Hour 1 – Rams’ Tough Breaks, Resting Stars

Summary

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The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 1: Rams’ Tough Breaks, Resting Stars

Date: December 30, 2025
Hosts: Covino, Rich Eisen, Danny G, Jason McIntyre
Podcast Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

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Episode Overview

The first hour of today’s Dan Patrick Show zeroes in on the Los Angeles Rams’ recent loss and what it reveals about their season, playoff potential, and NFL parity as a whole. The crew debates whether the Rams, plagued by a series of tough breaks and questionable calls, should still be feared entering the playoffs. The conversation also expands to unpredictable NFC South playoff scenarios, the question of resting stars for the postseason, and the overall wide-open nature of the 2025 NFL race, with a lively, humorous, and interactive tone fitting for the holiday “taint” week.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Rams vs. Falcons: The Anatomy of a Tough Loss

• Rams’ Misfortunes and Late-Game Drama
  • The team recaps the Rams falling behind 21-0 to the Falcons, only to mount a comeback that fell just short due to a trio of critical plays: a misthrow by Stafford, a non-call on pass interference, and a jaw-dropping but ultimately incomplete catch by Puka Nacua.
  • Rich Eisen (04:51): “Three plays in a row, they had an opportunity. Do you not feel the same way?”
  • Covino (05:57): “There was three controversial plays in a row for sure.”
  • The hosts commiserate over the string of bad luck, with multiple quotes highlighting just how slim the margin for error is at the NFL level.
• Bad Breaks or Bad Fortune?
  • Rich Eisen (08:12): “Aren’t there times when you’ll be like, yeah, just give it to him?...There’s a part of you that’s like, oh god, give it to him. I mean, Jesus Christ.”
  • Debate arises over whether championship teams make their own luck or if sometimes the football gods just frown upon you.
• The Rams Still a Threat?
  • Despite the loss, consensus is that the Rams remain dangerous—if these four unlucky games swing the other way, they’d be top seeds and perceived totally differently.
  • Covino (15:20): “Don’t sleep on the Rams because they could have easily pulled away with that game. Even on an off night, they almost won.”

Breakout Players, MVP Races & Playoff Resting

• Matthew Stafford’s Recent Struggles
  • Discussion on Stafford’s drop in MVP candidacy after recent interceptions, noting how quickly narratives shift (“Memes never lie. Right?” – Covino, 16:31).
• Resting Superstars
  • The show teases (to be picked up later) the strategic decisions around resting key players like Davante Adams, questioning the trade-offs between health and rust:
    • Rich Eisen (15:12): “There’s no point now to push Davante Adams because the Rams path…is not changing.”
• Who’s Actually Scary in the NFC?
  • No team, not even the Eagles or Niners, is without major flaws.
  • Discussion runs through top RBs (McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry), QBs, and playoff-bound squads finding form at the right time.

The Wild, Wide-Open Playoff Picture

• NFC South’s Absurdity
  • Rich Eisen (9:44): “If the Falcons beat the Saints on Sunday, that Panthers-Bucs game is irrelevant and Carolina would be your division champ no matter what.”
  • Division could see a sub-.500 team (8-9) host a playoff game, sparking debate over whether this is fair or just the quirks of NFL structure; Covino calls it “how the game’s played.”
• No Real Villain This Year
  • Caller Kevin (49:13): “This NFL playoff doesn’t have a villain.”
  • Hosts agree—the usual suspects are either rebuilding or unthreatening, making for a uniquely likable and open field.
• “Anyone’s Season” Parity
  • Multiple hosts mention that, for once, any team making a run (including Bears, Seahawks, Rams, Eagles, even Texans in the AFC) wouldn’t truly shock them.
  • Rich Eisen (34:07): “Would you be shocked…if the Bears and Ben Johnson and Caleb make a run?...Wouldn’t be shocked…every storyline…there is no villain.”

The Razor’s Edge: Luck, Experience, and Playoff Mindset

• NFL: Truly a Game of Inches
  • The show goes granular on how entire narratives hinge on a single non-call or one missed catch—reminding listeners that “sometimes the better team doesn’t win” and luck is a huge postseason factor.
  • Guest Analyst (22:58): “If Atwell wasn’t interfered with and caught that long pass…the Rams wind up in the end zone…we’re talking about Stafford as MVP.”
• Does Postseason Experience Matter?
  • Covino and Rich debate the value of prior playoff/Super Bowl experience for QBs and coaches.
  • Covino (25:09): “As a leader…that confidence and poise about you…makes a difference. As a player being on the field, maybe not as much.”

Fun, Tone & Listener Interaction

• Lighthearted Banter & Community
  • The show frequently turns to listener comments and chat:
    • “The YouTube chat is popping…to see our tired faces. A lot of boozing and schmoozing during the taint of the holidays.” (Covino, 13:38)
  • Sidebar debates about commercials, memes, and sports families scheduling life events during playoff weekends show off the show’s signature humor.
• Memorable Quotes
  • Escobar Cheeks (Listener, 21:18): “If my aunt had balls, she’d be my uncle”—on the futility of arguing “what ifs” for the Rams.
  • Rich Eisen (41:10): “When someone’s like, yeah, we’re having Tyler’s birthday party…on wild card weekend, guess what? Dad’s not going to be there.”

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Notable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• On the Rams’ missed opportunities:
  • “Three controversial plays in a row for sure.” – Covino (05:57)
• On a no-call for pass interference:
  • “The only reason it was a one handed grab is because his other arm was being held.” – Covino (07:16)
• On playoff experience vs. new blood:
  • “Do those teams with experience just have something like an intangible level of experience…?” – Rich Eisen (25:32)
  • “As a leader…that confidence and poise about you…matters.” – Covino (25:09)
• On division winners with sub-.500 records:
  • “Do you guys have a problem with a team that’s under .500 hosting a playoff game?” – Guest Analyst (12:42)
• On the 2025 NFL landscape:
  • “This might be the most exciting season ever… anyone’s chance.” – Covino & Rich (33:49-33:54)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Rams-Falcons Recap & Misfortunes:
  • 04:11 – 08:49
• Rams Playoff Danger Level:
  • 15:12 – 16:49, 20:02 – 22:46
• NFC South & Parity Discussion:
  • 09:44 – 13:38, 33:49 – 36:29
• Resting Stars, Playoff Strategy:
  • 15:12, 46:18 – 49:04 (setup, to be continued in the next hour)
• Playoff Experience & Team Vulnerability:
  • 25:09 – 26:14
• Listener Calls, NFL Stories:
  • 49:11 – 51:26

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Summary Takeaways

• The Rams are better than their record suggests, falling victim to bad luck rather than lack of talent—making them a significant playoff wildcard no NFC contender should overlook.
• The 2025 NFL playoff picture is uniquely wide open, with no dominant juggernaut or clear villain: almost any playoff team making a run would be plausible.
• Debate continues over the wisdom of resting stars before the postseason and whether previous playoff experience trumps youthful momentum.
• The hosts bring signature humor, perspective, and fan engagement, providing both sharp analysis and a fun listen as the NFL regular season barrels toward the playoffs.

