The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 1: The NBA Cup and Falcons QB Issues

Release Date: December 17, 2024

1. Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, hosts Dan Patrick, Marvin, Paulie, and the backroom crew delve into pressing sports topics, primarily focusing on the NBA's declining ratings and the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback predicament. The conversation is marked by insightful analysis, candid opinions, and a touch of humor, making it accessible and engaging for both regular listeners and newcomers.

2. The NBA Cup and Declining Ratings

a. Overview of the NBA's Current Challenges

Dan Patrick opens the discussion by addressing the NBA's struggle with declining television ratings. He attributes this downturn to factors like load management and a perceived lack of excitement in the games.

• Dan Patrick [12:45]: "Ratings are down with the NBA, and I don't know if you can pinpoint a reason. I always go back to, if they don't care, I don't care."

b. Introduction of the NBA Cup

To combat these issues, the NBA has introduced the "Cup," an in-season tournament featuring teams like the Bucks and Thunder. Dan expresses skepticism about its effectiveness in reviving interest.

• Dan Patrick [15:30]: "The NBA Cup, Todd. It's about the Cup tonight. Bucks, Thunder tonight on ABC. All the marbles. It's for the Cup."

c. Critique of NBA's Innovation Efforts

The hosts critique the NBA's attempts to innovate, suggesting that changes like load management haven't resonated with fans. They emphasize the need for more substantial and fan-centric innovations.

• Marvin [20:10]: "No, no, no. You got to get to the point where can we keep up? Can we keep our place in the sports landscape here?"

• Dan Patrick [22:55]: "Remember with baseball, the pitch clock. Oh God, the base is going to be a little bit larger. Nobody complains about him now."

d. Suggestions for Future Improvements

The conversation turns to potential ideas to rejuvenate the NBA's appeal, such as introducing dynamic elements to the games or leveraging star players more effectively.

• Dan Patrick [25:40]: "Maybe add something to those colorful courts. Maybe there's a blinking three-point line. Maybe there's something inside."

• Caller – Colin from New York [30:15]: "Why don't we combine the NBA and the WNBA? Have rules where you have to have three guys and two women on the court."

3. Atlanta Falcons' Quarterback Dilemma

a. Current State of the Falcons' Quarterback Situation

Shifting gears, the hosts tackle the Atlanta Falcons' ongoing issues with their quarterback position, highlighting the performance of Kirk Cousins and the potential of Michael Penix Jr.

• Dan Patrick [35:50]: "Kirk Cousins is our starter right now, but anything could change at any moment."

b. Coach Raheem Morris' Handling of the Situation

The discussion critiques Coach Raheem Morris' responses during press conferences, suggesting evasiveness and lack of clear strategy regarding quarterback performance and potential replacements.

• Raheem Morris [38:20]: "We're going with Kirk Cousins, but everything could change at any moment."

• Dan Patrick [40:05]: "He's completely under contract for a lot of money next year. Any chance the Falcons look at what Denver did and say we may have to eat one year..."

c. Fan and Host Reactions

Listeners and hosts express frustration over the lack of transparency and decisiveness from the Falcons' coaching staff, questioning the future direction of the team.

• Marvin [42:30]: "We're trying to win football games. The NFL doesn't get to screw it up. And the NBA is kind of trying to hold on for dear life."

• Paulie [44:10]: "Once again, easy with the smart stuff. There's no bad ideas when it comes to fixing the NBA."

4. Additional Sports Insights

While the primary focus remains on the NBA and Falcons, the hosts also touch upon other sports news, including:

• Vikings vs. Bears: Vikings improve to 12-2, Bears drop to 4-10.

• Raiders' Struggles: Raiders stand at 2-12, still in contention for the number one overall pick.

• Colleges Eyeing Michael Vick: Norfolk State and Sacramento State showing interest.

5. Interactive Segment and Listener Engagement

Throughout the episode, Dan Patrick encourages listener participation through polls and calls, fostering a sense of community and engagement. Notably, the poll question revolves around identifying NFL franchises perceived as being in the worst shape, listing teams like the Bears, Giants, Panthers, Raiders, Browns, Jaguars, and Titans.

• Dan Patrick [50:25]: "Which NFL franchise feels like it is in the worst shape? Bears, Giants, Panthers, Raiders, Browns, Jaguars, Titans?"

6. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a reiteration of the main topics and a reminder of upcoming segments featuring guests like Maurice Jones-Drew and NFL analyst Greg Olson. The hosts maintain their blend of serious analysis and lighthearted banter, leaving listeners anticipating future discussions.

• Dan Patrick [55:00]: "The Cup. Looking for excitement? Jumbo Casino is here. Play anytime. Play anywhere."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dan Patrick [12:45]: "Ratings are down with the NBA, and I don't know if you can pinpoint a reason. I always go back to, if they don't care, I don't care."

• Marvin [20:10]: "No, no, no. You got to get to the point where can we keep up? Can we keep our place in the sports landscape here?"

• Dan Patrick [25:40]: "Maybe add something to those colorful courts. Maybe there's a blinking three-point line. Maybe there's something inside."

• Raheem Morris [38:20]: "We're going with Kirk Cousins, but everything could change at any moment."

• Dan Patrick [40:05]: "He's completely under contract for a lot of money next year. Any chance the Falcons look at what Denver did and say we may have to eat one year..."

• Dan Patrick [50:25]: "Which NFL franchise feels like it is in the worst shape? Bears, Giants, Panthers, Raiders, Browns, Jaguars, Titans?"

Final Thoughts

This episode provides a comprehensive look into the current state of the NBA and the Atlanta Falcons, offering listeners thoughtful commentary and provoking questions about the future of these franchises. Dan Patrick and his co-hosts effectively balance critique with constructive suggestions, making for an informative and engaging listen.