The Drive with Tim Donnelly

<p>Tim Donnelly breaks down the breaking news of NC State football landing 4-star WR Noah Rogers from Ohio State football via the transfer portal. Donnelly points out that Dave Doeren has gone after high end skill players on offense through both recruiting and the college football transfer portal.</p>

<p>During Hit It & Quit It, Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox break down the top stories of the day, including Duke basketball getting an 86-66 win over Syracuse basketball, UNC basketball defeating PITT basketball, NC State basketball in action against Notre Dame basketball, UNC football not bringing back defensive coordinator Gene Chizik, NC State football having players leave via the transfer portal, the Carolina Hurricanes, and more.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly shares his thoughts on North Carolina grinding out a 70-57 win over Pitt basketball, and why UNC basketball forward Harrison Ingram's versatility is key for head coach Hubert Davis, and how the Tar Heels get key contributions outside of RJ Davis, Armando Bacot, and Harris.</p> <p>Also, Tim & Dennis do their ACC football confidence & concerns for the offseason for NC State football, UNC football, Duke football, and Wake Forest football. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says the fine against David Tepper by the NFL was weak, and David Tepper's statement about the $300,000 fine from the NFL goes to show Tepper lacks accountability. He also says David Tepper showed his true colors.</p> <p>Also, new Campbell football head coach Braxton Harris joined the show to talk about coming back to Campbell, what former head coach Mike Minter has built, and recruiting the State of North Carolina. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discusses the Carolina Hurricanes and their 6-1 win over the New York Rangers, and wonders if the Canes can keep up their high level offensive production, led by Sebastian Aho & Andrei Svechnikov.</p> <p>Donnelly also says the high-level play of Pyotr Kochetkov in goal has eased the burden for the Carolina Hurricanes to immediately look for a goalie via trade. </p>

<p>During Cop or Drop, Dennis Cox poses questions to Tim Donnelly, including if the Carolina Hurricanes should trade for someone other than a goalie, will NC State basketball, UNC basketball, and/or Duke basketball will make the Final Four, and what are the next moves for UNC football, the Carolina Panthers, and more. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says that with the Carolina Panthers securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft for the Chicago Bears, that the front office for the Carolina Panthers needs to be cleaned out and redone.</p> <p>Also, UNC basketball & Duke basketball start the bulk of ACC basketball play tonight with North Carolina facing Pitt basketball, and Duke basketball welcoming Syracuse basketball. </p>

<p>During the final football 'Podium' of the football season, Tim Donnelly ranks NC State football, Duke football, UNC football, and Wake Forest football after the 2023 college football season.</p> <p>Also, Tim Donnelly says that despite getting crushed by Georgia football, Florida State football still deserved to be in the College Football Playoff. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says there's a lack of accountability by Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper after being caught throwing his drink in the direction of Jacksonville Jaguars fans during Sunday's 26-0 loss in Jacksonville. Tim points out how David Tepper is clearly thin-skinned, wonders who wants to work for Tepper, and points out how little Tepper understands the NFL. Donnelly also notes how GM Scott Fitterer had very little reaction to the incident.</p> <p>Tim Donnelly evaluates Bryce Young's performance after the Carolina Panthers 26-0 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, and points to the ups and downs of the rookie quarterback.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly previews the highly anticipated Pop-Tart Bowl matchup between NC State and Kansas State in Orlando. Tim discussed the key players in this matchup, what NC State needs to do to secure their tenth win of the season, and what this win would mean for Dave Doeren’s program heading into the off-season.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed former Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers and former NC State and NFL wide receiver Torry Holt being named Pro Football Hall of Fame finalists. Former Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. was left out as a finalist. Tim shared why this is the correct decision for now. Tim Donnelly and Graham Hill also shared what they're concerned and confident in regarding the Carolina Panthers this week.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed the Carolina Hurricanes' dominant 5-2 victory over the Nashville Predators. Sebastian Aho scored a goal and added three assists in the win. He also previewed the quick turnaround matchup against the Montreal Canadiens tonight at PNC Arena.</p>

<p>North Carolina concluded the 2023 season with a disappointing 30-10 loss to West Virginia in the Duke’s May Bowl played in Charlotte. Tim Donnelly discussed the game-changing plays, standout moments, and what led to the finish of a letdown season for the Tar Heels. Tim also discussed if last night was rock bottom for head coach Mack Brown during his second tenure at UNC. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox discuss the Carolina Hurricanes returning from the NHL holiday break to take on the Nashville Predators, and how the Carolina Hurricanes need to focus on themselves fully to turn things around, including how the Hurricanes should handle their goalie situation moving forward.</p>

