The Pat McAfee Show Live | Tuesday June 16th 2026

The US Men's National Team is performing 'up and to the right' in the World Cup, exceeding expectations with an electrifying start, including a dominant win against Paraguay. This performance is seen as a significant boost for soccer's popularity in America. The tournament's expanded 48-team format increases the chance for upsets, as demonstrated by Spain's surprising draw against Cape Verde, a nation with a small population. The hosts emphasize that sports can serve as common ground, even among world leaders, promoting unity.

The US scored four goals against Paraguay. Spain, a heavy favorite, tied with Cape Verde, a country with 'hundreds of thousands' of people. World leaders discussed UFC Freedom 250 at a morning meeting. Chris Richards, a key US player, is scheduled to join the show.

The scandal involving college quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who gambled as a teenager and sought rehab, has become a major 'inflection point' for college sports. A local Texas judge issued an injunction allowing Sorsby to play despite NCAA sanctions, leading to a Big 12 lawsuit. Sorsby's decision to apply for the NFL supplemental draft, foregoing a reported $5 million NIL deal, aims to bypass the collegiate mess. The NFL Commissioner must approve the supplemental draft, and Sorsby's gambling history will be a significant factor for teams, despite his 'incredible quarterback' talent.

Sorsby received an injunction from a Texas judge against NCAA rulings. Texas Tech supported Sorsby, stating he didn't bet on his own games. NFL insider Adam Schefter explains Sorsby must withdraw litigation and the Commissioner must approve the draft. Daniel Jeremiah notes Sorsby's 'elite size, arm strength, and athleticism' but acknowledges 'character questions.'

UFC fighter Sugar Sean O'Malley describes his fight at the White House for Freedom 250 as 'an entire movie' and 'unreal.' He felt immense pressure as a massive favorite fighting a Canadian, emphasizing the 'man versus man' aspect over nationalistic hype. O'Malley secured a crucial knockout, returning to his 'vintage Suga' form and aiming for a title fight against Peter Yan. The event's unique outdoor setting and high-profile nature made it a memorable spectacle.

O'Malley fought a Canadian at the White House, feeling 'more pressure going into this fight' due to being a 'massive favorite.' He achieved a knockout, which he 'needed' to get back to 'vintage Suga.' He warmed up with 'two of the greatest fighters of all time,' Alex Pereira and Justin Gaethje.

MLB player Peter Crow-Armstrong (PCA), a 'friend of the show,' broke out of a slump by hitting for the cycle. This achievement, combined with his league-leading 'Wins Above Replacement' (WAR) stat, signifies his return to elite form. WAR is explained as a comprehensive metric that distills a player's entire on-field contributions into a single number, accounting for batting, base running, fielding, and positional adjustments, indicating his immense value to the Cubs.

PCA hit for the cycle in reverse order (homer, triple, double, single). He has the 'number one WAR in the entire MLB,' meaning he is the 'most valuable player.' WAR is calculated by combining batting runs, base running, fielding runs, and positional adjustments.

Dakota Gerant, a 6'2", 200lb wide receiver/Nickelback/returner and the number four player in the country from Harper Woods High, announced his commitment to the University of Oregon live on the show. His father managed the chaotic recruiting process, while his mother noted his widespread recognition. Gerant chose Oregon as his 'dream school' due to the family-like atmosphere, coaching staff (Coach Lanning), and the program's ability to develop receivers. He plans to play his senior year and early enroll in January.

Dakota Gerant is the 'number four player in the country.' He chose Oregon because it was his 'dream school' and 'felt like family.' His father, Gerald, managed the recruiting, and his mother, Shalomar, noted his 'very well known' status.