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Transcript

[Rich Eisen]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Covino]

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[Danny G]

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[Rich Eisen]

Hey, Ryan Reynolds here wishing you a very happy half off holiday because right now Mint Mobile is offering you the gift of 50% off unlimited. To be clear, that's half the price, not half the service. Mint is still premium unlimited wireless for a great price. So that means a half day.

[IBM Advertiser]

Yeah.

[Rich Eisen]

Give it a [e-mail] Switch upfront payment of $45 for 3 month plan equivalent to 15 per month required new customer offer for first 3 months only. Speed slow after 35 gigabytes of network spizzy taxes and fees ext. Cementmobile.com this is Eva Longoria from Hungry for History with Eva Longoria and Maite Gomez Rejon. Like the song says, it's the most wonderful time of the year and also a wonderfully busy one. All that merriment can weigh down even Santa's sleigh. So keep it wonderful by keeping yourself.

[Jason McIntyre]

Wonderful with a crisp, cold Coca Cola.

[Rich Eisen]

Ah, pause for fizzy joy. Look out for yourself and then look out for everyone else.

[Jason McIntyre]

And together we'll make this season as wonderful as it's meant to be.

[Rich Eisen]

Enjoy a Coca Cola refresh your holidays.

[Jason McIntyre]

You are listening to the Dan Patrick show on Fox Sports Radio.

[Rich Eisen]

Great to be here. Let's do this.

[Covino]

Good morning. Good day. Happy New Year's Eve Eve wherever you are. Thanks for being here. We appreciate it. We're live from the Fox sports radio studio. At least riches I'm here. Danny G And Ramsey and spot spots on the videos Covino and Rich FSR on YouTube. You could chat live. You could see us live. I'm here in Idaho still. I'm actually leaving tomorrow, Rich, for the day off on New Year's Eve. So it's New Year's Eve eve. I'm New Year's Eve eve. Steve Cavino and the hottest rookies, biggest superstars and the all time greats. The only place to collect them all is Panini trading cards, the official trading cards of the Dan Patrick show for instant classics, autograph cards, memorabilia, cards, rare inserts and more. Start to continue your collection now@panini America.net.

[Rich Eisen]

Well, so much to get to on today's show. In fact, if you want to watch it, YouTube.conrichfsr hey, see what you hear. Play along. We'll randomly pick people throughout the show that are watching and chiming in. And away some prizes.

[Danny G]

Why not?

[Covino]

Yeah, we're doing trivia for prizes as well. We're doing well, we have a guest. It's broke. Mahomes showtime. Mahomes show boy Patrick Mahomes trivia. Your chance to answer multiple choice questions, win a CNR on FSR Nerf football. And yes, stick around. We're gonna have some fun today. Hope you had a Falcons sort of night.

[Rich Eisen]

We're gonna get to that. The Falcons sort of threw a little wrench in the plans of a few teams in the nfc. We're gonna talk about Josh Allen's meet today.

[Danny G]

What?

[Rich Eisen]

We're gonna talk about some legends that celebrate a birthday today. Sam Darnold, I have a theory on him, but let's, let's dive into it. The Rams last night, truth be told, it's that taint of the holiday season. No one's really honed in and it was a Monday night game that didn't have much significance on paper because the NFC west, we all know the winner of the 49ers Seahawks has your one seat.

[Covino]

Yeah.

[Rich Eisen]

So the Rams are chilling there. In fact, there's been rumors that they're going to shut down Devonte Adams until the playoffs. There's, there's a sense of, well, there's really not that much on the line tonight. So I didn't hone into the beginning of the game. I was checking on my phone. I was grabbing Some food. And I'm like, I have 7 nothing, 14 nothing. Oh, hold up now. Wait. 21 nothing falcons. Then I'm looking at the box girl, I'm like, is anyone playing? Like, what is.

[Covino]

What's going on here in your defense? That'll happen kind of quick. Yeah, they came out and took charge of the game for sure.

[Rich Eisen]

I couldn't believe my eyes when I'm like 21 nothing. And then they're, they're mounting a comeback, which a better team usually does. They'll find a way to, to find their way back in. And here we are, end of the game, Falcons. Go ahead. Field goal. And you're thinking, man, the Rams are going to drop one. And. And then you realize, well, Matthew Stafford does have a little time on the clock. And I feel like three plays in a row, they had an opportunity. Do you not feel the same way?

[Covino]

There was three controversial plays in a row for sure.

[Rich Eisen]

First, Stafford just misses a wide receiver that gets open like, like big time open. Like misses by a step and a half. And you're like, oh, my God, that could have been for six. All right, next play.

[Covino]

I think, you know, I think he threw it in the right spot. The runner, the receiver just didn't get there quick enough. Like the ball was there, it was close. It could have happened. Maybe the timing was off a little bit, but yeah, it was, it was there. Could have. Could have went their way, but didn't.

[Rich Eisen]

Then you see a pass interference that doesn't get called and you're like, oh, it was like, Danny G, you, you were texting us like, yo, arm was held down, man.

[Guest Analyst]

To be fair, when it happened, it.

[Jason McIntyre]

Was close.

[Covino]

In real time, it was hard to see, but it was really noticeable for us at home that that was passing. No question, no doubt.

[Guest Analyst]

Actually, if you're a judge on the field, you should be able to maybe spot that.

[Covino]

Yeah, yeah.

[Rich Eisen]

You know what?

[Covino]

Almost twice, Rich. It was like, almost two times. It happened on that same place.

[Rich Eisen]

Those, those type of plays, bang, bang. If called, you're not shocked. But if it doesn't get called, you're like, oh, could have been.

[Covino]

But you know what made it obvious too? It was, it was like a one handed grab. And it didn't have to be. The only reason it was one handed grab is because his other arm was being held.

[Rich Eisen]

All right, so you're like, all right. Those are two chances where if you're.

[Covino]

A Rams, it was kind of obvious. If you're a Rams fan, you're like.

[Rich Eisen]

Oh, damn, that's Two. Two opportunities squandered. Then Puka Nakua, who is one of the coolest dudes. We've had him on the show a couple times in the last year.

[Covino]

What a competitor.

