Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 2: Justin Tucker Has the Yips, Matt Leinart

Release Date: November 19, 2024

Host: Dan Patrick
Guest: Matt Leinert, Former Heisman Trophy Winner
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
Description: In this engaging episode, Dan Patrick delves deep into the current struggles of NFL kicker Justin Tucker, explores the evolving role of kickers in football, and features insightful discussions with former Heisman winner Matt Leinert. The episode also touches on team performances, personal anecdotes, and community initiatives, providing listeners with a comprehensive look at both on-field and off-field topics.

1. Justin Tucker’s Struggles: The Yips?

Timestamp: [04:46]

Dan Patrick opens the discussion by addressing the surprising performance dip of Baltimore Ravens' kicker, Justin Tucker. Known for his unparalleled accuracy, Tucker has faced challenges this season, missing crucial kicks that have sparked conversations about the infamous “yips.”

Dan Patrick:
"Justin Tucker has not been good this season. You could make a case he might be recognized as the greatest kicker in NFL history, certainly with accuracy, but not with big kicks."
[04:46]

Matt Leinert:
"Justin Tucker’s consistency is usually what sets him apart, but this season has raised legitimate concerns."
[07:52]

2. The Role and Perception of Kickers in the NFL

Timestamp: [06:14]

The conversation shifts to a broader analysis of the kicker position in the NFL, comparing Tucker to historical figures and discussing how kickers are often remembered more for their misses than their successes.

Dan Patrick:
"It's hard to make a name for yourself as a kicker. A lot of times, you live in infamy of, oh, that's the kicker who missed a big game-winning kick."
[06:14]

Matt Leinert:
"Being a kicker is one of the toughest positions. The pressure is immense because one kick can change everything."
[07:52]

3. Comparing Careers: Justin Tucker vs. Tony Romo

Timestamp: [11:03]

Dan engages the audience with a poll comparing the careers of Justin Tucker and former quarterback Tony Romo, sparking insightful debates on legacy, Hall of Fame prospects, and the differing pressures of their respective positions.

Dan Patrick:
"Whose career would you want, Todd? Justin Tucker or Tony Romo?"
[11:03]

Paulie:
"I'm going to go with Tony Romo."
[12:23]

Seton:
"I'm going to say Justin Tucker all day, actually."
[12:29]

4. Team Performance Analysis: Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans

Timestamp: [05:44]

The discussion transitions to the performance of the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans, highlighting the Cowboys' defensive struggles at home and the Texans' surprising climb to a 7-4 record.

Dan Patrick:
"The Dallas Cowboys have been outscored 187 to 69 at home this season. And to give you context, the last team to be outscored by more points through the first five home games was the 2013 Jacksonville Jaguars."
[05:44]

Paulie:
"The Texans handling the Cowboys 34 to 10. Texans now 7 and 4. The Cowboys drop to 3 and 7."
[05:44]

5. Matt Leinert on the Evolution of Football

Timestamp: [22:26]

Matt Leinert provides a thoughtful analysis of how football has evolved over the years, particularly focusing on the changing dynamics of the quarterback position and the strategic shifts in modern offenses.

Matt Leinert:
"The game has really shifted from my personal style of play. You’ve got to be able to move, do a lot of other things in this day and age of football."
[22:26]

Dan Patrick:
"Are the days of the drop-back passer gone or kind of becoming extinct?"
[23:09]

6. Personal Anecdotes: Matt Leinert’s Experiences with Kobe Bryant

Timestamp: [32:07]

Matt Leinert shares heartfelt stories about his personal interactions with the late Kobe Bryant, highlighting their friendship and mutual respect, which adds a personal touch to the episode.

Matt Leinert:
"I met Kobe in Newport Beach through a mutual friend. We had conversations about football and life, and I really got to know him outside of the professional sphere."
[32:07]

Dan Patrick:
"Tell me what you're doing with Abbott. The We Give Blood drive in conjunction with the Big Ten."
[34:01]

7. Community Initiatives: Abbott’s Blood Drive Campaign

Timestamp: [34:06]

Highlighting Matt Leinert’s involvement in Abbott’s “We Give Blood” campaign, the episode underscores the importance of community service and the critical need for blood donations.

Matt Leinert:
"Abbott has partnered with all Big Ten schools to launch a competition to see who can donate the most blood. The school that donates the most blood gets a million dollars for advanced student or community health."
[34:06]

8. USC Football Update

Timestamp: [35:21]

Matt provides a concise update on the USC Trojans football team, discussing current challenges, expectations, and prospects for the upcoming games, reflecting his deep understanding of college football dynamics.

Matt Leinert:
"USC is in a challenging spot this year. The expectations are really high, and they need to build a championship team. There’s still stuff to play for, and some exciting opportunities ahead."
[35:21]

9. Interactive Segment: Dun, Dun, or I'm Back In

Timestamp: [45:36]

In a lively interactive segment, Dan and his guests play the game “Dun, Dun, or I’m Back In,” predicting whether certain teams can make the playoffs. This segment adds an entertaining and engaging element to the show.

Dan Patrick:
"Little curveball here. BYU football."
[45:36]

Seton:
"Dun, dun."
[46:03]

Paulie:
"I think the Celts are going to motivate Cleveland to their first loss."
[49:23]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dan Patrick on Justin Tucker’s Struggles:
  "Justin Tucker has not been good this season. You could make a case he might be recognized as the greatest kicker in NFL history, certainly with accuracy, but not with big kicks."
  [04:46]

• Matt Leinert on the Pressure of Kicking:
  "Being a kicker is one of the toughest positions. The pressure is immense because one kick can change everything."
  [07:52]

• Dan Patrick on the Legacy of Kickers:
  "It's hard to make a name for yourself as a kicker. A lot of times, you live in infamy of, oh, that's the kicker who missed a big game-winning kick."
  [06:14]

• Matt Leinert on Football Evolution:
  "The game has really shifted from my personal style of play. You’ve got to be able to move, do a lot of other things in this day and age of football."
  [22:26]

• Matt Leinert’s Anecdote on Kobe Bryant:
  "I met Kobe in Newport Beach through a mutual friend. We had conversations about football and life, and I really got to know him outside of the professional sphere."
  [32:07]

• Matt Leinert on Abbott’s Blood Drive:
  "Abbott has partnered with all Big Ten schools to launch a competition to see who can donate the most blood. The school that donates the most blood gets a million dollars for advanced student or community health."
  [34:06]

Conclusion:

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, listeners are treated to an in-depth exploration of Justin Tucker's unexpected performance issues, coupled with broader discussions on the role of kickers in football and the evolution of the quarterback position. Matt Leinert brings valuable insights from his experience, personal stories, and involvement in community initiatives, making for a well-rounded and engaging listen. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of the sport, this episode offers a rich blend of analysis, personal anecdotes, and interactive segments that keep the conversation lively and informative.