“Afternoon Delight”

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Tony Kornheiser Show - “Afternoon Delight” (December 23, 2024)

Released by This Show Stinks Productions, LLC, “The Tony Kornheiser Show” is a dynamic daily talk show that seamlessly navigates topics from sports to politics, current events, and entertainment. In the episode titled “Afternoon Delight,” released on December 23, 2024, host Tony Kornheiser engages with guests Tim Kirchen and Jason Fraley to explore the legacy of Rickey Henderson, dissect the inaugural round of college football playoffs, and delve into the upcoming Bob Dylan biopic.

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1. Tribute to Rickey Henderson

Guest: Tim Kirchen
Timestamp: [00:34] – [17:15]

The episode opens with Tony Kornheiser introducing a heartfelt discussion about the recent passing of baseball legend Rickey Henderson. Tim Kirchen provides an in-depth analysis of Henderson's unparalleled career, emphasizing his status as "at worst, one of the 15 greatest players of all time" ([04:53] Kirchen). He highlights Henderson's remarkable achievements, including stealing 1,406 bases, 297 home runs, and being the "greatest leadoff hitter in the history of the game" ([07:53] Kirchen).

Kirchen reminisces about Henderson's influence on the Oakland Athletics, asserting, "Ricky is the best of the group" among notable A’s players like Catfish and Reggie Jackson ([09:57]). He also shares anecdotes illustrating Henderson's competitive spirit and his innovative approach to base-stealing, such as sliding headfirst—a technique that puzzled and impressed contemporaries alike ([08:37] and [09:40]).

Notable Quote:

“Rickey was so good that Frank Robinson told his catchers and pitchers, ‘Don’t even try to throw him out. Let him go.’ That’s how great he was.” – Jason Fraley ([06:04])

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2. Analysis of the First Round College Football Playoffs

Guest: Booger McFarlane
Timestamp: [22:03] – [29:35]

Tony Kornheiser shifts the conversation to college football, analyzing the newly implemented 12-team playoff system. Booger McFarlane shares his perspective, acknowledging the advantages and challenges of home-field benefits. He praises the competitive nature of the initial playoff games but raises concerns about the subjective nature of team selections, especially regarding strength of schedule and conference champion incentives ([24:41]).

The discussion delves into specific teams like Boise State and Notre Dame. McFarlane expresses skepticism about Boise State's ability to advance further, citing their limited exposure against top-tier teams ([26:39]). Conversely, he highlights Notre Dame's robust defense and strategic advantages against conference powerhouses like Georgia, suggesting that their matchup could be a defining game in the playoffs ([28:39]).

Notable Quote:

“Notre Dame has got to feel really good about the matchup because Georgia doesn’t have their starting quarterback. Notre Dame does a really good job of stopping the run.” – Booger McFarlane ([28:39])

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3. Review of the Upcoming Bob Dylan Movie

Guest: Tim Kirchen
Timestamp: [44:53] – [52:38]

One of the standout segments of the episode is the discussion about the forthcoming Bob Dylan biopic titled “Complete Unknown.” Tim Kirchen provides an enthusiastic review, mentioning director James Mangold's credentials, including his work on “Walk the Line” and the Johnny Cash movie ([46:52]). Kirchen praises Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Dylan, noting that Chalamet not only captures Dylan’s essence but also performs his own singing for authenticity ([47:26]).

The conversation touches on the film's narrative structure, which follows Dylan's journey from Greenwich Village to his electrifying performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965. Kirchen expresses his anticipation, likening the movie to iconic films like “The Godfather” and appreciating how it aims to maintain Dylan’s enigmatic persona ([48:46]).

Notable Quote:

“Timothée Chalamet nails it. It’s the closest thing to watching Dylan is maybe like a documentary. He’s the best actor in this movie with a shot at actually winning a best actor nomination.” – Tim Kirchen ([48:46])

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4. Listener Mailbag Highlights

Segments Covered:
Timestamp: [57:27] – [67:35]

Tony Kornheiser dedicates a portion of the show to engaging with listener emails, sharing a variety of anecdotes and seeking advice. Notable submissions include:

• Justin Johnson (Arlington, VA): Shares a humorous tale about moth-infested sweaters and clever storage solutions using colorful popcorn cans ([58:57]).

• Nathan Ackerhelm (Charlotte, NC): Discusses preserving cherished sweaters and critiques local businesses in Washington metro ([58:58]).

• Elliot Olshansky (Del Mar): Offers comedic observations about pronunciation and personal anecdotes related to band practice ([60:37] – [63:07]).

• Various Listeners: Provide tips on driving routes, share nostalgic memories about local establishments, and offer holiday wishes to Tony and his team ([63:12] – [67:35]).

Notable Quote:

“My sister went to Tulane and like Chuck Todd, she got a speeding ticket for going 29 in that 25 zone. I think during her four years, she got at least six tickets.” – Mike Sempervive ([60:38])

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5. Holiday Movie Recommendations

Guests: Tim Kirchen and Jason Fraley
Timestamp: [38:32] – [52:38]

As the holiday season approaches, Tony Kornheiser and Tim Kirchen discuss must-watch holiday films. Tim Kirchen recommends “Wicked,” a film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical, praising its production quality and performances, particularly Cynthia Erivo's ([41:13]). However, Kirchen expresses a desire for a more comprehensive portrayal of the story, similar to classic films like “Lawrence of Arabia” ([42:08]).

The conversation also touches on the superhero movie trend, with Kirchen expressing a waning interest in the genre and longing for more standalone films that offer a complete narrative ([43:03]). They briefly discuss emerging trends and the future of superhero films, pondering whether the genre will see a resurgence once the current craze diminishes ([43:54]).

Notable Quote:

“I really miss sort of those mid-range, quote, adult movies. Not a huge budget or not super indie, but sort of that middle one.” – Tim Kirchen ([44:53])

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6. Closing Remarks and Personal Touches

Timestamp: [53:22] – [71:17]

Tony wraps up the episode by sharing personal stories and reflecting on memorable moments from his career. He reads touching messages from listeners, including tributes to his father and appreciation for the show’s positive impact during challenging times ([57:09] – [57:28]). The episode concludes with light-hearted interactions, musical segments, and well-wishes for the holidays, reinforcing the show's warm and engaging community feel ([71:16] – [71:17]).

Notable Quote:

“Every time we'd get in the car to drive to the hospital, I would ask Mr. Tony of the radio to provide a brief instrument escape from the reality we were living in.” – Michael Spaeth ([57:09])

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Conclusion

In “Afternoon Delight,” Tony Kornheiser masterfully balances heartfelt tributes, sharp sports analysis, and engaging entertainment discussions. The episode not only honors the legacy of Rickey Henderson but also provides insightful commentary on the evolving landscape of college football and the anticipation surrounding the Bob Dylan biopic. Through listener interactions and personal anecdotes, Kornheiser fosters a sense of community, making this episode a memorable installment for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Tony Kornheiser]

Hey, it's Tony. Hope you enjoy our matinee show. Today we'll talk to Tim Kirchen about passing of Rickey Henderson. Talk to Booger McFarlane about the first round of college football playoffs, and then we'll talk with Jason Fraley about the new Bob Dylan movie. But first, commerce.

[Coca Cola Voiceover]

The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones and creating magical memories that will last a lifetime. So whether it's family and friends you haven't seen in a while or those who you see all the time, share holiday magic this season with an ice cold Coca Cola. Copyright 2024 the Coca Cola Company okay.

[Tim Kirchen]

I have to tell you, I was.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Just looking on ebay where I go for all kinds of things I love.

[Coca Cola Voiceover]

And there it was, that hologram trading card. One of the rarest.

[Tim Kirchen]

The last one I needed for my set.

[Booger McFarlane]

Shiny like the designer handbag of my dreams.

[Tim Kirchen]

One of a kind.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Ebay had it. And now everyone's asking, ooh, where'd you.

[Jason Fraley]

Get your windshield wipers?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Ebay has all the parts that fit my car.

[Unknown Voiceover]

No more annoying, just beautiful.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Whatever you love, find it on eBay.

[Tim Kirchen]

EBay. Things people love.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Previously on the Tony Korneiser Show. And I look just like my father. And I have these terrible things.

