The Dan Patrick Show: "The Best of The Dan Patrick Show" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: January 2, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

1. Welcome and Episode Kickoff (01:24)

Dan Patrick reunites with his co-hosts, Todd Fritz and Paul Pabst, marking a vibrant return to the show. He humorously reflects on past titles, correcting a misnomer from "minister of humor" to the correct "minister of humor," setting a lighthearted tone for the episode.

Dan Patrick (01:24):
"Great to be back. Happy New Year. The minister of humor... that was a long time ago. That was 2024."

2. NFL Playoff Scenarios and Bowl Games Overview (01:24 – 06:05)

The hosts delve into the intricacies of the 2025 NFL season's playoff scenarios, focusing on bowl games such as the Sugar Bowl featuring Notre Dame and Georgia, and Duke versus Ole Miss. They discuss the potential outcomes and implications for team seedings.

Dan Patrick (02:30):
"The Sunday night game, you got the number one seed at stake. And the loser could be on the road in the first round of the playoffs."

The conversation extends to team performances, highlighting Ohio State's dominance over Oregon and the continued competitiveness of teams like the Broncos, Dolphins, Bengals, Buccaneers, and Falcons.

3. Critique of College Football’s Playoff System (05:24 – 10:30)

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the perceived flaws in the college football playoff system. Dan expresses frustration with post-game analyses that question the legitimacy of certain teams' playoff berths, using examples like SMU, Indiana, and Arizona State.

Dan Patrick (05:24):
"I don't want to hear these analysts after the fact tell me somebody shouldn't be in the playoffs."

The hosts advocate for a more logical and fair selection process, emphasizing that teams like Arizona State earned their spots and should not be dismissed based on post-game performance.

Paul Pabst (06:02):
"Oregon shouldn't be here before... that would have been a very hot take."

4. NFL MVP Race: Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen (22:11 – 26:09)

Dan and Todd shift focus to the NFL MVP race, primarily debating between Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens and Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. Todd leans towards Allen, citing his clutch performances and team contributions, while acknowledging the tight competition.

Todd Fritz (23:47):
"I'm probably favoring Josh Allen as far as the MVP vote, but it's really close."

They discuss the criteria for MVP selection—whether it's purely statistical, team success, or a combination of both—and how pivotal moments during the season can influence voters.

5. Vikings vs. Lions: High-Stakes Showdown (26:09 – 32:42)

The hosts analyze the critical matchup between the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, highlighting the high stakes involved. The winner secures the number one seed, while the loser faces a challenging road game against teams like Tampa Bay or Atlanta.

Dan Patrick (26:09):
"The winner gets the number one seed. The loser probably on the road against Tampa or Atlanta."

They evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, noting the Vikings' explosive offense but middling defense, and the Lions' robust defensive strategies bolstered by home-field advantage.

6. Player Contracts and Team Strategies (28:11 – 31:46)

Discussion turns to the strategic management of player contracts within the NFL. Todd critiques the valuation of quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy, arguing that current contracts often exceed market value due to teams' overreaching negotiations.

Todd Fritz (30:17):
"Who else is going to pay him this. So that's what I would say."

He also touches upon the Cleveland Browns' controversial contract with Deshaun Watson, labeling it as a misstep that exacerbates team-building challenges.

7. Tanking in the NFL: Reality and Challenges (32:29 – 34:28)

The conversation explores the concept of "tanking" in the NFL—when teams intentionally underperform to secure better draft positions. Todd contends that while some teams attempt this strategy, it's not as widespread or easily executed as often perceived.

Todd Fritz (34:25):
"There's probably four or five teams every year who try to orchestrate it, to not put their best foot forward."

They discuss the ethical and practical implications of tanking, including its impact on team morale and player performance.

8. Interview with Paul Pabst: Arizona State Running Back (37:38 – 45:21)

Guest: Paul Pabst, Arizona State Running Back

Dan Patrick engages in an in-depth interview with Paul Pabst, discussing his recent performance in a double-overtime game against Texas and reflecting on his season's highlights and challenges.

a. Game Experience and Performance

Paul recounts the emotional and physical toll of the game, including moments of frustration and resilience.

Paul Pabst (38:03):
"I was a little upset that I wasn't touching the ball as much as I wanted to... I knew I had to put it inside of him."

He describes adjusting his gameplay after halftime to better support his team and emphasizes the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

b. Handling Officiating and Targeting Calls

The discussion addresses controversial officiating decisions, particularly targeting calls that impact game outcomes.

Paul Pabst (43:22):
"Anybody should be protected. And I felt that was a little biased."

He critiques the inconsistency in enforcing rules designed to protect players, advocating for a fairer application regardless of team or situation.

c. Personal Insights and Future Prospects

Paul shares personal inspirations, conditioning routines, and his outlook on the NFL draft, expressing hope for further development and opportunities.

Paul Pabst (45:15):
"I'm not too worried about where I stand, hopefully in a good position."

He also touches on handling fame and media scrutiny, highlighting moments that tested his composure on the sidelines.

9. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Features (45:43 – End)

Dan wraps up the episode by congratulating Paul on his season and reflecting on Arizona State's achievements in elevating their football program.

Dan Patrick (45:58):
"Congratulations on the season that you had, Cam."

He also teases upcoming segments and interviews, ensuring listeners stay tuned for more insightful sports discussions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dan Patrick (05:24):
  "I don't want to hear these analysts after the fact tell me somebody shouldn't be in the playoffs."

• Todd Fritz (23:47):
  "I'm probably favoring Josh Allen as far as the MVP vote, but it's really close."

• Paul Pabst (38:03):
  "I was a little upset that I wasn't touching the ball as much as I wanted to... I knew I had to put it inside of him."

• Todd Fritz (30:17):
  "Who else is going to pay him this. So that's what I would say."

• Paul Pabst (43:22):
  "Anybody should be protected. And I felt that was a little biased."

Conclusion

In this episode of "The Dan Patrick Show," listeners are treated to a comprehensive analysis of the 2025 NFL and college football seasons, insightful debates on player performances and team strategies, and an exclusive interview with Arizona State's running back Paul Pabst. The hosts blend expertise with engaging dialogues, offering valuable perspectives for sports enthusiasts aiming to stay informed and entertained.