Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz – November 19, 2024
Episode Title: Processing...
Hosts: Dan Le Batard and Stugotz
Guest: Darian Jenkins, former NWSL Forward and Current Soccer Analyst
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Location: Elser Hotel, Downtown Miami
Introduction
In this episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, hosts Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, alongside co-host Megan Reyes and Logan Hackett, delve deep into the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) semifinals. Featuring insights from special guest Darian Jenkins, a seasoned NWSL analyst and former NW Self forward, the discussion navigates through team performances, player dynamics, and the upcoming championship battles.
NWSL Semifinals Breakdown
Orlando Pride vs. Casey Current (00:58 - 05:14)
Megan Reyes kicks off the conversation by outlining the semifinal matchups:
- Orlando Pride faces Casey Current
- Gotham takes on Washington Spirit
Darian Jenkins shares his initial reactions:
"I wasn't surprised at all. I think maybe two months ago people could have predicted that these were going to be the semifinal going into the final..." ([01:59])
Jenkins expresses excitement about seeing top teams clash early, highlighting Kansas City hosting the championship as a significant event. Dan emphasizes the tactical depth of the coaches:
"These are really tactical technicians that almost play chess in the way that they play." ([02:57])
In-Depth Team Analysis
Orlando Pride (03:15 - 07:49)
Despite losing two of their final three regular-season games, Orlando Pride remains a formidable force. Darian clarifies that these losses were strategic rest periods rather than indicators of decline:
"These losses didn’t mean anything to Orlando, quite frankly. They have nothing to prove to anybody." ([04:07])
Logan Hackett observes:
"They rested their star players and they look ready for playoffs." ([04:28])
Key Players Discussed:
- Barbara Banda: Despite a dip in form post-Olympic break, her recent brace marks her as a pivotal player.
- Ali Watt: Recognized as the best she's ever played, contributing significantly to Orlando's offense.
- Seb Heinz: Commended for his coaching prowess and tactical strategies.
Casey Current (05:14 - 10:56)
Casey Current enters the semifinals with a strong offensive record, boasting 57 goals this season. Darian highlights their balanced team:
"They have so many incredible players that if you take Barbara Banda out of it, so many others can still score." ([06:01])
Logan raises concerns about key player Temu Shawinga's recent knee injury but remains optimistic about her recovery:
"I think they probably had a great recovery week...she will be good and if she's not, we're not going to know." ([10:15])
Gotham (13:36 - 17:09)
Gotham aims for back-to-back championships, assembling a star-studded roster including:
- Trinity Rodman
- Rose Lavelle
- Ashley Hatch
Darian praises their offensive capabilities but notes potential vulnerabilities in their high backline:
"Their high back line? I think any team...can send a ball over the top and run." ([15:04])
Logan appreciates Gotham's dynamic and villainous persona, comparing their team synergy to the Avengers:
"They're the villains and they formed a super team. It's like the Avengers." ([38:29])
Washington Spirit (11:44 - 17:09)
Washington Spirit faces challenges due to injuries, notably the absence of Andy Sullivan, an unsung defensive hero:
"Andy is a player that is kind of the unsung hero every season...she's the linchpin for it to be so successful." ([12:31])
Logan reflects on Washington's current form:
"I don't think they've done well enough to kind of get back to the caliber that they were at." ([11:44])
Eliminated Teams Overview
Portland Thorns (20:10 - 23:14)
The Portland Thorns faced elimination after a dramatic late equalizer and subsequent loss. Darian underscores the impact of losing key figures like Christine Sinclair and emphasizes the need for strategic reinforcements:
"They need to acquire some players and have some stability with Rob Gale next year." ([20:49])
Logan highlights emerging talents like Olivia Moultrie, showcasing the team's potential despite recent setbacks.
BFC (24:38 - 28:41)
BFC narrowly missed advancing, with an own goal sealing their fate. Darian commends their resilience as an expansion team:
"They fought really hard...promising for the future for BFC." ([24:54])
Logan points to Rachel Kundanaji as a standout player with significant growth potential:
"Rachel could make a huge impact...is she getting the ball?" ([27:38])
College Soccer News (29:19 - 30:57)
The episode touches on San Diego Wave's signing of Trinity Byers, the first active college player to join an NWSL club post-draft elimination. Darian suggests potential future signings like Jesse Fleming from UCLA, predicting her significant impact.
Logan expresses excitement about the continuously improving rookie classes, anticipating rising talents to join the league.
Other Women's Sports News (45:31 - 50:52)
Caitlin Clark's performance in a Pro Am golf event alongside Nelly Korda is highlighted, showcasing the human side of top athletes.
Whoopi Goldberg announced the launch of the All Women's Sports Network, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage of women's sports globally. Logan applauds this initiative, noting its overdue necessity:
"It's like women's sports on demand...now you can just have a platform where you go and watch whatever you want." ([47:53])
Additionally, the Women's Lacrosse League (WLL) was introduced, set to debut in 2025, with four teams and expanding professional opportunities for female lacrosse players.
Bandwagon Fans Segment (33:14 - 42:49)
Megan Reyes and Logan Hackett engage listeners in a fun segment encouraging them to support NWSL teams. They present compelling reasons to join the fanbases of:
-
Orlando Pride
- Logan: "If you love Brazilian football...they just seem to get all the Brazilians." ([33:29])
- Megan: "If you're a sucker for a good jersey for football and fashion...their Citrus kit is one of the best." ([34:22])
-
Casey Current
- Logan: "Temu Shawanga...she scored against every single team." ([36:16])
- Megan: "Their attacking presence...57 goals scored this season with 18 different goal scorers." ([37:00])
-
Gotham
- Logan: "They're the villains and they formed a super team." ([38:29])
- Megan: "They are named after Batman...iconic." ([38:48])
-
Washington Spirit
- Logan: "Rookie class is insane...you can be one of those people who watched her the first time she was in the league." ([40:36])
- Megan: "Trinity Rodman is one of the most prolific scorers...I am the president of the Trinity Rodman Fan club." ([41:23])
Good Follow Segment (31:09 - 51:14)
Megan Reyes highlights this week's Good Follow: the Women's Lacrosse League (WLL) on Instagram. She emphasizes the importance of new professional opportunities for women in sports, applauding the league's potential to elevate lacrosse's profile.
Darian and Logan discuss the significance of WLL's formation, with Logan sharing personal connections to lacrosse and anticipating the league's growth:
"It gives something more to work towards rather than just going through the pathway..." ([50:57])
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Logan and Megan sharing their DraftKings Sportsbook Pick for the championship between Orlando Pride and Kansas City, predicting a high-scoring and intensely competitive final. They also reflect on the excitement surrounding the burgeoning opportunities in women's sports, from soccer to lacrosse.
Notable Closing Quotes:
"We have to convince you to hop on the NWSL bandwagon. Are you ready?" ([32:55])
"This is exactly what we've needed." ([47:53])
Key Takeaways:
- Orlando Pride remains a top contender with strategic player management and strong coaching.
- Casey Current boasts a potent offense and resilient players poised for a deep playoff run.
- Gotham's superstar lineup makes them a formidable force aiming for consecutive championships.
- Washington Spirit faces challenges without key defensive players but maintains a talented roster.
- The rise of new leagues like WLL and initiatives like the All Women's Sports Network signal significant growth in women's sports.
- Engagement segments like Bandwagon Fans and Good Follow foster community and support for emerging talents and leagues.
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the NWSL landscape, enriched by expert opinions and engaging discussions, making it a valuable listen for both avid followers and newcomers to women's soccer.