[Unknown Voice]

I mean, you want to go visit a spice store of sitting in a.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Chair and having my grandchildren around me and looking like, you know, a small Pekingese dog doll, which my dad did. My dad was not big to begin with. He's like five six to begin with. So he shrunk to about five two.

[Unknown Voice]

Well, you can try out the chair at the beach.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. And just hit his old chair and just think of the children around me and they would have this picture and go, God.

[Unknown Voice]

Grandpa slapped in an extra 20 for.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Eric Hahn for yeah, let's make it colder in here. The Tony Korneiser show is on now. It's frightening. My son remembers everything. Everything I've ever said, everything I've ever done, everything he' or done. And brings it back in Total recall. Tim Kirkjen joins us. I need to say we're guest loaded today, so we're putting Tim on in the front of the show to talk about Ricky Henderson and this most recent. This is for purely selfish reasons. The gnats trade that I'm going to get to. But you do a podcast with your son. My son is on vacation because I'm a great boss. I'm sure you're a great boss too. Does your son remember everything in his life and everything with you as well? Like mine does.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah. But sadly, I remember all of it better than he does.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, I have no memory. Yeah.

[Jason Fraley]

Oh, my, my. I remember everything good and bad, Tony. It's a blessing and a curse at the same time. So I was bringing up some things. We're doing a podcast today.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Jason Fraley]

Soon as we're done taping your show, we're gonna do our podcast. And I was explaining some things that, you know, birthday Christmas presents I got for him when he was 6, and he doesn't remember them, so, yes, he remembers a lot about me. I remember more about him because, unfortunately, I can't forget anything.

[Tony Kornheiser]

We need to switch children because my son remembers everything, and it is a burden. It is a burden like everything good and bad. Everything like the days involved. You know what I mean? His memory is so acute. It sounds like yours is, too.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, well, he brought it up the other day when Kelly was 6 and Jeffrey was 4. I asked him, because I had another bad day. Give me something that dad is good at. Okay. Because I had fouled up something around the house. So they put their heads together quickly, age 6 and 4, and they said, I'm just quoting here, you're good at basketball, you're good at baseball. And then there's this tremendous pause trying to find a third thing that dad is good at. And they huddle up like it's Family Feud. I'd say you're good at feeding the dogs. That was it. That was the third thing on the list. Baseball, basketball, and feeding the dogs. Jeffrey reminded me of that this morning.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I would wait forever to hear my children say parenting. That would never happen. They would never say, you're good at it. Never. Because I wasn't good at it. All right, let me get to some stuff here. Let's talk about Ricky, who loved to refer to himself in the third person as Ricky, as in Ricky don't need no press today. Which is why I didn't like Ricky Henderson all that much. But I didn't deal with him probably as much as you did. I read bars earlier. He talked about how great Rickey Henderson was statistically. He said Bill James thought Ricky Henderson was the greatest person in the world statistically. I am not a statistical maven, as people say. You were in his presence a lot. You cover baseball. How great was Rickey Henderson, in fact?

[Jason Fraley]

Well, he's at worst, one of the 15 greatest players of all time.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Wow.

[Jason Fraley]

Much higher than that. Much higher, if you like. Okay, Tony. He stole 468 more bases than anyone else, meaning Lou Brock, number two. On the list had four more 100 Steel seasons, he wouldn't be where Rickey Henderson is. By the way, Starling Marte is the active leader in steals at 354. I got asked the other day, will Ricky's stolen base record hold? He's 1100 ahead of the most active player. He was an unbelievable base stealer. He scored more runs than anyone in the history of the game. He's the greatest leadoff hitter in the history of the game. All those great Oakland teams that we saw late 80s, early 90s, he was their best player. As far as greatest left fielders of all time. You've got Barry Bonds, you've got Ted Williams, got Ricky Henderson. I mean he was an all time player. And he had the second most walks ever. Tony, he had the most unintentional walks in history.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Right, because Bonds had the most.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, Bonds, he has more than Ricky. So get this, my friend Craig Wright came up with this. Ricky had 796 unintentional leadoff walks to start an inning. There are 45% of the hall of Famer position players who don't have as many walks in their career as Rickey Henderson had leading off innings in his career. That's how devastating he was. And Tony, when I covered, when I covered the Orioles, Frank Robinson, 88, was so fed up with his team and so, you know, impressed by Ricky that he told his catchers and his pitchers before a game one day in Oakland, don't even hold him on. Don't even try to throw him out. If he tries to steal, you're never going to get him. He's too good. Just let him go. That's how great Rickey Henderson was.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's really high praise. And I knew that. I just assumed that in both in Texas and in Baltimore you would have had to cover him to, to a degree. You said he's the greatest leadoff hitter. One of my questions was who else contends for that? Or in your mind, does no one really contend?

[Jason Fraley]

Well, Pete Rose of course is in there because he got over 4000 hits and hit leadoff for most of his career. And look, I totally admire who Pete Rose was as a player on every level. But Ricky Henderson overall did more things than Pete Rose did. Ricky, by the way, as you know, Tony not only stole 1406 bases, he had 297 homers. He had a home run in 25 consecutive seasons. And again when you add in the walks, Tony, if we use the.

[Tony Kornheiser]

His on base percentage is insane, ridiculous.

[Jason Fraley]

And we didn't even use the numbers that we use today. Back when he was playing. If we had, we would consider him, you know, certainly one of the 10 greatest players of all time because he was always on base and he was always hitting homers and always advancing, which is what we're looking for today. Homers and walks, nobody was better as a combination that other than Barry Bonds, than Rickey Henderson. He was. And he was a great defensive left fielder, Tony. 1981, he led the league in put outs. He was the only left fielder since 1920 to lead his league in put outs. That's how good an outfielder he was.

[Tony Kornheiser]

When he was right, he played forever. Does that did. Does that diminish him in any way?

[Jason Fraley]

No. Tony, he was really good at the end. He was still getting on base. He wasn't just hanging around, hoping to draw another paycheck. He was on base and stealing a base as he led the league in steals 12 different times. He was not somebody that was just hanging around. He loved to play. The other thing, Tony, about him, he's so strong, so short, so stocky. I once asked him, ricky, you must have lifted weights your entire career. And he looked at me, he goes, I've never lifted weights in my life. I do sit ups and push ups. That's all I do. And the other really underrated part about him is he slid head first virtually every time. Lou Brock, the great Lou Brock, used to slide feet first in order to have his, you know, his strong legs going into the fielder and his spikes going at him. Ricky went head first for 25 years. I'm still not sure how he did that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

There was an obit in the San Jose Mercury News that called him the greatest Oakland A ever. Do you agree with that?

[Jason Fraley]

Oh, yeah. There's no doubt. When the A's left Oakland, I did the all Oakland A team, and they had some amazing players.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I mean, they had Catfish and Reggie.

[Jason Fraley]

And Rudy and Bando, Canseco and Bando. Yeah, you got almost all of them there. Ricky is the best of the group. Don Mattingly, who played for the Yankees, of course, when Ricky was there, calls Ricky the greatest player I ever played with. Dave Stewart of the A's said has told me multiple times, ricky's the greatest player I ever played with. Tony, he changed the way the game was played with his combination of power and speed. No one had any seen anybody quite like him when he burst upon the scene and stole 130 bases back when a time where they were actually holding runners on. Tony, if we had the bigger bases back.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, he'd steal 160.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, he would steal 200 bases. The disengagement rule. Ricky was a very, very smart base dealer. He could read the pitcher better than anyone. And then he just outran the ball to second base.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So. But let me bring this very much closer to home for people like you and I, the two people on this show, listening to this show, part of this show that actually talked to these people for a living. That's what we did. We were sports writers. He was impossible for me, just impossible. It's the great. It's the great Jay Adande thing. When Jay would walk up to him before games and he would say, ricky, don't need no press today. Ja. You know, I mean, he would always refer to himself as Ricky, and he was difficult for me. But you covered baseball. I didn't cover baseball. How was he for you?