[Rich Eisen]

What a competitor. What a real fun, nice guy. I'm a big fan. Here he is making one of the most ridiculous possible catches you've seen in your life. Again, this guy's hands are unbelievable. And, oh, the little movement. And it goes from circus sideline catch, field goal range to up. Runner was out of, you know, receiver was out.

[Covino]

You know, it looked like such an amazing catch, but it wasn't.

[Rich Eisen]

And here we are, game's over. And I wanted to just start Rich.

[Covino]

I do want to make this clear. Yeah, they got the call, right? I mean, yeah, if you weren't watching, you're casually watching. They got the call, right? But from first glance, it looked like he had it. It was sort of pulled. It was, again, props to their deceiving receiving team, defensive team, because it was pulled from his hands.

[Danny G]

Yeah.

[Rich Eisen]

Aren't there times when you. You'll be like, yeah, just give it to him.

[Covino]

Incredible.

[Rich Eisen]

Stylistically. Like, in my mind, I'm like, it was such a good almost catch. I know that's not how the game's played, but there's a party that's like, oh, God, give it to him. I mean, Jesus Christ.

[Covino]

The guy had it on his way down. It was sort of pulled out just for a split second.

[Rich Eisen]

Ridiculous.

[Guest Analyst]

And right before it got pulled out and knocked out there at the very end of the play, he squeezed that like a Nerf football with one big paw.

[Covino]

That would snag.

[Guest Analyst]

No doubt. That would have been the catch of the year.

[Rich Eisen]

So I come in here this morning to let the world know I'd still be very scared of the Rams. Let me explain why. I'm a Niners fan. We're looking at the NFC as a very wide open place. You got the Eagles, who Jalen hurts didn't throw for one yard in the second half the other day. I don't know if anyone. Camino is convinced about your defending champs to Philadelphia Eagles. That's. No one's like, well, they got a clear path. I don't think anyone's thinking that. The Bucs, Panthers. There's been a little wrinkle put in that because of last night. I don't know if you realize if you're a schedule watching and all that stuff like I am. We've been talking about the little percentages because the Falcons won last night and no one really Thought that would happen. Do you know that if the Falcons beat the Saints on Sunday, that Panthers Bucks game is irrelevant and Carolina would be your division champ no matter what. Baker could have the game of his life Saturday and be like, man, the bucks are back to.500. And yet the Panthers would still win that division if the Falcons win again on Sunday.

[Covino]

And that's likely. Man, it seems like the Falcons are playing well at just the right time. Three in a row now. Cousins looking good. Robinson looking unstoppable. By the way, I was thinking yesterday, if you were to put a top three running back out there, who would it be? Just watching that top three. Top three, I mean, obviously your boy Christian McCaffrey.

[Danny G]

McCaffrey.

[Covino]

Would you still put Saquon Barkley in there?

[Rich Eisen]

I would. That's a good one, I think.

[Covino]

And then the way Derrick Henry was.

[Rich Eisen]

Derek. Derrick Henry the other day. But then you could say if you talk about the first half of the year, Jonathan Taylor, but not second half of the year. Not second half of the year, Jonathan Taylor. No.

[Covino]

Yeah, I was thinking all that. You know why I was thinking that? Because Saquon Barkley and your boy Christian McCaffrey are. I think it's a State Farm commercial. They're in a commercial together. And I'm thinking, well, who else could have been in that commercial? They're in a commercial side by side, and they're pretty much the same size. And I was sizing them up, and I'm like, Derrick Henry would beast over those guys. But who would be the top three anyway? Just a random side thought, well, you know what, the Falcons look good. Back to that point. It seems like they're putting it together at the right time.

[Rich Eisen]

Well, it's. Kirk Cousins prove that he has a little left in the tank or what?

[Covino]

I mean, I think so. I think they're just playing well under him. He's. He's leading the team well. They're seven and nine, three in a row. But I want you to keep.

[Rich Eisen]

I want you to keep something in mind, though. You're like the Falcons. If they win, they play the. The Saints. Are you like, the Saints are trash? The Saints have won four in a row. Yeah, exactly like the Saints are.

[Guest Analyst]

You know, I think young quarterback shuck is being talked about as offensive rookie of the year.

[Covino]

Yeah, they're 6 and 10 now.

[Rich Eisen]

I betcha. I betcha that if there was one more month of the season, that division could flip because the Bucks are falling apart. Carolina is showing that they're like a.500 team, but the Saints and the Falcons, who are both under.500, are the two hottest teams in that division. So I think that division is a disaster. So, yeah, just. It's interesting to see what team will sort of back into that, that playoff spot. Someone's going to win it at 8, 9 or 9 and 8. Like we said, it's a bad division.

[Guest Analyst]

There's a scenario where the Panthers could host a wild card game and they'd be what, eight, nine?

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, they could be eight and nine.

[Guest Analyst]

You guys have a problem with a team that's under.500 hosting a playoff game?

[Rich Eisen]

We've talked about this on our regular.

[Covino]

It doesn't look so sexy.

[Rich Eisen]

It doesn't.

[Covino]

You make it. You make it, right? Yeah.

[Rich Eisen]

It's almost like, you know, there are times your team wins a division in baseball, winning 88 to 90 games and you host a better wild card. It happens, right? It just, it's.

[Covino]

And honestly, the way this year has been, it kind of would make sense. It kind of would go with the whole vibe and feeling of this entire season.

[Rich Eisen]

Interestingly enough, if. If things stay the way they are, I think that crappy south team, whether it's Carolina or the Bucks, would end up hosting like the Rams, like a better 12 + win team, which is, you know, that's. That's the point. Do they deserve it? No, but it's how you. It's how the divisions are set. But I wanted to point out how.

[Covino]

The Rams, Covino Colony Canada is hitting us up.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah.

[Covino]

Again, the YouTube chat is popping. Covino and Rich FSR to see us live, see our tired faces. A lot of boozing and schmoozing during the taint of the holidays. He says cousin threw for like 125 yards, but yeah, they've been playing solid behind him.

[Rich Eisen]

I just feel like you.

[Covino]

Some good moments. Again, not saying he's the reason.

[Danny G]

Yeah, not.

[Rich Eisen]

Not saying he's the reason, but, you know, leadership. You know, a guy. I don't know, maybe I'm trying to just feel good for Kirk Cousins for a minute.

[Covino]

Yeah, I mean, he's easy to root for, so, yeah, I am pulling for the guy. Is it coincidence they've been winning since he's been playing? Willamina Kreider, Green 4877 says, I wonder if 10 years ago that Puka Nukua catch would have been a fair catch. I was thinking the same thing and I was thinking, yes, yes, that would have been. I think so anyway.

[Rich Eisen]

And, well, let's see.

[Covino]

Ashley, Franz and Morning, fellas. A lot of people. Devonte Adams more impactful than I thought. That's what Ashley Riola saying.

