The Dan Patrick Show
Episode: Hour 2 – Shedeur Sanders Doesn’t Need to Throw at the Combine, NFL Rule Changes
Release Date: February 24, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Introduction and Opening Banter

Timestamp: 00:00 - 07:00

The episode kicks off with Dan Patrick and his co-hosts engaging in light-hearted conversation about returning from vacation. They share amusing anecdotes about witnessing people drinking at airport bars early in the morning, setting a casual and humorous tone for the show.

Dan Patrick:
"I've actually been with people that I work with. In fact, maybe people in this room where I've walked by and it's 8 in the morning and we're getting ready for like a 9 o'clock flight and you're like, you're having a beer."
— [02:15]

Shedeur Sanders and the NFL Combine

Timestamp: 07:00 - 20:00

The primary focus shifts to Shedeur Sanders, a promising quarterback prospect, and his decision not to throw at the NFL Combine. Dan and his panel dissect the implications of Sanders' choice, comparing it to other quarterbacks who have opted out of throwing sessions in previous years.

Dan Patrick:
"Shador Sanders is doing what other quarterbacks have done. First-round draft picks not throwing. The draft process has evolved, and skipping the throwing portion of the combine isn't a red flag. It's just the new norm."
— [09:45]

Seaton:
"I'm thinking sometimes when you get caught up in the note, take the approach. Let's look at game film, let's talk to coaches who coached against this guy..."
— [11:30]

The discussion emphasizes that modern draft evaluations prioritize medicals and team interviews over performance drills like the 40-yard dash or throwing sessions. The panel argues that not throwing at the combine should not be viewed negatively, highlighting that notable quarterbacks like Caleb Williams and Jaden Daniels have also chosen to skip these drills without causing major controversies.

Seaton:
"Being behind teams that need a quarterback, you need the right quarterback for this team. Shador Sanders not throwing at the combine, couldn't care less."
— [13:20]

NFL Rule Changes: Kickoffs and Fourth Downs

Timestamp: 20:00 - 35:00

Transitioning to broader NFL topics, the panel delves into potential rule changes proposed by the NFL Competition Committee. Key areas of discussion include:

1. Moving the Touchback Spot:

   • Rich McKay's Proposal: Moving the touchback to the 35-yard line to potentially increase kickoff returns.
   • Impact Analysis: The panel debates how this shift could influence game dynamics and scoring opportunities.

2. Adjusting the Kickoff Line:

   • Moving the kickoff line back by five yards to encourage more returns and reduce touchbacks.

3. Fourth Down Strategy:

   • Exploring the idea of allowing teams to "go for it" on fourth downs in more scenarios, possibly altering traditional play-calling strategies.

Dan Patrick:
"They never stop. And you know what, they have the luxury of if they whiff. I mean, look, aesthetically, the kickoff looks weird, but if I get action, then I'm okay with that."
— [22:10]

Seaton:
"Once again, you always fall into this trap. We need a quarterback. No, you need your quarterback because you need the right quarterback for this team."
— [24:45]

The conversation also touches on the potential for onside kicks still existing amidst these changes, questioning their effectiveness and entertainment value.

Seaton:
"I still would love to have the potential for an onside kick instead of we're gonna... We're gonna have all hands team up there."
— [28:30]

Draft Strategies and Quarterback Selection

Timestamp: 35:00 - 50:00

The panel shifts focus to NFL draft strategies, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right quarterback over merely filling a position. They critique teams that rush to draft a quarterback without ensuring fit and potential.

Seaton:
"You need your quarterback because you need the right quarterback for this team. Not we need a quarterback because that's when you take a quarterback who maybe isn't the right guy."
— [37:50]

Dan Patrick:
"Underrated talent now might go at the end of the first round, maybe second or third round. I know what I saw. Athletic, can throw, and has a coach who knows a thing or two about quarterbacks."
— [40:20]

They discuss historical examples, such as Christian Ponder's draft experience, to illustrate the pitfalls of overreaching for quarterbacks and the long-term consequences for teams.

