The Drive with Tim Donnelly

<p>From Woj: What are 3 words Disney employees are not allowed to say? From Josh: So #HeyJoe Panthers players and some fans seem to have fallen in love with the interim because he's not Matt Rhule, he's a local guy and they look somewhat prepared. But they are 4-5 and Wilks won't commit to a (albeit bad) QB option so now what? From Colby: #HeyJoe I keep going back and forth between a high draft pick for the panthers and a home playoff game. What the hell is a “real fan” suppose to want now? Pulling for losses feels dirty and beneath my fandom From Frank: Can we now say definitively that NC State Stuff is more powerful than Bill Belichick’s Dark Hoodie Magic? From Nick: #HeyJoe do you think it’s “crazy” that we’re still comparing Roy Williams and Coach K even though neither guy is actually coaching?</p>

<p>SHOULD they be trying to bottom out? What’s Joe Ovies’ opinion about what the Carolina Panthers should be doing to put David Tepper in an awkward situation? Demetri Ravanos doesn’t think Panther fans should do this, after the season(s) they’ve been having? Plus, if you’re feeling hopeless about this team; here’s why you probably do from yesterday’s game…</p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes play-by-play voice Mike Maniscalco discussed the current goalie situation that sees Pyotr Kochetkov taking over as the starter while Frederik Andersen rehabs from an injury. </p> <p>Also, Mike talks with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio about future changes with the NHL schedule.</p> <p>Plus, Bomani Jones of ESPN breaks down potential NFL offseason moves, including what Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper could be facing if interim head coach Steve Wilks leads the team to a NFC South division title. </p>

<p>During What's Trending, Ovies & Giglio discuss the biggest matchups in the NFL weekend, including the Miami Dolphins on the road against the Buffalo Bills, which will likely see a game played in the snow in western New York. </p> <p>Also, the two debate gift giving. </p>

<p>Michael Felder of In The Bleachers discussed the college football bowl season, including the College Football Playoff, and if we're overlooking TCU as a legit title contender. Plus, discussions about the transfer portal.</p> <p>Plus, Ovies & Giglio answer #HeyJoe questions about ACC coaches.</p>

<p>The Carolina Panthers can gain ground against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend with a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Plus, how will the cold weather and snow impact the Buffalo Bills vs. the Miami Dolphins? </p>

<p>Brooke Pryor, ESPN Steelers reporter, discussed the upcoming matchup between the Steelers and Carolina Panthers. Pryor also weighs in on the Steelers' QB situation with the concussion injury to Kenny Pickett. </p> <p>Also, Jeremy Markovich of NC Rabbit Hole newsletter shares the idea of using artificial intelligence bots to create a Christmas song for the State of North Carolina. </p>

<p>During HeyJoe, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio answer listener questions, including about UNC basketball, the hiring of a new NCAA president, the Charlotte Hornets getting Victor Wembanyama, and Christmas Trees.</p> <p>Also, the two discuss the future of Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes Color Analyst Tripp Tracy discussed the current goalie situation for the Canes after the emergence of Pyotr Kochetkov in net in the absence of starter Frederik Andersen. </p> <p>Also, artificial intelligence bots are now able to generate full conversations. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss the AI generated programming. </p>

<p>Pyotr Kochetkov got his second straight shutout, this time blanking the Detroit Red Wings, 1-0. Joe Ovies states that Kochetkov needs to be the No. 1 goalie now, and don't send him back to the AHL when Freddie Andersen returns from injury. Plus, Joe Giglio points out that Rod Brind'Amour has been able to manage goalie tandems and trios perfectly throughout his coaching career.</p> <p>Also, Spencer Hall of the SEC Network joined to discuss the passing of Mississippi State head coach, Mike Leach. </p>

<p>College Football coaches are going through a tough phase right now managing their rosters with the transfer portal, and if players will be opting out of bowl games because of the portal, or going to the NFL Draft.</p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio assess UNC basketball after their win over The Citadel. Plus, Ovies & Giglio give you their NFL Power Rankings. </p>