[Rich Eisen]

That's a, that's a big sentiment. And Danny and I looked it up before the show because there's a few guys where you're wondering, we're going to get to this later in the show where as we enter week 18, you know who's going to, who's going to rest up and get ready for the postseason and whether or not he's able to come back, it appears as though the Rams are going to have devonte Adams just good to go. Wild card weekend. There's no point now to push Devonte Adams because there's no. The Rams path and where they are is not changing. They're not going to. They can't win the division. Whoever wins 49ers hosting the Seahawks is your division winner and one seed. The Rams are a wild card regardless. So. And your point, Play devonte Adams now.

[Danny G]

Right.

[Covino]

You know, if they're keeping him healthy, why play him now? They're still going to be dangerous as a wild card.

[Rich Eisen]

I'll tell you why.

[Covino]

Don't sleep on the Rams because they could have easily pulled away with that game. Even though they started rough, they had a few bad calls or questionable, questionable calls, borderline calls where things could have been different. So are they as dangerous as we think or not at all? Well, I'll tell you what, 799 on Fox. I agree with Rich. I mean, I think they could have easily won that game. Puka Nakua, ultimate competitor. Stafford's still doing his thing. He was off, put it that way. On an off night. I, I guess that really sums it up on an off night. They still almost won that game.

[Rich Eisen]

I mean, Matthew Stafford may have lost points and lost, you know, his path to the mvp. He had a rough couple games over the last month. The Rams dropped a couple in a row. Matthew Stafford at one point, remember his interception to touchdown ratio was like 30 something to like a couple interceptions. It was Aaron Rodgers, like in Aaron Rodgers prime, he's had a couple games with multiple picks over the last month. So Now Stafford has 42 Tunis eight interceptions. Still MVP numbers. But there's a lot of Drake may chatter now. Is he your mvp? I want to just point out four.

[Covino]

Quick games according to memes. He's the league leader and memes never lie. Right?

[Rich Eisen]

Memes never lie.

[Covino]

Let me give you, Drake Maze, your MVP as of now.

[Rich Eisen]

Let me hit you with four quick instances where the Rams sort of blew it. Because you look at The NFC going into the playoffs. And Danny, I think you agree that no one's scared of the Eagles. No, no.

[Guest Analyst]

Maybe their defense, but not the Eagles offense.

[Rich Eisen]

No one's scared of whoever comes out of that south. Whether it's like I said, the Panthers of the Bucks, they're at best a 500 team and I think out of the north there's question marks with Green Bay, Jordan love one of those guys that might sit until the playoffs. Green Bay looks like, whoa, what's going on there? I think as I'm a Niners fan so I'm look, I'm looking at from a perspective of who do I think is dangerous?

[Covino]

The Niners and I think dangerous.

[Rich Eisen]

I think, I think watching the other night, I think the Bears could very easily have won that game. The Bears are dangerous.

[Covino]

Can I take back what I said? Your Niners and Bears offense looks dangerous. Defense on both teams question.

[Rich Eisen]

It's a matter of like could an Eagles defense stop a Bears or 49ers offense? Right.

[Covino]

But they could score and if, if the 49ers could just stop one drive throughout the game. It seems like they sc every other drive. So they'll be fine scoring but if they can make one stop, they'll win the game.

[Rich Eisen]

It's like an NBA team that you know is going to put up 1:20 just like hold your opponent like you.

[Covino]

Know, turnovers, you just need, you just need something to happen and you win because the, the defense is questionable.

[Rich Eisen]

But the Rams. Let me, let me go over the Rams because you know this seasons where a team catches a bunch of good breaks. We've talked about, you know, Minnesota in the past and the Chiefs were a couple years. You felt like everybody, every last minute field goal or turnover or, or fortune or good bounce went their way. I think the Rams are a really good team that had four games and I know it's. You can't isolate one play but there's four games I've noted where it could have just very well went the other way for the Rams. And the Rams are gonna end up being a wild card. They're still a very dangerous team in the NFC I think. But right now the Rams are 11 and 5. They'll probably beat the Cardinals even if they rest people week 18. So they're 12 and five team but four of those losses they're lining up for a game winning field goal that's totally in range. It's blocked and returned for a touchdown by the Eagles. They lose on the last play of the game. So Eagles win On a play where the Rams were lining up for a game winning field goal. So no, no block in return. You win. You win that game. You beat the Eagles. They played my 49ers. Remember the overtime game where Mac Jones was like limping around like, like he was a warrior? Yeah, that was the game where the Rams fumbled. If you remember, the 49ers forced to fumble, unlike the one foot line went to overtime and they went for it on fourth down and the Niners stopped them. So that's another game where it's like the Niners just got a little lucky. Rams did not. That's two games that Rams on paper to should have won that game. Sam Darnold going for two and overtime. A game where the Seahawks somehow found a way to come back force force overtime and then they went for two and then last night we saw it. A missed, a missed route, a pass interference and pooking the coup on the sideline. Those are four games.

[Covino]

Oh, hold on. I hate to stay four games.

[Rich Eisen]

Dude. I know that you can argue that for every team. I know when in baseball you get.

[Covino]

It right in that sentence, you know, the Seahawks found a way to win. That's what championship caliber teams do. I'm not saying the Rams can't do that, but that's part of the game, right? Finding a way to win. That's how you do it. You got to figure it out. And yeah, they've come close, but they didn't pull it through. Sam Darnold, Seahawks, your 49ers, we've seen them be able to do that a few times. So that's just the difference. Yeah, they've been in every game and you could say they're tough, but they haven't been able to win. So they're still in the wild card. They're still dangerous.

[Rich Eisen]

Dangerous.

[Covino]

They're still very good. They still make it very close. They got to get those, those plays to make it happen, those ways to make it win. As you mentioned with Sam Darnold, who we're going to talk about later on because you know, where does he fall into, where does he fall into the history as far as elite quarterbacks?

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, like where do you, how do you view Sam Darnold? Because I think it all depends on this postseason because I think that he's like one of the most confusing people to assess.

[Covino]

But dude, tides turn and, and luck starts to bounce the other way and you know, anything could happen. You' those games could have gone either way. You could say this, the Rams are good.

[Rich Eisen]

I Mean Escobar.

[Covino]

The Rams are dangerous.

[Rich Eisen]

Escobar Cheeks just set us up on the in show chat and he goes, yeah, Rich, I, I hear what you're saying, but he's like, if my, if my aunt had balls, she'd be my uncle.

[Covino]

Right? It sounds a little bit like that, especially when you bring up the Seahawks in that sense.

[Rich Eisen]

But I'm saying this, four very specific incidents where you could be like, oh, the Rams were a block away or you know, like, again, let me just.

