The Drive with Tim Donnelly

<p>Wes Durham of the ACC Network and ESPN discusses some of the revenue-generating strategies that come into play to get fans wanting to attend the ACC Tournament and other basketball events. He also takes us on a trip down memory lane when discussing former ACC vs Big East challenges. Also, could a rebranding of the Big Four tournament be one of the best ways to get fans to attend games once again in a location such as Greensboro?</p>

<p>Jerry Palm of CBS Sports talks about bracketology and what North Carolina will have to do to get on the right side of making the NCAA Tournament. He feels it all depends on if the Tar Heels can make it all the way to the championship game on Saturday and who they will be playing based on the outcome. The same goes for many teams as well. He also discusses NC State's chances of getting in and if they'll need to rely on bubble luck to make it.</p>

<p>How does he feel about the league? Where does he feel the league can make some adjustments? What’s the formula to the NET? What conversations does he have with ESPN on navigating games that are aired? Which partnership would he like to continue, but also wants to make the most of the league? How does Jim see NIL impacting things down the road? </p>

<p>Does Bubba even know what the formula is for the NET? What’s his schedule look like this week? What was something that may have been surprising to Bubba in the selection process for next year? Obviously a lot of UNC fans are frustrated, so how has he viewed how things have gone with Hubert and his team? With the revenue gap being big between the ACC and the Big 12, hw much of the gap are they making up for everyone to truly being satisfied? </p>

<p>What’s his game plan for the upcoming game? How does he feel about talk of the ACC Tournament not being in Greensboro? </p>

<p>Luke believes rebuilding a sense of community within the league is important, why? How many teams does he believe will win in this tournament? Has Duke been “freed’? Does Luke think Duke is on track to being a big threat? And which coach are we likely to see during the tournament? </p>

<p>The All-ACC men's basketball awards were announced, and Joe Giglio & Joe Ovies discuss the selections and awards, and are curious why no one voted for Jon Scheyer for ACC Coach of the Year.</p> <p>Also, the Carolina Hurricanes looked dominant, the Carolina Panthers lose out on Derek Carr, and more.</p> <p>Plus, Georiga Tech head coach Josh Pastner shares his thoughts on the end of his season and looks ahead to the ACC Tournament</p>

<p>Joe Lunardi of ESPN evaluated UNC basketball and if the Tar Heels will make the NCAA Tournament, and how successful North Carolina will have to be at the ACC Tournament. Lunardi also shares his thoughts on where NC State basketball & Duke basketball will be seeded. </p>

<p>After suffering a disappointing 62-57 loss to Duke, Joe Ovies said it's time for UNC basketball and move on from their veteran players. Ovies & Joe Giglio break down North Carolina basketball's chances of making the NCAA Tournament and if they need to win the ACC Tournament. </p> <p>Derek Carr is signing with the New Orleans Saints, which means the Carolina Panthers will have to draft a QB. Will they have to move up in the draft?</p>

<p>Las Vegas Raiders color commentator, and former NFL offensive lineman, Lincoln Kennedy shared his thoughts on former Raiders QB Derek Carr as a player, where Carr still struggles on the field, and if Carr could be a player that could help the Carolina Panthers.</p>

<p>Darin Gantt of Panthers.com while at the NFL Combine shared how the Carolina Panthers have the flexibility in the 2023 NFL Draft to move up to take a quarterback.</p> <p>Bomani Jones of ESPN and "Game Theory" on HBO, wonders what's next for boxer & YouTube star Jake Paul after Paul lost his first boxing match, this one to Tommy Fury. Jones points out that Paul has rematch clause, but wonders if Paul can suffer any more losses before becoming irrelevant to the sport, much like Ronda Rousey in the UFC. Jones also weighs in on the NBA, NFL Combine, and more. </p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio break down Duke basketball visiting UNC basketball as the regular season wraps up for both teams ahead of next week's ACC Tournament. Also, #HeyJoe questions about the NFL Combine, ACC football, and more. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes GM/President Don Waddell shared with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio his thoughts on the NHL Trade Deadline and the two moves that the Canes made during the week. </p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio look ahead to the second matchup of the season between Duke basketball and North Carolina basketball, and if UNC basketball needs this win. </p>

<p>During the Daily Checkdown, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss how there are several scenarios that could play out regarding ACC Men's basketball and the seedings for next week's ACC Tournament. Plus, ACC women's basketball tournament is underway, and reflecting on the impact Jerry Richardson had on the Carolinas, and how the Raleigh area was pushing for an NFL team. </p>