[Jason Fraley]

I know. I never had a bad moment with Ricky. Oh, wow. I did not sit and talk to him for 40 minutes at a time like I did with Tony Gwynn and a bunch of others. So I picked my spots. But I knew what Ricky was interested in. I talked to him many, many, many times and never had an issue. And, you know, Ricky was different, but in being different, he showed up every day ready to tear your throat out. And don't let anyone tell you differently. He was a player as you'll almost ever meet, and he just did things a little differently. But I never had a problem with Ricky Anderson.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I'm going to ask you a couple of stories. You probably have your own stories, but the Olarud story is the greatest story I've heard. And then I heard one that Harold Reynolds talked about the other day on stolen bases. Do you know the Olarud story?

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah. Now, I think it's apocryphal, Tony, but we're going to tell. We're going to tell it anyway. Ricky and Ola Rood play together. I'll have the order wrong. Maybe play together with the Mets. Of course, Olarud wore a helmet in the field because he had a brain aneurysm when he was in college and he needed to wear a helmet wherever he went. So they played together with the Mets. Then they both got traded eventually to the Mariners. Now they're on the Mariners together, and Ricky's in the outfield during BP and he looks at old Root, his teammate, and says, you know, I used to play with a guy on the Mets who used to wear a helmet all the time. And old Root said, Ricky that was me greatest. I'm told it's apocryphal. I don't care. As far as I'm concerned. Third, it's true, because that's something that Ricky would have done. This, the other thing that Ricky did. Bobby Valentine swears this is true. Ricky loved an ovation. Loved it. So he gets another standing ovation while he's with the Mets because he broke another record. All right, so he tips his cap because he loves to tip his cap. Play starts again. He looks at the third base coach, Cookie Rojas, who is over there giving him the steal sign, which for Ricky was a simple clap of the hands. So Cookie like alerts Ricky, look at me. Starts clapping his hands. And Ricky tipped his cap.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's funny. That's fun. So the Harold Reynolds story that I heard just the other day was that Ricky was hurt one year and Harold Reynolds was in a dog fight for most stolen bases of the year.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, I know this. Keep going. I love it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So Harold Reynolds, who you knew when. Because you covered him on the Orioles, you had to have covered Harold Reynolds on the Orioles, right? So Harold Reynolds, in the last day, he's fighting it out with somebody else and he gets a steal. It's his 60th steal. And as the story was told to me, Harold Reynolds is the American League stolen based champion with 60. And that night gets a call from Rickey henderson, who goes 60. I'd have had 60 by the all Star break. Is that true?

[Jason Fraley]

That is true. Harold told me that story 10 years ago and I believe every bit of it because A, it was true. He would have had 60 at the all Star break. And B, Ricky had no issue telling people how good he was. But when you're that good, you're allowed to tell people how good you are.

[Tony Kornheiser]

One of the top 15 for sure. Maybe one of the top 10 ever.

[Jason Fraley]

I've got him as 15, Tony. All right, now look, this is my list. It's not the right list. South correct list, it's subjective. But when it. When you look at things that he did, most run scored, second. Most walks, most stolen base by a mile, greatest leadoff hitter ever, best player on championship teams, MVP. Yes, I got him as the top A. Top 15.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Wow, that's great. Okay, before I let you go, one other thing. I'm so happy to have read that Robert Garcia is no longer with the Washington Nationals because he never didn't allow inherited runners to score. Every single inherited runner always scored. I hated him, thought he was terrible. I get angry reading how Good a reliever he was and what a loss he'll be. But for him, the Washington Nationals address one of their power positions, which are both first and third, I think catcher as well, where they're deficient. But they bring in Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers, who at one point had a Silver Slugger and at one point had a Gold glove and is for the Nats a heavy duty power hitter because he can hit 20, which means maybe he'll hit more than their shortstop. What do you make of the Nats getting Nathaniel low?

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, I really like it because he's a great dude. He's got a brother Josh that plays in the big leagues. He comes from good stock. He's hit a bunch of homers in the big leagues. He's got a great swing. He's gotten a whole lot better defensively and he's a big upgrade at first base for the National. Yeah, they're not going to win the division or make the playoffs because they got him. But it is a big upgrade. And he's a very smart and clever and funny guy. So if you talk to him before or after games, which I know you will, you'll enjoy talking to him.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, that's good to know. Tim, thank you so much. Happy holidays to you and the family. Thank you.

[Jason Fraley]

Okay, Tony, see you.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Tim Kirchen talking about Rickey Henderson, which is very important because Ricky died, you know, a couple of days ago at, to me, a very young age, everyone. A very young age for an athlete. 65.

[Unknown Voice]

Yeah.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, so I talked about the fact that we were guest loaded today. I did not talk about our projections for the rest of the week. Today is Monday. We are recording this in the afternoon, which we don't usually do. You're getting it late. We will do Tuesday as well and Friday as well at our normal times. Those days. Right. I was yelled at by my son, you cannot do it Christmas Day. And I said, but I have nothing to do. What am I gonna do? And he said, you cannot do it Christmas Day.

[Unknown Voice]

Should we do it on Christmas Day?

[Tony Kornheiser]

I think we should, but we're not. We're not going. We're not going to. So we'll take a break and when we come back. Is it Booger?

[Unknown Voice]

That's right.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Booger McFarlane will join us to talk about the college games and maybe a couple of pro games from yesterday, like the Washington Philadelphia game, which was a spectacular game. I'm Tony Kornheiser.

[Tim Kirchen]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser Show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

This is the Liquid IV read Whether you forget to take a sip of water during the office holiday party or start feeling parched after a long day of traveling or hosting, keep Liquid IV on hand to stay hydrated. What?

[Unknown Voice]

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[Tony Kornheiser]

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[Unknown Voice]

I love both. And this is often the time of year where you forget to take care of yourself. So I will be in an all day car ride coming up in the near future and you take one of these on the road with you. You just have to fight off the little kid in the backseat going sip sip. But for you, I mean if you go hiking, this is the time of year where you forget to.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You think for the because it's not hot. Yeah.

[Unknown Voice]

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[Tony Kornheiser]

So yeah, no.

[Unknown Voice]

Got to have it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

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[Unknown Voice]

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[Tony Kornheiser]

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[Tim Kirchen]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

This is sent to us from Lisa G. In New York City, who writes, never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd be sending a jingle to the mailbag because I have zero musical inclination. However, my mentor at work was telling me about his son's band recently, and I said, hey, I know where I can get that music played for free. So your son can get more than 10 monthly listeners and 211 follows on Spotify. So the kid is in a band called the youth Now. Y U T H the Youth. And this is his first song. Let me get it here is called Everything we Wanted.

[Unknown Voice]

That's right.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And this is the Youth. You heard this last night? Pretty good. It's.

[Unknown Voice]

It's good.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. Pretty good.

[Unknown Voice]

Hope we get more than 12 listens.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. Playing in Booger McFarland. And I just want to start this way. I don't want to react. I don't want to overreact. I don't want to overreact. But I tried to watch the four college football games, failed miserably on three of them. Just, you know, went back to the NFL games because they were just not competitive. Clemson, Texas was sort of kind of competitive as Clemson tried to crawl back. But every time they scored, Texas went right down the field. And the two things that occurred to me and please be expansive on this is 12 now for me. Seems too many teams and boy, oh, boy, home field just. Just kills, you know, it's such an enormous advantage. I would work on both those things if I was on the committee. How about you?

[Unknown Voiceover]

Well, I'm not going to overreact because of one playoff. I think the home field thing was really cool. And I think for like, Notre Dame, like that setting with the cold and the snow, to me, that's what college football is all about. So I love the idea of having the first round games at the home sites. To me, I don't think that's going anywhere. As far as the 12 teams are concerned. Everyone is saying that the games were competitive. So I'll start off with telling you this, Tony. I've seen super bowls that were 30 to 40 point blowouts. So I'm not going to react too much about the competitiveness of the game because we've seen winner take all games or win or move on games that are not competitive in the National Football League. What I will say is this. I think there needs to be some tweaking to the system a little bit. Take into account a little bit more strength of record. Was Indiana really that good? I thought they were. Maybe they just had a bad day. I think the committee is going to take take a look at strength of schedule. But I think you get into a slippery slope there because Indiana was 11 and 1, Alabama was 93 and by all accounts it came down to those two teams. So what I would say to you, Tony, is everybody knew that Alabama was probably, but they were nine and three. So are we going to take that down to the next level and say what if Alabama were 8 and 4? Do we think an 8 and 4 Alabama team is better than an 111 Indiana team? I don't know. Maybe. But at some point you got to go off of what you see and how the teams play. So I think there's a slippery slope that the committee's got a got to kind of handle here when you're trying to get the best 12 teams. But overall I do think we're headed the right way as far as this playoff is concerned.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So let me come back in this regard. The committee also, they ceded conference champions, which in theory is very good. It's a great reward. But now I fear, me personally, I fear for the Boise State game and I fear for the Arizona State game. I wonder if we're looking at more blowouts. What are your thoughts about that?