[Covino]

Remind you, they don't stink. The Rams do not stink. It's. These little things aren't going their way.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, you could say the good team finds a way to win, but sometimes you just. Luck isn't on your side. Again, a game winning field goal blocked a return by the Eagles. The 49ers beat them in overtime where the Rams had a turnover and a fourth down blown play. The Seahawks beating them in overtime when the Seahawks, you know, mounted a comeback and then went for two in overtime. And then last night when they were favored in Atlanta, came back, but then on the last drive, three plays in a row, just caught some type of like, ooh, a no call and a wide open receiver and the cool on the sideline. I'm just saying there's four instances where this team, even if they won two of those games, they'd be the one seed and we'd be like, well, Stafford, and they're going, man, they're headed, they're headed. I'm still scared of the Rams is my point. And I think we all should be. If you're a fan of the Bears, the Packers, the Seahawks, the Niners do not think that the Rams have fallen off. They have just, you know.

[Guest Analyst]

No, you know what's crazy, Covino, Quick. If, if Atwell wasn't interfered with and caught that long pass and the Rams wind up going into the end zone there in the red zone.

[Covino]

Yeah.

[Guest Analyst]

Then this morning we're talking about how even though he had a couple of turnovers, Stafford is your clear mvp.

[Rich Eisen]

That one play, that's. It's, that's why it's, we said about it. It's just such a game of inches and little, little like Josh Allen. Right. The narrative of Josh Allen, if he hits, if he hits a receiver in the back corner on that two point conversion, we're saying like, man, Buffalo struggle, but man, they found a way to beat the Eagles. Josh Allen, man, what a gamer fourth quarter. But instead the narrative is, man, but Josh Allen missed the guy in the end zone, like, is Is this not the year for them? Is this not the year for him? Like, it's all these little plays.

[Covino]

So these little things add up and they matter. Especially now, that's really what it comes down to. I'm just thinking baseball, Rich, how when we try to hype baseball up to everybody during the postseason, like, every pitch counts, man. Every little thing matters. That's really what we're getting at here, you know, especially as we come down to the season. You know, every little play, every little thing is speculated, matter. They absolutely matter.

[Rich Eisen]

Let me ask you this. I've heard, I've heard people talk about this, and I'm sure lavar from 2 pros and a cup of Joe playing that, being that he played in the NFL and big time college star, Pro Bowler, you could probably attest to what the difference is between the regular season, postseason, and then like a Super Bowl. Because when you do look about, when you look at, like, who's going to the postseason, do you say to yourself, well, Jalen Hurts has been there and won Purdy and the Niners and that core has unfortunately been there a few times. It couldn't get the job done. Do you give those teams with that postseason experience, Stafford won a Super Bowl, McVeigh's been there. Do you give those teams in a leg up on Caleb and Ben Johnson who are like, it's almost like a fan base in Chicago that's like just sort of happy to now be in the mix. And Seattle, where it's like, yo, no one expected this. Do those teams with experience just have something like an intangible level of experience, or do you not buy into that as a fan?

[Covino]

I buy into it. As a player, I'm not sure how much it matters. Right. Because there's different teams playing behind those guys. But as the leader, as the quarterback of the team, I mean, I think it does make a difference to have been there, done that, to have that confidence and poise about you. But. But I'm not sure if as a player and being on the field, it matters all that much.

[Rich Eisen]

I've heard people argue that that experience means a lot. So listen, we'll talk some Rams. We're going to talk about Sam Darnold and again, Josh Allen's meat. What does that even mean? We'll get to all that. And your thoughts on the Rams? I'm arguing that they are still arguably one of the most dangerous teams. Just because, you know, again, bad luck is a part of sports. It really is. Sometimes the better team, you can say the better team always wins. But sometimes I don't think the better team wins. Sometimes I think, you know, a couple bad bounces and you know, sometimes a guy could fumble. Cavino, the ball bounces right back up into his arms. Sometimes the guy fumbles, the ball bounces into, into the air. You know, sometimes that interception is tipped up, pick six the other way.

[Covino]

Otherwise, by the way, part of their comeback was a special teams locked kick that went right back into his arms. That was awesome.

[Rich Eisen]

So your thoughts on the Rams and who you look at as the favorite? We'll take all your feedback next. Your buds Kavino and Rich filling in for Dan Patrick right here on Fox Sports Radio.

[Jason McIntyre]

Be sure to catch the live edition of the Dan Patrick show, weekdays at 9:00am Eastern, 6:00am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio and the iHeartRadio app. Hey, this is Jason McEntire.

[Covino]

Join me every weekday morning on my.

[Jason McIntyre]

Podcast, Straight fire with Jason McIntyre. This isn't your typical sports pod, pushing the same tired narratives down your throat every day. Straight Fire gives you honest opinions on all the biggest sports headlines, accurate stats to help you win big at the sportsbook and all the best guests. Do yourself a favor and listen to Straight fire with Jason McEntire on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Big Lone]

What's up? It's big Lone from It's up that podcast. On this episode, we're unpacking the difference between toxic love and a real bond. How so many of us were taught to survive love instead of experiencing it. A lot of men think being solid means being silent. I'm good. I got it. That's the script we memorize before we even know ourselves. Because somewhere along the line, expression got labeled weakness. So now we perform composure while we're falling apart. You'll share your body but not a conversation. And that's not intimacy. But what if being a man really means you care enough to communicate? Real love isn't loud. It's consistent. It's the small things. The small check ins, the shared accountability, the honesty that feels awkward but keeps everyone safe. Stop confusing numbness with dependability. We gotta break the cycle and break the pattern. This special episode of It's Up There podcast with long brought to you by Healthy Sexual from Gilead sciences on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your.

[Jason McIntyre]

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[Danny G]

Never leave home without them Rapid Radios the Official walkie talkie of the DP show how about this? Packed stadium, screaming fans, everyone's trying to send a text your cell is stuck on. No service. Well, you got your Rapid Radio crystal clear reception. Push to talk. Simplicity. Stay in touch instantly, whether it's coordinating with your crew, checking in on your kids, maybe tracking somebody in the crowd, or letting somebody know you can pick me up. Now. We here at the DP show use them in the man cave. Also when I'm on the road we are all in with Rapid Radios, the official walkie talkie of the DP Show. And here's a random testimonial. His name is Joe on top of Great radio the folks at Rapid Radio. Great to work with. Answered all my questions. Never once had a problem and you speak to a real person. No lag, no worries, no problem. Reception crystal clear. Very simple to use. Your connection should be the same. Stay loud, stay connected. Visit rapidradios.com and tell them we sent you.

