Podcast Summary: The Pat McAfee Show - PMS 2.0 1307

Release Date: March 13, 2025

1. Big Night Out: Ticket Release and Event Overview

Host: Pat McAfee
Guests: AJ Hawk, Boston Connor, Ty Schmidt

Pat McAfee kicks off the episode with enthusiastic news about the inaugural Big Night Out event scheduled for Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This marks a significant milestone for the show's history, as it ventures into selling tickets for the first time.

• Ticket Pricing & Availability:
  Tickets range from $20 to $95 (exclusive of Ticketmaster fees). Pat emphasizes the affordability to ensure wide accessibility:

  "We wanted this to be a very affordable evening for people to come have a great time."
  (00:00)

• Event Highlights:
  Attendees can expect over a million dollars in giveaways, unique entertainment, and opportunities to win big. Pat expresses deep gratitude to the fanbase for making this event possible:

  "We can't thank you all enough for allowing us to do this for a living."
  (01:00)

• Ticket Sales Performance:
  Despite initial technical glitches with Ticketmaster's website crashing due to high demand, sales have been robust. Pat shares real-time updates on ticket availability:

  "We still got some left, though. We still got like seven or... a couple hundred left."
  (04:25)

2. NFL Free Agency Highlights: Cooper Kupp and Aaron Rodgers

Guests: Boston Connor, Ty Schmidt

The discussion shifts to the bustling NFL free agency period, focusing on Cooper Kupp's potential movements and the speculative market around him.

• Cooper Kupp's Market Demand:
  With reports from sources like Adam Schefter indicating interest from 12 teams, including the Patriots, Seahawks, and Packers, Pat and the guests analyze possible bidding scenarios:

  "Cooper cup is a dog. He's a former triple crown winner... Everybody loves him. But at what price?"
  (04:25)

• Aaron Rodgers' Potential Moves:
  A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Aaron Rodgers, currently a free agent contemplating his next move. Speculation includes offers from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Giants. The team dynamics and Rodgers' career decisions are dissected:

  "Aaron Rodgers is making a massive decision with what he's going to do at this stage of his career."
  (10:32)

  Pat expresses hope for Rodgers to join the Steelers, highlighting the team's synergy and potential for immediate success:

  "I'm a massive fan, and I would love to see him with the Pittsburgh Steelers."
  (11:22)

3. Interview with Michael Lombardi: Insights on College Basketball and March Madness

Guest: Michael Lombardi, General Manager of the North Carolina Tar Heels Football Team

In the second hour, Pat engages in an insightful interview with Michael Lombardi, delving into the current landscape of college basketball.

• March Madness Predictions:
  Michael offers expert analysis on potential contenders and dark horses:

  "The SEC could get three teams in the final four."
  (21:22)

• Team Performances:
  Discussions include powerhouse teams like Duke, under new coach John Shire, and potential breakout teams such as VCU and Drake. Michael praises coaching strategies and player development:

  "John Shire is doing it his own way... they're really fun to watch."
  (25:05)

• Impact of Free Agency on College Teams:
  Michael parallels NFL free agency strategies with college recruiting, emphasizing the importance of adaptable player positions:

  "You have to take multidimensional players that give you a chance to have a back door."
  (83:33)

4. Final Ticket Sales Update and Event Excitement

As the episode progresses, Pat provides the latest updates on the Big Night Out ticket availability, confirming that the event has sold out.

• Sold-Out Confirmation:

  "Officially sold out."
  (55:35)

• Acknowledgments and Gratitude:
  Pat extends heartfelt thanks to the team, including partners from WWE, for their pivotal roles in orchestrating the event:

  "Shout out to Marty, Fathom, Neil, Nick, obviously Lee in there."
  (104:19)

• Final Encouragement:
  Encouraging fans who managed to secure tickets, Pat vows to deliver an unforgettable experience:

  "It feels like it's gonna be a big time show and people just buying tickets on the thought of what it could be is sweet."
  (44:19)

5. Concluding Remarks and Teasers for Upcoming Shows

Pat wraps up the episode by reflecting on the successful ticket sales and building anticipation for the upcoming Big Night Out event.

• Event Anticipation:

  "We're going to make it well worth it…and I'm pumped for what we're doing and giving back to the city that obviously created me."
  (59:26)

• Farewell:
  Pat bids farewell with enthusiasm, reminding listeners of the event's significance and the show's commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment:

  "Wednesday, April 9, should be epic."
  (105:18)

Notable Quotes

• "We wanted this to be a very affordable evening for people to come have a great time."
  — Pat McAfee (00:00)

• "Cooper cup is a dog. He's a former triple crown winner... Everybody loves him. But at what price?"
  — Pat McAfee (04:25)

• "Aaron Rodgers is making a massive decision with what he's going to do at this stage of his career."
  — Pat McAfee (10:32)

• "John Shire is doing it his own way... they're really fun to watch."
  — Michael Lombardi (25:05)

• "Officially sold out."
  — Pat McAfee (55:35)

Conclusion

This episode of The Pat McAfee Show masterfully blends exciting announcements about the Big Night Out event with in-depth discussions on pressing NFL free agency topics and expert insights into the college basketball season. Pat McAfee, alongside his guests and special interview with Michael Lombardi, delivers a comprehensive and engaging narrative that keeps both avid fans and casual listeners informed and entertained.

For those interested in attending the Big Night Out, tickets were available until approximately 1:35 PM on March 13, 2025, but are now sold out. The event promises a night of unparalleled entertainment, substantial giveaways, and memorable moments, reinforcing Pat McAfee's commitment to providing unique and valuable experiences to his audience.