The Dan Patrick Show – Episode #70: "Rocky Ranking & Falling SHORT"
Release Date: November 21, 2024
In Episode #70 of The Dan Patrick Show, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and the Dan Patrick Podcast Network, co-hosts Rich and Covino dive deep into two main topics: ranking the beloved Rocky movie franchise and exploring notable athletes who’ve come tantalizingly close to reaching significant career milestones but fell just short. This engaging and insightful episode is peppered with humor, nostalgia, and thoughtful analysis, making it a must-listen for sports and film enthusiasts alike.
1. Celebrating 48 Years of Rocky
The episode kicks off with a celebration of the 48th anniversary of the original Rocky movie, highlighting its enduring legacy and impact on both pop culture and the film industry.
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Rich reminisces about the era when Rocky debuted:
"When you really think about when we were little kids... Rocky felt forever ago." [03:29]
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Covino adds context to their conversation by noting the film's success:
"Debuted today in 1976, winning the Academy Award, putting Sylvester Stallone absolutely on the map." [03:52]
The hosts discuss how Rocky not only launched Sylvester Stallone’s career but also set the stage for a franchise that would span decades, introducing iconic characters and unforgettable storylines.
2. Ranking the Rocky Movie Franchise
A central segment of the episode revolves around rankings of the Rocky series, with each host presenting their personal order and justifications.
Covino’s Ranking:
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Rocky II – "Rocky 2 might be one of the most underrated films of all time." [11:05]
Covino appreciates the depth added to Rocky’s character and the emotional stakes of the sequel. -
Rocky I – "If there's no Rocky, there's no Rocky 2, 3, 4, 5." [07:25]
He acknowledges the original's pivotal role in the franchise's success. -
Rocky IV – "Rocky 4... that's the most entertaining Rocky of all four." [12:54]
Covino favors the high-energy confrontations and memorable characters like Ivan Drago. -
Rocky III
He describes Rocky III as a solid installment with impactful storylines, including Rocky’s battles with Clubber Lang and the introduction of Mr. T’s character. -
Rocky Balboa – "Rocky Balboa... it’s underrated." [13:25]
Covino values the mature portrayal of Rocky in his later years. -
Rocky V – "It's still the worst of these crazy movies." [09:45]
Despite criticisms, Covino considers Rocky V an "awesome movie" albeit the least favored.
Rich’s Ranking:
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Rocky II –
Rich echoes Covino’s sentiment, highlighting its underrated status and emotional depth."Rocky 2 is number one for... by pure, you know, respect." [12:00]
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Rocky I –
He places the original second, noting its foundational importance."Rocky one the top spot because it's Rocky. It's the OG Academy Award winner." [14:11]
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Rocky IV –
Rich lauds its entertainment value and memorable fight scenes."Rocky 4, most entertaining maybe of the whole series." [12:54]
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Rocky III –
Appreciates the storyline and character developments despite personal reservations about certain elements."Rocky 3 is next... big storyline in three." [13:19]
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Rocky Balboa –
Recognizes its emotional resonance and storytelling quality."Balboa. Underrated." [13:25]
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Rocky V –
Considers it the least favored but acknowledges its place within the franchise."It's still the worst of all these crazy movies." [13:46]
Notable Quote:
Covino captures the nostalgic connection many have with the franchise:
"We all got pumped as kids watching the movies, shadow boxing in our kitchen in our socks." [06:44]
3. Athletes Falling Short of Milestones
Transitioning from film, Rich and Covino delve into the realm of sports, discussing athletes who have narrowly missed significant career milestones. This segment is both a tribute to these players’ achievements and a contemplation of the what-ifs surrounding their careers.
Highlighted Stories:
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James Harden:
Has recently surpassed Ray Allen to become the second all-time leader in three-point shots made, inching closer to 3,000 three-pointers."James Harden climbed up to number two on three point leaders this week." [17:38]
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Alex Rodriguez:
Ended his career with 696 home runs, just four short of the 700 milestone, leaving a lingering "what if" in baseball history."Alex Rodriguez... ended up with 696 home runs." [20:34]
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John Elway:
Finished his illustrious NFL career with 300 touchdown passes, a testament to his skill and longevity."John Elway... Exactly. 300 career touchdowns." [22:06]
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Warren Moon:
Close to achieving 50,000 passing yards, with a career total of 49,325 yards, Moon's legacy is celebrated despite falling just short."Warren Moon... he’s two games shy of 50,000 yards. He’s got 49,325 yards." [23:38]
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MLB Players:
Discussing players like Dustin Pedroia and Matt Holliday, who finished their careers with 299 home runs, just one shy of the 300 milestone.
Key Insights:
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Emotional Impact:
The hosts emphasize how these near-misses can haunt athletes, despite their impressive careers."When you think about being a professional athlete... you might say, who gives a shit? But it just looks funny." [19:05]
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Fan Perspective vs. Athlete Perspective:
While athletes may move past these shortfalls, fans often fixate on the numbers, adding an extra layer of pressure."As fans, we're more critical than the players sometimes." [19:45]
Notable Quote:
Rich reflects on the emotional weight of these milestones:
"These athletes may genuinely say, who gives a shit? But as a fan, we’re more critical than the players sometimes." [19:05]
4. Thursday Night Football Predictions
As the episode progresses, Rich and Covino segue into the world of NFL predictions, focusing on the upcoming Thursday Night Football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns.
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Game Analysis:
They dissect the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, considering factors like recent performance, player form, and travel fatigue."Short week, travel, everything. These Thursday night games are all... screwy." [26:17]
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Betting Picks:
Rich shares his thoughts on potential wagers, favoring the Browns +9.5 over under 42.5 points."I'm going up and picking the under. I feel like this game... 16, 10, 16, 13, 13, 10." [26:28]
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Player Focus:
They touch upon players like Aaron Rodgers, debating his potential impact in the game and how it factors into their predictions."Aaron Rodgers... if he plays one more year, for sure." [22:42]
Notable Quote:
Covino adds a lighthearted jab at co-host Dan Beyer:
"Can't believe he hasn't seen Rocky." [14:24]
5. Lighthearted Banter and Final Thoughts
Throughout the episode, Rich and Covino engage in playful banter, discussing everything from their personal viewing habits to teasing about hosts who haven’t seen iconic movies like Rocky. They also briefly touch on promotions and advertisements, seamlessly integrating them into the conversation without detracting from the main content.
Final Remarks:
The hosts wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to form their own Rocky rankings and share their thoughts on athletes approaching milestone barriers. They also tease upcoming segments and maintain the show's signature blend of sports insight and humor.
Notable Quote:
Rich sums up his enthusiasm for the episode’s topics:
"Enjoy week 12, your Thursday night football." [27:52]
Conclusion
Episode #70 of The Dan Patrick Show masterfully blends a nostalgic look at the Rocky franchise with a thoughtful exploration of athletes grappling with near-miss milestones. Rich and Covino provide listeners with insightful analysis, personal anecdotes, and a healthy dose of humor, ensuring that both sports aficionados and movie buffs find something to engage with. Whether you're reminiscing about punching bags in the kitchen or contemplating what might have been for your favorite athletes, this episode delivers a compelling and entertaining experience.
For more episodes and exclusive content, tune in to The Dan Patrick Show on Fox Sports Radio or visit the Dan Patrick Podcast Network.