The Pat McAfee Show
PMS 2.0 1281 - National Championship Recap, Kirk Herbstreit, Ohio State QB Will Howard, "The General" Bobby Carpenter, Darius Butler, & AJ Hawk
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Ohio State's thrilling national championship victory over Notre Dame showcased the team's resilience and stellar performance in pressure situations.
- Kirk Herbstreit emphasized the unpredictable nature of this college football season, which was filled with memorable moments and game-changing plays.
- Ryan Day's growth as a passionate leader has significantly strengthened his relationship with players, ultimately guiding Ohio State to championship success.
- The crucial roles played by veteran athletes like Cody Simon and contributions from special teams were pivotal in securing Ohio State's victory.
- Will Howard's development from a three-star recruit to national champion underscores the impact of coaching and player leadership in college football.
Deep dives
The Magic of College Football
The podcast celebrates the excitement of college football, particularly after Ohio State was crowned national champions. It reflects on the season's unpredictability, starting with concerns about the NIL and transfer portal potentially diminishing the sport's traditional values. Contrary to those fears, the season was filled with thrilling moments, outstanding performances, and game-changing plays, leading to increased ratings. The discussion emphasizes the passion and pageantry of college football, showcasing how it remains deeply beloved despite ongoing changes.
Ohio State's Dramatic Championship Victory
The game against Notre Dame exemplified the heart of college football, displaying intense momentum shifts that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Key plays included Riley Leonard's impressive throws, particularly to Great House, and Will Howard's game-winning touchdown drop to Jeremiah Smith. Critically praised for executing a comeback under pressure, the players showcased resilience and outstanding athleticism throughout the match. The discussions surrounding these performances highlight college football's unpredictability and the thrill of nail-biting finishes.
Ryan Day's Leadership and Emotional Journey
The podcast dives into Ryan Day's transformative journey as head coach, as he finally leads Ohio State to a national championship. Emphasizing the importance of emotional expression, it highlights how Day's authentic reactions and passion for the game have resonated with players and fans alike. His evolution from a stoic figure to a more expressive leader has fostered a deeper connection with his team. This success has provided Day with validation amidst pressure and criticism, allowing him to enjoy his achievements fully for the first time.
The Impact of Ohio State's Veteran Leadership
A pivotal aspect of Ohio State's team success should be attributed to its veteran players, who provided guidance and resilience throughout the season. The podcast highlights Cody Simon's remarkable journey from being a backup to becoming a key contributor and leader on the defense. The importance of players who embrace their roles and seize opportunities is emphasized as a vital ingredient for championship success. This strong veteran presence aided in unifying the team, helping to turn around the program after adversity.
The Unsung Heroes: Ohio State's Defense and Special Teams
The discussion showcases the vital contributions of Ohio State's defensive and special teams units that strategically combined to secure victory. Players like Sonny Stiles and Caleb Downs are praised for their hard-hitting and disciplined performances, contributing significantly to the team's success. Special teams, often overlooked in the game, played a crucial role with critical field goals and effective kick coverage. This collective effort ultimately allowed Ohio State to shine in the playoffs, leaning on their defensive proficiency to win tight games.
Will Howard's Rise as a Star Quarterback
The podcast emphasizes the exceptional development of Will Howard, who transitioned from a three-star recruit to a national champion quarterback at Ohio State. Conversations focus on how coaching staff, particularly Chip Kelly and Ryan Day, played a pivotal role in elevating Howard's performance and confidence on the field. His leadership, work ethic, and unshakeable poise under pressure have made a significant impact on his teammates. The conversation highlights Howard's remarkable ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes situations, cementing his legacy.
The Role of the Transfer Portal and NIL in College Football
The podcast examines the significant influence of the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) on college football dynamics today. Adjustments in recruiting strategies have opened doors for schools traditionally overlooked, enabling them to compete for top talent. It denotes the changing landscape within college football, illustrating how teams like Indiana and Vanderbilt have benefitted from these regulations. The result has led to a more competitive and unpredictable environment, enriching the fan experience.
Ohio State's Offensive Strategy and Execution
A detailed breakdown of Ohio State's offensive approach illustrates the strategic intricacies that led to their national champion win. The offense capitalized on explosive plays, leveraging the talents of players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Abuka to keep opposing defenses in check. Key moments, such as third and long conversions, showcased the team's adaptability and cohesion. This ability to execute effectively in critical situations embodies the essence of what made Ohio State a champion.
Future Outlook for College Football and Ohio State
Looking ahead, the podcast contemplates the future of college football, pondering the continued evolution of programs and changes within the playoff structure. The possibility of shakeups in coaching positions, combined with an influx of young talent, suggests a thrilling new era for the sport. The conversation hints at how teams like Ohio State might adapt to maintaining their edge on the competition amid constant change. This forward-thinking narrative emphasizes the need for programs to reinvent themselves continuously to succeed in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Ohio State's Celebration and Community Impact
The podcast captures the essence of the celebrations following Ohio State's championship win, focusing on the jubilant atmosphere enveloping the community. Player and coach connections are highlighted, emphasizing how their victory resonates beyond the locker room, uniting fans and alumni in pride. This moment signifies the commitment of Ohio State to continue building a strong football tradition and community representation. The spirit of camaraderie and shared celebration contributes significantly to the legacy of college football.
On today’s show, Pat, Darius Butler, AJ Hawk, and the boys recap last night’s National Championship which saw Ohio State hang on to win 34-23 after a furious comeback from Notre Dame, plus they recap the entire college football season as a whole that was arguably the best one we’ve ever had. Joining the show to chat about the season as a whole, what this means for Ohio State, if Notre Dame will be able to compete for more National Championships in the future, Will Howard’s draft prospects, how he thinks Ben Johnson will do as the Bears Head Coach, and much more is the voice and face of College Football, Kirk Herbstreit. Next, National Champion and Offensive MVP from last night’s game, Ohio State QB Will Howard joins the show to chat about the team, his relationship with his teammates and Ryan Day, his process of landing at Ohio State, what comes next for him in terms of the draft process, and much more in an incredible interview. Lastly, 18th overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft, 7 year NFL veteran at Linebacker, and host of The Morning Juice in Columbus, “The General” Bob Carpenter joins the show to recap his night last night at the National Championship, what that means for this team as a whole in terms of their legacy in Columbus, if fans will give Ryan Day a break now, and much more. Make sure to subscribe to youtube.com/thepatmcafeeshow or watch on ESPN (12-2 EDT), ESPN’s Youtube (12-3 EDT), or ESPN+. We appreciate the hell out of all of you. We’ll see you tomorrow. Cheers.
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