The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 2: Heisman Reaction with Ross Tucker Release Date: December 16, 2024

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick welcomes Ross Tucker to delve into the latest developments in college football, Heisman Trophy reactions, the transfer portal's impact on the College Football Playoff, standout NFL performances, and a lively discussion on the best and worst moments of the weekend. The conversation is enriched with insightful analysis, passionate opinions, and notable quotes that capture the essence of the topics discussed.

Heisman Trophy Reaction

The episode kicks off with an in-depth discussion on the recent Heisman Trophy announcement, where Colorado's Travis Hunter clinched the prestigious award. Ross Tucker shares his initial surprise and candid reactions to the outcome.

Ross Tucker [03:54]:
"I really felt like I should have walked away with the award. But, you know, kudos to Travis and, you know, for winning. But it's simple as that."

Tucker elaborates on his support for Ashton Gentee of Boise State, emphasizing his belief that Gentee was a strong contender and deserved recognition.

Ross Tucker [05:00]:
"Ashton Gentee has every right to feel like he should have won the Heisman, put up a great year, and his team is in the playoffs."

He also highlights Shador Sanders' impressive performance and toughness, considering Sanders as a potential future NFL player.

Ross Tucker [05:30]:
"Shador Sanders stays in the pocket and he takes hits. And something to be said for that."

The conversation underscores the competitive nature of the Heisman race, with Tucker mentioning other notable candidates like Cam Ward and Dylan Gabriel, while pointing out the absence of an SEC player in the top 10 balloting.

Ross Tucker [06:30]:
"There were probably five to seven legitimate Heisman candidates. And, you know, you like seeing some of these other players get recognized."

College Football Playoff and Transfer Portal

Dan Patrick shifts the focus to the College Football Playoff, particularly addressing the implications of players entering the transfer portal during the postseason.

Dan Patrick [24:40]:
"I live in central Pennsylvania. And Penn State's backup quarterback, Bo Prabula, who plays like 20 snaps a game because Penn State has this creative offensive coordinator, announced last night that he's going into the transfer portal and will not be with the team for the College Football Playoff."

Ross Tucker expresses his frustration with the situation, highlighting the challenges it poses for both the player and the team.

Ross Tucker [27:36]:
"If you're at any of these other programs, name it, Memphis or Central Michigan, I don't care. Ohio State, they need to know who their quarterback's going to be. And if Kabula can't say yes to them, they got to move on to the next kid."

The hosts delve into the broader impact of the transfer portal, discussing how it disrupts team dynamics and affects the strategic planning of college programs.

Dan Patrick [29:02]:
"This is a major, major problem for college football."

Outstanding NFL Performances: Josh Allen

The discussion transitions to the NFL, with a spotlight on Josh Allen's stellar performances. Ross Tucker praises Allen's consistency and his unique skill set.

Ross Tucker [08:49]:
"Josh Allen is the only quarterback in the last 50 years to have three consecutive games you weren't sacked? No fumbles, no interceptions, no negative yardage plays."

Dan Patrick echoes this sentiment, lauding Allen's physical attributes and his dual-threat capability that sets him apart from his peers.

Dan Patrick [35:09]:
"He's a better version of Cam Newton. And Cam Newton was an MVP, better passer. But you give that dual threat and he's truly a dual threat."

The hosts discuss the implications of Allen's performance on his MVP candidacy, with both agreeing that he's a strong frontrunner given his recent form.

Transfer Portal Impact on College Teams

Back to college football, Dan Patrick raises concerns about the transfer of key players from Penn State amidst playoff preparations.

Dan Patrick [26:34]:
"This would be like if NFL free agency was the second week of January. I hate this for Penn State. I hate this for the kid."

Ross Tucker expands on the issue, noting that other programs are eager to secure talented players and are actively pursuing transfers even during the playoff season.

Ross Tucker [27:50]:
"These schools who are looking for these players now because the transfer portal is open, they are saying to them or their representatives, we don't want you playing another game if we're going to bring you in and give you NIL."

The conversation highlights the urgency and competitiveness of the transfer market, emphasizing the difficulties teams face in retaining talent during critical periods.

Best and Worst of the Weekend

In a lighter segment, Dan Patrick and Ross Tucker share their picks for the best and worst moments of the weekend in sports.

Best of the Weekend:

1. Travis Hunter's Emotional Heisman Speech
   Tucker commends Hunter's heartfelt acknowledgment of his support system during his acceptance speech.

   Ross Tucker [43:11]:
   "Travis Hunter's emotional speech Saturday night at the Heisman presentation and how grateful he was to family, friends, coaches and teammates. I was moved by that."

2. Mike Evans' Stellar Performance
   Celebrating Mike Evans' impressive statistics and his contribution to the game.

   Ross Tucker [45:00]:
   "Mike Evans was three for 15 from three-point range. Vintage performance, some might say."

Worst of the Weekend:

1. Marshall Bowing Out of the Independence Bowl
   Tucker expresses disappointment over Marshall's exit from the bowl due to players entering the transfer portal after a coaching change.

   Ross Tucker [43:49]:
   "Marshall bowing out of the Radiance Technologies Independence bowl against Army because several of their players entered the transfer portal after the school made a coaching change."

2. Seahawks’ Lime Green Uniforms
   Dan Patrick criticizes the Seahawks' uniform choices, finding them unattractive.

   Dan Patrick [46:22]:
   "Worst of the weekend, the Seahawks uniforms. Oh, my goodness. The lime green. Horrendous."

These selections provide listeners with a balanced view of the highs and lows experienced throughout the weekend's sporting events.

Trivia and Lighthearted Banter

The show features a brief trivia segment where Dan and Ross engage in a quarterback-related question, leading to humorous exchanges and playful competition.

Dan Patrick [50:13]:
"It was with the 2012 quarterback, but I just, I'm not good at the trivia thing."

Despite the mix-up, the segment adds a fun element to the discussion, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and quick wit.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the intense nature of college football and the evolving landscape influenced by the transfer portal. They reiterate the significance of player retention and the strategic challenges faced by collegiate programs.

Dan Patrick [35:09]:
"Very sad. This was supposed to be their year. Now Dan Campbell says it might be season enders for Aleem McNeil, their best defensive lineman, their last defensive lineman standing, and Carlton Davis, who's probably their best corner."

Ross Tucker [38:17]:
"Safe travels. Thanks for joining us."

Ross Tucker credits his insights as a CBS Sports and Westwood One analyst, setting the stage for future discussions and appearances on upcoming episodes.

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive analysis of current college football dynamics, award reactions, and standout performances in the NFL, all delivered with the trademark humor and depth that listeners have come to expect. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or a casual listener, this episode provides valuable perspectives and engaging conversations that keep you informed and entertained.