<p>During Hit It & Quit It, Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox discuss the top stories of the day, including former UNC football QB Sam Howell being benched as the Washington Commanders starter in favor of former NC State football QB Jacoby Brissett. Also, former NC State football & Wisconsin football QB Russell Wilson is being benched by the Denver Broncos and head coach Sean Payton. Also, looking ahead to the Carolina Hurricanes returning to the ice against the Nashville Predators, and Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young proving himself to be durable. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says the confidence level in Carolina Panthers rookie QB Bryce Young continues to rise, and that there has to be credit also given to the WR's for their increased level of play. Tim Donnelly says why the Carolina Panthers and owner David Tepper shouldn't want Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their next head coach, and what trait Johnson doesn't have that former interim head coach Steve Wilks possessed.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox discuss where their confidence lies, and what they're concerned about when it comes to ACC basketball in the State of North Carolina for NC State basketball, Wake Forest basketball, Duke basketball, and UNC basketball.</p>

<p>During cop or drop, Dennis Cox and producer Graham Hill discussed if the Panthers can win their last two remaining games, can the Carolina Hurricanes improve their record without making a long-term move at goalie, and if a win against West Virginia in the Dukes Mayo Bowl redeems North Carolina's football season? </p> <p>Dennis also discussed how this is a crucial offseason for North Carolina football due to the last two seasons sputtering down the stretch. </p>

<p>During the podium, Dennis Cox recaps our local college basketball team's performances from last week. Earning the gold medal is North Carolina, following a massive win over No. 7 Oklahoma. Dennis also discussed if North Carolina has the talent to make it to a Sweet Sixteen.</p> <p>Also, Duke defeated Troy 17-10 in the Birmingham Bowl, a nice way for the Blue Devils to close out their season. Payton Wilson's opting out of NC State's bowl game against Kansas State as he prepares for the NFL Draft. </p>

<p>Dennis discussed how the New York Islanders stole the holiday spirit from the Carolina Hurricanes in a nail-biting 5-4 thriller. Despite late rallies from Carolina, the Islanders held strong, sending the Hurricanes into a tailspin over the Holiday break before they return to the ice tomorrow to face Nashville. The Hurricanes have also recalled goaltender Antti Raanta from the Chicago Wolves, to rest Pyotr Kotchekov. </p>

<p>Dennis Cox points out three things that stood out to him from the Carolina Panthers' 33-30 loss the Green Bay Packers, including the strong performance by Bryce Young, and how the defense continues to struggle in the red zone. Also, Dennis says that the Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young had a great moment in having his best game of the season against the Green Bay Packers, but for the Panthers and Young to be successful in the long term, Sunday's game has be more than just a "moment."</p>

<p>During the Starting Five, Tim Donnelly discussed UNC linebacker Kaimon Rucker announcing his return for a fifth season, Duke football facing an impressive Troy team in the Birmingham Bowl, and Florida State filing a lawsuit against the ACC to challenge the ACC's grant of rights and media deal. Also, the Carolina Panthers look to gift their fans a win on Christmas Eve against the Green Bay Packers. Plus the Carolina Hurricanes lost 2-1 on the road to the Pittsburgh Penguins in a shootout. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly previews the Christmas Eve matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Carolina Panthers. Tim breaks down the key players, the strategic plays, and the potential game-changers that could lead to a much-needed gift on Christmas for all Panthers fans. Also, Tim and producer Graham Hill go over their naught and nice lists for North Carolina sports teams, coaches, and players. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly dissects the Carolina Hurricanes' tough 2-1 shootout loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins last night. He discussed the game-changing plays, standout moments, and what led to the defining moments. Also, he previews Duke's matchup against Tory in the Birmingham Bowl. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed the lawsuit filed earlier today by Florida State against the ACC after the FSU Board of Trustees voted unanimously to challenge the ACC's grant of rights and media deal, as well as the penalty that would follow if they left the ACC. Also, In honor of the holiday season, Tim Donnelly and producer Graham Hill discuss what they would gift to both the college and pro sports teams here in North Carolina.</p>

<p>During the starting five, Tim Donnelly discussed No. 11 North Carolina's 81-69 win over undefeated No. 7 Baylor, No. 21 Duke's impressive 78-70 win over No. 10 Baylor, and the New England Patriots setting up a 'bidding war' for head coach Bill Belichick. Also, Florida State is calling a board of trustees meeting to further their conversations about leaving the ACC. Plus, the Carolina Hurricanes return to action tonight following their dominant win over the defending Stanley Cup champs as they travel to Pittsburgh to face the Penguins. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly begins to preview the Carolina Panthers' upcoming games this Sunday, against the Green Bay Packers. Tim believes this is a winnable game for the Panthers, but it's going to take a lot of discipline from offensive coordinator Thomas Brown and his unit.</p> <p>Also, Tim revisits UNC football coach Mack Brown calling out NC State football coach Dave Doeren on National Signing Day yesterday regarding the comments Doeren made about North Carolina football after the Wolfpack defeated the Tar Heels to close out the 2023 college football regular season.</p>

