Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 3 with Ed Werder and Jerome Bettis

Release Date: January 16, 2025

1. Tribute to Bob Uecker (00:00 - 15:30)

The episode opens with Dan Patrick delivering heartfelt news about the passing of Bob Uecker, a beloved figure in sports broadcasting. Uecker, who died at the age of 90, was celebrated for his humor and enduring legacy in baseball radio announcing.

Dan Patrick shares personal anecdotes, highlighting Uecker's ability to connect with audiences:

"He was always fun when we went out to Milwaukee... he'll be greatly, greatly missed just having that sense of humor." [08:45]

Listeners recall memorable moments with Uecker, emphasizing his unique way of engaging with both players and fans. Dan mentions staying in touch with Uecker in his later years, underscoring their mutual respect and camaraderie.

Participant Reference:

• Ed Werder contributes by reminiscing about Uecker’s media career and his natural comedic talent.

"He became famous for not being famous. And he was so self-deprecating... he was like, yeah, I'm killing it. I'm batting 200 here." [14:20]

The segment concludes with plans to honor Uecker's legacy in future episodes, ensuring his contributions are remembered by the community.

2. Cowboys' Coaching Changes with Ed Werder (15:31 - 35:00)

Dan Patrick welcomes Ed Werder, a renowned Cowboys insider from WFAA TV in Dallas and longtime ESPN contributor, to discuss the Dallas Cowboys' recent dismissal of head coach Mike McCarthy.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Potential Candidates for Head Coach:
  • Deion Sanders: Werder reveals Sanders' interest and interactions with Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones.

    "Dion told Adam Schefter... he has an extension to remain at Colorado... it's the most unpredictable owner in the NFL on any subject." [22:15]

  • Jason Whitten: Former Cowboys tight end with high school coaching experience, favored by Jerry Jones.
• Jerry Jones' Decision-Making: Werder analyzes Jones’ patterns in hiring and his penchant for surprising decisions.

  "Jerry is enamored with the idea... you cannot rule anything out. He hired Barry Switzer, so you can't rule anything out." [27:40]

• Impact on Team Dynamics:
  • Mike Zimmer's Role: Potential involvement if Sanders is hired, given Zimmer's close ties with Sanders.

    "Zimmer was very close to Deon... he would be heavily involved in that." [30:10]

  • Rodgers Prescott Situation: Discussing the contract woes surrounding quarterback Dak Prescott and the broader implications for the team's strategy.

Ed Werder provides in-depth analysis on the Cowboys' strategic options and the unpredictability of Jerry Jones, hinting at possible unconventional hires that could reshape the team's future.

3. Conversation with Jerome Bettis on the NFL and Running Backs (35:01 - 55:00)

In a special segment, former NFL running back Jerome Bettis joins Dan Patrick to delve into the evolving role of running backs in the NFL and his insights on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Discussion Highlights:

• Evolution of the Running Back Position:
  • Bettis critiques the shift from power-based running to more versatile, lateral plays influenced by college football strategies.

    "The NFL doesn't want little bitty small running backs. They still want power football downhill." [38:50]

• Current NFL Running Backs:
  • Saquon Barkley vs. Derrick Henry: Bettis weighs in on their impact, favoring Barkley for his critical role in team success.

    "I would have to say Saquon Barkley because we have seen what the Baltimore offense can do without Henry." [42:30]

• Steelers' Offensive Challenges:
  • Addressing the need for a reliable quarterback and competent receivers to complement Russell Wilson.

    "Russell is a good quarterback for the time, but he’s not a long-term solution." [49:15]

  • Bettis emphasizes the importance of securing a strong quarterback to sustain the team's playoff aspirations.

Jerome Bettis shares personal experiences and strategic thoughts on team composition, highlighting the delicate balance between offensive and defensive prowess in maintaining a competitive edge.

4. Listener Calls and Interactive Segment (55:01 - 70:00)

Dan Patrick opens the floor to listener interactions, featuring several calls that range from personal tributes to light-hearted banter.

Notable Calls:

• Tribute to Bob Uecker:
  • Norm from Florida shares fond memories and favorite quotes from Uecker, adding depth to the earlier tribute.

    "He was the funniest damn thing... it goes way beyond the Johnny Carson days." [60:45]

• Ice Fishing Talk:
  • Scott from Scottsdale and Bob from Montana discuss ice fishing safety and techniques, infusing humor into the conversation.

    "If you see trucks that are parked on the lake, then I realize that it probably can hold me and my dog." [63:20]

• Personal Anecdotes:
  • Andy from Rhode Island compliments Dan's "silky" radio voice, sparking a playful exchange about charm and attractiveness.

This segment showcases the show's interactive nature, allowing listeners to connect with hosts and guests over shared interests and personal stories.

5. Final Thoughts and Upcoming Content (70:01 - End)

As the episode nears its conclusion, Dan Patrick reflects on the discussions held and previews upcoming content.

• Bob Uecker Tribute Follow-Up: Promise to compile more interviews and tributes for future episodes.
• Jerome Bettis' Insights: Highlighting the need for strategic changes within NFL teams, especially the Steelers.
• Upcoming Playoff Coverage: Teasing the next episode's focus on playoff matchups, especially featuring Jerome Bettis discussing his alma mater and the Pittsburgh Steelers' prospects.

Dan Patrick wraps up the episode by thanking guests and listeners, ensuring that the community remains engaged and informed about the latest in sports and entertainment.

Key Quotes with Timestamps

• Dan Patrick on Bob Uecker:

  "He was always fun when we went out to Milwaukee... he'll be greatly, greatly missed just having that sense of humor." [08:45]

• Ed Werder on Deion Sanders' Potential Role:

  "Dion told Adam Schefter... he has an extension to remain at Colorado... it's the most unpredictable owner in the NFL on any subject." [22:15]

• Jerome Bettis on Running Backs:

  "I would have to say Saquon Barkley because we have seen what the Baltimore offense can do without Henry." [42:30]

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show masterfully balances tribute, in-depth sports analysis, and engaging listener interactions. With insights from esteemed guests like Ed Werder and Jerome Bettis, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of current NFL dynamics, especially surrounding the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers. The heartfelt remembrance of Bob Uecker adds an emotional depth, making this episode both informative and touching.

For those who missed the live broadcast, this summary captures the essence of the discussions, ensuring you stay connected with the latest in sports and the enduring spirit of beloved sports figures.