Hour 1: The Victory Over Mel Kiper (feat. Greg Cote)

The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz kicks off with a lively draft watch segment, dissecting the 2026 NFL Draft with sharp commentary on picks like Ty Simpson going to the Rams at #13 and Makai Lemon being selected by the Eagles after the Steelers called him first. The hosts debate Sean McVay's lack of visible excitement during the Rams' quarterback pick, questioning whether it signals a lack of belief in the selection. They also reflect on the increasingly produced nature of the draft, lamenting the loss of authentic emotional moments in favor of staged interactions with Roger Goodell. The episode pivots to a major highlight: Greg Cote's victory over NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. in their annual 'Zagacto' mock draft competition, where Cote triumphs 5-4, winning with a late-round Dolphins pick. The hosts celebrate this underdog win with a toast to Cuervo, underscoring the playful rivalry and satire of sports media expertise. The show then shifts to NBA playoff action, with deep analysis of the Knicks-Hawks series, criticizing Mike Brown’s coaching, Jalen Brunson’s late-game struggles, and the Knicks’ inability to close out games. The conversation expands to the NHL, where the Buffalo Sabres’ playoff return is celebrated, while the Penguins’ collapse against the Flyers draws frustration. The episode closes with a humorous, surreal moment as Greg Cote attempts to exit a Zoom call, leading to a series of absurd digital escape attempts before finally disconnecting.