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes return to action following their statement win against the Vegas Golden Knights as they travel to Pittsburgh to face the Penguins. Tim Donnelly breaks down the matchup, which players need to keep producing for the Canes, and how they can secure a second-straight win. Also, Tim breaks down NC State’s second-half rally leading to an 82-70 victory over Saint Louis last night at home. He discussed key moments of the game, key performances, and how a second-half three-pointer surge led the Wolfpack to a bounce-back win.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly breaks down No. 11 North Carolina’s statement 81-69 win over undefeated No. 7 Oklahoma in the Jumpman Invitational played in Charlotte. He discussed key moments of the game, a standout performance by guard RJ Davis, and the strategy that led the Tar Heels to this first signature win of the season.</p> <p>Also, Tim breaks down No. 21 Duke’s impressive 78-70 win over No. 10 Baylor in last night’s showdown at Madison Square Garden. He discussed key moments of the game, standout performances from freshman guards Caleb Foster and Jared McCain, and the strategy that led the Blue Devils to victory in the iconic venue.</p>

<p>During the Starting Five, Tim Donnelly previews No. 11 North Carolina vs. No. 7 Oklahoma in the Jumpman Invitational, No. 21 Duke vs. No. 6 Baylor at Madison Square Garden, and discussed college football's National Signing Day for our triangle schools. Also, he shares his thoughts on Florida State pondering its ACC future again. Plus, he breaks down the Carolina Hurricanes' 6-3 win against the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly tackles the question that should be on Carolina Panthers fans’ minds: Should the team retain current defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero for next season? Tim engages in a comprehensive discussion, breaking down the pros and cons, examining defensive strategies, and weighing the impact on the team’s performance this season.</p> <p>Also, Florida State again is pondering its future within the ACC, and Tim has almost had enough of it. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly and producer Graham Hill discuss their confidence and concerns for the local ACC basketball teams, including Wake Forest, NC State, UNC, and Duke. Also, with National Signing Day for college football taking place, Tim breaks down what North Carolina has been doing on their side of things. He notes how UNC's coaching staff always does a good job recruiting players and focusing on talent from the state of Georiga. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly breaks down the electrifying performance that led the Carolina Hurricanes to a stunning 6-3 victory against the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights. Tim reviews the game-changing plays, standout moments, and the team’s overall performance that fueled their triumph on their home ice.</p> <p>Also, Tim dives into the high-stakes world of college football recruiting on National Signing Day, exploring how NC State is building success for the next season. Tim breaks down key signings, promising prospects, and the strategic moves laying the foundation for Wolfpack’s hopeful triumph in the upcoming season. He also discussed UNC football coach Mack Brown calling out NC State football coach Dave Doeren on National Signing Day about comments Doeren made about North Carolina football after the Wolfpack defeated the Tar Heels to close out the 2023 college football regular season.</p>

<p dir="ltr">During the Starting Five, Tim Donnelly discussed Sam Howell getting benched for Jacoby Brissett, the Carolina Panthers releasing Justin Houston pass-rusher Justin Houston, and the current AP top-25 men’s college basketball rankings. Also, he discussed how the Panthers can build on their win against the Falcons. Plus, the Carolina Hurricanes welcome the defending Stanley Cup Champions, the Vegas Golden Knights tonight. </p> <p> </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed how the Carolina Panthers can build off their win against the Atlanta Falcons for the three remaining games this season. He dives into the winning formula that propelled the Panthers success. Tim breaks down the crucial elements contributing to this victory, from offensive strategies to defensive success, and how the team can leverage these strengths.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also, questions about NC State’s future for football next season based on success in the transfer portal, UNC’s struggles in basketball, and more in Cop or Drop.</p> <p> </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly provides a breakdown of the Carolina Hurricanes upcoming matchup against the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights. Tim discussed the importance of the goaltending performance for Pyotr Kotchetkov. Tim also explored the dynamic that could lead to the Hurricanes turning the tide and securing a pivotal victory against the reigning champs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also, Tim discussed what led to the Washington Commanders benching former UNC quarterback Sam Howell and now relying on former NC State quarterback Jacoby Brissett. </p> <p> </p>

