Summary of "Hour 2: The Thought of Michael Penix" – The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz

Release Date: November 18, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, hosts Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, along with co-hosts Billy Corben, Mike Ryan, Greg Cody, Tony, and guest Frank Gore, delve into a comprehensive discussion covering the latest in sports, particularly focusing on the NFL, player performances, coaching decisions, and personal anecdotes. The episode offers a blend of insightful analysis, humor, and candid conversations, making it engaging for both regular listeners and newcomers.

Weekend NFL Observations

The discussion kicks off with an analysis of the NFL teams' performances over the weekend. Billy Corben references True Media statistics, highlighting that both the Bengals and Saints spent more time leading games compared to the top-performing Chiefs this season.

Billy Corben [02:00]: "Dan According to True Media, the 4 and 7 Bengals and the 4 and 7 Saints both have spent more time leading than the 9 and 1 Chiefs this season. Wow."

The hosts critique specific team strategies and performances, particularly focusing on the Ravens and Steelers matchup. They express frustration over Mike Tomlin’s team frequently converting field goals but struggling to secure touchdowns.

Mike Ryan [04:50]: "Six field goals wins it."

Billy Corben [04:52]: "Yeah, when Mike Tomlin has a team that is converting field goals and not scoring touchdowns, he has you right where he wants you."

Anthony Richardson’s Return and Coaching Decisions

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Anthony Richardson’s return to the game. Dan announces Richardson’s comeback, prompting mixed reactions from the hosts about coaching decisions, particularly the initial benching of Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco.

Dan Le Batard [03:56]: "Because Dan, for the first time ever here on Weekend Observations, Anthony Richardson is back."

Billy Corben [04:01]: "Tony, I mean, enough of that guy stiking. Seriously, I mean, how can he. First off, Anthony Richardson should have punched him in the face. He has no business celebrating with Anthony Richardson."

Corben criticizes the coach for inconsistency, calling out the decision to bench Richardson after initially promoting Flacco, which led to disappointing performances and ultimately reverting to Richardson.

Billy Corben [04:17]: "You benched him. You told your team Flacco is the starter and then you went against everything you said. You look like a joke in the locker room."

Sports Betting and Sportsbooks

The hosts transition into a discussion about sports betting, with Billy expressing his frustrations despite acknowledging his love for gambling.

Billy Corben [05:40]: "The only loser in the Jake Paul Mike Tyson fight was us boxing. Dead sports books. When you congratulate me on my deposit, it doesn't make me feel any better about my deposit."

They discuss the pervasive nature of sportsbooks and the addictive aspects of betting, highlighting the financial pitfalls involved.

Team Performances and Criticisms

The conversation shifts to broader team performances, with a particular focus on the New York Jets. Corben expresses strong negative sentiments towards the Jets for their inconsistent performances and reliance on multiple kickers.

Billy Corben [12:07]: "The jets trotted out their fourth kicker in four weeks. I hate them. Yesterday, the jets scored 25 points for the first time this season. I hate them. Despite that offensive explosion, they still lost. I hate them."

Other teams and players are also discussed, including Taysom Hill’s role, with Corben criticizing Hill for taking touchdowns meant for other players.

Billy Corben [11:45]: "Just someone good. Anyone. ... Taysom Hill steals them. I mean, Kamara's out there. He's getting him down the field. He gets him inside the five, and then you know who steals his touchdown? Taysom Hill."

Special Segment: Interview with Frank Gore

A standout segment features an in-depth interview with Frank Gore, a five-time Pro Bowler renowned for his impressive NFL career. Gore shares his journey, overcoming injuries, and transitioning into life after football. Key highlights include:

• Career Achievements and Overcoming Injuries:

  Gore reflects on his time at the University of Miami and his resilience in the NFL, detailing how he overcame ACL injuries to maintain a successful career.

  Greg Cody [33:02]: "I told the kids, as long as you believe in God and work your behind all and don't worry about what people say and believe in yourself that you could do it."

• Coaching Relationships:

  Gore praises Coach Harbaugh, acknowledging both his coaching prowess and the challenges faced during critical game moments.

  Greg Cody [36:28]: "You know, he regrets not running you more in the super bowl at the end. Has he told you this?"

  Greg Cody [36:35]: "Yeah, he did. He never told me what I saw at the interview. I think last year he finally said that he should have gave me the opportunity to run."

• Post-Football Ventures:

  Gore discusses his foray into boxing, sharing experiences from training and fighting against notable figures like Mike Tyson and Jake Paul.

  Greg Cody [39:57]: "I fought two times. The second fight when I, that's what made me really kind of say it was too much aggressive, too, too much for me."

• Community Engagement:

  He highlights his involvement with DirecTV, engaging with fans through tailgate parties and community events.

  Greg Cody [41:22]: "We had a great time this weekend with the fans. We had a tailgate party before the games and I enjoyed all my fans out here in the Bay Area."

• Physical Health and Training:

  Gore emphasizes his disciplined training regimen, which helped him avoid major injuries throughout his 16-year career.

  Greg Cody [43:12]: "I never took a flush hit, you know, I never let no one hit me flush, you know, so I can't say, you know, so nothing hurts."

Humorous Exchanges and Banter

The episode is interspersed with light-hearted banter and humorous exchanges. The hosts poke fun at various situations, including disbelief over unconventional phrases and amusing critiques of coaching antics.

Tony [14:14]: "Someone told me I have an ass. Don't quit. I said, that's a full compliment."

Billy Corben [14:27]: "Greg, you have a full compliment."

They also mock over-the-top actions by players and coaches, such as table-jumping antics and inefficient use of resources.

Mike Ryan [22:31]: "Cower's a little old to be doing this, I feel like. Isn't coward approaching 70 now?"

Billy Corben [22:34]: "Oh, my. Man, that hurts. That hurts."

Notable Quotes

• Billy Corben [04:22]: "You benched him. You told your team Flacco is the starter and then you went against everything you said. You look like a joke in the locker room."

• Greg Cody [33:02]: "As long as you believe in God and work your behind all and don't worry about what people say and believe in yourself that you could do it."

• Billy Corben [11:45]: "Taysom Hill, he just steals them. I mean, Kamara's out there. He's getting him down the field. He gets him inside the five, and then you know who steals his touchdown? Taysom Hill."

• Greg Cody [36:35]: "Yeah, he did. He never told me what I saw at the interview. I think last year he finally said that he should have gave me the opportunity to run."

Conclusion

"Hour 2: The Thought of Michael Penix" offers a comprehensive look into the current state of the NFL, with insightful critiques of team strategies, player performances, and coaching decisions. The inclusion of Frank Gore adds depth to the discussion, providing inspirational insights into overcoming adversity and transitioning beyond a professional sports career. The hosts maintain their engaging style, balancing serious analysis with humor, making the episode both informative and entertaining.

For those who haven't listened, this episode serves as a robust overview of recent NFL developments, enriched by personal stories and candid opinions from seasoned sports analysts and a distinguished NFL veteran.