The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 2 Summary: "The NFL Outlaws Smelling Salts, Andy Staples"
Release Date: August 6, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
I. Introduction to the Episode
In the second hour of "The Dan Patrick Show," hosted by Dan Patrick on Fox Sports Radio, the conversation delves into significant changes within the NFL, specifically focusing on the league's recent decision to ban the use of smelling salts on the sidelines. The discussion also extends to Micah Parsons' contract negotiations with the Dallas Cowboys and transitions into an in-depth analysis of college football with guest reporter Andy Staples.
II. NFL's Ban on Smelling Salts
Dan Patrick initiates the conversation by highlighting the NFL's move to prohibit smelling salts in various settings, including the sidelines, pre-game, post-game, and locker rooms.
"I saw where there was a report that the NFL is going to do away with the smelling salts on the sidelines. Who knew? Smelling salts has been around."
[02:19]
Dan reflects nostalgically on his high school days, recalling how smelling salts were commonly used during games to revive players after hard hits.
"If you did smelling salts once, you don't have to do it again. It's not like you go, man, I love that."
[05:02]
III. Impact and Reasons Behind the Ban
Paulie, a co-host, adds depth to the discussion by referencing the FDA's concerns about the potential negative effects of smelling salts, particularly how they might mask neurological symptoms of head injuries.
"The FDA noted potential negative use from smelling salts and it masked certain neurological signs and symptoms. Like if you had a head injury."
[04:52]
This raises questions about the NFL's motivations, with Paulie suggesting that the league might be concerned about younger athletes imitating professionals, potentially leading to misuse.
Dan counters by expressing concern over other safety issues in the NFL, such as players not consistently wearing mouthguards, which he considers a more significant threat.
"What would be more disconcerting for me is the number of players who have mouthpieces, who don't have the mouthpieces in."
[05:11]
IV. George Kittle's Reaction
The episode takes a humorous turn as Dan discusses an incident involving George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers, who humorously considered retirement following the news of the banning of smelling salts.
"George Kittle said he considered retiring based on this news."
[06:28]
A recorded snippet of George Kittle expressing his faux-frustration adds levity to the discussion.
"I honestly just came up here to air a grievance."
[06:47]
Dan and co-host Paulie joke about Kittle's dedication to the use of smelling salts, portraying him as almost personifying the very product now banned.
"After thinking about it, does George Kittle need more or less smelling salts in his life? He is a walking smelling salt."
[07:49]
V. Micah Parsons' Contract Negotiations
Shifting focus, Dan addresses a caller's comment regarding Micah Parsons, a standout linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, and his contentious contract negotiations.
Dan Patrick explains that Parsons had an unorthodox meeting with Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones, which inadvertently sidelined his agent from the negotiation process.
"It was supposed to be about leadership, but it became a setting for Jerry Jones to talk about his contract."
[07:56]
Parsons expects his agent to be part of formal negotiations, but Jones's approach led to confusion and stalled talks. Dan criticizes the Cowboys' handling of the situation, suggesting that Jones's preference to negotiate directly undermines Parsons' representation.
"You have to negotiate with the agent. So that's how we got to this point."
[10:00]
Paulie draws parallels to another NFL player, Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals, highlighting a recurring issue where verbal promises fail to materialize into formal contracts.
"It's apples and oranges, but it's a similar situation that conversations don't hold up."
[11:21]
Dan emphasizes the importance of written agreements, asserting that without formalized contracts, verbal agreements hold little weight.
"You can talk in generalities about a contract, but until you put the numbers in writing and you sign it and you validate it, it's just a conversation."
[11:55]
VI. Listener Interactions and Phone Calls
Throughout the episode, Dan and his co-hosts engage with listeners, addressing various comments and questions. Notably:
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Rob from Orlando discusses the show's reception and shares a humorous comment about Dan's interaction with a listener named Bruce during the previous hour.
"Hard to listen to the show if I'm going to be rate Fritzi for 40 consecutive minutes."
[12:25] -
Jim from Michigan expresses appreciation for the show but corrects Dan on his golfing knowledge, leading to a light-hearted exchange about antique golf clubs and modern technology.