[Unknown Voiceover]

Well, I think also that the committee is not going to back down from that as far as the conferences are concerned, that all conferences aren't created equal. But there has to be some incentive and some reward I think, for winning the conference. Right now the committee says you get a, you know, the top four conference champions get a bot. Yeah, some people are throwing out there and making the suggestion that the top four conference champions get an at large bid and then you see the teams 1 through 12 go along with that. But I do like the idea of incentivizing the conference championship somehow because now that you have these big super conferences with the ACC and the SEC and the Big Ten and the Big 12, everybody's not going to play everybody and all conference schedules are not equal. But I do like some form of incentive for playing your league and winning your league that year.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And I understand that. And I think that Clemson got in because they won the accident. And smu, while losing, was very impressive in their comeback. But both ACC teams are already out. This is why I sort of fear that Arizona State is going to go out pretty easily at this point. Boise State's got a great record and was great even in its loss at Oregon, but I don't know that they play enough good teams to withstand the rigorous of a 12 team playoff. That's my fear, you know, you don't have that fear.

[Unknown Voiceover]

I have the fear. But I also remember seeing this Boise team, as you said. Yeah, Boise was in, in Oregon and have not had a really, really good opportunity to beat Oregon. Yeah, we all think is the best team in the country this season. So yeah, you know, there is no, there is no really objective way to do it. There's going to be some subjectivity to this because everybody doesn't play everybody and you can't have 27 college football games. These kids at some point got to go to class at some point, even though we are devaluing the academic calendar. Anyway, that's a whole nother podcast, right? Boise. Boise has a puncher's chance and they got one big punch. And his name is Ashton Genti.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He's real.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Can he have one of those days where he can rush for 200 yards? It's not likely, but he's the best running back from a yardage standpoint that we've seen since Barry Sanders. So I'm definitely looking forward to his, his shot at it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The school that interests me the most is Notre Dame for this reason. That's the worst loss with a good team in 10 years. Losing to Northern Illinois in their opening game. It's just a terrible, it's an indefensible, terrible loss. But they didn't lose after that. My, my problem maybe. Problems, wrong word. My issue might be I'm not sure they played a good team after that. I'm not sure. And I'm not sure they played a good team in the first round of the playoffs. That's why I'm interested in Notre Dame. What are your thoughts on Notre Dame?

[Unknown Voiceover]

I think Notre Dame is really good. I think their defense is outstanding and I think of all the matchups I Think if you're Notre Dame, you got to feel really good about the matchup because Georgia doesn't have the starting quarterback. Georgia is going to rely on the run game, running the football. And what does Notre Dame do? Well, Notre Dame does a really good job of stopping the run. So I think if you're Notre Dame, and to me this will be one of the biggest games in the history of Notre Dame because this iteration, Marcus Freeman has brought this team back.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yep.

[Unknown Voiceover]

And now you get a standalone game against one of the behemoths of the SEC in New Orleans on the turf and it's going to be prime time. And so for Notre Dame, who you, you know as well as I know, Tony, one of the more prestigious institutions in America, especially from an academic, not only academic but also athletic standpoint, they're going to get their shot. And I think right now Georgia is a one and a half point favor. So what that tells me, it's basically a pick em game. And I think Notre Dame, as long as they can run the football, that's the whole key. If they can run the football, Tony, they can beat Georgia because their defense is just that good.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So I was going to ask you, of the four teams that won and they all were impressive. Penn State surprised me. They were really, they just ate up that game of Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas and Penn State. Which of those four do you think is more likely to lose in the next round?

[Unknown Voiceover]

Of all the teams that won, which ones is most likely to lose? Most likely Notre Dame. Just because of who they're going against. I mean it is, it is. Listen, Georgia may not have their starting quarterback, but it's still Georgia. Yeah, six or seven guys are going to be drafted in the first two rounds on defense. Offensively, Kirby has a tough, hard nosed football team that likes to run the football. So yeah, Notre Dame has got a tough road to hold. Even though I think they can win, they still got a tough road to hold.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, let me get to the pros for a second because a couple of things happened that were really worth talking about. Washington committed five turnovers, which you never win when you commit five turnovers. Philadelphia lost. Jalen hurts, but still they had a couple of drops in the fourth quarter which would have certainly changed the game. They would have won. What did you make of that game and what did you make of your LSU boy, Jaden Daniels, the way he took them down the field when he had to late.

[Unknown Voiceover]

I think Jayden Daniels has proven he's the best rookie quarterback in this crop and Tony, what makes him so good is not necessarily his legs and everybody will go to that. His poise under fire, under pressure is that of like a 12 year veteran. Like he doesn't panic, he doesn't get sped up. He plays the game. And Tony, every now and then you see these athletes that come along that when they walk in a room, everybody starts to feel confidence just because of their presence. He can galvanize an organization. He's a force multiplier. Like all these things that we've heard about certain guys, he is that guy. Because Washington is basically the same team they were last year, Tony, and they're a 10 win team. This year they're going to the postseason and it's mainly because of one guy. Now I'm minimizing this a little bit because Dan Quinn, the head coach, has done a great job of changing the culture. But when you talk about the guys on the field, it's really one change and that's Jaden Daniels. And it just shows you how much that a franchise quarterback can do for an organization. He is outstanding, Tony. He's a better kid than he is a player. Fun fact, he and I share a birthday. Both of our birthdays are on December 18th. He is as good as advertised, Tony. And I think as long as he can stay healthy, the Commanders will win a championship at some point during his tenure.

[Tony Kornheiser]

To your point earlier, Terry McLaurin, who is a really good player and appears to be when you see him interviewed, a really smart guy, said exactly that Said of Jaden Daniels, he walks into a room, everybody pays attention because they, they will follow this kid. Even as a rookie, they, you know, he understands how good he is. I. But from a pro standpoint, the fact that Jalen Hurts was out, is that a win that you say indicates that Washington is a superior team to Philadelphia? Or do you, do you hold that in abeyance because Hertz was out?

[Unknown Voiceover]

Well, I'm going to hold it down because anytime any team is missing their starting quarterback, they're not at full strength. But here's what I will say. What's the best part of Philadelphia's team? Their ability to run the football. Their ability with this offensive line to dominate. AJ Brown, Devontae Smith, all those guys were there. The offensive line was there. Aquan Barkley was there.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes.

[Unknown Voiceover]

And they still beat him.

[Tony Kornheiser]

They did.

[Unknown Voiceover]

So while. So while I'm going to hold out reservation of saying Washington is superior, what I will say is that is still a really, really good win. When you beat a team that won 10 games in a row and the manner in which you beat him. Yeah, because Philadelphia came out early throwing haymakers and Washington responded, Tony. They beat him by turning the football over five times. This wasn't a fluke, this wasn't a. Washington kind of snuck up and won the game. They beat them soundly and so Washington is good. I want to see how they follow it up. Sunday night they got a Sunday night home, Sunday night game at home against the Atlanta Falcons, kind of a standalone game. Sunday night you got Collins, Worth, Torico, you got the big, the big guns there.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, they flexed into this will be.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Jaden Daniels first prime time game and I can't wait to watch him play.

[Tony Kornheiser]

They flex that into. Into that because they did it because of Washington obviously because when they announced it, Atlanta had just lost four or five or something like that. They made a switch that I thought was insane because of how late it was in the season. Then it's a soft landing for Michael Penix because it's the Giants. You have a home game against the Giants, the Giants stink. But he was really good. What do you take away from that?

