The Dan Patrick Show - Hour 1: Kirk Cousins Benched, NBA in Ratings Trouble

Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host: Dan Patrick
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

1. Atlanta Falcons' Bold Decision: Bench Kirk Cousins for Rookie Michael Penix Jr.

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the Atlanta Falcons' controversial move to bench veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. III. Dan Patrick expresses surprise and analyzes the potential ramifications of this decision.

Key Discussion Points:

• Performance Concerns: Cousins has struggled recently, throwing one touchdown pass against nine interceptions in his last five games.
• Age Factor: At 36-37 years old, Cousins' longevity with the Falcons is scrutinized.
• Financial Implications: Paul Pabst breaks down the salary cap impact, highlighting that cutting Cousins could cost the team an additional $27 million in dead cap money for the following season.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [04:30]: "The big news, though, the Falcons benched Kirk Cousins. Michael Penix Jr. III will get his first start, a home game."
• Paul Pabst [05:53]: "Kirk Cousins was paid already $62 million for this season. If they cut him at any point in the off season, they owe him $27 million for the following season."

The panelists debate whether introducing Penix is a strategic gamble for the Falcons' playoff aspirations or a desperate move driven by Cousins' recent performances. They consider Penix's potential as a long-term solution and the uncertainty surrounding his readiness to lead the team.

2. Milwaukee Bucks' Triumph and Playoff Potential

Shifting gears, Dan discusses the Milwaukee Bucks' dominant victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder with a final score of 97-81. This win positions the Bucks as serious contenders in the upcoming playoffs.

Key Discussion Points:

• Team Performance: The Bucks showcased strong teamwork and strategy, particularly spotlighting Giannis Antetokounmpo's leadership.
• Playoff Implications: Dan suggests that the Bucks have "righted the ship" and could be one of the teams to watch in the postseason.

Notable Quote:

• Dan Patrick [03:58]: "They dominate them 97, 81. It doesn't happen very often that the Thunder don't score a hundred points, but give credit to the Bucks. They played well."

3. NBA Ratings Decline and the Struggle of the All-Star Game

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the NBA's declining ratings and the challenges facing the All-Star Game. Dan and his panelists express concerns over the league's ability to maintain viewer interest.

Key Discussion Points:

• Adam Silver's Stance: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledges the dip in cable TV ratings but seems content with social media engagement metrics.
• All-Star Game Issues: The panel critiques the current format, comparing it to a "pickup game" that lacks competitiveness and fails to engage viewers meaningfully.
• Relevance of Current Stars: There's a consensus that without emerging stars to replace legends like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant, the NBA risks losing its allure.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [09:00]: "It feels like this is like late night TV because it used to be you stayed up and you watched Johnny Carson or Letterman, Leno. Now you just get a clip that you'll see the next morning."
• Todd Fritz [10:21]: "There's like one fundamental flaw in everything with the All Star Game in fixing it and that you're trying to make something matter that doesn't matter."

The discussion touches on potential reforms, such as integrating WNBA elements or hosting more engaging star-themed contests, but acknowledges that without cultivating new basketball icons, rejuvenating the league's appeal remains challenging.

4. Developing the Next Generation of NBA Superstars

The conversation naturally flows into the NBA's efforts (or lack thereof) in fostering new stars to sustain the league's popularity.

Key Discussion Points:

• Organic vs. Structured Star Development: The panel debates whether future stars like Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards will emerge naturally or require intentional league strategies to shine.
• Comparison with Other Leagues: There's an exploration of how other sports, like the NFL and MLB, handle star development and maintain viewer interest.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [14:02]: "Maybe it's not fair to compare them to Steph, KD and LeBron. Those are three of the top 10, 15 players of all time and personalities."
• Marvin [15:34]: "Marv, you don't think Jokic is must see TV?"

Despite acknowledging the talents of existing stars like Nikola Jokic, Dan remains skeptical about their ability to drive consistent viewership, especially among younger audiences who crave fresh and dynamic personalities.

5. Listener Engagement: Interactive Games and Predictions

Dan enhances listener participation through interactive segments like "Guess the Guess," where panelists and listeners predict future moves and career trajectories of NFL players.

Key Discussion Points:

• Predicting Kirk Cousins' Future: Panelists offer various scenarios, including Cousins moving to teams like the Cleveland Browns or Indianapolis Colts, reflecting the uncertainty of his career trajectory.
• Draft Predictions: The panel speculates on future NFL draft picks, such as the Giants potentially selecting Travis Hunter as the number one overall pick.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [25:51]: "Guess the guy."
• Todd Fritz [26:04]: "We haven't even really talked about one. The Falcons decision to bench Kirk Cousins is smart or desperate?"

These segments not only entertain but also provide insightful analysis on player movements and team strategies, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.

6. College Football Updates and Broader Sports Insights

The panel briefly touches on developments in college football, notably the Ivy League's decision to join the NCAA Division I FCS playoffs, marking a significant shift from their traditional season structure.

Key Discussion Points:

• Ivy League's New Participation: This move allows Ivy League teams to compete for national championships, adding competitiveness and excitement.
• Basketball Highlights: Mention of Damian Lillard's impressive three-point shooting spree, emphasizing his impact on games.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick [46:44]: "The Ivy League is getting back in the mix. I like it. I hate when, you know, you see these leagues and there's nothing really to play for."

7. Upcoming Segments and Future Guests

As the hour concludes, Dan previews upcoming segments, including an upcoming hour with basketball legend Charles Barkley and a future discussion with Hall of Famer Steve Young. This builds anticipation for continued in-depth sports analysis and high-profile guest interviews.

Closing Remarks:

• Dan Patrick [53:36]: "Hope you'll join us as well. Hour 2 Dan Patrick show introducing TGL."

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive analysis of critical sports topics, particularly focusing on the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback decisions and the NBA's ongoing challenges with viewer engagement. Dan and his panelists provide thoughtful insights, balanced with engaging listener interactions, making the show a valuable resource for sports enthusiasts seeking expert commentary and lively discussions.

Notable Quotes Summary:

• Dan Patrick [04:30]: "The big news, though, the Falcons benched Kirk Cousins."
• Paul Pabst [05:53]: "Kirk Cousins was paid already $62 million for this season..."
• Todd Fritz [10:21]: "You're trying to make something matter that doesn't matter."
• Dan Patrick [09:00]: "It feels like this is like late night TV..."
• Marvin [15:34]: "Marv, you don't think Jokic is must see TV?"

For those who haven't tuned in, this episode provides a robust exploration of current sports dynamics, strategic team decisions, and the evolving landscape of major leagues, all delivered with Dan Patrick's signature blend of analysis and humor.