The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 3 – Gerrit Cole Gets Tommy John Surgery, Louis Riddick
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick | Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick navigates through a plethora of sports topics, blending insightful analysis with his characteristic humor. The episode delves into significant NFL developments, debates the impact of instant replay in sports, and engages listeners with interactive trivia and call-ins. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. NFL Draft and Player Movements ([02:31] - [10:00])

Daniel Jones Joins the Indianapolis Colts

Dan Patrick opens the episode by discussing quarterback Daniel Jones' recent signing with the Indianapolis Colts. He speculates on Jones' aspirations and the opportunities this move presents:

“Daniel Jones is going in thinking he gets a real chance to be the starter in the NFL.”
– Dan Patrick ([03:13])

Dan emphasizes that Jones is likely aiming to compete for the starting quarterback position, presenting him as a potential comeback player of the year.

Eagles Trade C.J. Gardner Johnson to Texans

The conversation shifts to the Philadelphia Eagles' trade of cornerback C.J. Gardner Johnson to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green, as reported by Ian Rapoport.

“Kenyon Green is a solid addition for the Texans, especially considering their need to bolster the offensive line after giving up significant sacks last year.”
– Dan Patrick ([03:49])

Dan questions the Texans' strategy, highlighting their defensive struggles and the hope that Green will address their offensive line shortcomings.

2. NBA Draft Trivia ([06:01] - [09:38])

Trivia Question: Last White Player Born in the USA Taken #1 Overall in NBA Draft

Dan engages the panel and listeners with a trivia question regarding the last white player born in the United States to be selected first overall in the NBA draft. The panelists discuss historical drafts, ultimately concluding that Kent Benson was the correct answer.

“It is Kent Benson by the Milwaukee Bucks. And that was the year...”
– Dan Patrick ([06:14])

This segment not only entertains but also educates listeners on historical NBA draft picks, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sport's history.

3. Instant Replay Debate ([12:27] - [16:44])

Impact of Instant Replay in Sports

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to debating whether instant replay has been beneficial or detrimental to sports since its implementation in 1986. The panelists offer varied perspectives:

“Instant replay has been a good-ish thing for sports. Be weird to not have replay watching a game.”
– Dan Patrick ([16:27])

Colleen Witt expresses skepticism about the delays caused by instant replay:

“I'd say it's been mostly bad. It made us litigious sports fans watching from minute to minute.”
– Colleen Witt ([15:52])

Nate Thompson acknowledges both the advantages and flaws, emphasizing that while instant replay ensures accuracy in critical moments, it can disrupt the flow and emotional engagement of the game.

“When there are game-changing plays that are blatantly missed, replay gets it right, and that's good for the game.”
– Nate Thompson ([27:25])

The consensus leans towards instant replay being a "necessary evil," balancing precision with the traditional human element of sports officiating.

4. NFL Draft Predictions: Running Backs vs. Quarterbacks ([10:26] - [34:20])

Will More Running Backs Be Taken Over Quarterbacks?

Dan initiates a poll regarding whether the upcoming NFL draft will see more running backs selected over quarterbacks. Nate Thompson confidently predicts a surge in running back selections, citing the depth and talent pool available this year:

“I think it will be running backs. This year has a strong cohort of talented backs who can change the game dynamically.”
– Nate Thompson ([34:42])

Colleen Witt adds to the discussion by highlighting the versatility and athleticism of the current running back prospects, suggesting that teams will prioritize securing these dynamic players early.

“There's a bunch of guys in person this year who are real electric... People think I'm crazy, but it's Emmitt Smith with better speed.”
– Nate Thompson ([34:20])

The panelists agree that the evolving role of running backs in today's offensive strategies will drive their higher selection rate in the draft.

5. Q&A with Louis Riddick: Free Agency Insights ([34:20] - [42:02])

Louis Riddick on Free Agency and Quarterback Market

ESPN's NFL free agency expert Louis Riddick joins the discussion to provide deeper analysis on the quarterback market and potential team strategies. He explores scenarios involving high-profile quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson:

“Aaron levels up for them; he just does.”
– Louis Riddick ([34:39])

Riddick discusses the Pittsburgh Steelers' potential interest in Aaron Rodgers, evaluating how his experience and skill set can enhance the team's offensive dynamics without disrupting the existing structure:

“He will need to abide by a much more rigid structure in Pittsburgh and not think that he can come in and run the show.”
– Louis Riddick ([34:45])

The conversation also touches on the Giants' possible pursuit of Russell Wilson, debating the strategic fit and long-term implications for both players and teams involved.

6. Sports Trivia and Audience Interaction ([42:25] - [56:22])

Interactive Trivia and Listener Calls

Dan Patrick fosters audience engagement through interactive trivia and listener call-ins, discussing various sports topics and historical moments.

Trivia Highlights:

• The youngest athlete to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
• Record penalties in hockey.

Listener Questions:

• Queries about Shador Sanders' draft prospects and the influence of his father, Dion Sanders.

“If you get the line of scrimmage, do you know what you're doing? That's it. The other stuff, I don't want to pass up on a talent just because...”
– Nate Thompson ([50:58])

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick at [16:04]: "If I could go back and do a do over, I would say no replay and let it happen."
• Nate Thompson at [34:42]: "I think Aaron levels up for them; he just does."
• Colleen Witt at [34:03]: "He’s got to be relentless on the field. And his pedigree is impressive."

The segment not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into listener perspectives and real-time sports analysis.

7. Conclusion and Wrap-Up ([56:22] - End)

As the episode concludes, Dan Patrick reflects on the discussed topics, reiterating the importance of strategic decisions in sports team management and the ongoing evolution of sports rules like instant replay. The panelists share final thoughts, maintaining the show's blend of informative content and lighthearted banter.

“This is multiple year bridge for Aaron because they don't have a surefire long-term solution...”
– Nate Thompson ([31:18])

Dan wraps up by thanking the guests and listeners, encouraging audience participation for future episodes, and teasing upcoming discussions on the live edition of the show.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show masterfully balances in-depth sports analysis with interactive elements, catering to both casual fans and hardcore enthusiasts. Through spirited debates, expert insights, and engaging audience interaction, Dan Patrick and his panelists provide a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of current sports dynamics.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dan Patrick ([03:13]): “Daniel Jones is going in thinking he gets a real chance to be the starter in the NFL.”
• Dan Patrick ([16:27]): “Instant replay has been a good-ish thing for sports. Be weird to not have replay watching a game.”
• Colleen Witt ([15:52]): “I'd say it's been mostly bad. It made us litigious sports fans watching from minute to minute.”
• Nate Thompson ([34:42]): “I think it will be running backs. This year has a strong cohort of talented backs who can change the game dynamically.”
• Louis Riddick ([34:39]): “Aaron levels up for them; he just does.”
• Dan Patrick ([56:22]): “Thanks for the phone calls, emails, tweets. We'll talk to you tomorrow.”

These quotes encapsulate the episode's key discussions, providing listeners with direct insights from the hosts and guests.