"Apple Card is designed to help you pay off your balance faster with smart payment suggestions."
[53:27]
These interactions add a personal touch to the episode, showcasing the hosts' rapport with their audience.
VII. Transition to College Football with Andy Staples
The latter part of the hour shifts focus to college football, featuring guest Andy Staples, a renowned reporter from On3 Sports. The discussion centers on Notre Dame's prospects for an undefeated season and a national championship.
"Do you think Notre Dame can go undefeated?"
[25:50]
Andy endorses the possibility, citing Notre Dame's strong offensive line and the talent of key players like Jeremiah Love, whom he describes as "probably the best back in college football."
"Jeremiah Love is probably the best back in college football."
[26:23]
He also touches upon the importance of starting quarterbacks, analyzing how teams like Texas and Ohio State are navigating new quarterback roles. Andy highlights Arch Manning's readiness and dynamic playing style as a significant advantage for Texas.
"Arch is a dual threat quarterback. His threat to run makes Texas a very different team to defend."
[26:13]
Dan Patrick notes the variability introduced by new quarterbacks across several top teams, suggesting that this unpredictability adds excitement to the upcoming season.
"There’s more variability this year. I feel like the quarterback thing's a big reason for it."
[29:55]
Andy Staples provides a comprehensive analysis of various teams, including potential overachievers like Indiana and the delicate situations in the SEC with coaches under pressure, such as Billy Napier at Florida and Hugh Freeze at Auburn.
"There’s a crazy situation in the SEC because you have Billy Napier at Florida, Hugh Freeze at Auburn..."
[32:04]
VIII. Conclusion and Poll Results
As the episode wraps up, Dan updates listeners on poll results regarding the validity of handshake agreements in sports, revealing that 77% believe they are not valid.
"How valid are handshake agreements in sports? Very or not at all? 77. Not valid."
[52:38]
This segment reinforces the earlier discussion on the necessity of formal contracts in professional sports.
Notable Quotes
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"I saw where there was a report that the NFL is going to do away with the smelling salts on the sidelines. Who knew?"
— Dan Patrick [02:19] -
"The FDA noted potential negative use from smelling salts and it masked certain neurological signs and symptoms."
— Paulie [04:52] -
"If you can do smelling salts once, you don't have to do it again. It's not like you go, man, I love that."
— Dan Patrick [05:02] -
"Jeremiah Love is probably the best back in college football."
— Andy Staples [26:23] -
"There’s more variability this year. I feel like the quarterback thing's a big reason for it."
— Andy Staples [29:55]
Key Insights and Takeaways
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NFL's Decision to Ban Smelling Salts: The NFL is addressing player safety concerns by banning smelling salts, following FDA warnings about their potential to mask neurological symptoms. While some view this as a step towards better player health, others express concerns about alternative safety measures.
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Contract Negotiations in the NFL: The episode highlights the complexities of contract negotiations, emphasizing the importance of formal agreements. Micah Parsons' experience with Jerry Jones serves as a case study in the pitfalls of informal negotiations and sidelining player representation.
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College Football Dynamics: With multiple top college teams introducing new quarterbacks, the landscape of college football is poised for unpredictability. Notre Dame's potential for an undefeated season stands out, supported by a robust offense and standout players.
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Listener Engagement: The show maintains a strong connection with its audience through interactive phone calls, addressing a range of topics from contract integrity to personal anecdotes, enhancing the show's relatability and engagement.
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Poll Results on Handshake Agreements: A significant majority of listeners do not consider handshake agreements valid in the realm of sports contracts, reinforcing the necessity for legally binding agreements.
Conclusion
This episode of "The Dan Patrick Show" offers a comprehensive exploration of recent NFL policy changes, player contract negotiations, and the evolving landscape of college football. Through insightful discussions, expert guest analysis, and engaging listener interactions, Dan Patrick provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current sports environment.
For those interested in in-depth sports analysis, player safety measures, and the dynamics of college football, this episode serves as a valuable resource, blending expert opinions with relatable commentary.
Listen to the full episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on the latest in sports and entertainment.