[Unknown Voiceover]

He was as good as advertised. Having covered him. Another fun fact, he's from Tampa. Having seen him, having covered him from Indiana to Washington now to Atlanta, he's got a hose for an arm. He can make every throw. Tony, he's an older quarterback so he's poised. He's not going to be that like a rookie. He's 24 years old and so I think what you saw was what the Falcons have seen every day in practice. And I think if you're Atlanta, the only question I kind of want is why didn't we make the move two weeks sooner? Yeah, to me that would be the biggest question. He's a rookie, he's going to have some struggles. But overall I think if you're an Atlanta Falcons fan, you got to feel really good about what you saw from Michael Penix.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The only other thing I would bring up is Joe Burrow is amazing. They're not going to make the playoffs and they've lost a lot of games by scoring 35 and up. But if they don't keep Higgins and Chase and Burrow, they're crazy, right?

[Unknown Voiceover]

But how are you going to pay everybody? Tony?

[Tony Kornheiser]

I don't know. It's not my money.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Chase is going to want. Chase is going to want 35 million a year. Higgins is going to want 30 million a year. Joe Burrow is already making 55. So can you have a quarterback that's making 55 and two receivers that are making 35 and 30. I've never seen that before.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Right.

[Unknown Voiceover]

I've never seen that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Maybe we could get some of Stephen A's money and we could give it to them.

[Unknown Voiceover]

No question. Now, here's what I will say. The Eagles have something similar. AJ Brown is making 28 or 30, Devontae Smith is making 19 or 20 and Jalen Hurts is making 52. So I think each one of those guys took a little bit less. But they, but, but there is something comparable out there. But Jamar Chase is going to want 35 or 40 million dollars. Why? Because the Bengals made him wait. If the Bengals would have paid him before the season, they could have got him for 35, 36. But Tony, he's going to lead the league in catches yard.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He's great.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Sixteen touchdowns already. He's going to want $40 million a year and they have no choice but to pay him. And it's just another case where the Bengals did the did the thing that everybody said that they shouldn't do, which was make him wait. And now they're going to pay for it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. And you and Burrows, it's like eight or nine straight weeks with at least three touchdown passes. I mean, they're really good. They could be really good. Their defense isn't very good, but they could be really good. Booger, thank you so much. Have a wonderful holiday. We'll talk to you next week maybe on the show.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Have a great one. Tony, Merry Christmas. Happy holidays to you and yours, buddy.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Thank you. Same to you. Booger McFarland boys and girls. We will take a break and we'll do something different. Today. We'll talk to Jason Fraley about holiday movies, a few holiday movies. We'll see what you should see if you want to.

[Unknown Voice]

One in particular that you've got your.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Eye on the Bob Dylan movie. But if you want to go to a theater and get Covid, we'll tell you where you should go. Hi, I'm Tony Kornheiser.

[Coca Cola Voiceover]

This episode is brought to you by Bleacher Report. How do you follow sports from college football to the NBA? Bleacher Report brings you the latest news, live scores and epic highlights from your favorite leagues, teams and athletes all in one app. Dive into exclusive shows hosted by your favorite athletes and original Bleacher Report series with breaking news, rumors and predictions all season long. Download Bleacher Report to personalize your coverage. You can get the most important meal of the day any time of day. I'm Talking about the $5 big deal breakfast meal from Jack in the Box, available all day and all night. A breakfast Jack with a freshly cracked egg, a hash brown, and French toast.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Sticks for five bucks.

[Coca Cola Voiceover]

Sounds good for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Jack. Every bite's a big deal. Order Jack's $5 Big Deal Breakfast meal now.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser Show. The Tony Kornheiser Show. Once again, this is the Youth spelled Y U, T, H. The youth makes.

[Unknown Voice]

Me think of that movie. What's the guy? He's down the two Utes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. Is that an Al Pacino movie?

[Unknown Voice]

No, it's Joe Pesci and Marisa Tomei.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Jason.

[Unknown Voice]

Jason will tell us the answer to the title because I can't think of it right now.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The Utes. Yes. This is a song called Mothbox. Don't get me started. I went to the dry cleaner again today with yet another sweater. Yet another sweater. This is my eighth sweater. We might have some by moths.

[Unknown Voice]

We might have some. There's a solution in the emails.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Eaten by moths. So, Nigel, if people like the youth want to send in their music, how do they do it?

[Unknown Voice]

Please send us your original music to [e-mail] they play in Jason Fraley, who.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Everybody remembers in Washington as an outstanding movie reviewer and is now the host of the podcast beyond the Fame, as everyone in the world has a podcast, you know, and. And they're fun. Most of them are fun.

[Unknown Voice]

Yeah.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Let me just start with the overall question because we're talking about holiday movies. Of all the movies that are out there, what are the largest sort of name movies for the holiday season that people would consider?

[Tim Kirchen]

Well, it's. Speaking of holidays, I mean, having me back on. It's a Festivus miracle. Happy Festivus.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Fantastic.

[Tim Kirchen]

And my cousin Vinnie is the movie.

[Tony Kornheiser]

My cousin Vinny. Thank you. That's right.

[Jason Fraley]

Yes.

[Tim Kirchen]

But to answer your question, yes, if the youth are looking. I mean, the big holiday movie, of course, is. Is Wicked. I know Michael was a huge fan of it. Yes, it's. And by the way, I am. No one's a bigger wizard of Oz fan than me. That's probably like the movie I've seen more than any in my whole life. I wore that movie, that VHS taped that as a kid. And I also saw Wicked on Broadway. So I was a big fan going in. And I gotta say, I kind of echo Michael. I enjoyed every second of it. I think, you know, quote, popular entertainment doesn't get much better. Than that the production design, Ariana Grande as Galinda. And I tell you, Cynthia Erivo's voice will give you goosebumps in that Defying Gravity cliffhanger when it cuts to. To be continued. I think people will be sent out happy for the holidays. But I will say I wish we got to see the full story of Wicked. You know, three hours on Broadway now divided into two, six hours on film. Like, if to me, if the original wizard of Oz ended with that poppy scene, I don't think it would be the beloved classic it is today. Same. Same with dune2 is big this year, I guess. Earlier this year, if Lawrence of Arabia ended before Aqaba, I don't think it would be the big best picture. So I don't know, like, I guess we'll see if a best. If a part one can win best Picture. Like, you know, like the Godfather. But the difference with that is, you know, that was a full movie. That was a standalone movie.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes. I mean, that was a full movie, and then they made another one. And the brilliance of the second one was you were able to fold it in and around and on top of, you know, the Godfather. Look, I too, I am. I say this all the time. I am unburdened by memory, but I do know that in the first four or five months of Wicked, I went to see it on Broadway and you know, and I saw it with Kristin Chenoweth and Adina Menzel and. And you know, I loved it. I didn't think it was the greatest thing I'd ever seen, but I loved it. But the notion that you're going to expand that and make it a two part movie, you know, I'm scratching my head on that one. You know what I mean? Jason, that's. Come on now. It really.

[Tim Kirchen]

So, yeah, it's a mathematical paradox, right? You cut it in half and somehow you double the time. Yeah, but, but yeah, like, to your point, like. Yes, I mean, I agree with you. I think the Godfather wanted to, as a combined piece of work, probably the greatest American movie ever made. I mean, it's incredible.

[Jason Fraley]

But.

[Tim Kirchen]

But, yeah, like, but to part two, they both won best picture, but part two was sort of invented. You know, they. They dreamed that up after part one. Part one sort of, you know, the door closed on K. Adams and, you know, and the end of the story. So. But anyway, so. But all that said, though, I do kind of mostly agree with Michael. Like, you know, it's one of my favorite movie experiences of the year. I just personally wish that we got to see the full Wicked as I got to see on Broadway.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, okay. One of the things that occurs to me, but I don't know if this is true because I don't follow it anywhere near the way I used to follow it. But I'm sort of hopeful that the superhero trend is disappearing. That we don't just have all of these movies all the time with superheroes, you know, that just, you know, that they sort of. I'm dead with them. You know, I'm just. I don't know how else to say it's close with you. Yeah. Are we seeing the end of those?

