Summary of "Local Hour: Big Game James Franklin" Episode
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
- Hosts: Dan Le Batard, Stugotz
- Episode: Local Hour: Big Game James Franklin
- Release Date: January 10, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, the hosts delve deep into the thrilling Notre Dame vs. Penn State football game, exploring its implications for James Franklin's legacy and the broader college football landscape. The discussion is rich with insights, humorous banter, and critical analysis, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the game's impact.
Game Overview and Key Moments
Dan LeBatard initiates the conversation by describing the intensity of the game:
"Yes, I would Say that's accurate. It was an absolutely batshit college football game." (02:35)
Jessica echoes the sentiment, highlighting the narrative-driven nature of the game:
"Every play feeds to this narrative. For the winner, greatness. For the loser, utter embarrassment." (02:49)
The game was marked by dramatic shifts, including Notre Dame's comeback after trailing significantly. Jessica emphasizes the pivotal moments in the second half:
"It was a spectacle. It was a great game. A bit of an old school game, but it really opened up in the second half." (03:21)
Player Performances and Critical Plays
Dan LeBatard shares his emotional experience:
"I was crying, screaming, throwing up. It was just the most I disassociated for the entire halftime show." (03:33)
Jessica critiques Notre Dame's quarterback, Drew Allers:
"Greg McElroy said, 'Drew Allers is not the type of quarterback that's going to throw an interception.' And like two plays later, he threw a bone-crushing interception." (07:01)
The discussion highlights key defensive performances, especially Abdul Carter's standout game:
"Abdul Carter was the best player on that field and he's one of the players that slip off." (09:43)
Fan Reactions and Atmosphere
The hosts discuss the passionate fan base and its impact on the game's atmosphere. Dan LeBatard recounts his personal experience in the Notre Dame parent section:
"I was next to Xavier Watts's family... I had my head over the railing with my head down." (08:25)
Stugotz provides insights into the shared suite experience, noting the mix of Penn State and Notre Dame fans:
"It was a mixed bag in this suite, and we had Penn State people who were super passionate." (14:24)
Jessica appreciates the raw emotional display of college fans:
"I love that this sport taps into something almost primal... It just provides great drama." (07:57)
Analysis of James Franklin's Legacy
A significant portion of the discussion centers around James Franklin and his performance against top-tier teams. Mike Ryan critiques Franklin's record:
"James Franklin is now 0:13 in his last 13 games against top five teams. He's four and 20 career against top 10 teams." (04:28)
Dan LeBatard reflects on the season's success despite last night's loss:
"In a lot of ways this season was a success for Notre Dame no matter whether or not they had won last night." (10:48)
Jessica questions the durability of Franklin's legacy:
"They have had really good fortune leading up to this point, and their good fortune continued with Notre Dame's injuries." (26:21)
Implications for the College Football Playoffs
The conversation shifts to the broader implications for the College Football Playoffs (CFP). Mike Ryan expresses skepticism about Notre Dame's standing:
"How are you going to convince me that Notre Dame is the best team in football after they've lost to Northern Illinois at home during the season." (05:42)
Jessica adds that an expanded CFP might mitigate some of these issues:
"An expanded CFP is supposed to mitigate a team getting their kind of lucky path." (19:12)
Dan LeBatard acknowledges Penn State's earned spot:
"The path that Penn State got, they earned through the regular season. They made it to the Big Ten championship." (20:18)
Controversial Calls and Game Management
The hosts discuss critical officiating decisions that influenced the game's outcome. Dan LeBatard criticizes a pass interference call:
"It's a bad decision. A worse throw." (27:52)
Jessica agrees, highlighting the impact on the game's momentum:
"It was a bad decision. It's a bad throw." (27:47)
The discussion underscores how these calls swayed the game's final moments, affecting Notre Dame's chances profoundly.
Suite Experience and Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Stugotz shares his unique vantage point from the suite:
"We have Penn State people who were super passionate. We were buying group food because the food doesn't come with the shared suite." (14:21)
Dan LeBatard recounts an incident with food contamination:
"We got a tray of nachos... there was a little piece like a shard of plastic in it." (17:42)
These anecdotes provide listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the game's atmosphere and amenities.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Dan LeBatard reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of the season:
"It's excruciating watching that team with all the injuries... but I was trying to maintain some perspective on the season while watching my soul get crushed." (12:00)
Jessica emphasizes the depth of her connection to Notre Dame:
"Throughout that game, probably the worst I've ever felt watching a game." (07:57)
The hosts collectively acknowledge the resilience of the team and the unwavering support of the fan base, concluding with a mix of hope and realistic appraisal of Notre Dame's prospects moving forward.
Notable Quotes:
- Dan LeBatard: "It was an absolutely batshit college football game." (02:35)
- Jessica: "Every play feeds to this narrative. For the winner, greatness. For the loser, utter embarrassment." (02:49)
- Mike Ryan: "James Franklin is now 0:13 in his last 13 games against top five teams." (04:28)
- Dan LeBatard: "I was crying, screaming, throwing up. It was just the most I disassociated for the entire halftime show." (03:33)
- Jessica: "I love that this sport taps into something almost primal... It just provides great drama." (07:57)
Timestamp References:
- For detailed quotes and moments, refer to the timestamps provided in the summary sections above.
This episode offers an engaging and in-depth analysis of a pivotal college football game, blending expert insights with personal anecdotes. Whether you're a fan of Notre Dame, Penn State, or simply love college football, this discussion provides valuable perspectives on the game's significance and its broader implications for the season.