The Dan Patrick Show: The Best of The Week – Episode Summary

Release Date: March 1, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Guest: J.J. Watt, NFL Today on CBS Studio Analyst and Former Houston Texans Defensive End

1. Exciting Family News

[02:45] Dan Patrick:
"Is there a time frame for baby number two dropping?"

[02:55] J.J. Watt:
"This summer. Looking forward to it."

Dan Patrick and J.J. Watt kick off the episode with exciting news about J.J.’s growing family. J.J. shares that he and his wife are expecting their second child this summer, sparking a heartfelt conversation about the challenges and joys of expanding their family.

[03:08] J.J. Watt:
"People say going from 1 to 2 is harder or going from 2 to 3 is harder."

J.J. reflects on the dynamics of raising multiple children, emphasizing how each addition brings its own set of challenges and rewards.

2. Navigating the NFL Combine Experience

[05:11] J.J. Watt:
"The NFL Combine is literally the biggest job interview of your life. It's like walking around 24/7 just trying to make sure everything is going according to plan because this can change millions of dollars. It can change your entire future."

J.J. Watt delves into his personal experiences at the NFL Combine, likening it to an intense job interview where every interaction and performance can significantly impact a player's career trajectory.

[06:14] Dan Patrick:
"Is your analogy the train station like the car wash?"

[06:18] J.J. Watt:
"No, it's a literal train station."

He clarifies his analogy, explaining that the combine setup in Indianapolis is housed in a decommissioned train station, creating a unique environment that adds to the pressure and stakes of the event.

3. The Controversial Tush Push Play

[07:16] Dan Patrick:
"The Tush Push is going to get a lot of conversation. The Packers want it outlawed. How do you view the Packers in this situation?"

[08:24] J.J. Watt:
"I don't mind teams putting up rules if that's what they want. But it's very difficult to outlaw it because not every team has mastered it like the Eagles have."

The conversation shifts to the Tush Push play, a controversial maneuver in the NFL. J.J. offers his insights on its complexity and the challenges in regulating or banning the play, citing the Philadelphia Eagles' exceptional proficiency with it as a major hurdle.

[09:16] J.J. Watt:
"The way the Eagles do it, they're so tight, they all fire off at the exact same time on the snap count."

He elaborates on why the Tush Push works so effectively for the Eagles, highlighting their coordinated offensive line and Jalen Hurts' strength.

4. Home Life and Unexpected Interruptions

[10:16] Dan Patrick:
"What's going on in your house? Some stuff."

[10:19] J.J. Watt:
"It's a great time to have a little construction going on in the living room."

Dan and J.J. share a light-hearted moment as J.J. reveals that his home is undergoing construction, leading to some unexpected interruptions during the show.

[11:32] J.J. Watt:
"I have to protect my friend Todd."

Their camaraderie shines through as they joke about managing home life while maintaining their friendship and professional relationship.

5. Reflections on Coaching and Personal Growth

[07:56] J.J. Watt:
"After my meeting with the Texans, my defensive line coach Bill Kolar told me, 'Do you think you play hard?' I said, 'I play hard every single snap.' He called me a lion. It was tough at the time, but now we're best friends."

J.J. Watt shares a transformative experience with his defensive line coach, highlighting how mentorship and tough coaching can lead to personal and professional growth.

[13:24] Dan Patrick:
"Have you talked to the commissioner or anybody about why they allow these linemen to cut you?"

[13:32] J.J. Watt:
"It's legal, but there's no place for it in the game. It literally is the goal of it to wipe out a guy's knee."

They discuss the physical demands and potential dangers in football, specifically addressing issues related to offensive line tactics and player safety.

6. A Fun Anecdote with Woody Harrelson

[53:17] Dan Patrick:
"Do you remember that I came with Darius Rucker one night to your place?"

[58:09] J.J. Watt:
"Yeah, that seemed like a really normal Tuesday afternoon."

J.J. recounts a memorable evening when Dan Patrick and Darius Rucker visited his home, leading to a humorous exchange involving some unexpected circumstances.

[60:03] Dan Patrick:
"That's so weird. This is fun. Let's try this one."

Their playful banter adds a personal touch to the show, showcasing their friendship beyond the professional setting.

7. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the conversation wraps up, Dan and J.J. reflect on the importance of moments like the NFL Combine, team dynamics, and personal relationships in shaping their careers and lives.

[40:31] Dan Patrick:
"Thank you. Thank you, J.J. Watt. Great talking with you. See you in the kitchen."

Their farewell encapsulates the blend of professional insight and personal camaraderie that defines "The Dan Patrick Show."

Notable Quotes:

• J.J. Watt [02:55]:
  "People say going from 1 to 2 is harder or going from 2 to 3 is harder."

• J.J. Watt [05:11]:
  "The NFL Combine is literally the biggest job interview of your life."

• J.J. Watt [07:56]:
  "After my meeting with the Texans, he called me a lion."

• J.J. Watt [13:32]:
  "There's no place for it in the game. It literally is the goal of it to wipe out a guy's knee."

• Dan Patrick [10:16]:
  "What's going on in your house? Some stuff."

This episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and spirited discussions on pivotal topics in the NFL. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just interested in the lives of your favorite athletes, this episode provides a comprehensive look into J.J. Watt's experiences and perspectives.