The Dan Patrick Show
Episode: Hour 2 – Jay Cutler Hunting Backlash, Unexpected Musical Interlude
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
Introduction
Broadcasting live from the MLB All Star Village in Atlanta, hosts Steve Covino and Rich Davis engage listeners with a blend of sports commentary, humor, and current events. The episode centers around the controversial actions of former NFL quarterback Jay Cutler and delves into the excitement surrounding the MLB All Star break.
MLB All Star Break and Standings
Covino and Rich kick off the discussion by highlighting the intense competition within the American League East. They commend the Boston Red Sox for their impressive 10-game winning streak, which has bolstered their position in the standings:
- Rich Davis ([07:59]): “10 in a row, by the way, I believe is the hottest streak, the longest streak heading into an All Star break. So props to them.”
The hosts also touch upon the overall competitiveness of both the American and National Leagues, noting how multiple teams are within striking distance for postseason spots. They highlight their friendly wager on the Mets and Yankees, with the Mets currently holding a slight edge:
- Covino ([09:09]): “We have a thousand dollar bet on who has the better season, the best record, and $100 for every game.”
- Rich ([09:17]): “Yeah. Right now the Mets are a game and a half better.”
Jay Cutler's Hunting Backlash
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Jay Cutler's recent actions on social media, where he posted images of himself hunting a giant sable antelope in Africa. The hosts express confusion and disapproval, emphasizing the ethical and conservation concerns surrounding his actions:
- Covino ([09:39]): “He is getting lit up on social media. Former NFL quarterback... he killed some cool ass looking thing with big horns for fun.”
- Rich ([10:22]): “Social media is torching ex NFL QB Jay Cutler for killing an endangered species on an African hunt.”
They explore the backlash Cutler faced, debating whether his actions were premeditated to garner attention or a genuine hunting pursuit. The hosts consider the possibility that Cutler may have been seeking relevance through his controversial post:
- Covino ([16:28]): “There's got to be something deliberate about him either being maybe just, you know, is he that blind to the feedback he'd get? Or is he that much of that proud?”
Listener interactions reveal differing perspectives. One caller from Montana offers a conservationist viewpoint, explaining that the hunt may have been part of a controlled effort to manage an endangered population:
- Listener from Montana ([20:18]): “So if it's endangered, then it's obviously protected. There's probably a tribe that is in charge of conserving the population that's left.”
Covino and Rich remain skeptical, questioning the motives and ethics behind Cutler's actions while acknowledging the complexity of wildlife management:
- Rich ([21:14]): “I looked it up and it said that antelope meat is good eaten as long as it's not overcooked.”
They conclude that while hunting for sport is generally accepted among certain communities, targeting a critically endangered species in Africa crosses ethical boundaries and warrants public criticism.
Home Run Derby and MLB All Star Village Experience
Shifting focus back to the MLB All Star festivities, Covino and Rich share their excitement about attending the Home Run Derby. They describe the lively atmosphere, interactive games, and live entertainment available at the Cobb Galleria Baseball Fun area:
- Covino ([04:08]): “Now, this is the ultimate baseball hotspot... Tomorrow, head to the Cobb Galleria Baseball Fun, live entertainment, interactive games.”
The hosts humorously describe their attempts to catch foul balls and participate in the festivities, enhancing the listener's sense of being present at the event:
- Rich ([04:22]): “It's awesome, no?”
- Covino ([04:21]): “Yeah.”
They also discuss the quality of the All Star Game compared to other sports events, expressing a preference for the Home Run Derby over the Pro Bowl:
- Covino ([34:16]): “The slam dunk contest used to have buzz back in the day. I think the Home Run Derby is number one.”
Sports Draft and the Feeling of Getting Old
A recurring theme in the episode is the sentiment of aging, particularly fueled by observing the next generation of MLB players entering the draft. Hosts reflect on how famous sons and relatives of former stars are being drafted, prompting a realization of the passage of time:
- Covino ([37:35]): “When you hear those names, you do make you wonder too if it's nature or nurture.”
- Rich ([37:49]): “But this is a very special class of draft picks...”
They humorously critique the resemblance and perceived lack of talent among some of the new draftees, highlighting names like Kaden Kent and Max McGuire:
- Rich ([38:42]): “He has that little weenie mustache just like his dad. Jeff Kent.”
- Covino ([39:43]): “You can't be a Kent without a mustache.”
The discussion extends to how seeing these young players makes them feel older, coupled with nostalgic reflections on past baseball heroes:
- Rich ([40:23]): “And there's a story about Deshaun Watson...”
Listener Interactions and Additional Topics
Throughout the episode, Covino and Rich engage with listeners, addressing their comments and questions. They share personal anecdotes, such as Rich's humorous take on having a "get off my lawn" sign, which underscores the relatable aspects of aging and parenthood:
- Rich ([48:35]): “I have an embarrassing story from Mexico. I'll share in a little bit...”
They also briefly touch upon unrelated topics, including the excitement of musical guests and the vibrant energy at the All Star Village, maintaining a light-hearted and entertaining atmosphere:
- Rich ([22:54]): “Alex Van Halen? Is that Tito Puente? What's going on?”
- Covino ([23:09]): “Hey.”
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Covino and Rich continue to intertwine their discussions on MLB events, Jay Cutler’s controversy, and the bittersweet realization of aging. Their dynamic rapport, infused with humor and candid opinions, offers listeners an engaging and multifaceted exploration of current sports topics.
They encourage listeners to tune in to their live broadcasts, participate in upcoming events, and stay connected through various platforms:
- Rich ([31:41]): “So Fox Sports Radio Nation, we're here for MLB All Star break. We'll be at the derby tonight. Bushwhacking in the outfield. Look out for us.”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Rich Davis ([07:59]): “10 in a row, by the way, I believe is the hottest streak, the longest streak heading into an All Star break. So props to them.”
- Covino ([09:39]): “He is getting lit up on social media. Former NFL quarterback... he killed some cool ass looking thing with big horns for fun.”
- Rich Davis ([10:22]): “Social media is torching ex NFL QB Jay Cutler for killing an endangered species on an African hunt.”
- Covino ([37:35]): “When you hear those names, you do make you wonder too if it's nature or nurture.”
- Rich Davis ([48:35]): “I have an embarrassing story from Mexico. I'll share in a little bit...”
This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a blend of sports enthusiasm, critical analysis of celebrity actions, and a humorous take on the inevitable passage of time, making it both informative and entertaining for a diverse audience.