Podcast Title: The Dan Patrick Show
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
Episode: The Best of The Dan Patrick Show
Release Date: January 9, 2025

1. Interview with Brady Quinn – Fox Sports College Football Analyst

[02:36] Dan Patrick:
Dan Patrick welcomes Brady Quinn, Fox Sports' college football analyst and member of the Orange Bowl Hall of Fame committee, to discuss the upcoming game between Penn State and Notre Dame.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Game Analysis:
  Brady delves into the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. He highlights Penn State's effective running game with backs like Catron Allen and Nick Singleton, and Notre Dame's concerns regarding quarterback Jeremiah Love's health. Quinn predicts a defensive slugfest with significant special teams impact.

  Notable Quote:
  “I think if you look at Penn State, they've got a couple of backs and Catron Allen, Nick Singleton, who's been phenomenal... I think if you look at Penn State, they've got a couple of backs and Catron Allen, Nick Singleton, who's been phenomenal, their tight end, Tyler Warren will be a part of that rushing attack.”
  [04:22]

• Conference Realignment:
  Dan questions whether Notre Dame might join a conference in the next five years. Quinn expresses skepticism, citing Notre Dame's strong television partnerships and financial independence as significant advantages that discourage conference affiliation.

  Notable Quote:
  “I think if you look at their advancement through the College Football Playoff while all these other teams are, you know, making money, but they have to share with the rest of the conference, Notre Dame pockets all of it.”
  [04:55]

• Conference Championship Games:
  The discussion shifts to the necessity and future of conference championship games. Quinn agrees with Dan's skepticism, labeling them as "money grabs" and questioning their essential role in determining conference champions.

  Notable Quote:
  “And I do think you bring up a good point. You know, how necessary are these conference championship games?”
  [08:17]

• Hall of Fame Inductions:
  Quinn talks about his role in the Orange Bowl Hall of Fame committee, highlighting the induction of figures like Urban Meyer and Matt Leinart.

  Notable Quote:
  “It's very prestigious. I chair it, actually. You had a big part along with the rest of the committee and getting our three selected hall of fame inductees in there today.”
  [08:28]

• Player Evaluations:
  He evaluates players like Quinn Ewers and Riley Leonard, discussing their potential in the NFL based on their college performances and physical attributes.

  Notable Quote:
  “Why not, if your Quinn Ewers try to be a part of this quarterback draft class, playing on all that momentum that you would be getting off a national championship.”
  [10:51]

• Advice to Coaches:
  When prompted about advising Bill Belichick, Quinn humorously declines but emphasizes the importance of recruiting a strong quarterback to maintain a competitive edge.

  Notable Quote:
  “I would tell him, why the hell are you asking me first? I'd be like, you already got problems.”
  [12:57]

• Personal Insights:
  Quinn shares personal anecdotes, such as his unique attire during the Orange Bowl presentation and his dedication to his role on the committee.

  Notable Quote:
  “I'll be wearing an orange jacket down there...it's always funny to see the response from people when you wear those orange jackets.”
  [15:05]

2. Conversation with Kyle Hamilton – Baltimore Ravens Safety

[19:50] Dan Patrick:
Dan Patrick interviews Kyle Hamilton, a two-time Pro Bowl safety for the Baltimore Ravens and a Notre Dame alumnus, focusing on his upcoming game against Notre Dame.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Game Preparation:
  Hamilton expresses concern about the upcoming Notre Dame game, acknowledging Penn State's strong season and illustrating the competitive spirit within the team.

  Notable Quote:
  “It's a really good Penn State football team. You know, Notre Dame's banged up...this is going to be a good game.”
  [20:15]

• Team Dynamics and Strategy:
  He discusses the importance of maintaining focus and executing game plans, regardless of the stage of the season.

  Notable Quote:
  “We try to take that mindset in every single week so we don't get to the playoffs and then change what we're doing.”
  [24:02]

• Personal Challenges and Performance:
  Hamilton humorously addresses questions about his speed and shares his 40-yard dash time, reflecting on his journey to the NFL despite criticisms about his speed.

