The Dan Patrick Show Episode: Hour 3 – That’s Why They Play the Games, Best and Worst of the Break
Release Date: January 2, 2025

Overview

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick dives deep into the latest developments in college football playoffs, analyzes standout performances, and interacts with listeners to highlight the week's best and worst moments in sports. The episode is structured around comprehensive discussions, listener call-ins, and humorous banter, providing a rich and informative experience for both dedicated fans and casual listeners.

College Football Playoff Predictions and Analysis

Dan Patrick and his co-hosts kick off the episode with an in-depth analysis of the upcoming college football playoffs. They focus on key matchups, team performances, and potential outcomes based on current standings and expert opinions.

• Ohio State vs. Texas:
  Ohio State enters the playoff as a six-point favorite over Texas, according to DraftKings. Dan reflects on Ohio State's season, highlighting their unexpected resurgence after a poor showing against Michigan. The team’s strategic investments in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) players have paid off, surprising many with their current form.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([06:45]): “They spent a lot of money on that beef up front. That's why you're spending your money. They're getting quality defensive and offensive linemen. And that's the difference with good teams and great teams controlling the line of scrimmage.”

• Notre Dame vs. Georgia:
  Notre Dame is slightly favored over Georgia by one point. The discussion touches on travel considerations and recent tragedies affecting team dynamics. Dan emphasizes Notre Dame’s resilience and consistent performance despite occasional challenges.

• Other Contenders:
  The conversation also covers Duke versus Ole Miss, with Duke expected to win by 17 points, and the potential spreads for subsequent playoff rounds. Ohio State is positioned as the frontrunner, followed by Texas, Penn State, Notre Dame, and Georgia.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([07:30]): “Ohio State might be the most talented team in the country. You could trust them to come out ahead against any team.”

Best and Worst of the Break

Following the playoff analysis, the hosts transition to the “Best and Worst of the Break” segment, highlighting exceptional performances and disappointing outcomes from recent games.

• Best of the Break:

  • Cam Scatterboo: Celebrated for electrifying performances against Texas, amassing 637 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns over four games.
  • Malik Neighbors: Praised for his impressive 171-yard, two-touchdown game with the Giants, helping secure a win against the Colts.

  Notable Quote:
  Tyler ([24:28]): “Micah Parsons after the game saying, if you take away the scoreboard, it's actually a pretty close game. That is one of the best quotes of all.”

• Worst of the Break:

  • Denver Broncos: Criticized for a heartbreaking 30-24 overtime loss in Cincinnati, missing a crucial playoff spot.
  • Giants’ Fantasy Woes: Discussed Tyler’s fantasy football disappointment due to negative points from the Colts’ defense, impacting his championship hopes.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([24:58]): “Not everybody should have a podcast that's going to put that out there.”

Listener Interactions and Discussions

Listeners participate through call-ins, sharing their opinions and questions on various topics.

• Jeff Van Pelt's Retirement:
  Listener Heather congratulates her father, Jeff Van Pelt, on his retirement after a distinguished 43-year career.

• Targeting Call Controversy:
  Listener Chris debates the recent targeting call in the Texas vs. Arizona State game, questioning the balance between the spirit and letter of the law. The hosts discuss the implications of officiating decisions and replay reviews.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([34:36]): “And that was targeting. That's all.”

  Additional Insight:
  Tyler reflects on the evolving understanding of in-game officiating, noting how replay availability alters perceptions of fairness and accuracy.

Player and Team Spotlights

The hosts delve into specific player performances and strategic team decisions that have shaped recent games.

• Saquon Barkley:
  The discussion centers around Barkley’s strategic decision to sit, considering his impressive 2,000-yard rushing milestone. The hosts debate the implications for his career and the team’s dynamics.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([43:11]): “It makes sense for your team with your quarterback who's coming out of concussion protocol.”

• Defensive Standouts:
  Players like Ty T. Higgins for the Bengals and Lad McConkey for the Chargers are highlighted for their critical roles and impressive stats, contributing significantly to their teams' performances.

College Football Records and NCAA Rules

A thoughtful discussion ensues regarding the NCAA’s handling of bowl game statistics, comparing past legends like Barry Sanders with current players such as Ashton Gentry.

• Barry Sanders vs. Ashton Gentry:
  Paulie argues for the inclusion of bowl game stats in all-time records, drawing parallels between Sanders’ uncredited bowl performance and Gentry’s current achievements.

  Notable Quote:
  Paulie ([27:22]): “They allow it now. But they didn’t allow it back then.”

• Impact on Records:
  The hosts suggest that recognizing bowl game performances could provide a fairer assessment of player legacies and enhance the historical accuracy of college football records.

Closing Segments

The episode concludes with light-hearted segments and final thoughts on ongoing sports narratives.

• Final Predictions:
  Hosts create mock headlines for upcoming games, predicting outcomes and injecting humor into their forecasts.

• Stat of the Day:
  Joe Burrow’s Achievement:
  Joe Burrow becomes the first quarterback to throw for at least 250 yards and three touchdowns in eight consecutive games, a feat matched only by Tom Brady in 2007.

  Notable Quote:
  Dan Patrick ([37:34]): “Joe Burrow's the first quarterback to throw for at least 250 yards, three touchdowns in eight consecutive games.”

• Humorous Banter:
  The hosts engage in playful exchanges about Tom Brady’s future in broadcasting and the quirks of NFL players, adding a fun and relatable element to the discussion.

Conclusion

Dan Patrick wraps up the episode by summarizing key points discussed, reinforcing the depth of analysis provided on college football playoffs, player performances, and listener interactions. The episode offers a balanced mix of serious sports analysis and entertaining discussions, making it a must-listen for fans eager to stay informed and entertained.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• Dan Patrick ([05:50]): “Ohio State knew what they wanted to do. They were going to strike early and Chip Kelly against his former school, he was going to make sure that they were coming at you from all different angles.”

• Tyler ([24:28]): “Micah Parsons after the game saying, if you take away the scoreboard, it's only like five plays. That really set it.”

• Dan Patrick ([34:36]): “And that was targeting. That's all.”

• Dan Patrick ([43:11]): “It makes sense for your team with your quarterback who's coming out of concussion protocol.”

• Paulie ([27:22]): “They allow it now. But they didn’t allow it back then.”

• Dan Patrick ([37:34]): “Joe Burrow's the first quarterback to throw for at least 250 yards, three touchdowns in eight consecutive games.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and entertaining moments from the episode, providing a valuable overview for those who haven't tuned in.