[Odoo Advertiser]

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[IBM Advertiser]

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[Covino]

Welcome back to the Showgram program. Covino and Rich in for Dan Patrick.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, buddy.

[Covino]

Day three of the segmented hat trick. So if you missed any of our shows during the gooch of the holidays, catch the podcast. We're live from the Fox Sports Radio studio and feeding off the success of our college bracket college basketball bracket challenge. Each March, we decided to do a bracket challenge for the College Football Playoff. With eight teams left standing in college football, it's bracket challenge time. Compete against. I'm not telling you, Chris. I'm trying to win this. Compete against our Fox Sports Race radio hosts and fellow listeners to see who the best college Football playoff bracket is and play for your chance to win a thousand dollars. I did it, Rich. That we all did it.

[Rich Eisen]

You got to do it.

[Covino]

Visit foxsportsradio.iheart.com to register, get rules and fill out your bracket entry will be open until just before kickoff, 7:30pm Eastern on New Year's Eve. Again, fill out your bracket foxsportsradio. I heart for your chance for $1,000.

[Rich Eisen]

That's good luck. That's tomorrow. And don't tell me what to do, but I'll do it. Hey, we talked a lot about the Rams and are they still very dangerous? Yes. Have they caught some tough breaks in four games? I pointed out that could very well have went the other way. Yes. But as you said, Camino, will championship teams find a way to finish? Well, no.

[Covino]

Truth is, and our listeners said it too, on the chat covino and rich FSR on YouTube. You could say that or make this argument for a lot of teams.

[Danny G]

Yeah.

[Covino]

You know, had this happen, had that happen, you know, that's just the name of the game.

[Rich Eisen]

It's like at the end of a 162 game baseball season, you'll be like, if my closer didn't blow this game, this game, in that game, you could go around the league and every fan will tell you, well, you don't think my clothes are blue games?

[Covino]

Yeah, yeah. I mean, but are the Rams good? I get what you're trying to say. I'm not debating that at all. Yeah, they're good and yeah, they were in the game and yeah, they made a nice comeback.

[Rich Eisen]

You know what else?

[Covino]

Special teams came through a few times.

[Rich Eisen]

You know what it also proves when you see Philadelphia held scoreless in the second half and vulnerable offensively even though they were great Defense. When you see the Rams, like, looking flat as hell last night, and then you see the niners scored almost 50 points a week, but they can't stop anyone. Same with the Bears. There's. There's a sense of. I mean, I sound like Chris Harrison ten years ago in the Bachelor. This might be the most exciting season ever.

[Covino]

Yeah. I still get the feeling like it's anyone's season.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah.

[Covino]

Anyone's chance.

[Rich Eisen]

Would you be shocked if I'm going to throw teams out there? Would you be shocked if you saw him in San Francisco beginning of February at the super bowl if I said, yo, dude, the Bears and Ben Johnson and Caleb make a run?

[Odoo Advertiser]

No.

[Rich Eisen]

You wouldn't be shocked if I said. If I said Seattle, who's been a steady, consistent all year long, wouldn't it be shocked. Stafford and the Rams, Niners and Purdy and Kyle Shanahan. You wouldn't be shocked by any of this. You wouldn't be shocked if the Eagles went back. So that makes it so much. I think it's as fun as it's ever been. So, I mean, some people are saying on the chat now, I'm very interactive this morning that the Patriots are Broncos guys, forget about the nfc. This is an AFC year. So we shall see. Drake may, one of your MVP candidates. It would be wild if the Broncos found the way to win.

[Guest Analyst]

Yeah. And I was going to say, it sure feels like the Chargers may hand the Broncos the number one seed, and.

[Rich Eisen]

The Broncos with that number one seed. Correct me if I'm wrong. Let me check. I don't want to be. I don't want to be wrong. We're filling it for Dan Patrick, for goodness sake. Oh.

[Danny G]

Yep.

[Rich Eisen]

The Broncos finally dropped one at home. Remember, they. They were the only.

[Guest Analyst]

Yeah, we called it. We said the Jags were going to.

[Rich Eisen]

Have a statement game when the Jags went into Denver. By the way, that also proves how vulnerable they are. And even though we were like, oh, the one seed is going to be Denver, and, you know, New England's right there. What about the two teams in the AFC South? You tell me right now. You'd be comfortable betting against Houston or Jacksonville right now. Hell, no. So I think this is so wide open. We're about to get some of the best football.

[Covino]

You know, it is. Richard. We've ever had really good teams. There's only one maybe, maybe two standout teams. And I'm thinking exactly what you said. Broncos, Patriots, they've been solid pretty much the whole year.

[Odoo Advertiser]

Yeah, but.

[Covino]

Dude.

[Rich Eisen]

Coming up. But.

[Covino]

But we're just not sold on them for whatever reason.

[Rich Eisen]

Well, Kavino, there's a lot of good teams. I'm not. I disagree with you. But when you think about the Broncos. Yeah, they just sort of snuck by the Chiefs. What was that, Christmas Day? Right. And before that, they beat. They lost to the Jags convincingly. And the Jags and the Texans are your two hottest teams out of the FC right now. You could argue so. I don't know. I'm real big on this being such a fantastic postseason. So we're in luck. I think we all reap the benefits of. Of each team having a clear vulnerability, but each team having a major strength that could whoop someone's ass. So what a great postseason we're about to hit on.

[Guest Analyst]

You know how wild this year is? There's a headline that says Texans playoff scenario. Texans could wind up being the number one seed in the AFC or be out of the playoffs. Think about that.

[Rich Eisen]

That's insane. How could this happen? The Texans.

[Guest Analyst]

The Texans. Texans.

[Rich Eisen]

The Texas. I mean, the Texans have already clinched, Danny. But there's a scenario where they're the ones.

[Guest Analyst]

Well, yeah, this was. This was prior to. Yeah, this was prior to last week's games, but that's how crazy the year was going into week 17.

[Rich Eisen]

Bro, look at. Look at just the swing in. In the strike. Let me. You know how at the. In. When you see the standings, it shows you the streaks, right? Like, I know you love in baseball. Kavina, where it's like, last 10 games gives you a little taste of it, you know, in the NBA also, like how they've done over the last couple weeks, you can't do that in the NFL because there's only 17 games, eight in a row, but Houston's one eight in a row. Yeah, the Jags have won seven in a row, and the Colts have lost six in a row. That division over the last six weeks, like, just flipped one hundred and eighty.

[Caller]

Like you're.

[Rich Eisen]

You know, it's. There was a time where you and I, and not just us, Dan Patrick, Colin Cowherd, all the most respected people on this network we're all talking about, you know, Daniel Jones got the juice to go all the way. Shane Steichen. And Jonathan Taylor was rushing for, like, 120 yards a game, and now he's rushing for, like, 70 yards a game. There was a moment where we all. Shame on us. As George Bush once said, fool me once, shame on. We can't get fooled again.

