The Dan Patrick Show
Episode: Hour 3 – Snacks!, Featuring Paul Finebaum
Release Date: June 9, 2025

Introduction

In the third hour of "The Dan Patrick Show," host Dan Patrick seamlessly transitions from entertaining snack debates to profound discussions on the future of college athletics. This episode features special guest Paul Finebaum, a renowned voice in sports commentary, who provides insightful analysis on the recent NCAA settlement and its broader implications for college sports.

Snack Debate: Fritos vs. Doritos

The hour begins with a lighthearted yet spirited debate over favorite snacks, setting a fun tone for the episode.

Paul Finebaum kicks off the conversation by sharing his personal preference:

“We have a bag of Fritos back there. And that made me wonder which I prefer more, Fritos or Doritos. I'm much more of a Doritos guy, I think. But I'm appreciating these Fritos a lot.” ([04:48])

Dan Patrick playfully teases Paul about his snacking habits:

“You're kind of a sneaky snacker.” ([05:08])

Todd, another guest, adds depth to the discussion by highlighting the versatility of Fritos:

“There's a difference between corn chips and the scoops. There it is.” ([06:02])

This segment not only entertains but also engages listeners by tapping into a universal topic—snacking preferences.

Current Sports Events: Hockey and NBA Finals

Dan shifts the conversation toward ongoing sports events, providing updates and expert opinions.

He discusses the excitement surrounding an upcoming hockey game:

“We got hockey coming up tonight. It's game three. Hopefully more overtime. Panthers and the Oilers thunder, they tie the series. And now it goes to Indiana.” ([06:37])

Transitioning to the NBA Finals, Dan analyzes team performances and player statistics:

“The Pacers are the first team in 12 years to not have a 20 point score in the first two games of the NBA Finals.” ([06:56])

He further delves into player achievements, praising John Havlicek's legacy:

“John Havlicek… he was the first guy, remember, who never stopped.” ([11:17])

These discussions offer listeners a blend of current events and historical context, enhancing their understanding of ongoing sports narratives.

In-Depth Interview: Paul Finebaum on NCAA Settlement

A substantial portion of the hour is dedicated to an in-depth conversation with Paul Finebaum about the NCAA's recent settlement allowing schools to pay athletes directly. This segment provides a critical examination of the potential impacts on college sports.

Dan Patrick introduces the topic:

“Paul Feinbaum of the Mothership will join us. We'll talk about where we're going with the NCAA. The settlement opens the door for schools to pay athletes directly. What could go wrong?” ([03:45])

Paul Finebaum offers a skeptical view:

“It means very little really because this is all complicated, a lot of legal mumbo jumbo…and it's only going to help the rich.” ([27:00])

He further elaborates on the challenges facing the NCAA:

“The NCAA is essentially dead.” ([29:24])

Key Points Discussed:

• Transfer Portal Issues: Paul highlights the complications introduced by the transfer portal, emphasizing the difficulties coaches face in recruiting and retaining players.
• Impact on Smaller Schools: He expresses concern that the settlement disproportionately benefits wealthier institutions, potentially marginalizing smaller schools and non-revenue sports.
• Title IX and Funding: Paul predicts an increase in Title IX lawsuits and questions the sustainability of funding for women's and Olympic sports.
• Endowments and Financial Management: The conversation touches on how schools manage their endowments, suggesting that a reallocation of funds could support a broader range of athletic programs.

Dan Patrick probes deeper into possible solutions:

“I want a centralized college football office. Scheduling. Can we?” ([35:09])

Paul Finebaum responds realistically:

“Good luck.” ([35:14])

This interview provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding the NCAA's changes and their potential long-term effects on college athletics.

Sports Talk Culture and Debates

Dan addresses the evolving nature of sports talk shows, critiquing the current trend of heightened antagonism and lack of structured dialogue.

He reflects on past successful formats and contrasts them with modern approaches:

“We've got into this culture now where we have to disagree. … if you want to try to emulate that, then try to do it the way they are instead of yelling back and forth and scream.” ([47:55], [49:25])

Paul Finebaum and other contributors echo the sentiment, advocating for more respectful and constructive discussions:

“Just chill out, dude. Why are we yelling at each other?” ([47:48])

Dan emphasizes the importance of direction and moderation in maintaining a quality listener experience:

“Not everybody has to talk. Not everybody has to have a hot take. How about you just have something where you go, you got 15 seconds.” ([46:59])

This segment underscores the necessity for sports commentary to evolve towards more balanced and thoughtful exchanges.

Sports History: Honoring John Havlicek

Dan takes a moment to honor basketball legend John Havlicek, shedding light on his remarkable career and enduring legacy with the Boston Celtics.

He recounts Havlicek's relentless playstyle:

“John Havlicek… he was a wonderful player, clutch player, and probably an 11 time, 12 time All-Star.” ([11:17])

Dan highlights Havlicek's role in bridging different eras of the Celtics:

“He created the sixth man of the year award, or it was created because of him.” ([10:24])

This homage serves to educate listeners about key figures in sports history, fostering a deeper appreciation for the game's legends.

Closing Remarks

As the show concludes, Dan recaps the key discussions and teases upcoming segments, including an appearance by Ray Allen. He encourages listener interaction and reflects on the importance of maintaining quality in sports discourse.

Dan Patrick wraps up with a call to action:

“Last call for phone calls. What we learned, what's in store tomorrow, right after this.” ([37:10])

Notable Quotes

• Paul Finebaum: “We have a bag of Fritos back there. And that made me wonder which I prefer more, Fritos or Doritos. I'm much more of a Doritos guy, I think. But I'm appreciating these Fritos a lot.” ([04:48])

• Paul Finebaum: “It means very little really because this is all complicated, a lot of legal mumbo jumbo…and it's only going to help the rich.” ([27:00])

• Dan Patrick: “We've got into this culture now where we have to disagree.” ([47:55])

• Dan Patrick: “John Havlicek… he was the first guy, remember, who never stopped.” ([11:17])

Conclusion

Hour 3 of "The Dan Patrick Show" masterfully balances entertainment with substantive analysis. From engaging snack debates to critical discussions on the future of college sports, Dan Patrick and Paul Finebaum provide listeners with a multifaceted perspective on current sports landscapes. This episode not only entertains but also educates, making it a valuable listening experience for sports enthusiasts seeking both fun and depth.