The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 1 – Mahomes Humble Beginnings, Adam Silver Taken Out of Context
Release Date: January 30, 2025

1. Reflecting on the Alex Smith Trade and Patrick Mahomes' Ascendancy

The episode opens with Dan Patrick commemorating a pivotal moment in NFL history: seven years prior, the Kansas City Chiefs traded quarterback Alex Smith to the Washington Football Team, a move that ultimately paved the way for Patrick Mahomes to emerge as one of the league's brightest stars.

Dan Patrick discusses the circumstances leading up to the trade:

“[...] seven years ago today, the Kansas City Chiefs decided to trade Alex Smith to Washington. Two hours after our show ended in Minneapolis, the trade was official.” ([19:30])

Patrick highlights Alex Smith's commendable performance prior to the trade, noting his statistics from the 2017 season:

“He went 9 and 6 as a starter in Kansas City in 2017. [...] and his stats when he was traded from Kansas City: 4,000 yards, 26 touchdowns, five interceptions.” ([22:45])

Marvin Paulie reflects on the draft profile of Mahomes, contrasting it with other quarterbacks:

“The draft profile used words like 'inconsistent gunslinger' and 'reckless.' The Chiefs saw something in Mahomes that others didn't.” ([25:10])

The discussion emphasizes how this strategic decision by the Chiefs not only benefitted Mahomes but also reshaped the NFL landscape:

“The Chiefs made a move that changed NFL history and paved the way for AFC title games and maybe what will turn out to be the greatest quarterback in history.” ([28:50])

2. Audience Poll: Should Alex Smith Have Been Traded?

Dan introduced a poll to engage listeners on the controversial trade decision:

“Without knowing what would happen in the future, would you have traded Alex Smith after the 2017 season?” ([35:20])

The results revealed that 65% of listeners did not support the trade, reflecting the complexity of evaluating a player's potential without foresight:

“65% say no.” ([48:10])

3. Adam Silver's Remarks on NBA Game Format Sparks Debate

Shifting focus to the NBA, Dan recaps a recent interview with Commissioner Adam Silver, where Silver floated unconventional ideas about altering the game's structure. Silver proposed shortening NBA games to 40 minutes with four 10-minute quarters, a suggestion that garnered mixed reactions.

Dan Patrick shares his experience interviewing Silver:

“I was surprised at some of the reactions. [...] Adam Silver was talking about maybe 40-minute games and 10-minute quarters.” ([52:30])

The episode delves into the backlash and support from various stakeholders:

“Mike Malone slammed the possibility, expressing concern over the integrity of the game.” ([56:05])

Marvin Paulie discusses the implications of such changes on player performance and fan engagement:

“If they reduce game length, it might help with load management, but it fundamentally alters how the game is played and consumed.” ([1:02:15])

Dan and his co-hosts explore whether these changes could enhance the NBA’s global appeal or disrupt its traditional dynamics:

“The NBA is a global sport. Seven of the ten best players aren’t even from the United States. Changing the game format could have significant international repercussions.” ([1:05:40])

4. Co-hosts and Audience Reactions

The conversation shifts to the reactions from coaches and players regarding Silver's proposals. Marvin Paulie notes:

“Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks head coach, didn’t like the idea either. He's more traditional and values the game's history.” ([1:10:30])

Dylan, filling in for Seaton, expresses optimism about potential benefits:

“The 40-minute NBA game sounds really good to me. It might help reduce issues like load management.” ([1:15:45])

However, skepticism remains among the group about the feasibility and reception of such changes:

“If they implement these changes, it's going to take time for everyone to adjust and accept them.” ([1:20:10])

5. Trivia and Light-Hearted Moments

In between heavy discussions, the show interjects with engaging segments, including trivia and humorous exchanges. A notable moment involves a trivia question about Super Bowl-winning teams’ running backs:

“There’s only been one 1,000-yard rusher for the last ten Super Bowl winners. Can anyone name who that running back was?” ([1:30:00])

The camaraderie among the co-hosts adds a lively atmosphere:

“I didn’t know the difference between a blunt and a joint.” ([1:35:20])

6. Looking Ahead

As the first hour concludes, Dan teases upcoming discussions, including the potential for other quarterbacks to win MVPs and explorations of player legacies. The conversation promises deeper dives into how pivotal trades and rule changes shape the future of sports.

Notable Quotes

• Dan Patrick: “He didn’t really know where he was going. He knew that he was going to be traded from Kansas City.” ([00:45:15])

• Marvin Paulie: “The Chiefs made a move that changed NFL history and paved the way for AFC title games and maybe what will turn out to be the greatest quarterback in history.” ([28:50])

• Adam Silver (Referenced): “I am a fan of four 10-minute quarters. I think a two-hour format for a game is more consistent with modern television habits.” ([1:00:05])

Conclusion

Hour one of The Dan Patrick Show masterfully intertwines retrospection with contemporary debates, offering listeners a comprehensive look at how past decisions influence present dynamics in professional sports. From the strategic NFL trade that elevated Patrick Mahomes to the audacious NBA rule change proposals by Adam Silver, the episode underscores the intricate balance between tradition and innovation in sports. Engaging polls, insightful analysis, and spirited discussions make this episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking depth and perspective.