  Notable Quote:
  “I'm not slow, I'm just speed challenged. And your 40 was faster than Jerry Rice's.”
  [23:09]

• Opponents’ Strengths:
  He analyzes key opponents like Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, emphasizing the challenges they present and his admiration for their athleticism.

  Notable Quote:
  “Lamar more so than Derek...he's a super fast guy. It's tough to stop him.”
  [22:09]

• Coaching and Team Leadership:
  Hamilton praises his defensive coordinator, Marcus Freeman, highlighting the effective communication and leadership that contribute to the team's success.

  Notable Quote:
  “It was cool to have a DC that was closer in age to us than our head coach and can kind of relate.”
  [21:05]

3. Discussion with Mike Breen – ESPN/ABC NBA Play-by-Play Commentator

[29:35] Dan Patrick:
Mike Breen joins Dan Patrick to discuss NBA topics, particularly focusing on the Cleveland Cavaliers and emerging stars like Victor Wembanyama.

Key Topics Discussed:

• NBA Team Performance:
  Breen analyzes the Cavaliers' impressive start to the season, comparing it to historical great starts and discussing their potential run in the playoffs.

  Notable Quote:
  “It's one of the great starts in the history of the NBA. Do you get that sense of people are really struggling to grab a hold of this?”
  [30:19]

• Player Evaluations:
  He evaluates players like Mitchell Mobley, Darius Garland, and the impact of injuries on player performance, forecasting possible All-Star selections.

  Notable Quote:
  “I think Mitchell Mobley and Darius Garland, although Jared Allen...they deserve it.”
  [31:56]

• Future Stars:
  Breen discusses Victor Wembanyama's potential, predicting multiple MVPs and emphasizing his all-around game and mental fortitude.

  Notable Quote:
  “He's a force at the other end. I'm trying to figure out what is going to be his weakness.”
  [37:58]

• Historic Comparisons:
  Comparing Wembanyama to NBA legends like Kawhi Leonard, Breen highlights Wemby's versatility and potential to dominate across different eras.

  Notable Quote:
  “He could play in any era. He could have played in the '60s...he's just a great basketball player that could play in any era.”
  [34:02]

• Broadcasting Anecdotes:
  Breen shares personal stories about fan interactions, particularly regarding his signature call "bang," and pays tribute to his former producer, Todd Fritz.

  Notable Quote:
  “Sometimes I just go bang. And sometimes I'll say that I lost my voice. I can't say it.”
  [35:36]

• League Comparisons and Player Legacies:
  Discussing LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant, Breen debates their longevity and legacy, ultimately maintaining that Michael Jordan remains unparalleled.

  Notable Quote:
  “I don't think [LeBron] can ever be ranked higher than Jordan.”
  [40:32]

• Concluding Remarks:
  Breen reflects on his career influences and the importance of quality sound bites in broadcasting, expressing gratitude for his colleagues.

  Notable Quote:
  “Todd was the one that would find the bites that he knew would work and he knew I would like to try and work.”
  [42:03]

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show serves as a comprehensive compilation of in-depth interviews with prominent sports figures. Dan Patrick engages Brady Quinn in a detailed analysis of college football dynamics, Kyle Hamilton provides insider perspectives from the NFL, and Mike Breen offers expert commentary on NBA developments and broadcasting insights. Each conversation is enriched with strategic evaluations, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful predictions, making the episode a valuable resource for sports enthusiasts seeking nuanced discussions and expert opinions.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• “I think if you look at Penn State, they've got a couple of backs and Catron Allen, Nick Singleton, who's been phenomenal...” – Brady Quinn [04:22]
• “I'm not slow, I'm just speed challenged...” – Kyle Hamilton [23:09]
• “He's a force at the other end. I'm trying to figure out what is going to be his weakness.” – Mike Breen [37:58]