[Tim Kirchen]

I mean, I would never count them completely out because, you know, we got a new Superman coming up soon down the pike. But. But I mean, I'm kind of with you. I. I've always sort of felt like. I mean, I'm 40 years old now, but I've sort of felt like the last 10 or so years like a man out of time. Like I've never really got into the superhero craze. And partly because of what I'm talking about, I miss a good standalone movie where you can get a beginning, middle, end. That's probably why I enjoyed some of the origin story ones better, like, you know, Black Panther or Wonder Woman, because you get to sort of see the beginning. I feel like so many of them, you had to have seen part. The seven previous parts of the Avengers to even understand what's going. What's going on. And then you're waiting for a post credit teaser and it's, it's almost like I miss the, the craft of beginning, middle, and boom. I pay my ticket and I get to see it. But I don't think superhero stories will be going away, though. I think they'll probably mount a comeback after the fever breaks again.

[Tony Kornheiser]

How many Wolverines can you watch? You know, it's just like how much.

[Tim Kirchen]

Well, and Logan, Logan I thought was a great one because, you know, they, they sort of killed him off at the end. It's not a spoiler alert. It's been several years ago. They turned, they turned the cross on his grave as an ex. You know what I mean? It was a great ending. And then he comes back for Deadpool. Wolverine. It kind of undercuts the magic of that. But that's actually a good segue because that was directed by James Mangold and he's doing the Bob Dylan movie. I know you want to talk about a complete unknown. It's coming out Christmas Day.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I do, I do want to talk about that. And it will not fit my cat. There's a category I also want to talk about, and that is sort of the adult quiet movie category, which has all but disappeared in America. And I really like adult quiet movies. Is there any movie out there that would qualify that way? You would say, go see this. Even if you don't go to a theater. If you get it in some other way, this is really good.

[Tim Kirchen]

Yes, I'm with you. I miss sort of those mid range, quote, adult movies. Not a huge budget or not super indie, but sort of that middle one, you know, I guess Clint Eastwood's Juror number two would sort of fit into that. Like an old school courtroom drama. But my favorite actually that I would recommend to anyone was called Thelma. Did you see Thelma?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Tony did not.

[Tim Kirchen]

It came out earlier this year. And it's June Squibb, who I guess is from Nebraska. Hilarious. Like laugh out loud. This is a laugh out loud movie. She's, I guess, like in her 80s and becomes a victim of a phone scam. So she grabs Richard Rowntree in his final role. You know, he's a legend from Shaft and they go on an adventure on an electric scooter to try to get her money back. And I'm telling you, I was laughing out loud. And it's an actual comedy that should be getting nominated. I don't think it's probably not. It's losing. It's like Golden Globe nominations to stuff like the substance, which is like a Cronenberg body horror. I call it genre gerrymandering. I hate the gold when the Golden Globes do the comedy musical and they don't nominate actual comedies like Thelma. So I guess we'll have Wicked as a musical this year. But everyone goes see Thelma or I guess rent it at home. I loved it. On a dramatic. That's for my comedy. On a dramatic. I really like. You know, Conclave is really good. I thought it was going to be a boring chamber piece about picking the next Pope, but I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. It was kind of riveting. And there's a twist you really can't predict. Ralph Fiennes is great. Should have won for Schindler or Quiz show, but he's back with a shot this year up against Adrien Brody for the Brutalist. Probably will be the duking it out or with Tim de Chalamet for the Dylan flick. So some good dramatic roles. But I would recommend Thelma.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So let me get to the Dylan movie because, you know, my whole life is Bob Dylan. And I didn't think they'd make a movie about him. I am curious if he had anything to do with it. And curious before I ask you, is it good or not? Who are the people that made it and do they have bona fides, as we say, for making a movie about Bob Dylan?

[Tim Kirchen]

Well, I saw Dylan react on Twitter. He enjoyed. Or X, whatever we're calling it now. He said that he was like, wow, what a title. A complete unknown. So I think he was pulling for it. I don't know how involved he actually was. But the director of the biopic is James Mangold, who I referenced a second ago. He made Walk the Line. He made, you know, the Johnny Cash movie.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Really good movie. I mean, people are in the Johnny Cash movie that I didn't think could be cast in the roles they were in at all, like Johnny Cash and his wife. I just thought, really, them. And that's a really good movie. Yeah. Is.

[Tim Kirchen]

Oh, I'm with. Yeah. Reese Witherspoon. One is June Carter.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. Just never pictured her. Never.

[Tim Kirchen]

It was a great one. So I do think Mangold has the chops to do it. So, I mean, it's. You know, there are some anachronisms where they fold in some things that maybe happen but didn't happen in exactly that way. But, but, But I do think if you're a Dylan fan, like. Like you, Tony, like, I think this will be sort of catnip. You know, you get him arriving in Greenwich village and then 61, and you see him meeting Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, which, by the way, Ed Norton is a great Pete Seeger. Like, I could see a supporting actor nod for him. You get, you know, you get him having a fling with Joan Baez and singing Blown in the Wind and writing pen pal letters to Johnny Cash. It kind of goes by, you know, point by point along the timeline. But all building, of course, to when Dylan famously won Electric at the Newport folk Fest in 65. Not as electric as Jaden Daniels over the weekend. Man, that was an incredible game. But. But, but, yeah, but, yeah, I do think so. All the praise and everything. I do think we don't really learn much new about Dylan. Like, he still remains like a mystery. Comes across as very aloof and maybe even selfish, detached. Like the title of Complete Unknown is. It's pretty fitting. Like, when the credits roll it still. It's still an enigma, which I guess is the point. But. But either way, Timothy Chalamet is very impressive.

[Jason Fraley]

As.

[Tim Kirchen]

I mean, he looks like him. He Talks like. I mean that's. That's probably impression. An impression all of us have tried in the mirror, right? Like I'm on the Tony Kornizer show, but we can't do it. But Chalamet nails it, man. He. It's the closest thing to watching Dylan is maybe like a documentary like the DA Penneback or Don't Look Back, you know, with the cue cards. Homesick Blues.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Does he. Does he sing? Is it him singing? Is it Chalamet singing?

[Tim Kirchen]

Oh yeah, it's actually the voice which is.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And is it good?

[Tim Kirchen]

What was that movie Bohemian Rhapsody where it was like, you know, the Freddie Mercury movie. Lip syncing. You can't beat beat Freddie Mercury or the Elton John movie. There's been a lot lately, but I believe Chalamet did most of his own. His own singing in this movie, which hats off to him. And even, you know, when he's talking, he even has sort of like the mannerisms down and the speech pattern. I was actually really impressed by him. I mean, what was he in Lady Bird and Dune like? He's had quite a career so far as a young actor, but I think this one will be the one that really rises and actually a best actor nomination with a shot at actually winning.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I think so. I mean I am of that age and of that sort of privilege over a long period of time where I think that the world is sort of supposed to be for me and they're supposed to make me happy all the time. But this is a serious question I'm going to ask you. Do you think anybody under the age of 50 is going to want to watch this movie?

[Tim Kirchen]

Well, I think Timothy Chalamet has a such, especially with the Doom franchise, has such a loyal following of the young generation that I think they will turn out to see the movie. Whether they actually become converted to Bob Dylan fans, I really don't know. Like I said, I feel like it's made more for folks like you and me who are, you know, have like a pre existing. We've seen some of the documentaries, etc. There was a great one by Scorsese a couple years ago, no Direction Home. And now this is a complete unknown. So I guess they just keep taking little stanzas.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The lyrics. Just take the lyrics.

[Jason Fraley]

Yeah, take the lyrics.

[Tim Kirchen]

But.

[Tony Kornheiser]

But yeah, that's why when. When Rolling stone magazine like 25 or 30 years ago put the 100 greatest songs of all time, they put like a Rolling Stone first. Yeah, nobody would put it first. Nobody. Come on. And they put it first. And now little bits of lyrics come out all the time. You know, Johnny's in the basement mixing up the medicine. Yeah, yeah. You know, but I don't know if anybody under the age of 50 has any sense of Bob Dylan.

