Marc Ryan (in for Valenti again) and Rico kicked off the show with their thoughts on Rich Eisen's return to ESPN and what in the sports world that is gone they miss the most. The guys spent some time talking Pistons in the second hour and why there's a lack of respect towards them going into the playoffs. Then, they discussed a couple of potential Lions additions on two separate ends of the spectrum and whether Brad Holmes should acquire them.
HOUR 1: What Is The One Thing You Miss The Most In The Sports World? + CFB Blitz
04/14/2026 | 39 mins.
Stemming from a conversation about Rich Eisen's return to ESPN and SportsCenter, the guys went back and forth about the things that are no longer in the sports world they miss the most. They heard from the people before doing a "CFB Blitz" to round out the hour.
HOUR 3: What Was Happening Last Time Red Wings Made The Playoffs (2016) + Should The Lions Draft Rueben Bain?
04/14/2026 | 30 mins.
David joined the guys to begin the third hour with a list of things that were happening in the world in 2016, the last time the Red Wings made the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Then, they had a conversation about whether the Lions should draft former Miami Edge Rueben Bain if he drops to them in the first round of the NFL Draft.
HOUR 4: Dianna Russini Resigns + Should The Lions Give Freddie McGee III A Chance?
04/14/2026 | 27 mins.
Marc and Rico opened the final hour with the breaking news that NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic. Then, they addressed Freddie McGee III standing outside of the Lions training facility begging for a tryout and wondered if Brad Holmes and the rest of the organization should grant him one.
Should The Lions Give Freddie McGee III A Chance?
04/14/2026 | 10 mins.
The guys discuss former Eastern Michigan and Arena Football League player Freddie McGee III asking the Lions to give him a chance, wondering if Brad Holmes & Company should grant his wish.
The Valenti Show with Rico is Detroit’s must-listen daily sports show — where strong opinions meet smart analysis. Hosted by Mike Valenti and Rico Beard, The Valenti Show brings unfiltered takes on the biggest national stories and dives deep into all-things-Detroit sports: the Lions, Tigers, Pistons, Red Wings, Michigan and Michigan State. Whether it's NFL drama, playoff stakes or college football storylines, Valenti and Rico tell it like it is — no fluff, no fan service, just real talk. Catch The Valenti Show with Rico live Monday through Friday 2pm - 6pm EST on 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT). Full episodes, individual hours and show highlights drop daily wherever you get your podcasts.
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