<p>Will the NCAA and member schools be forced to start paying athletes? Andy Wittry of On3 shared the details of a memo around the ACC and other Power 5 conferences about the legislation they're looking for from Congress to maintain anti-trust status while ensuring that their revenue doesn't get shared with athletes.</p> <p>Also, Jeremy Markovich of the NC Rabbit Hole joined to discuss an exit off of I-95 that was used in the Righteous Gemstones that doesn't actually exist. </p>

<p>With the passing of former Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson, Ovies calls on an interview for his podcast, A Brief History of Triangle Sports, with Hill Carrow on how the Triangle-area was trying to get the Carolina Panthers.</p> <p>Also, #HeyJoe questions about NC State basketball, The Carolina Hurricanes, and more. </p>

<p>Are the Carolina Hurricanes built for a run to the Stanley Cup, or are they just a really great NHL regular season team? Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio wonder if the organization and owner Tom Dundon have done enough to put together a team that's built for the NHL Playoffs and a run to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.</p> <p>Also, Joe & Joe react to the passing of former Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson. </p>

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes made a trade for Arizona Coyotes defenseman Shane Gostisbehere. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio react to the deal, and wonder if this is the 'rental' trade the Carolina Hurricanes have been looking to make to make a run for the Stanley Cup.</p> <p>Also, the top stories of the day during the Daily Checkdown, including Duke basketball beating NC State basketball, the Carolina Panthers at the NFL combine, and more. </p>

<p>Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich and GM Scott Fitterer spoke today at the 2023 NFL Combine. They were asked questions about quarterback, including free agent Derek Carr, Kentucky QB Will Levis, and their philosophy on drafting a QB in the first round vs. signing a free agent.</p> <p>Who should be on the ACC Player of the Year, and who deserves to be First-Team All-ACC basketball? Wes Durham of the ACC Network & ESPN shares his thoughts on who should make the team, who the ACC Coach of the Year should be, and who likely won't make the All-ACC 1st team.</p>

<p>During #HeyJoe, Ovies & Giglio fielded several questions about NC State basketball after suffering another loss, this one at the hands of Duke basketball, including if the Wolfpack will make the NCAA Tournament.</p> <p>Also, EJ Hradek of the NHL Network joined the show to break down the NHL trade deadline as it's fast approaching, including how the Eastern Conference is shaping up, and if the Carolina Hurricanes are done making moves. </p>

<p>Duke basketball earned a late season win over NC State basketball, 71-67. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio point out that NC State basketball needs to regroup ahead of the ACC Tournament, but that Duke basketball is coming together at the right time. But they do give credit to NC State for how they played defensively.</p> <p>Are UNC basketball and NC State basketball in the NCAA Tournament? Patrick Stevens of the Washington Post tell Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio that he believes that both UNC basketball and NC State basketball are in the Field of 68, but said that they're on the fringes, and that a good showing in Greensboro during the ACC Tournament would go a long way to help their case.</p>

<p>Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio stated to Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio why Kentucky QB Will Levis is the best QB in the 2023 NFL Draft, and why the Carolina Panthers should trade up to draft him. They also get into a discussion about former NC State football QB Devin Leary who transferred to UK football in the offseason. </p> <p>Also, conversations about ACC basketball, including how Duke has evolved during the course of the season, and if UNC basketball is turning the corner. </p>

<p>During the Daily Checkdown, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio preview the big ACC basketball matchup between NC State basketball at Duke basketball. Also, after three straight wins, is UNC basketball back on track as the ACC tournament approaches? Plus, NFL Draft Mocks with the Carolina Panthers drafting Kentucky QB Will Levis, and the Carolina Hurricanes make a trade for forward Jesse Pujlujarvi from the Edmonton Oilers. </p>

<p>Former NC State guard Scott Wood shared with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio how difficult it is to play in Cameron Indoor Stadium as NC State basketball is set to play at Duke basketball tonight.</p> <p>Also, #HeyJoe questions about the NCAA Tournament, UNC basketball, and more. </p>

<p>With three straight wins, including a win over Virginia basketball, is UNC basketball 'back?' Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio wonder if the North Carolina is peaking at the right time, and if a win over Duke basketball to end the regular season will be enough for the Tar Heels to make the NCAA Tournament.</p> <p>ESPN Senior NHL Writer Greg Wyshynski shared his thoughts on the NHL trade deadline, including the Carolina Hurricanes finally making a trade, acquiring forward Jesse Puljujarvi from the Edmonton Oilers for a prospect. </p>

<p>During the Daily Checkdown, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio break down the current state of ACC basketball after UNC basketball defeated Virginia basketball, NC State basketball losing to Clemson basketball, and Duke basketball getting another win late in the season.</p> <p>Also, talks about the NFL Draft and the Carolina Panthers, comments made by Miami Dolphins CB Byron Jones about his current health status, and more. </p>

