Podcast Title: The Dan Patrick Show
Episode: Best of The Dan Patrick Show
Release Date: May 26, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, co-hosts Ryan and Lavar Arrington delve into a spirited analysis of recent sports events, focusing primarily on the NBA Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. The discussion transitions into a broader conversation about the NFL's dominance over the NBA in terms of viewership and branding. The episode culminates with an in-depth debate on the controversial "Tush Push" play in the NFL, highlighting its implications for the Philadelphia Eagles.

NBA Eastern Conference Finals: Knicks vs. Pacers

The episode opens with Ryan and Lavar discussing the dramatic turn of events in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. Lavar highlights the Knicks' resilience in overcoming a significant deficit against the Pacers.

Lavar Arrington [03:07]: "They are not ready. They have now made this a series for now and they come back, pull off a comeback win of their own... and bring the series to 2-1 in the Eastern Conference finals."

Ryan emphasizes the importance of honoring Memorial Day while transitioning into the sports analysis.

Ryan [03:58]: "Being the son of a vet... Make sure to remember those that are not only gone and have given their lives for our country, but those who are still here because they need our attention and they need our love more than anyone."

The hosts dissect the performance of the Indiana Pacers, particularly pointing out their inability to capitalize on a 20-point lead in the initial games. They attribute the Knicks' comeback to Carl Anthony Towns' exceptional performance in the fourth quarter.

Carl Anthony Towns' Impact

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Carl Anthony Towns' pivotal role in the Knicks' resurgence.

Lavar Arrington [07:34]: "Your point is spot on about if Carl Anthony Towns just stays in the post or back, he can get a basket at the rim anytime he wants."

Saquon Barkley [07:43]: "I saw opportunity to utilize all those hours I put into the gym and game wasn't looking great for me as well, but for all of us. And I just wanted to do whatever it takes to help put us in a position to win."

Ryan and Lavar debate whether Towns will continue his dominant inside play or revert to perimeter shooting, which they believe contributed to the Pacers' earlier struggles.

Ryan [15:46]: "But if he sees it on film... I think he's going to come out and try to push that thing inside and be a little more."

Lavar Arrington [14:59]: "Your point is spot on... But he's going to start questioning threes again. That's what he does."

NFL vs. NBA: A Battle for Dominance

The conversation shifts to the comparative popularity of the NFL and NBA, with Ryan arguing that the NFL has strategically positioned itself to surpass other sports in viewership and fan engagement.

Ryan [37:01]: "The mic drop is Goodell being able to incorporate and implement gambling and it being a legal deal where you're able to do it, they're opening up sports books in the arenas, in the stadiums."

Lavar Arrington [38:09]: "And also to your point on Goodell, I don't think he gets enough credit... from a business standpoint, he’s hit it out of the park."

They discuss how the NFL's integration of fantasy football and gambling has broadened its appeal, making every game more consequential and engaging for fans, even those who are not traditional followers of the sport.

Ryan [34:51]: "National Football League has always made it a point to make the Shield the most important branding that takes place... They continue to widen the gap between other sports, at least domestically."

Lavar Arrington [32:56]: "Nobody cares about your fantasy football team... The NFL's taking advantage of that."

The Tush Push Controversy

The episode culminates with a heated debate over the "Tush Push" play in the NFL, spearheaded by the Philadelphia Eagles. Ryan and Lavar explore the play's origins, its strategic advantages, and the backlash it has garnered.

Saquon Barkley [46:22]: "But the banning thing of it, I think it's kind of. I think it's soft, to be honest. Like, the teams that want to ban it because everybody can do it."

Ryan criticizes opponents of the play, suggesting that those efforts are primarily targeting the Eagles to undermine their competitive edge.

Ryan [47:01]: "If you can't beat him, join them. So basically what you're saying is, is that in that play, the Philadelphia Eagles are bigger, stronger, badder ass than you are."

Lavar adds context by highlighting the Eagles' deep talent pool and their strategic use of the Tush Push to maintain their success.

Lavar Arrington [50:00]: "And I Watch it. And I go, this has really become the, the biggest talking point of the NFL off season as far as on the field stuff goes."

The discussion also touches upon the lack of recognition for Anthony Barr, the original creator of the Tush Push, and the broader implications for player recognition and compensation in the NFL.

Lavar Arrington [54:53]: "He just came up with it and he's nowhere to be found. Like he's the inventor of the Tush Push. And this was back when, you know, he was with the Vikings in 2018."

Conclusion

Ryan and Lavar wrap up the episode by reinforcing the significance of the topics discussed, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of sports strategies and the business acumen driving the NFL's supremacy over the NBA. Their insightful analysis provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of current sports dynamics, making the episode a valuable resource for both avid fans and casual observers.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Lavar Arrington [03:07]: "They are not ready. They have now made this a series for now and they come back, pull off a comeback win of their own... and bring the series to 2-1 in the Eastern Conference finals."

• Saquon Barkley [07:43]: "I saw opportunity to utilize all those hours I put into the gym and game wasn't looking great for me as well, but for all of us. And I just wanted to do whatever it takes to help put us in a position to win."

• Ryan [15:46]: "But if he sees it on film... I think he's going to come out and try to push that thing inside and be a little more."

• Ryan [37:01]: "The mic drop is Goodell being able to incorporate and implement gambling and it being a legal deal where you're able to do it, they're opening up sports books in the arenas, in the stadiums."

• Saquon Barkley [46:22]: "But the banning thing of it, I think it's kind of. I think it's soft, to be honest. Like, the teams that want to ban it because everybody can do it."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a multifaceted exploration of pivotal moments in the NBA and NFL, enriched by the hosts' expert analysis and engaging discussions. Whether dissecting a critical NBA playoff series or debating the strategic maneuvers within the NFL, Ryan and Lavar provide listeners with a thorough and entertaining examination of the current sports landscape.