Podcast Summary: The Tony Kornheiser Show – “This is not the Cy Young”
Release Date: December 30, 2024
Host: Tony Kornheiser
Produced by: This Show Stinks Productions, LLC
Guests: Michael Wilbon, Barry Zverluga, Chuck Todd
Introduction
In the episode titled “This is not the Cy Young,” Tony Kornheiser engages in a dynamic discussion with his regular guests, Barry Zverluga and Chuck Todd, delving into a range of topics from sports achievements and historical reflections to current NFL dynamics. The episode, released on December 30, 2024, offers listeners a blend of insightful commentary, nostalgic retrospection, and lively sports analysis.
Honoring Jimmy Carter’s Legacy
[00:46] Barry Zverluga
The show opens with a heartfelt tribute to the late President Jimmy Carter. Barry Zverluga emphasizes Carter's enduring legacy beyond his presidency, highlighting his post-office contributions to peace and democracy.
- Tony Kornheiser: “Jimmy Carter lived to be a hundred years old... He devoted his life in this second act to just being a good and noble person.”
- Barry Zverluga: Confirms, “That's correct,” reinforcing the respect for Carter’s enduring impact.
Kornheiser reflects on Carter’s presidency, mentioning pivotal events like the Iranian hostage crisis and his subsequent quiet yet impactful life. He draws parallels between Carter's demeanor and the evolution of presidential images, referencing Ronald Reagan's portrayal during their debates.
[05:24-07:39]
The conversation transitions to the Stan Musial Award ceremony, where Bob Costas received the honor. Kornheiser shares anecdotes about Costas’s early career and his interactions with Stan Musial, emphasizing the values of inclusivity and sportsmanship.
- Tony Kornheiser: Discusses Costas’s interview, saying, “This was just a lovely and warm moment...”
- Barry Zverluga: Adds context, connecting Musial’s legacy with modern sports figures.
Alex Ovechkin’s Remarkable Season
[31:59-42:31] Chuck Todd
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Alex Ovechkin’s extraordinary performance in the NHL. Todd praises Ovechkin’s consistent goal-scoring prowess, comparing his trajectory to legends like Wayne Gretzky and Hank Aaron.
- Chuck Todd (49:14): “It’s unbelievable with him. So he is now... he just keeps scoring.”
- Tony Kornheiser: Expresses awe, “I just think, you know, he used to think like the NFL running back who has had too, too many, you know, 300 carry seasons…”
Todd breaks down the statistical improbabilities of Ovechkin breaking Gretzky’s record at his age, highlighting his resilience and adaptability in a modern, more defensively stringent NHL.
- Chuck Todd (39:30): “This is an astonishing set of circumstances to say that about.”
The discussion underscores the synergy between Ovechkin’s individual achievements and his team’s success, suggesting that his goals not only bolster his legacy but also significantly contribute to the Washington Capitals’ standing in the league.
Washington Football Team's Transformation
[37:29-49:54]
Tony Kornheiser and Chuck Todd shift focus to the Washington Football Team, celebrating their sensational turnaround under new ownership and leadership. They attribute the team's success to strategic hires, including quarterback Jaden Daniels, and commend his performance as a quarterback.
- Tony Kornheiser (43:15): “He is great at the moment...”
- Chuck Todd (45:21): “...he has the ability to slow it down when it should be speeding up.”
Kornheiser highlights the removal of previous management figures like Daniel Snyder as pivotal to the team's resurgence. Todd echoes this sentiment, noting the positive changes in team dynamics and the promising future built around Daniels’ leadership.
- Chuck Todd (48:51): “They have wandered in the wilderness for 30 something years. Their last playoff win came in 2005...”
The hosts discuss the broader implications of this transformation, suggesting that the team's current trajectory marks a sustainable and optimistic era for the franchise.
Listener Interactions and Mailbag
[51:10-60:09]
The episode features a vibrant mailbag segment where Tony reads and responds to listener emails. Topics range from personal anecdotes and humorous mishaps to sports-related inquiries and local advice.
- Listener Story (53:37): Scott McClure from South Burlington shares a humorous take on avoiding traffic routes, prompting laughter and camaraderie among hosts.
- Pat Bears’ Email (51:25): Tony humorously connects multiple listener experiences across different podcasts, highlighting the interconnectedness of podcast communities.
Kornheiser skillfully weaves listener interactions into the broader narrative, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences among the audience.
Highlight Quote
Throughout the episode, notable quotes capture the essence of the discussions:
- Tony Kornheiser (05:24): “All of that pondering time now he can be a good person on call, not just in the United States, but in other countries as well.”
- Chuck Todd (37:29): “I am done betting against this guy.”
These quotes emphasize the respect for legacy figures and the awe-inspiring performances of contemporary athletes, encapsulating the show's blend of reverence and excitement.
Conclusion
“This is not the Cy Young” serves as a compelling episode that blends historical homage with current sports analysis. Tony Kornheiser, alongside Barry Zverluga and Chuck Todd, navigates through nuanced discussions about Jimmy Carter’s legacy, Alex Ovechkin’s record-breaking season, and the Washington Football Team’s impressive turnaround. Listener interactions add a personalized touch, making the episode both informative and engaging for a diverse audience.
Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for enduring legacies and emerging sports talents, underscored by the hosts’ insightful and personable commentary.
Notable Quotes:
- Tony Kornheiser [05:24]: “Jimmy Carter lived to be a hundred years old... He devoted his life in this second act to just being a good and noble person.”
- Chuck Todd [39:30]: “This is an astonishing set of circumstances to say that about.”
- Tony Kornheiser [43:15]: “He is great at the moment...”
- Chuck Todd [37:29]: “I am done betting against this guy.”
Timestamp Highlights:
- 00:46: Tribute to Jimmy Carter
- 05:24: Discussion on Carter’s legacy
- 07:39: Stan Musial Award Ceremony
- 31:59: Alex Ovechkin’s Season Analysis
- 37:29: Washington Football Team’s Transformation
- 51:10: Listener Mailbag Segment
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and memorable moments from “This is not the Cy Young,” providing both context and depth for those who haven’t listened to the episode.