The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 2 – Rick Neuheisel, Louis Riddick

Release Date: April 25, 2025

In the second hour of The Dan Patrick Show, hosts Dan Patrick and Paul Pabst engage in a comprehensive discussion on the 2025 NFL Draft, featuring insights from special guest Rick Neuheisel, a seasoned college football analyst and former head coach. The conversation delves into draft strategies, player evaluations, and the implications of recent draft decisions, all while maintaining the show’s signature blend of humor and in-depth sports analysis.

Introduction and Guest Welcome

The hour kicks off with Paul Pabst introducing the segment as "Meat Friday," signaling an energetic and engaging discussion ahead. Dan Patrick shares a personal anecdote about receiving an unexpected hug from a fan, setting a lighthearted tone for the conversation.

Dan Patrick at [03:07]: "I got a hug very recently, about two minutes ago. An extended hug there."

NFL Draft Analysis: Shador Sanders and Quarterback Selections

The primary focus of the hour is the 2025 NFL Draft, with particular attention paid to quarterback selections. Dan and Paul discuss the surprising slide of Shador Sanders—a highly talented quarterback and son of Deion Sanders—who wasn't drafted in the first round as many anticipated.

Dan Patrick at [28:09]: "He's one of the best quarterbacks in the country... he slid."

Rick Neuheisel provides his expert analysis, expressing both surprise and understanding of why Sanders might not have been a first-round pick despite his on-field prowess.

Rick Neuheisel at [09:49]: "He's a courageous player in the pocket... he stands in there and takes people right in his face and still throws accurately."

Team Strategies and Quarterback Market Dynamics

The conversation shifts to team strategies, particularly focusing on the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Neuheisel critiques Cleveland’s decision not to draft Shador Sanders, suggesting that trading up could have benefited them by securing a franchise quarterback.

Rick Neuheisel at [08:52]: "If I was Cleveland, I would have taken him for a number of reasons... He's going to put people in the stands."

Discussing the Steelers, Neuheisel voices concerns over their lack of a second-round pick and their future at quarterback, highlighting the precarious situation they face without securing a dependable QB.

Rick Neuheisel at [14:06]: "Pittsburgh... what are they going to do at quarterback now? It's Aaron Rodgers or bust."

Player Evaluations and Recommendations

Dan Patrick passionately advocates for picking Shador Sanders, citing his exceptional talent and potential to transform a franchise. He compares Sanders' impact to that of legendary players he's played with, emphasizing Sanders' natural athleticism and game-changing abilities.

Dan Patrick at [35:07]: "He is maybe the most throw for throw, most talented thrower in this draft... You just haven't heard about him."

Neuheisel echoes the sentiment, praising Sanders' dual-threat capabilities and his potential to redefine how quarterbacks are evaluated in the NFL.

Rick Neuheisel at [10:13]: "Travis Hunter is a unique athlete... the Swiss army knife of Jacksonville's franchise."

Light-Hearted Moments and Musical Interlude

The show takes a humorous turn when Rick Neuheisel improvises a song, showcasing his playful side and adding a relaxed dynamic to the intense analysis.

Rick Neuheisel at [16:11]: "So this is how this worked, ladies and gentlemen. I get a call this morning... And by the way, did you all know that I was born in Wisconsin..."

Neuheisel continues with a comical narrative about his birthplace and interactions, much to the amusement of Dan and Paul.

Host Banter and Listener Interactions

Throughout the hour, Dan and Paul engage in spirited banter, discussing personal anecdotes, listener calls, and the atmosphere at the draft events. They update listeners on poll results regarding which team made the better move between the Browns and the Jaguars, reflecting the audience’s engagement with the draft outcomes.

Dan Patrick at [06:24]: "Right now we got up there long term, who made the better move, the Browns or the Jaguars? 67. Say the Jaguars."

They also interact with callers, addressing their thoughts on draft picks and sharing humorous stories from the draft venue, enhancing the show’s interactive and relatable appeal.

Closing Remarks and Transition

As the hour progresses, the hosts wrap up their discussions on draft strategies, reiterating their support for key players like Shador Sanders and Travis Hunter. They tease upcoming segments, including "Rhyme Time," and mention future guests like Louis Riddick, ensuring listeners remain engaged and anticipate future episodes.

Dan Patrick at [40:12]: "The 40s and free agents podcast with Daniel Jeremiah and Greg Rosenthal has prepared you for the 2025 NFL Draft... Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio."

Conclusion

Hour 2 of The Dan Patrick Show offers a deep dive into the complexities of the NFL Draft, enriched by expert analysis from Rick Neuheisel and the dynamic interplay between Dan Patrick and Paul Pabst. From dissecting quarterback selections to engaging in lighthearted banter, the episode provides listeners with a thorough and entertaining overview of the draft's key moments and implications for the upcoming NFL season.

Notable Quotes:

• Rick Neuheisel at [09:49]: "He's a courageous player in the pocket... he stands in there and takes people right in his face and still throws accurately."

• Dan Patrick at [35:07]: "He is maybe the most throw for throw, most talented thrower in this draft... You just haven't heard about him."

• Rick Neuheisel at [16:11]: "So this is how this worked, ladies and gentlemen. I get a call this morning..."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, ensuring that both regular listeners and newcomers can grasp the key discussions, insights, and the engaging nature of The Dan Patrick Show.