[Tim Kirchen]

Yeah, yeah. Well, I don't know. It's interesting. I went and saw him at Wolf Trap a couple years ago, and his voice is completely different, by the way. It's like watching a modern day Al Pacino movie versus back in the Godfather. And a lot of the song, it almost feels like Dylan just does, you know, I had some young people that were there, you know, and kind of I was like, enjoying the concert with me. But a lot of the songs that we've known from pop culture, he wasn't even really playing. You know, he might have busted out a Man and Me from Lebowski or something. La la la la la. You know, but. But most of the songs, it was like Dylan playing deep cuts. So I have a feeling that some of the deep cuts in this movie will lead some of the younger listeners, like, wanting more of Blown in the Winds or more. That's one of the big ones we get in the movie and you hear Tambourine man, et cetera. But I do think it's probably more of the deep cuts of folks that grew up in that whole folk scene that'll appreciate the movie.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It's a pleasure to have you on, Jason. And again, your podcast is called beyond the Fame. And you interview people, right? And like, people that we've heard of as opposed to me.

[Tim Kirchen]

We've all heard of you tonight. No, but, yeah, John Legend and Jennifer Hudson just had them on talking their. Their Christmas albums and tours. So, yeah, we can. We get some big names on whenever they come to town. That's. That's my. That's my passion project right now. So thanks for plugging it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's great. Thank you, Jason. Thanks very much. Happy holidays.

[Tim Kirchen]

Happy holidays and happy festivities.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, yeah. Jason Fraley, boys and girls. We'll take a break, come back with email and jingle. I'm Tony kornheiser. I'm James McComb reporting live from home in my bathrobe and slippers. Tonight we're talking Dunkin Polar peppermint coffee. Gene's here with the latest. Gene, do you copy? The home with Duncan is where you want to be.

[Tim Kirchen]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Here comes Tony's mailbag. Got your email, faxes and notes. Here comes Tony SM for all you folks.

[Booger McFarlane]

Hey, Tony, come on, come on.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Hey, Tony, read that mail now, baby. Just hot pink hangover, please get back together.

[Unknown Voice]

Oh, so great.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. Reunion so wonderful. Yes. You want to do the Bethesda bagel ad, please? Yes.

[Unknown Voice]

Got the bagel sandwich. It's Monday. I got the bagel sandwiches. Very excited about that. Just go to bethesdabeagels.com for the location in the DC area nearest you. Then pop one in, my friend, and you will be thrilled.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's just about it for us today. Before we get to the mailbag, let me say it's all cold down along the beach. The wind's whipping down the boardwalk. Hey, band, you know what time of year it is? What? Oh, Christmas time. You guys all been good. Practicing real hard. Yeah. Clarence, you've been rehearsing real hard now. So Santa will bring your new saxophone, right? Everybody out there been good or what? Oh, that's not many. Not many. You guys are in trouble out there. That's Bruce Springsteen right? Before he starts singing, you better watch out, better not cry.

[Jason Fraley]

So great.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, it's just so good. My thanks to Tim Kirchen, Booger MacFarlane and Jason Fraley on a guest loaded day. Thanks as well to today's sponsors. Remember, you can listen to us on Apple podcasts, Spotify and Odyssey. Get show through Apple Podcasts. Please leave us a review. So I'm gonna read this one thing first because it's heart rendering for me and then we'll get to the other stuff it says. Hi, Tony, you wrote a touching tribute about my father, Harry Chapin, that I cherish. My cousin Kurt Gaston was listening to your show this fall when you mentioned my father today. And this was Saturday marks the 50th anniversary of Cats in the Cradle becoming a number one hit. It was a success of the song that pushed my father to put his money where his mouth was and dedicate the rest of his life to ending hunger and poverty. His legacy lives on because you and others continue to talk about his music and humanitarian work. We're releasing a film next June that celebrates the impact of Cats in the Cradle and his life. Hope you get to see it and it brings back fond memories of friendship with him. Happy holidays. Jason Chapin, Harry's son When I was at the New York Times, I wrote a piece on Harry Chapin. Spent a bunch of time with him, enjoyed his company very much. Died way, way, way too young, as everybody knows. And that is the last thing I ever expected to get a note from his son. It's moving. It's very nice note from Dan Byrne. Thanks for playing the Belichick song. Never ceases to be a thrill to get a small part, be a small part of my favorite show. Thanks for playing so many songs all year in the past several years. I never take it for granted. Happy holidays to you and everyone involved with the show. It is our honor and thrill to play your songs. Yes, you're brilliant. Absolutely brilliant. There's another one here. And this is from Michael Spaeth, who says, my dad, a native Washingtonian, has been a fan of you and Mike since the Washington Post days in March. Earlier this year, he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease, a plastic anemia, which required him to have a bone marrow transplant. Fortunately, I was a match to be the donor. Transplant was successful. He's on the Men Taking care of my dad for the last eight months been a grueling process in more ways than you can imagine. From moving into transplant housing in Baltimore to now driving from Potomac to Baltimore a couple of days a week to receive treatment. During this time, my dad was really sick from all the treatment. Barely spoke, let alone laughed. Every time we'd get in the car to drive to the hospital, I would ask Mr. Tony of the radio every time he would ask to turn on the pot to provide a brief instrument escape from the reality we were living in, to listen to you talk about your moth problems or how upset or badly you played the previous day at Columbia. Thank you providing for providing happiness and laughter to my dad and I during this time. Your show truly provides a source of laughter and love in more ways than we can describe. Even though you won't come, we'd like to extend an invite to you and Michael to play Lakewood Country Club anytime you want. And P.S. if you could tell Matt and Ross to eat it, that would be greatly appreciated. We get these letters a lot. We the royal we the show gets these letters a lot. All of us are grateful for all of these letters. We don't read them all. We read them privately. We don't read them all publicly because it begins to be the same note. Yeah. But every once in a while you get one, you say, you know what? I'm going on the air with that.

[Unknown Voice]

Yeah, it's just nice.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Now we'll go to the regular mailbag from Justin Johnson, Arlington, Virginia. And the topic is truly a Thursday show. Who do you think has the job of counting out 12,000 trichogramma Moth eggs to fill those Amazon orders? Stan knock, Shawnee, Kansas. This is something that's important in the early 2010s I had the pleasure of spending a few days at Kiawah island, including a round of golf and brought home a very nice merino wool sweater purchased in the pro shop. I kept it in a cedar chest with other sweaters and when I took it out several months later, it looked like it had been worn by one of the mobsters in the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Riddled with bullet sized moth holes. I took it to a local clothing alteration repair shop where a very nice lady made it look new again. I'd spent twice as much don't tell me as its original retail value, but for sentimental reasons that was okay. I've spent hundreds of dollars on $40 sweaters in the last month and a half. The point of this saga is the advice the nice repair lady gave me to preserve the sweater. She told me to go to the local canned popcorn shop and acquire some empty large size cans. These work perfectly due to the tight fitting lids and are way more colorful than plastic bins. I suspect they are cheaper also, but can't verify that due to being an extremely lazy shopper. I've acquired a few more wool sweaters and no moth worries thanks to the cans. If you buy the cans at the right time, you can get seasonal designs or team logos. I'm in the Kansas City metro area, so you know what that means for me. Maybe you will keep all your nice sweaters in a wizard's can. Happy can hunting. I gotta find out where I can get cans.

[Unknown Voice]

Oh, I've already looked into it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Then we will do that. Yeah, from our friend Patrick Sitter in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Seven Holy Sweaters Sounds like the title of a Hallmark Channel holiday moth movie mystery. Jeff Simpson Arlington, Virginia if you're open to following Steve Sands advice to not give up on staples, I have a possible solution for you. There's a Staples in the Potomac Yard Shopping center in Alexandria with a huge parking lot, massive parking space as far as the eyes can see, lots of options. You can pull in, back in, pull through, whatever you want. Potomac Yard is the place where Ted Leoncis wanted to move the Wizards. So while you're there, you can contemplate how grateful you and all Washington metro residents are that we avoided such a nightmare. If you dot wish to make the trip across the river, I'd be happy to pick up a 2025 calendar for you and hand deliver it to Reginald at the National Zoo and Nigel can pick it up the next time he's there. Steve Silverman, St. Augustine, Florida, formerly Chevy Chase On Monday's show last Monday, Tony discussed the Staples parking garage at the corner of Bradley Boulevard in Wisconsin. Yes, I said, I know that parking garage. I'm quite familiar with the labyrinth that is manipulating those tight concrete pillars, an occasional abandoned shopping cart, and of course, cars. They're far too large for that garage. But let's focus on the bigger issue. Tony solemnly swore, with the conviction of a man wrong that he would never set foot in that store again. Yet at the same time, he reminds us regularly that like a goldfish, he's unburdened by memory. So should we expect a return trip in late 2025? If so, park at the Meters on Wisconsin Avenue. From Steve the Sycophant no witty or unwitty comments. Just Happy holiday wishes to you, Michael, Nigel, all the troops. May your Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year's all be great. My one question is, with Christmas and Hanukkah falling on the same day for the first time in 30 years, has.