<p>Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports tells Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio that the Carolina Panthers have shown a lot of resiliency this season after the firing of head coach Matt Rhule, the trade of Christian McCaffrey, and more. </p> <p>Also, have teams in the NFL figured out the Miami Dolphins and Tua Tagovailoa? Plus, the Cincinnati Bengals are looking like the Bengals that we saw make it to the Super Bowl. </p>

<p>After NC State's 92-73 win over Furman, Joe Giglio breaks down the Wolfpack, and says they're a good team, but still lack one key piece. </p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies discusses how UNC has been able to have quality practice time at home after a tough travel schedule.</p> <p>Plus, the Ovies & Giglio state that the Carolina Hurricanes need to make rookie goalie Pyotr Kochetkov the No. 1 goalie. </p>

<p>During What's Trending, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss the current state of NC State basketball under head coach Kevin Keatts, and how there's a growing sense of apathy. </p> <p>Also, does why does the NBA renaming their MVP award the Michael Jordan Trophy have Ovies so fired up?</p>

<p>NC State Athletic Director, and committee chair of the College Football Playoff Committee, discussed the CFP and the future of the playoff, playoff expansion, and more. </p> <p>The Carolina Panthers are within striking distance of the NFC South championship with a trip to the NFL playoffs on the line. Is this giving Panthers fans a false hope? Lauren Brownlow discusses the Panthers with Joe Ovies.</p> <p>Brownlow & Ovies also talk about UNC men's basketball, and the current state of ACC basketball.</p>

<p>During #HeyJoe, there were several questions about NC State basketball head coach Kevin Keatts and his future with the program, and if he'll make it past this season if they don't make the NCAA Tournament.</p> <p>Also, how is the NFL playoffs going to shake out, and will the Carolina Panthers make it? </p>

<p>Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer weighs in on the Carolina Panthers and their chances of winning the NFC South and making it to the playoffs.</p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss the passing of Mike Leach, and his legacy with the air raid offense, but how he was a personality that college sports often lacks.</p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discussed the current state of ACC basketball in the early part of the season, including where schools like UNC basketball, Duke basketball, and NC State basketball currently project to finish, but how schools like UVA basketball and Virginia Tech basketball compare to the rest of the league.</p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio discuss the Carolina Panthers and if they really can win the NFC South.</p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio assess the early portion of the college basketball season in the ACC, including Miami's win over NC State, and UNC basketball's much needed win over Georgia Tech. </p> <p>Also, the NFC South is a mess, but the AFC playoff picture isn't clear, either. Can the Carolina Panthers win the NFC South, and is Tom Brady done? </p>

<p>Coastal Carolina Head Football Coach, Tim Beck, discussed with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio his move from offensive coordinator at NC State football to his new position at Coastal Carolina, the ups and downs of the transfer portal, and needing to use four quarterbacks at NC State this season. </p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio answer listener questions during #HeyJoe.</p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio point out that the Carolina Panthers have found an identity under interim head coach Steve Wilks that they didn't have under Matt Rhule, and how they chance to work their way to a NFC South title and make the playoffs. </p> <p>They also state that Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper needs to give an honest look at interim head coach Steve Wilks as the full-time head coach of the team as Wilks has helped shape an identity for the team.</p>

<p>As part of the Carolina Hurricanes 'North Carolina Night' that was announced, the Canes are going to be wearing Raleigh Ice Caps sweaters for warmups in honor of the former ECHL team that played in Raleigh from 1991-1998 at Dorton Arena. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss how what they grew up with in high school and college is considered 'retro' now, and what are some things they'd like to see make a comeback, and what shouldn't.</p>

<p>Bomani Jones of ESPN weighed in on the move by Deion Sanders from Jackson St. to Colorado football, and how the reaction has been over the top by some demographics. </p> <p>Also, pool player Jeanette Lee discusses her upcoming ESPN 30 for 30 documentary on her life and playing career. </p>

