Podcast Summary: PTFO - One Yard at a Time: A Mystery

Release Date: May 30, 2025
Podcast: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hosts: Dan Le Batard, Stugotz
Guests: Sarah Spain, Dylan McCullough, Sherman Smith

Introduction

In the episode titled "PTFO - One Yard at a Time: A Mystery," The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz delves into the compelling and emotional journey of Dylan McCullough—a successful NFL coach grappling with his mysterious past. Hosted by Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, alongside guest Sarah Spain, the episode unravels a story that intertwines sports, family secrets, and personal identity.

Unveiling the Story: Runs in the Family

Sarah Spain introduces her book, Runs in the Family, which chronicles Dylan McCullough's life, focusing on his adoption and the subsequent discovery of his biological father, Sherman Smith, an esteemed NFL coach.

• Sarah Spain: "It is coming out. It is called Runs in the Family." [01:28]

Dylan McCullough shares his initial skepticism and emotional response upon learning about his adoption.

• Dylan McCullough: "He opens the door. He just said, my son. And it was like, oh, the tears start rolling again." [00:06]

Early Life and Adoption

The narrative begins with Dylan's adoption in December 1972, placed with the McCullough family in Youngstown, Ohio, amidst the city's economic downturn due to the collapsing steel industry.

• Sherman Smith: "They call it Black Monday. That is where Dylan McCullough comes from." [06:20]

Dylan grows up in a non-football-centric household, despite his adoptive father, C. McCullough, being a popular local radio DJ who immerses the family in the vibrant local culture.

• Sarah Spain: "This is the 70s and 80s that he starts out. So the radio in particular, local radio was such a huge part of people's everyday life." [06:47]

Football as an Escape and Identity

Football becomes Dylan's sanctuary, allowing him to channel his inner turmoil and self-doubt into the sport. His dedication leads to a breakthrough senior year, catching the attention of top coaches like Bob Stoops and Jim Tressel.

• Dylan McCullough: "I was writing letters to smaller schools and I was pretty much set to go to the Navy, not to play football." [10:58]

Despite excelling on the field, Dylan grapples with feelings of embarrassment over his family's financial struggles, symbolized by his inability to afford basic necessities like a phone.

• Sarah Spain: "He doesn't have a phone until his senior year, which becomes very important as he's taking recruiting calls that they actually do have a working phone." [11:10]

Introduction to Sherman Smith

A pivotal moment occurs when Sherman Smith, a former Seahawks running back and Dylan's future biological father, recruits him to Miami University.

• Dylan McCullough: "He was talking to a guy that had been a star at the highest level and who believed that he might be that too." [13:10]

Smith's coaching philosophy resonates deeply with Dylan, embodying the fatherly guidance he has long sought.

• Sarah Spain: "He would say to every team at the beginning of the season, none of you asked me to be a father, but I'm going to treat you like you're my sons." [15:26]

Career Challenges and Transition to Education

After a promising start with the Cincinnati Bengals, Dylan's career is derailed by a severe knee injury, leading him to transition into education. His resilience drives him to impact at-risk youth through teaching and eventually coaching.

• Dylan McCullough: "People say I can't do this. It was always for me, proving people wrong." [19:10]

The Revelation: Discovering Sherman Smith as His Biological Father

At age 44, Dylan receives unexpected contact from his biological mother, Carol Briggs, revealing that Sherman Smith is his father. This revelation intertwines his personal and professional lives in an unprecedented manner.

• Dylan McCullough: "She said, your dad is a man by the name of Sherman Smith. When she said that, I was like, my mind was blown." [32:05]

Sherman Smith grapples with the sudden discovery of fatherhood, balancing his established life with the newfound relationship.

• Sarah Spain: "He needed to stop centering himself and consider what it meant to Dylan to find him." [34:45]

Emotional Reunion and Relationship Dynamics

The episode culminates in an emotional reunion where Sherman Smith embraces Dylan as his son, a moment that reconciles decades of unanswered questions and emotional longing.

• Dylan McCullough: "He just said, my son. And it was like, oh, the tears start rolling again." [36:20]

The hosts reflect on the profound impact of this revelation, emphasizing the themes of choice, identity, and legacy.

• Sarah Spain: "At every turn, I'm in charge and this is my choice." [42:24]

Conclusion: Legacy and Continuing the Journey

"Dylan McCullough's story is a testament to resilience, the search for identity, and the enduring impact of mentorship. His journey from a troubled youth in Youngstown to an influential NFL coach and now a man reconnecting with his biological father offers profound insights into the complexities of family and personal growth."

Notable Quotes with Attributions and Timestamps

• Sarah Spain: "I am throwing myself a book baby shower wherein I buy myself a push present because honestly... why did I choose to do this?" [01:41]

• Dylan McCullough: "I'm a running back, I'm a running back, I'm a running back and I want." [14:39]

• Pablo Torre: "How does Dylan then tell Sherman what he has found out?" [32:33]

• Sarah Spain: "It's been joyful mostly, and also complicated." [37:33]

• Dylan McCullough: "I need to talk to you about something." [32:47]

• Sarah Spain: "We always know we can count on you." [45:30]

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz masterfully blends personal storytelling with sports insights, offering listeners a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and the unforeseen ways our past shapes our present. Through Dylan McCullough's journey, the podcast underscores the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the enduring quest for understanding one's roots.