit. That's two straight games. They've only gotten one hit, which very rarely do you win games when you only get one."
Drew Franklin concurs, emphasizing the rare successes under such conditions.
Drew Franklin [01:13]: "Very rarely."
2. Reds Baseball: Performance and Stadium Experience
The hosts dive into a discussion about the Cincinnati Reds' recent performance and their stadium amenities, particularly focusing on food options.
Matt Jones [02:44]: "But the big red smokey in Cincinnati is, like, the best."
Despite acknowledging the popularity of the "big red smokey" hot dog, Matt criticizes the overall food quality at Reds games, comparing it unfavorably to other Major League Baseball stadiums.
Matt Jones [03:16]: "But like the Mets. You've been in the Mets. They've got, like, one of the best stadiums. They got everything."
Drew and Ryan provide anecdotes about their personal experiences, highlighting both the strengths and shortcomings of the Reds' culinary offerings.
3. Imaginary Scenarios: Coaches as U.S. Presidents and War Companions
The conversation shifts to a lighthearted segment where the hosts imagine Kentucky basketball coaches in various hypothetical roles.
a. Coaches as U.S. Presidents
The group ranks UK basketball coaches for the role of President of the United States. There’s a consensus to exclude Billy Gillespie from the presidency.
Matt Jones [05:25]: "All right, so now how who you putting as being the president?"
Shannon The Dude nominates John Calipari, highlighting his showmanship.
Shannon The Dude [07:20]: "I would like to be different, but I think Drew's spot on. I think you got to have John Calipari."
Matt advocates for Mark Pope, citing his intelligence.
Matt Jones [07:31]: "I think Mark Pope's the easy choice because he's so smart."
b. Coaches in a Wartime Foxhole
The hosts debate which coach they'd want beside them in a foxhole during wartime, ultimately choosing Adolph Rupp and Billy Gillespie for their toughness and camaraderie.
Ryan Lemond [10:03]: "I'll go Billy Clyde Gillespie."
4. Hosting a Talk Show: Choosing The Tonight Show's New Host
The team discusses which former UK coach would best fit as the host of a major talk show, such as The Tonight Show.
Drew Franklin [11:15]: "I have him last. I'm going Jo B. He would almost be like his audience's grandpa."
Matt counters by recommending Mark Pope for his relatability and intelligence.
Matt Jones [12:07]: "That's why I'm going with Mark Pope. I think Pope's smart enough. He can relate to anybody."
5. Donut Challenge: Ryan Lemond's Eating Contest
A humorous segment ensues as the hosts entertain the idea of Ryan Lemond undertaking a challenge to eat ten donuts in a set time frame. The conversation explores modifying the challenge and the potential for a fundraising GoFundMe campaign.
Matt Jones [25:37]: "What if I put up a GoFundMe and fans can contribute to you if you get it?"
Drew expresses concerns about the feasibility but ultimately agrees to participate, suggesting a portion of the proceeds be donated to charity.
Drew Franklin [28:54]: "I go for it. I'm just still worried about my accomplishing the ten donuts period."
The group debates the logistics and ethical considerations of such a challenge, balancing humor with genuine concern.
6. Listener Calls and Interactions
Throughout the episode, listeners contribute questions and comments, adding depth to the hosts' discussions.
a. Missouri vs. Kentucky Recruitment
One caller, Kevin, raises questions about UK basketball player Jason Crow Jr.'s potential commitment to Missouri over Kentucky, sparking a debate on the merits and reputation of Missouri's sports programs.
Matt Jones [16:03]: "Could you lose to Missouri? I mean I'm not blaming like I'm sure it's a money thing when you say how could you."
The hosts critically assess Missouri's standing in the SEC, expressing skepticism about the school's athletic appeal.
Matt Jones [24:00]: "Missouri is the most boring. Which, I mean, if I. If you're."
b. Epstein Conspiracy Theories
In another segment, Matt brings up a topic from his and Drew's podcast regarding conspiracy theories surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death.
Shannon The Dude [36:53]: "But no, no, I don't know. I think there's a lot of coincidences that were going on with like the cameras that weren't working..."
The discussion highlights the hosts' skepticism and the persistence of conspiracy theories despite official statements.
7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Content
As the episode wraps up, Matt references Riley Teague’s recent podcast segment, teasing content that will be available on Friday. Additionally, the hosts touch upon upcoming SEC media days and discuss the strategic planning of their December trip to southern states, aiming to visit St. John's game.
Notable Quotes
- Matt Jones [05:25]: "All right, so now how who you putting as being the president?"
- Shannon The Dude [07:20]: "I would like to be different, but I think Drew's spot on."
- Matt Jones [12:07]: "That's why I'm going with Mark Pope."
- Drew Franklin [28:54]: "I go for it. I'm just still worried about my accomplishing the ten donuts period."
Conclusion
This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio offers a blend of serious sports analysis and lighthearted banter among the hosts. From dissecting the Cincinnati Reds' performance and stadium offerings to engaging listeners with imaginative scenarios and humorous challenges, Matt Jones and his crew provide an entertaining and insightful listen for sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
For more insights and updates, tune in to future episodes of Kentucky Sports Radio from iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM).