Detailed Summary of "C&R - Power Rankings, No Whammies!" Episode of The Dan Patrick Show

Release Date: July 31, 2025
Podcast: The Dan Patrick Show
Hosts: Covino and Rich
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Introduction

The July 31, 2025 episode of The Dan Patrick Show, titled "C&R - Power Rankings, No Whammies!", is a vibrant and engaging installment hosted by Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. This episode delves into a myriad of sports topics, including NFL power rankings, Major League Baseball (MLB) trade deadline analyses, and an extensive breakdown of WWE SummerSlam. The hosts intersperse their discussions with humor, listener interactions, and insightful commentary, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts.

1. MLB Trade Deadline Wrap-Up (05:01 - 15:00)

Covino and Rich kick off the episode by dissecting the recent movements in the MLB trade deadline, highlighting significant trades and their potential impact on the teams involved.

• Key Trades Discussed:

  • Phillies Acquiring Johan Duran: The Phillies finalized a deal to acquire closer Johan Duran from the Twins in exchange for the Twins' top prospects, picks #4 and #6 in the upcoming draft.
  • Reds and Mariners Moves: The Reds secured Gold Glove third baseman Brian Hayes from the Pirates, while the Mariners acquired left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson from the Pirates as well.
  • Mets and Yankees Acquisitions: The Mets obtained right-handed pitcher Tyler Rodgers from the Giants, and the Yankees brought in White Sox outfielder Austin Slater.

• Notable Quotes:

  • Rich (07:45): "The Yankees got Austin Slater. Who? Not Neal Cruz, who I was hoping for. But hey, Neal Cruz, you think you're getting that guy? That's funny. Why?"

Rich humorously expresses his disappointment over the Yankees not securing Neal Cruz, reflecting on the team's strategic decisions and player acquisitions.

2. NFL Power Rankings Debate (15:01 - 45:00)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the discussion of the 2025 NFL Power Rankings as compiled by Ralph Factiono of NFL on Fox. Covino and Rich engage in a lively debate, offering their perspectives and challenging the official rankings.

• Initial Rankings Proposed by Hosts:

  • Covino: Places the Eagles at #1, followed by the Chiefs at #3, Baltimore at #2, and the Buffalo Bills at #4.
  • Rich's Reaction: Expresses surprise and disagreement with the Niners being ranked at #18.

• Discrepancies Highlighted:

  • 49ers' Low Ranking: Rich is baffled by the 49ers being placed at #18, questioning the logic behind such a placement.

    • Rich (30:15): "I think this is the most bunk thing I've heard ever."
    • Covino (30:30): "Look at the 49ers' schedule, they don't play the Eagles, they don't play Buffalo, they don't play Baltimore, they don't play the Chiefs."

  • Packers and Chargers: Covino advocates for placing the Packers at #5 and the Chargers at #10, emphasizing their strengths and schedules.

  • Bengals and Texans: The discussion also covers the Bengals at #8 and the Texans at #13, with Covino suggesting the Bengals must rely on favorable luck this season.

• Notable Quotes:

  • Covino (25:50): "Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy, both new dads... They have like 30 something home runs already."
  • Rich (35:20): "I think the Steelers at #6 is a big controversy here."

The debate underscores the subjective nature of power rankings, with both hosts presenting valid points while challenging each other's viewpoints.

3. Interactive Contest: Mike's Wednesday Words of Wisdom (45:01 - 55:00)

Covino and Rich introduce an engaging segment aimed at involving listeners in the show through a repetition challenge.

• Challenge: Listeners are invited to repeat a specific phrase verbatim for a chance to win an IOU prize.

• Phrase to Repeat: "Nothing lasts forever. Except perhaps the day before you leave for your vacation."

• Listener Participation:

  • Tom's Success (52:30): Tom successfully repeats the phrase, winning the IOU prize.
    • Covino (54:00): "If you could repeat that verbatim, we'll give you an IOU, which is just as good as money."

This segment not only boosts listener engagement but also adds a layer of fun and competition to the show.

4. WWE SummerSlam Breakdown (55:01 - 65:00)

Shifting gears to professional wrestling, Covino and Rich provide a comprehensive analysis of the upcoming WWE SummerSlam event.

• Event Highlights:

  • Star-Studded Matches: Featuring top names like Cody Rhodes, John Cena, Rhea Ripley, and Tiffy.
  • Predictions and Expectations: The hosts speculate on potential winners, surprise outcomes, and highlight key matches that could define the event.

• Notable Quotes:

  • Covino (58:20): "This lineup is ready to tear down the house."
  • Rich (60:45): "Nobody expects we'll get into the matches that steal the show, the storylines that explode."

The discussion encapsulates the excitement surrounding SummerSlam, providing listeners with informed predictions and entertaining insights.

5. Guest Segment: Midweek Major (65:01 - 75:00)

In this segment, Covino and Rich recap the "Midweek Major," covering significant sports and pop culture stories.

• Topics Covered:

  • Luka's Fitness Journey: Discussing NBA star Luka's recent weight loss and his denial of using performance-enhancing drugs.

    • Rich (68:30): "It's insulting to a 25-year-old guy to speculate that he’s using Ozempic. He's an elite athlete who could turn it on for a few months."

  • Tom Brady's Parenting Advice: Analyzing Tom Brady's remarks on balancing professional dedication with family life.

    • Rich (72:10): "Tom Brady's dedication resulted in him sacrificing what his family wanted. So he's given advice about making yourself a great example to your kids, but that ultra dedication led to the demise of his marriage."

  • Beef Between John Kruk and Angel Reese: Exploring the tensions between former baseball player John Kruk and WNBA star Angel Reese.

    • Covino (74:00): "It's a weird beef... Angel Reese is a part of a league that no one cared about until a year ago."

• Notable Quotes:

  • Rich (70:15): "I saw on TMZ that Tom Brady is not into Arby's roast beef. Maybe that's the real problem."
  • Covino (73:50): "Angel Reese plays a different game. A tough game. Not everyone’s gonna love it."

This segment highlights the intersection of sports, personal lives, and media narratives, offering listeners a multifaceted view of current events.

6. Closing Remarks and Teasers (75:01 - End)

As the episode nears its conclusion, Covino and Rich wrap up by teasing upcoming content and encouraging continued listener engagement.

• Future Content:

  • Bonus Show on Thursday: A nostalgic look back at past sports highlights.
    • Covino (80:10): "Tomorrow we're in for Colin and you're in good hands with two of our best pals, Dan Byer and Monsieur tomorrow here on Fox Sports Radio."

• Listener Engagement:

  • YouTube Subscriptions: Encouraging listeners to subscribe to their YouTube channel for more content.
    • Rich (78:30): "Subscribe to our YouTube channel, Fox Sports Radio's YouTube channel. Search Covino and Rich and enjoy the videos."

• Promotions:

  • Tire Rack Advertisement: Brief promotion for Tire Rack, highlighting their services.
    • Covino (77:15): "For over 40 years, Tire Rack has been helping customers find the right tires for how, what, and where they drive."

• Final Thoughts:

  • Covino and Rich express enthusiasm for future episodes and thank listeners for tuning in.

Conclusion

The "C&R - Power Rankings, No Whammies!" episode of The Dan Patrick Show delivers a robust blend of analytical sports discussions, interactive segments, and entertaining banter. Covino and Rich adeptly navigate through complex topics, from NFL power rankings and MLB trades to pro wrestling events and personal anecdotes, all while maintaining a dynamic and engaging rapport. This episode stands out for its depth, humor, and ability to connect with a diverse sports audience.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Rich (07:45): "The Yankees got Austin Slater. Who? Not Neal Cruz, who I was hoping for. But hey, Neal Cruz, you think you're getting that guy? That's funny. Why?"
• Covino (25:50): "Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy, both new dads... They have like 30 something home runs already."
• Rich (30:15): "I think this is the most bunk thing I've heard ever."
• Rich (35:20): "I think the Steelers at #6 is a big controversy here."
• Rich (52:30): "Nothing lasts forever. Except perhaps the day before you leave for your vacation."
• Covino (55:01): "This lineup is ready to tear down the house."
• Rich (70:15): "I saw on TMZ that Tom Brady is not into Arby's roast beef. Maybe that's the real problem."

Recommendations for New Listeners

For those who haven't tuned into this episode, "C&R - Power Rankings, No Whammies!" offers a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of current sports landscapes. Whether you're a die-hard NFL fan, a baseball enthusiast, a wrestling aficionado, or simply enjoy lively sports discussions, this episode provides valuable insights, humor, and engaging content that caters to a wide range of interests.

Listen to the full episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.