<p>Based on an article written by NPR about how soccer is becoming less accessible to youth, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discussed the current trend of youth sports that evolved into club teams which require a 'pay to play' model that brings a financial burden to several families. </p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio answered #HeyJoe questions from listeners. </p>

<p>After Baker Mayfield's journey from the Carolina Panthers to starting on Thursday Night Football for the LA Rams, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss how the win for the Rams & Mayfield doesn't tell us anything we didn't already know about Baker Mayfield, nor former Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule. </p> <p>Also, Marcus Manning, Executive Director of the Durham Sports Commission, discussed the upcoming NAIA championship events taking place in Durham, NC. </p>

<p>During What's Trending, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discussed how the release of Brittney Griner is being treated by many in the sports world like a player transaction, and how many people in the sports world are unqualified to discuss the matter. </p>

<p>Based off of an image posted by Raleigh, NC-based band American Aquarium posted a photo they recently that showed a 'throwback' logo of NC State mascots fighting UNC, Duke, & Wake Forest mascots. Jeremey Markovich of NC Rabbit Hole discovered where the logos originated, and how logo licensing has evolved.</p> <p>Plus, Brooke Pryor of ESPN gives her takes on the NFL, including Russell Wilson, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and how the injury to Von Miller will impact the Buffalo Bills. </p>

<p>Carolina Hurricanes color analyst Tripp Tracy discusses the play of Pyotr Kochetkov in goal for the Canes, and how he not might be the starter now for the team. Also, Tracy tells the story of getting famous golf personality, Manolo, to introduce the team's lineup before a recent game on the west coast.</p> <p>Also, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio answer #HeyJoe questions. </p>

<p>With the Transfer Portal wide open, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio spin the 'Transfer Wheel' to figure out where ACC quarterbacks might land.</p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio discuss Brittney Griner being released from Russian prison. </p>

<p>UNC football offensive coordinator Phil Longo is leaving North Carolina to become the offensive coordinator at Wisconsin. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio address the rumors that Phil Longo's departure means that QB Drake Maye is also leaving.</p> <p>Also during What's Trending, Ovies & Giglio discuss Aaron Judge, NC State & Duke basketball getting wins, and more. </p>

<p>Darin Gantt of Panthers.com discusses the parting of ways between the Carolina Panthers and QB Baker Mayfield, who didn't last for a full season with the team. Gantt said it was worth the shot, but clearly didn't work out. Also, Gantt said there is belief in the locker room that the team can make the playoffs.</p> <p>Also, Ovies & Giglio give their weekly football power rankings</p>

<p>In a recent comment online, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio were accused of 'Hyper Masculinity.' Nothing could be further from the truth.</p> <p>Also, Steve Beck, Exec. Director of the Military Bowl also stopped by the show to tell us all that the bowl game has to offer as Duke football will be competing in the game.</p>

<p>The New York Yankees resigned outfielder Aaron Judge to a 9-year contract extension. Joe Ovies points out to Joe Giglio how Aaron Judge had baseball fans in their feels about past homerun leaders because of PED usage, and how a study of baseballs this year proved an inconsistency with baseballs throughout the season. </p>

<p>During What's Trending, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio out point out that despite the recent struggles for UNC basketball and UNC football, UNC fans have nothing to complain about when it comes to 'struggling.'</p>

<p>Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio say that people shouldn't complain about who the finalists for the Heisman Trophy are as long as they get the answer correct. </p> <p>Also, Lauren Brownlow of WRALSportsFan discusses UNC, and their struggles in both football and men's basketball recently. </p>

<p>Colorado football play-by-play voice Mark Johnson discussed with Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio the reaction that the community in Boulder, Colorado has reacted to the hiring of Deion Sanders as head football coach, and how businesses have starting to reach out to the university regarding sponsorships. </p>

<p>Despite having lost three straight football games and four straight men's basketball games, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio point out all of the success UNC has had, even after defeating Duke basketball and Coach K in his final home game, and final game overall. </p>