[Danny G]

We.

[Rich Eisen]

We were all seriously having a conversation on whether or not the Indianapolis Colts could win the, the Super Bowl.

[Covino]

Someone also once threw a shoe at George Bush. So look out your statement that is true. You know, I don't throwing a shoe at you, man. Because there's plenty of articles out there and plenty of stories of the culture. Just playing two seasons in one. It really was. They had a really great start. Daniel Jones goes down. They were struggling a little bit before that, and they've been struggling ever since. Seven in a row, Tokioki. Six in a row. Six losses in a row.

[Rich Eisen]

Tokioki hit us up and he goes, the cult season is like that famous horse meme where one side is drawn perfect and the other side is drawn by a toddler.

[Covino]

Yeah, yeah, I know that one.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, that's the cult season. It really is. Like, how could you be seven one and then eight and two at one point, you know, you win one, you lose one, and now all of a sudden you're like on the outside looking. And at one point, when they were 7:1, I believe their percentage to make the postseason was 98 point something like, something absurd where, you know, you're making it just got to win. Like when they were 8 and 2, you could argue you win two more games, you get, you get to 10 wins and you're likely finding a way. They can't even, they can't even put it together, dude.

[Covino]

I mean, look at the desperate measures the Colts had to do to Steven compete. And we've said it yesterday and everyone's saying it, Philip Rivers did everything he could. He did everything he could. Their defense couldn't really step up. He did everything he could to keep the, the, the team in the game, really. To give him a puncher's chance.

[Rich Eisen]

You know, as I, as I look forward to the wild card weekend, Danny G. I'm not looking past week 18 because there's a hell of a lot of great football, including, you know, we'll talk about all these games. You got to keep your eye on Niner, Seahawks, Raven, Steelers. I mean, Saturday got Panthers, Bucks. I'm not looking past all that.

[Guest Analyst]

Can't wait. Can't wait to see what Herbert's going.

[Rich Eisen]

To do as he just sits there and chills. I, I do want to say that I.

[Covino]

By the way, is that, is that a smart move? I know we're going to get to that, but, like, what are your thoughts on that?

[Rich Eisen]

You know, say that we're going to get to who's sitting and who's resting and whether or not it's a good idea next But I want to point out that I assume, and this is my bad assumption. This is, you know, what are they, miss?

[Danny G]

You assume.

[Rich Eisen]

You make an ass at you and me. That old stupid statement. I assume way too often that other people revolve their weekends around football like I do. You ever notice how stuff keeps popping up on your calendar and you're like, does no one care as much as I do? I'm like, Saturday, January 10th or 11th. Like, people plan things. And I'm like, yeah, that's like wild car weekend or divisional weekend in my mind. January is designated. Like, the weekends don't bother me. It's NFL playoffs in January leading up to the Super Bowl. Do you want to.

[Covino]

I guess the answer here. I'm with you, Rich. I completely agree. I'm like, what the heck's going on?

[Rich Eisen]

I'm not a maniac.

[Covino]

Life still has to move forward.

[Rich Eisen]

I guess I'm not a maniac. But, like, when someone's like, yeah, we're having Tyler's birthday party, you know, Sunday the 11th, I'm like, yeah, well, guess what? Dad's not going to be there. This guy, you know, flag flag football games for my kids or baseball evaluations for the spring season. I'm like, what are we doing? Like, football is on. Do you not watch? Like, what the hell are you watching?

[Covino]

Not every family is as. As invested as you and yours, especially if Mom's making the plans. Not to be sexist. Broad strokes, you know, I feel like dad might be a weenie in this situation.

[Rich Eisen]

Well, hey, your thoughts on the NFL? As we get close to the playoffs, we do have a thought on resting players, and we'll get to all that next. Cavino and Rich in for the late, the great, legendary Dan Patrick right here on retiring.

[Danny G]

Yet.

[Jason McIntyre]

Fox Sports Radio has the best sports talk lineup in the nation. Catch all of our [e-mail] and within the iHeartRadio app. Search FSR to listen live.

[Big Lone]

What's up, y'? All? This is Big Lone from It's Up There podcast. In this powerful episode, we're breaking down the danger of silence and how way too many of us are taught to protect the vibe instead of protecting ourselves. We spend more time researching cars, microphones, sneakers than we will researching on how to protect our bodies and our partners. If you have an honest conversation, one uncomfortable minute can save you a lifetime of regret. The CDC says nearly one in five people carry an STI and most don't even know it. Real intimate isn't built in the dark. It's built in the disclosure condoms testing transparency. Those aren't passion killers, they're peace builders. It's too much risk in our silence. Speak up. You can listen to this special episode of It's Up There podcast with Lonely Brought to you by Healthy Sexual from Gilead sciences on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

[Jason McIntyre]

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[Danny G]

On the Road Never leave home without Them Rapid Radios, the Official Walkie Talkie of the DP show how about this? Packed stadium, screaming fans, everyone's trying to send a text your cell is stuck on. No service. Well, you got your Rapid Radio Crystal clear reception. Push to talk. Simplicity. Stay in touch instantly, whether it's coordinating with your crew, checking in on your kids, maybe tracking somebody in the crowd, or letting somebody know you can pick me up now. We here at the DP show use them in the man cave. Also, when I'm on the road, we are all in with Rapid Radios, the official walkie talkie of the DP Show. And here's a random testimonial. His name is Joe. On top of great radio, the folks at Rapid Radio. Great to work with. Answered all my questions. Never once had a problem and you speak to a real person. No lag, no worries, no problem. Reception crystal clear. Very simple to use. Your connection should be the same. Stay loud. Stay connected. Visit rapidradios.com and tell them we sent you.

[Odoo Advertiser]

Running a business is hard enough, so why make it harder? With a dozen different apps that don't talk to each other. One for sales, another for inventory, a separate one for accounting. Before you know it, you are drowning in software. Instead of growing your business, this is where Odoo comes in. Odoo is the only business software you'll ever need. It's an all in one fully integrated platform that handles everything. CRM, accounting, inventory, E commerce, HR and more. No more app overload. No more juggling logins. Just one seamless system that makes work easier. And the best part? Odoo replaces multiple expensive platforms for a fraction of the cost. It's built to grow with your business, whether you are just starting out or already scaling up. Plus, it's easy to use, customizable and designed to streamline every process so you can focus on what really matters running your business. Thousands of businesses have made the switch, so why not you try Odoo for [e-mail] that's o d o o dot com.