<p>With the Washington Commanders releasing quarterback Carson Wentz, Joe Ovies warns Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich to not try and bring Carson Wentz to the Panthers, much like Reich did with the Indianapolis Colts. </p> <p>Also, what's the vibe for NC State basketball fans, UNC basketball fans, Carolina Hurricanes fans and others? </p>

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes haven't made a trade yet ahead of the NHL Trade deadline, while other teams like the New York Rangers, New Jersey Devils, Boston Bruins, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Toronto Maple Leafs all having made trades. Luke DeCock of the News & Observer shares his thoughts on the NHL Trade Deadline, and why the Carolina Hurricanes don't have to worry about all of the moves that are being made right now.</p> <p>Also, #HeyJoe questions about NC State basketball, UNC basketball, the Carolina Hurricanes, and more. </p>

<p>The ACC NCAA NET Rankings are low nationally compared to other conferences. Joe Ovies offers a solution to how ACC Basketball can boost their NET rankings in the future, where Joe Giglio says you have to look directly at UNC basketball for the reasons why the league doesn't get enough credit right now.</p> <p>Also, NC State basketball suffered a bad loss to Clemson basketball at home. Should the Wolfpack be worried now about missing the NCAA Tournament? </p>

<p>From Myron: With FSU trying to figure out what the buyout is to leave the ACC, who else do you think is looking to jump ship, with that clown Jim Phillips destroying the league? #heyJoe From Bennett: Hey Joe, say FSU did manage to get out of the acc somehow, why would a conference want to add them since they would then have to split revenue with them? From Erk: Do you like pollen in February From Billy: How many questions have you had about Kevin Keatts this season? From Kyle: #HeyJoe what present are you going to give to Brad Brownell</p>

<p>Are there go-to guys he feels he can go to in tight games? How does he feel about his team trying to turn things around? What strategy is he using to keep up the momentum they’re gaining? How does he feel about how the ACC is being perceived? If coaches feel THIS way about the NET and rankings, shouldn’t everyone else feel the same? </p>

<p>What is Rodgers doing that’s really working against him, if he’s wanting to stay in Green Bay? Who does he feel might be a better fit for Green Bay, if it’s not Rodgers? Has Bomani ever done one of these darkness experiments before? After the All Star game, ratings came out and it didn’t look so hot. However, what WAS interesting? What does the NBA have that’s troubling trends? What doesn’t EVER come up at his job? What’s Ovies’ theory about the NBA and how they are trying to stay engaged with the audience, but will it work? How does Bomani pull the curtain back a little after hearing this theory? </p>

<p>What’s the hold up and is there any progression in sight? What’s the difference between passing this bill now versus the same bill from last year? What steps do we still need to take? How will this impact college sports, as well as professional? </p>

<p>Joe Ovies shares the latest on 2023 NFL Mock Drafts for the Carolina Panthers, including a projection for the Panthers to trade up to the No. 5 pick to draft Kentucky QB Will Levis.</p> <p>Matt Norlander of the Eye On College Basketball Podcast shared his thoughts on the college basketball season, how the ACC as a whole rates against other conferences, and if March Madness is the true evaluator of the strength of a conference.</p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Julian Council of the Locked On Panthers Podcast share their thoughts on the coaching staff assembled by Frank Reich and the Carolina Panthers, but point out that none of it matters if they don't get the quarterback position right, whether it's in the 2023 NFL Draft, or free agency.</p> <p>Plus, Patrick Stevens of the Washington Post gave his latest breakdown on the projected NCAA Tournament field, and if UNC basketball will make it into the tournament. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes color analyst Tripp Tracy shared his thoughts with Joe Giglio on the NHL Stadium Series matchup between the Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals, and what the Carolina Hurricanes could do at the trade deadline.</p> <p>Also, #HeyJoe questions about NC State basketball. </p>

<p>Several ACC basketball coaches, including Wake Forest basketball coach Steve Forbes, and Pitt basketball coach Jeff Capel, spoke out this week about how the ACC needs to change the narrative buy building up the conference more, whether it's other coaches, or the ACC Network.</p> <p>Joe Ovies points out how the changing of the guard with coaches has impacted how the league is viewed.</p>

