The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 3: Ohio State/Texas Preview & Bill Cowher Interview

Release Date: January 10, 2025

Introduction

In the third hour of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick delves deep into the upcoming Ohio State versus Texas football game while featuring an exclusive interview with Hall of Fame head coach Bill Cowher. The episode seamlessly blends sports analysis, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions on team culture and rivalries, offering listeners a comprehensive preview of one of the season's most anticipated matchups.

Show Dynamics and Team Interactions

As the show kicks off, Dan Patrick engages in light-hearted banter with his co-hosts Todd Fritz, Paul Pabst, and Marvin. The conversation touches on internal show dynamics, teasing moments, and the camaraderie among the team members.

• Paul Pabst humorously reflects on being defensive:
  “I get poked and prodded and sometimes I'm wrong and I'm not paying attention...” ([02:03])

• Dan Patrick jests about the team's interactions:
  “Why. Why is it that you're supposed to be Mr. Funny, Mr. Humor, but you don't have one. A sense of humor?” ([03:32])

Exclusive Interview with Bill Cowher

The highlight of the episode is the in-depth conversation with Bill Cowher, a revered figure in the NFL and a frequent guest on the show. Their discussion spans various facets of football, coaching philosophies, and memorable rivalries.

1. Coaching Philosophy and Team Culture

   Bill Cowher emphasizes the importance of cultivating a strong team culture:

   “Culture is something that is manifested. It takes time. Creating a building where there's selflessness, a sense of purpose, trust, and ownership among players.” ([26:19])

   He elaborates on the significance of transparency, accountability, and collective effort in building a winning team.

2. Rivalries and Memorable Moments

   The conversation delves into Cowher's experiences with rival teams, particularly the Ravens and Steelers. He recounts the intensification of the Steelers-Ravens rivalry in the early 2000s, especially with Ray Lewis's dynamic presence on the field.

   “The rivalry between the Steelers and the Ravens ramped up when Ray Lewis started doing that dance.” ([49:06])

   Cowher shares anecdotes about on-field confrontations and the emotional intensity that defines these matchups.

3. Player Dynamics and Leadership

   Discussing player behavior, Cowher highlights the balance between allowing players to express themselves and maintaining respect for the game:

   “I encouraged them to have a bit of swagger when walking on the field, as long as they respected the game, the opponent, and their teammates.” ([27:35])

   He underscores the importance of leadership and the coach's role in guiding players to maintain professionalism.

4. Current Season Analysis: Ohio State vs. Texas

   Shifting focus to the present, Dan Patrick and Cowher analyze the upcoming game between Ohio State and Texas. They discuss team strengths, key players, and strategic approaches.

   Dan Patrick: “Ohio State is favored by six. Are we underestimating Texas?” ([07:29])

   Cowher provides insights into Texas's defensive prowess and Ohio State's offensive strategies, predicting a competitive and high-stakes game.

Must-Win Game Discussions

Following the interview, Dan and his co-hosts engage in a segment discussing the most crucial must-win games of the weekend. They make prop bets and predict outcomes, adding a layer of excitement and anticipation for listeners gearing up for the games.

• Paul Pabst places a bet on Josh Allen’s performance:
  “Josh Allen of the Bills if they fall to rookie Bo Nix and the Broncos, that would be a disaster.” ([35:20])

• Seton O'Connor humorously references pop culture in his prediction:
  “Archie beats Jughead. Manning takes down Ryan Day.” ([46:10])

Concluding Remarks

As the hour wraps up, Dan Patrick reflects on the show’s journey, sharing personal stories about the show's early struggles and eventual success. He expresses gratitude towards loyal listeners and co-hosts for their unwavering support.

“We’re all together here and that’s all that matters.” ([18:34])

The episode concludes with final thoughts on upcoming games, listener interactions, and a nod to future shows featuring guest Bill Cowher.

Notable Quotes

• Dan Patrick on Team Success:
  “If we’re successful, Morning Drive in LA will be picked.” ([16:55])

• Bill Cowher on Leadership:
  “If you don’t have a backup plan for your assistant coaches, it’s nothing to look negatively about.” ([31:34])

• Paul Pabst on Rivalries:
  “The rivalry with the Ravens ramped up when Ray Lewis started doing that dance.” ([49:06])

Conclusion

Hour 3 of The Dan Patrick Show offers a rich and engaging exploration of the Ohio State versus Texas game, enriched by Bill Cowher's expert insights and personal experiences. The episode not only provides valuable game previews but also delves into the deeper elements of team culture, leadership, and the enduring spirit of football rivalries. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a casual listener, this episode delivers a comprehensive and entertaining take on college football's exciting landscape.