[Unknown Voice]

It been that long?

[Tony Kornheiser]

First time in 30 years? Is a Chinese restaurant still on the calendar? Keep Bon Potting from Allen in Falmouth, Massachusetts. And he writes not far enough from Revere. Oh yeah, on long drives, I'll have the pot on. With my wife usually reading or napping and appearing to be paying no attention. Today I had to make the 15 mile drive to Hyannis for some last minute holiday shopping. I asked her, should I take old 28 the whole way? Or take 28 to Route 6, which is more miles but could be quicker? Or take 151 to Old Barnstable, then 28. My wife so is the new game on that stupid podcast you listen to Directions? Yes. Here's a great one. I really only know the name Greg Garcia from the podcast. I have no idea who he is or what he does. I'm gonna be in LA visiting the kids January 25th, February 2nd. Since he's using my initials, I think we should meet for a drink if he plays golf. AG My brother belongs to Rolling Hills in pv. PV is that it's not Ponte Vedro because that's in Florida. Look up where Jay Bilis went to high school, because I think that's pv. My kids live in Sherman Oaks. Tell me. Give me a call. Dg. How great is this? Tell Greg. Give me a call.

[Unknown Voice]

Dg Jay Bilis Rolling Hills.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Rolling Hills. Then I got it wrong. I don't know what PV is, but it's someplace in Florida.

[Unknown Voice]

It's not.

[Tony Kornheiser]

No, because that's in Florida, but it's someplace in the Los Angeles area. Mark Hughes, Ashton, Maryland. Last week you mentioned Gura Animals on your program. Do you know who owns Guran, the company that makes Guaranimals? That would be your pal Warren Buffett's company, Berkshire Hathaway. I'm not sure what he doesn't own. From Nathan Ackerhelm in Charlotte, North Carolina. My sister went to Tulane and like Chuck Todd, she got a speeding ticket for going 29 in that 25 zone. I think during her four years, she got at least six tickets. Maybe lean Duke can make a return appearance on the POD and comment on this nefarious stretch of road in the Garden District of New Orleans. From Dr. Ron Davis in Baltimore on the topic of days getting longer, longer candlelighting for Shabbat on December 6 was 4:25pm December 13, 4:26. December 20. The other day, 428. In spite of December 21 being the shortest day of the year, candlelighting has been getting later since November. Please tell dg. So until Cantor Yoni rose to eat it. So this is a true fact that we've. We've added on to the other end like this. Yes. One side is the mornings are still darker, although we. I sensed this morning it was beginning.

[Unknown Voice]

To sense lessening of the darkness. By the way, it's Palos Verdes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Palos Verdes. Okay. Yes. And that's where he belongs. Okay.

[Unknown Voice]

Looks nice.

[Tony Kornheiser]

From Mike Sempervive in West Fenwick island in Delaware. As a longtime resident of Montgomery and Howard counties, I always got a kick out of hearing you mention places that are gone but not forgotten. Heckinger's, Hecks and Woody's, for example. But just remember something. When it comes to Bernie Streeter's, Arby's, I don't like curly fries. I don't eat curly fries here. They're very good. You got to go back 30 years ago. I'm not going to just talk about it. You got to go back 30 years. Kevin Maroney from Stanton, Virginia. Chuck and Roxy, number 270 on Wednesday show Brian from Wilmington, Massachusetts, asked about the alternate driving routes between New England and Florida. Though this message may be too late to help Brian, my advice is to avoid 95 at all costs. Rough experience has taught me there will always be traffic jams. Not only Northern Virginia, but New York, Philly, Delaware, too. The Hudson river crossing of choice from New England should be the Cuomo Bridge. You may know it as a Tappan zee. Absolutely. To 287south to 78west to 81south to 77south ways can take you from there. This route from the Boston area to Jacksonville, for example, is 96 miles longer than the route down 95 that Waze or Google will always suggest. My bet is the driving time to the Florida destination would be the same or better. Taking 81 south. Have we learned nothing from Mr. Wilbon? Stay off 95. As a bonus, any little's driving down 81 are welcome to stop by the house. We're right off exit 213 in Virginia. I'll be sure to stock bagels and tinfoil and to grill grilled cheese sandwiches with mayo Brian Miller Montgomery, Alabama your show has made me a much better conversationalist with persons from specific routes that you take in your daily life. This doesn't come in as handy as you might think in Montgomery, Alabama. Last the other day I met a recent college graduate who's dating a friend's daughter, me. So where are your friend new friend? Rockville, Maryland? Me? Don't you mean North Bethesda new friend? That's what the new Benz dealership down the street wants you to believe. Also, on Wednesday you spoke about Brown Eyed Girl. My favorite note, which Greg Garcia would be able to confirm, is that I think that he says that Van Morrison called Brown Eyed Girl his favorite Jimmy Buffett song. My sense is that Jimmy Buffett called Brown Eyed Girl his favorite Van Morrison song. That's my sense. But I don't know. From our pal Tim Cree in Fort Collins, Colorado, why has there been no discussion of the Colorado State football going to a bowl game? Have you not noticed they're playing in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl? I like the naming idea, but I'm wary of the post game trophy ceremony. And what is that cloud the team is running through to get onto the field? From Walter Thomas Alexander III in Murfreesboro, Tennessee Hey Uncle Tony, how's it going? Don't wear the same clothes three days in a row. That's right up there with don't rat on your friends and always keep your mouth shut. From Elliot Olshansky, now in Del Mar.

[Unknown Voice]

Now in Del Mar, yes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Not being a musician yourself, I can see how the word embrosure would confuse you, but it's pronounced ambrosure. Ambo, sure. My middle school band director once got a particularly talkative trumpet player to shut up during band by telling him he wasn't allowed to speak until he learned how to spell ambouchure. I'm pretty sure that the trumpet player in question did not take French or he would have had a leg up since the origin of the word is French from the root word mouth. Yeah, shut your mouth. Best regards from Albany county, where I'm getting my own embouchure back into shape by playing trombone with my elder masculine child. And speaking of words you mispronounce, his name is pronounced Adon. And in answer, almost from Howard Turoff says, did I hear you say that Elliot Olshansky now lives in Del Mar? I know Del Mar. I lived in Del Mar. Went to Bethlehem Central High School in Del Mar. Every year around the third week of July, my high school cronies and I all go to Cronin's Golf Resort in Warrensburg, New York, near Lake George to play cards on rainy days and upwards of 36 holes of golf a day when it's nice. And drink copious amounts of beer while sitting around the campfire at night. He's welcome to join us. Hilarity will ensue. Thank you, Howard. If you're out on your bike tonight, everyone, as always, do wear away. Well, that's about it from me. I'd just like to say all the.

[Jason Fraley]

Best for Christmas and a happy New Year.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Thanks.

[Unknown Voice]

Mango.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Thank you.

[Booger McFarlane]

Please believe me it was all for the best in the end that you saved me with that look in your eyes sincere Please believe me it was all for the best in the end that you saved me with that look in your eyes sincere Just here leave me before I took any more than I should hardly breathe in breathing Such a pessimist don't worry Risk how to come Everything that I wanted Such a pessimist make the fire start with this Everything we wanted Everything that we wanted One of us don't want it it I can hardly breathe, love I can hardly see smoking Clear the roof.

[Unknown Voiceover]

Walking.

[Booger McFarlane]

Flight I'll catch myself on fire Washing as we I can hardly breath, love I can hardly see smoking Clear the roof sky we still as we.