<p>Should the Carolina Panthers move up in the 2023 NFL Draft to draft Kentucky QB Will Levis? Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss the latest in NFL Mock Drafts. </p> <p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio wonder if a loss to Notre Dame basketball would mean UNC basketball is out of the NCAA Tournament? They point out that there are still games against Virginia basketball and Duke basketball for North Carolina basketball to boost their resume.</p> <p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio pointed out the increased TV ratings for the NHL Stadium Series matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes & Washington Capitals, and the level of merchandise sold in and around the game. </p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio break down with Wes Durham where the ACC is struggling in terms of personalities with head coaches, if UNC basketball can rebound late in the season, why the NCAA NET rankings are so confusing, and the national conversation around ACC basketball. </p> <p>Also, NFL Mock Draft SZN is in full swing, including what the Carolina Panthers could do to trade up in the draft. </p>

<p>Joe Giglio caught up with former NC State basketball player Dereck Whittenburg as the 1983 national championship team gathered to celebrate their championship from 40 years ago. Whittenburg says that it never gets old thinking back at what their team accomplished. </p> <p>Also, fan questions during #HeyJoe about the Carolina Hurricanes, sandwiches, and the Container Store, and country rap songs. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour discussed the possibility of a trade for the team, and was asked what a trade would signal to the locker room. Rod also shares his Stadium Series experience, how effective Andrei Svechnikov has been despite his lack of goal scoring, and the improved play of young players like Seth Jarvis & Martin Necas.</p> <p>Also, NC State men's basketball and UNC men's basketball are both in action tonight. </p>

<p>Should the Carolina Panthers trade for Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson? Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss the potential of Lamar Jackson leaving the Baltimore Ravens if he's not under an exclusive franchise tag. They also discuss the possibility that the Panthers could make.</p> <p>Also during the Daily Checkdown, Panthers head coach Frank Reich, and special assistant coach, Jim Caldwell, spoke with the media.</p> <p>Plus, UNC club hockey coach Jeff Volkman shared his thoughts on playing NC State outdoors at Carter-Finley Stadium, and what the process would be to get a varsity hockey team at NC State. </p>

<p>Wake Forest men's basketball coach Steve Forbes shared with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio if he thinks his team has a chance to make it into the NCAA Tournament, his frustration with not fully understanding NCAA NET Rankings, and why the ACC could benefit from less conference games.</p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss potential 2023 NFL draft picks for the Carolina Panthers at the No. 9 pick. Also, the Panthers can go numerous ways at quarterback. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes play-by-play voice Mike Maniscalco shared his experience from the NHL Stadium Series game at Carter-Finley Stadium between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals. Maniscalco also weighs in on the NHL trade deadline, and how the Hurricanes will balance making a move but also not mortgaging the future.</p> <p>Also, #HeyJoe questions about the ACC, and the potential of adding more pro sports in the Triangle. </p>

<p>Terrence Oglesby of the Field of 68 shared his thoughts on the ACC, why the blue bloods like UNC basketball and Duke basketball have not lived up to their standards this season, and how ACC basketball stacks up to other conferences.</p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss some items around the sports world that were missed over the weekend. </p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio point out that the NHL Stadium Series event and game itself was a success and the league put on a fantastic presentation, but the NHL failed people attending the event with it's lack of attention to parking ahead of the event. The parking situation also shows how far Raleigh, NC is behind in infrastructure, and that upgrades to the area around PNC Arena & Carter-Finley Stadium are needed.</p> <p>Also, NFL conversations about Lamar Jackson, and the upcoming 2023 NFL draft. </p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio opened up the phone lines to let listeners weigh in on their experience with the NHL Stadium Series game between the Carolina Hurricanes & Washington Capitals, including parking, the game itself, and the experience of being there.</p> <p>Also, a listener that was at the game caught up with producer Dennis Cox to share his opinion on Joe Ovies' take on ACC officials. </p>

<p>During #HeyJoe, questions were asked about UNC fans being 'salty' about NC State being featured so much during the NHL Stadium Series game between the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals at Carter-Finley Stadium. Ovies & Giglio point out that the game was played at NC State's stadium, so it's only natural.</p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio break down where the NHL went wrong with parking. </p>

<p>Outside of the parking situation, the NHL Stadium Series game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals was successful as an event inside Carter-Finley Stadium. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio also point out that the Hurricanes dominating also helped.</p> <p>NC State defeated UNC basketball in a pivotal ACC basketball game, 77-69. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio point out how NC State was strong late, and how UNC might not make the NCAA Tournament unless they finish with a flurry of wins.</p>

<p>The NHL Stadium Series has finally arrived, and there's a lot going on around the game than the actual game itself. The owner of Ripken The Bat Dog joined during the Daily Checkdown, as did NC State Club Hockey coach Tim Healy ahead of their matchup on Monday at Carter-Finley Stadium against UNC club hockey.</p> <p>Also, conversations about Eric Bieniemy taking the job as the Washington Commanders offensive coordinator, and a check in from the Carolina Hurricanes fanfest in downtown Raleigh, NC. </p>