<p>Now that we’re over the happy feeling of the Carolina Panthers winning another game, Tim Donnelly nitpicks the 9-7 victory over the Falcons. From game-changing plays to the offense's performance, Tim reviews every aspect of the nailbiting matchup, providing fans with a comprehensive analysis of the 9-7 win.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also, yesterday, NC State got another commit out of the transfer portal in former Duke running back Jordan Waters. Tim discussed the Wolfpack’s success in building next season’s roster. </p> <p> </p>

<p>NC State basketball lost to No. 12 Tennessee, 79-70, that saw guard Kam Woods play in his first game of the season after the temporary restraining order against the NCAA allowed two-time transfer to play. Tim Donnelly discusses how NC State basketball coach Kevin Keatts still has a lot to figure out regarding the rotation with Woods and MJ Rice coming into the lineup. </p>

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes over the weekend placed goalie Antti Raanta on waivers, sending him down to Chicago Wolves of the AHL, and called up rookie goalie Yaniv Perets to back up Pyotr Kochetkov. Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox discuss how the Carolina Hurricanes still should look to make a move in goal, and provide an update about when Frederik Andersen might be healthy enough to return from his blood-clotting issue. </p>

<p>In breaking news, NC State football landed a running back in the transfer portal in graduate senior Jordan Waters from Duke football. Tim Donnelly points out how NC State Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren has been landing key pieces to add to his offense via the transfer portal.</p> <p>Also, former UNC basketball star Eric Montross lost his battle to cancer.</p> <p>North Carolina basketball loses a close matchup with Kentucky basketball, showing that they're close to winning big games, but not quite there yet this season. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says that even though the game wasn't pretty, the Carolina Panthers earned their 9-7 win over the Atlanta Falcons, and that Bryce Young, and the Panthers defense made the key plays when they needed to down the stretch. </p>

<p>During the Starting Five, Tim Donnelly discussed No. 9 North Carolina vs. No. 14 Kentucky in the CBS Sports Classic, NC State vs. No. 12 Tennessee in the Basketball Hall of Fame Game, and Thursday night football's impact on the coaching market. Also, the Atlanta Falcons face the Carolina Panthers in a divisional rematch. Plus, the Carolina Hurricanes return to PNC Arena tonight as they face the Nashville Predators. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed the future of Duke football with the Blue Devils' newly appointed head coach, Manny Diaz. Tim discussed with Coach Diaz his vision, strategies, and plan for elevating Duke football to new heights. From building a new coaching staff to recruiting tactics, and elevating the current roster.</p> <p>Also, Tim gives his really bold predictions for the upcoming sports weekend. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly explained at this point in the season, the bar has been set super low for Panthers quarterback Bryce Young regarding his in-game performance. Tim continues to advocate how all he'd like to see is some improvement out of Young and the Panthers as a team.</p> <p>Also, Tim previews the divisional rematch between the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers. In week 1, Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers offense struggled in a 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons that saw Young throw two interceptions, as Carolina turned the ball over three times, leading to 17 Falcons points. Tim discussed if this game is winnable for the Panthers this time around.</p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discussed how the Carolina Hurricanes clawed their way back from a rough road trip to snatch a 2-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings last night. The Canes, who stumbled through the first four games of their six-game trek, found their footing in the Motor City, fueled by clutch goals and stellar goaltending.</p> <p>Tim also discussed how the team needs to continue the momentum tonight as they return to PNC Arena to face the Nashville Predators. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly & Dennis Cox express their concerns and share their confidence when it comes to the Carolina Panthers, including how the dysfunction of the franchise has stemmed for selfishness, and how personal agendas will likely far outweigh team goals for the remainder of the season.</p> <p>Also, Carolina Panthers tickets for their Sunday home game against the Atlanta Falcons were seen as low as $5 on the resale market. </p>

<p>After recent comments by former Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton about how the Panthers mishandled former RB Christian McCaffrey, Tim Donnelly points out how the Carolina Panthers historically have mishandled their star players.</p> <p>Cam Newton also called SF 49ers QB Brock Purdy, Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott, among others, 'game managers' and not play-makers. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly says the Carolina Hurricanes need to find consistency, not just on the scoreboard with wins, but by consistently playing their style of play, and goaltending. Tim also points out the production of Dmitry Orlov & Tony DeAngelo have not lived up to what was expected of them. </p>

<p>Tim Donnelly discusses how NC State football is filling their needs on offense with players through the transfer portal, including Coastal Carolina QB Grayson McCall. Tim points out that the Wolfpack could still look to add a running back or two in the transfer portal. </p>

<p>How long will it take for the Carolina Panthers to rebuild their organization and be a competitive football team again. Tim Donnelly says much of that depends on who the next head coach, and possibly new GM are going to be, but also the development of Bryce Young.</p> <p>Also, will New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick be the next head coach of the Carolina Panthers? </p>