The Dan Patrick Show - Episode Summary Title: Hour 1 – Notre Dame Advances, Chris Fowler
Release Date: January 10, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

1. Game Recap: Notre Dame vs. Penn State

The episode delves deeply into the thrilling Notre Dame vs. Penn State matchup, which concluded with Notre Dame edging out Penn State 27-24. Dan Patrick provides a comprehensive breakdown of the game's ebb and flow:

• First Quarter: Penn State took an early lead, scoring the first 10 points.
• Second Quarter: Notre Dame responded robustly, amassing 17 points.
• Third Quarter: Penn State regained momentum with an additional 14 points.
• Final Quarter: Notre Dame clinched the victory with the last 10 points.

Dan emphasizes the unpredictability of the game, highlighting Penn State's early dominance and Notre Dame's resilient comeback.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick (02:37): "Notre Dame hangs in there. When Riley Leonard got knocked down, I thought he had a concussion."
• Todd Fritz (07:59): "I was just trying to dirt it out of Mari's feet, so. But just didn't execute what I was trying to do."

2. Coach Evaluations: James Franklin vs. Brian Kelly

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the performance and reputations of Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, and Notre Dame’s Brian Kelly.

• James Franklin: Criticized for his poor record against top 10 opponents, holding a 3-11 record in such matchups. Dan and guest Bill Cower debate the fairness of attributing Penn State's struggles solely to Franklin.

  Dan Patrick (10:00): "If you're a Penn State fan, you've been down this road before, certainly with your head coach."

  Bill Cower (23:56): "I think that's on James Franklin for sure. Do you ever have announcer envy when you're watching a game?"

• Brian Kelly: Compared to Franklin, Kelly is seen more favorably, especially regarding his departure from Notre Dame in pursuit of a national title. Despite not securing one, Kelly’s legacy is viewed as more commendable.

  Dan Patrick (10:00): "I would rather be Brian Kelly today. I would rather be Brian Kelly because once again, this it, this stays with James Franklin."

3. Notre Dame’s Resilience and Team Dynamics

The hosts commend Notre Dame’s ability to stay competitive despite being perceived as the underdog.

• Player Highlights: Drew Aller's performance is spotlighted, especially his crucial plays during the game’s final moments.

  Dan Patrick (06:32): "Mitch Jeter with seven seconds left gives the Irish a lead, 27, 24. Notre Dame is on the precipice."

• Team Spirit: Marcus Freeman’s leadership is lauded for fostering a supportive and driven locker room environment.

  Dan Patrick (06:32): "Marcus Freeman on his team last night in the second half. He made some plays. When it speaks volumes to the heart he has, he gave everything he had to this place."

4. Playoff Scenarios: Ohio State vs. Texas

The conversation shifts to upcoming playoff games, particularly the anticipated showdown between Ohio State and Texas.

• Ohio State’s Position: Favored to win the national title, Ohio State is analyzed for its strong performance and consistency.

  Dan Patrick (08:56): "Ohio State is the favorite to win the national title. Then it's Notre Dame and Texas."

• Texas’s Challenges: Despite being a strong contender, Texas is criticized for underperforming in the second half of games, with notable statistics showing a lack of scoring post-halftime.

  Bill Cower (28:42): "Texas starts well. Their defense is the best in the country in the first quarter... But they haven't scored a third-quarter touchdown in like six games."

5. Discussion on Playoff Formats

The hosts debate the current playoff structure, suggesting potential improvements to ensure fairness and competitiveness.

• Current Structure Critique: The 12-team playoff system is scrutinized, with suggestions to eliminate automatic bids for conference champions to diversify the pool of contenders.

  Bill Cower (31:38): "I think eventually the conference championship games don't really have a place in this... Maybe make the American Conference get an automatic bid."

6. Caller Interactions and Audience Engagement

Throughout the episode, Dan Patrick interacts with callers, discussing topics ranging from favorite callers to betting on upcoming games.

• Favorite Caller Poll: A playful debate ensues about who the most valuable caller is, highlighting the show's interactive nature.

  Seaton O'Connor (09:22): "Would you rather be James Franklin or Brian Kelly? I would rather be Brian Kelly today."

• Betting Props: The hosts engage in a friendly wager regarding the Broncos’ chances against the Bills, showcasing the show's blend of sports analysis and entertainment.

  Todd Fritz (47:17): "I'm completely with the Broncos since I was like 7 years old... And go Broncos."

7. Play of the Day

The episode concludes with a highlight of Jeremiah Love’s remarkable touchdown run for Notre Dame, encapsulating the game's excitement.

Play Description:

• Dan Patrick (40:35): "Leonard takes the snap, gives it to Love. Running left, tripped up, stays on his feet through one tackle... Touchdown, Notre Dame. Jeremiah Love would not be denied."

8. Additional Segments

While the majority of the transcript includes advertisements and promotions for other podcasts, such as "NHL Unscripted with Virk and Demers" and "Lots to Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle," these segments are acknowledged but not detailed in the summary as per instructions to focus on content-rich sections.

Conclusion

The episode offers a thorough analysis of a pivotal college football game, evaluates coaching performances, debates playoff formats, and engages with listeners through interactive segments. Dan Patrick and his co-hosts provide insightful commentary enhanced by live caller interactions, making the show a valuable resource for fans seeking in-depth sports discussions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dan Patrick (02:37): "These aren't cooked [oysters]."
• Dan Patrick (10:00): "I would rather be Brian Kelly today."
• Bill Cower (23:56): "I think that's on James Franklin for sure."
• Dan Patrick (06:32): "Mitch Jeter with seven seconds left gives the Irish a lead."
• Bill Cower (31:38): "Maybe make the American Conference get an automatic bid."
• Dan Patrick (40:35): "Jeremiah Love would not be denied."
• Todd Fritz (47:17): "I'm completely with the Broncos since I was like 7 years old."