<p>During What's Trending, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio discuss how the College Football Playoff Committee got it right with this year's CFP rankings, even though Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban is arguing their team should be in it. Ovies & Giglio say that losses have to matter at some point.</p> <p>Also, further discussions about the transfer portal, Baker Mayfield being released, and more. </p>

<p>UNC Football wasn't up to the task against Clemson in the ACC Championship game, losing 39-10. Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio said that UNC was a byproduct of their schedule, and faltered against a good team once again. </p> <p>Also, discussions about the NFL, The World Cup, and more. </p>

<p>On the news that Baker Mayfield was released by the Carolina Panthers, Joe Ovies & Joe Giglio say how the trade for Mayfield was worth the risk for the Panthers, but ultimately, Matt Rhule continued to get the position wrong. </p> <p>Also, discussions about where NC State QB Devin Leary might transfer to for his final season. </p>

<p>Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio discuss the amount of college football players who have entered their name into the transfer portal, and how many schools are using Name, Image & Likeness collectives to entice players to come to their school. Ovies & Giglio say that no matter how much money is used for NIL, coaching still matters and will ultimately be the difference.</p>

<p>North Carolina comes into this ACC Championship game on a down note losing back-to-back games to close out the season against Georgia Tech and NC State, but head coach Mack Brown wants to focus on the fact that it doesn't matter what happened in those game. They're the coastal winners and they have a chance to do something that hasn't happened since the 1980's. </p>

<p>Chip Patterson of CBS Sports joins The OG to give his perspective on the upcoming ACC Championship game between Clemson and North Carolina. Is this ACC title game really setting up for which team will head to the Orange Bowl? </p>

<p>Clemson and North Carolina clash in the ACC Championship, but where will the loser of this be going to play in a bowl game? Also, how does the rest of the college football landscape look when it comes to bowl selections? </p> <p>Former North Carolina quarterback Marquise Williams shares his experience of playing against Clemson in a ACC Championship game and what he likes about current North Carolina quarterback, Drake Maye's game.</p>

<p>Former North Carolina wide receiver and now analyst for Inside Carolina joins The OG to discuss the upcoming ACC Championship game and shares his memory of the '15 team and the similarities of the two teams. </p>

<p>Former North Carolina and Virginia wide receiver, T.J. Thorpe shares his thoughts on the upcoming ACC Championship and describes his time as a Tar Heel and keeping up with his former teammates as they went on to make an appearance in the last ACC Championship game North Carolina was a part of.</p> <p>We hear from both head coaches as their teams come into the big game from two different perspectives. North Carolina is trying to claim an ACC title for the first since the 1980s, but what's Clemson's mindset knowing they're not playing for a chance to make the CFB playoffs? </p>

<p>We log on to the internet to get a World Cup Update, Adam Gold provides us with two minutes of hockey to break down the Carolina Hurricanes' 6-4 win on the road against the St. Louis Blues for their third straight win. We also had a Thursday Night Football game on Prime last night as Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills defeated the New England Patriots, and we preview the ACC Championship game more.</p> <p>Also, Eric Mac Lain of the ACC Network and former Clemson Tiger shares his thoughts on the upcoming Clemson vs. North Carolina matchup. </p>

<p>David Hale of the ACC Network and ESPN.com, along with Bomani Jones of ESPN and HBO joins the show to give their thoughts on the ACC Championship game. </p>

<p>The OG is live from Fan Fest outside of Bank Of America Stadium in Charlotte ahead of the ACC Championship game. The Clemson Tigers face the North Carolina Tar Heels in what will be the final championship game where both ACC divisions are represented.</p> <p>Also, Sam Stejskal of The Athletic joins the show live from Qatar for a World Cup update, and former Tar Heel Tre Boston and current Carolina Panthers free safety gives his thoughts on the upcoming game.</p>

<p>Duke head football coach Mike Elko was announced ACC coach of the year in his first season leading the Blue Devils program. Meanwhile in basketball for the ACC, head coach Hubert Davis in his second season leading the Tar Heels has to figure out he's going to get the season back on track, following his team's third straight loss against Indiana. </p>