[IBM Advertiser]

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[Covino]

I want to thank the Dan Patrick nation, the Danettes, everybody listening. Ramsey back at the studio. Danny G, everybody, for hanging out with us. Vino and Rich in for Dan Patrick live from the Fox Sports Radio studio. I'm out here in Idaho for the big potato drop coming this New Year's. Yeah, actually, I'll be home before that.

[Jason McIntyre]

You're in.

[Rich Eisen]

You're in charge of sour cream, right? You just scored everyone with sour cream.

[Guest Analyst]

He's got bacon bits in his pocket.

[Covino]

I, I do. Thank you, Danny. That sounds safer. After the show, the DP podcast and on our stream, it goes up. So if you, if you miss any of today's show, the past few shows we've been filling in for, just search Covino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. C O V I N O Covino and Rich. And be sure to follow, rate and review. 5 stars because anything less is uncivilized. Or just watch what you hear. COVINO and Rich FSR on YouTube. You can join the live chat. COVINO Enrich FSR on YouTube.

[Rich Eisen]

Chat's popping. And by the way, like you said, get involved. It's. It's free. Watch what you hear. YouTube.comino and Rich. I saw a funny meme. Covino. It was just a, you know, a swipe of like 10 different memes.

[Covino]

I heard you laughing out loud. Rich is like the guy on the plane that laughs out loud just hoping that everyone notices him having a, having a blast, having a grand old time. What's going on there?

[Rich Eisen]

Oh, nothing. It's just we forget how quickly, you know, a season of sports or a year moves along. Like, I saw someone recap all the big stories and headlines from 2025. And some of these things I totally forgot happened just because it seems like a long time ago. But it's been this year, but it was NFL moments. Like, oh, I'll never forget. It's like I'll never forget week one through five, Baker Mayfield. I'll never forget, you know, first half of the year, Jonathan Taylor. And it's just all like, all the highs and lows of an NFL season. Like, I'll never. I'll never forget weeks five and six, Kendrick Bourne. I'll never forget Trey McBride at the one point of the season. Like, there were. There are moments in the season that feel like a different season because narratives change week to week to week. And we've talked about this.

[Covino]

I think we were saying Daniel Jones MVP at one point and back. Oh, we were definitely saying Mayfield MVP at one point and now they lost four in a row. It's like their season fell apart too. So, yeah, it's a short but long season. Anything could happen.

[Rich Eisen]

No diggity. No doubt. Now, let's go to a couple phone calls about the NFL as we head to the playoffs. And I know you and I had thoughts on resting players and like, this has been a conversation every year and it always comes up like the pros and cons and is it right? Is it fair?

[Covino]

Is it a boss move or a buns.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah. So let's say hi to Kevin in Ohio. What's up, Kevin? Hey, guys.

[Caller]

How's it going?

[Covino]

We're good, man.

[Rich Eisen]

What's up?

[Caller]

Well, first off, you can't leave the 5 o' clock time slot. I need you on the way home.

[Rich Eisen]

Okay, perfect.

[Caller]

We're here. Able to hear you right now. Two quick things. One from yesterday didn't out. Didn't you hear from Brady Bunch? Never play ball in the house. And second, this NFL playoff doesn't have a villain. Like, we can't. There's not really anybody aside from personal hatred. Like, I'm a Lions fan, so if the stadium crumbles on the Bears or the Packers, I'm all right with it. But aside from that, there's not really a villain.

[Covino]

There's no I. There's no, there's no villain because there's no one that hated all and. And everyone seems or appears to be vulnerable. And that's really it.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, I guess the closest thing to a villain is, you know, Eagles and Philadelphia fans, you know, maybe aren't the, you know, other people don't love them so much. I don't think anyone's like, man, I would love to see an Eagles repeat. Besides that, I feel like even as a Niners and I know they have a legacy, but they haven't won since Steve Young in the 90s. So every story for every team feels like there's a cool storyline. Like, oh, Sam Darnold with the Seahawks gets over the hump. Josh Allen finally wins one. The Patriots bounce back with Drake May after a dynasty. Like every team has a storyline that wouldn't really bum you out. Aaron Rodgers wins one with the Steelers. I mean, unlikely, but again, every storyline. You're right. There is no villain. That's a great point, Kev. Let's go to Mitch in Jersey. Hey, Mitch.

[Caller]

Happy holidays, guys. Thanks for the call.

[Danny G]

No problem, man.

[Rich Eisen]

What's up?

[Caller]

Do it. All these NFL games is perfect. Don't add any more teams. I like the first weekend and championship is awesome. That in the super bowl usually I was kind of hoping to be 49ers and bills only because I'm, I like the Bosa brothers. So I kind of pull them for the 49ers and I wish they go back to most of these college football games, you know, 31st and third. Why is USC playing so late? 9:00 clock tonight they were top 16, almost made the playoffs. 12 is a good number. And 9:00', clock, it's, it's ridiculous. You know, the sun rises east. Come on.

[Rich Eisen]

I know. You know, I, I think, I think while the super bowl is fun, I think. Would you agree that divisional weekend might be the best weekend of football?

[Danny G]

Right.

[Rich Eisen]

Divisional weekend is where it's at even wild card now with that Monday night edition. So listen, we're entering like the most fun time of the year as far as sports watching. So we'll talk more NFL playoffs week 18. All that good stuff. Next, filling in for the great Dan, Patrick Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. Hang tight.

[Jason McIntyre]

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[Danny G]

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[Covino]

No one wants to think about HIV, but there are things that everyone can do to help prevent it. Things like prep. PREP stands for Pre Exposure Prophylaxis, and it means routinely taking prescription medicine before you're exposed to HIV to help reduce your chances of getting it. Prep can be about 99% effective when taken as prescribed. It doesn't protect against other STIs, though, so be sure to use condoms and other healthy sex practices. Ask a healthcare provider about all your prevention Options and visit findoutaboutprep.com to learn more. Sponsored by Gilead what a matchup we got y'.

[Big Lone]

All.

[Rich Eisen]

This is that classic HBCU vibe. Non stop action. The band is rocking and the crowd lit. Chance echo drum beat everybody showing that school pride game like this. Yeah, it calls for an ice cold Coca Cola. Ah, crisp and refreshing.

[Covino]

That's a game changer right there.

[Rich Eisen]

Yeah, that taste always hits the right note.

[Covino]

Just like the band at halftime.

[Rich Eisen]

And just like that, we're back at it. Passionate fans, school colors everywhere and an ice cold Coca Cola.

[Covino]

That's a winning combo no matter the.

[Rich Eisen]

Sport, no matter the yard. Everybody knows fan work is thirsty work. So grab a Coca Cola and keep.

[Covino]

That HBCU pride going.

[Jason McIntyre]

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[Covino]

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