Seaton:
"We avoid the negative and look at the positive. Instead of saying Drake may have flaws, we're going to wait and see if he could play Caleb Williams."
— [42:15]

The conversation underscores the evolving nature of quarterback evaluations and the shift away from traditional metrics, advocating for a more holistic approach to assessing player potential.

Listener Engagement: Phone Calls and Audience Interaction

Timestamp: 50:00 - 65:00

Throughout the episode, Dan and his co-hosts engage with listener calls, providing diverse perspectives and personal anecdotes related to NFL topics. Highlights include:

• Listener on Matthew Stafford Trade:
  Larry from Michigan:
  "We were in 2018, celebrating Gretzky's trade anniversary, and seeing the emotional impact on fans."
  — [55:35]

• Discussion on NFL's Decision-Making:
  Co-host Paul:
  "The Steelers know how to find coaches but not quarterbacks. Comparing past and present quarterback performances."
  — [58:10]

These interactions enrich the discussion by incorporating real fan opinions and experiences, bridging the gap between the hosts and their audience.

Dan Patrick:
"He made it seem like it, you know, like Shafty breaking news here. I said after the Super Bowl, I didn't think he played again."
— [60:00]

Best and Worst of the Weekend

Timestamp: 65:00 - 75:00

In the "Best and Worst of the Weekend" segment, listeners share their highlights and disappointments from the past weekend's sports events.

Examples Include:

• Best:

  • Dan: Attending Billy Joel's concert and enjoying his performance.
    — [67:20]

• Worst:

  • Seaton: Illinois basketball's historic loss to Duke.
    — [68:45]

• Best:

  • Seaton: Drake Bulldogs' overtime victory against Northern Iowa Panthers.
    — [70:10]

• Worst:

  • Seaton: Seton Hall Pirates' frustrating loss despite their struggles.
    — [71:30]

These anecdotes provide a personal touch, showcasing the varied experiences of the show's audience.

Conclusion and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: 75:00 - 80:00

As the episode wraps up, Dan and his co-hosts reflect on the discussions, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful analysis over sensationalism in sports reporting. They reiterate key points about draft strategies and NFL rule changes, encouraging listeners to stay informed and engaged.

Seaton:
"We were in Green Bay for the draft, trying to schedule meet and greets without upstaging the event."
— [78:15]

Dan Patrick:
"We had to talk about the real stories and not get distracted by clickbait headlines."
— [79:50]

The hosts sign off by inviting listeners to tune in for future episodes, promising more in-depth discussions and engaging content.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Dan Patrick on Shedeur Sanders:
   "Shador Sanders is doing what other quarterbacks have done. The draft process has evolved."
   — [09:45]

2. Seaton on Quarterback Needs:
   "You need your quarterback because you need the right quarterback for this team."
   — [37:50]

3. Dan Patrick on NFL Rule Changes:
   "Aesthetically, the kickoff looks weird, but if I get action, then I'm okay with that."
   — [22:10]

4. Seaton on Draft Strategies:
   "Instead of looking at the negative and waiting, we should see if he could play Caleb Williams."
   — [42:15]

5. Dan Patrick on Listener Calls:
   "After the Super Bowl, I didn't think he played again."
   — [60:00]

Key Takeaways

• Shedeur Sanders' Decision:
  Skipping throwing sessions at the NFL Combine is becoming a common trend among quarterback prospects, reflecting a shift in evaluation priorities towards medicals and team fit.

• NFL Rule Changes:
  Potential modifications to kickoff rules aim to increase game action and safety. These changes could significantly impact strategies around special teams and offensive plays.

• Draft Strategy Evolution:
  Emphasizing the selection of quarterbacks based on fit and potential rather than urgency, avoiding the pitfalls of overreaching and ensuring long-term team success.

• Engaged Audience:
  Listener interactions provide valuable insights and diverse opinions, enriching the show's discussions and fostering a strong community connection.

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary NFL topics, blending expert analysis with engaging listener participation. Whether discussing rising quarterback prospects or contemplating the future of game rules, Dan Patrick and his team deliver thoughtful and entertaining content for sports enthusiasts.