In a rare crossover of politics and sports, former President Donald Trump joined NFL coach Bill Belichick on his popular podcast. The episode, aired just before Election Day, covered an assortment of topics, yet one question loomed unanswered, sparking discussions among listeners about what could have been asked.

Trump, reflecting on the approaching election, shared his thoughts on the “system” he feels he’s up against. He remarked, “I don’t view her as a candidate. I view the Democratic Party as a system,” suggesting he’s battling a larger political structure. Trump, who once upended conventional politics with a victory against the odds, hinted that he’s determined to do it again. The stakes, he implied, are even higher than sports, likening the election’s significance to “more exciting than any football game.”

Shifting from politics, Trump shared his views on the role of sports as a unifying force in American culture. He highlighted the ability of sports to bring people together, explaining, “We learn about them, and they learn about us.” Trump drew on personal experiences, particularly in golf, describing how the sport taught him resilience under pressure. This emphasis on unity through sports struck a lighter, more reflective note in the conversation.

Criticism of the NFL’s new kickoff rule

Belichick and Trump also delved into NFL rule changes, specifically the recent adjustments to the kickoff. Trump expressed disapproval, calling the alteration “weird” and unnecessary. He lamented, “I think it hurts the game,” with Belichick echoing his sentiment, advocating for keeping professional football closer to its traditional form and aligned with college rules.

The conversation took another turn when co-host Jim Gray brought up gender pay disparities in sports. Trump acknowledged the subject’s complexities, noting the limitations of imposing a set pay structure across different leagues. When asked specifically about the NBA and WNBA, Trump stated, “It’s just what the market will bear.” The market-driven approach, he argued, is essential in determining fair compensation in sports.

Praise to Caitlin Clark’s rising fame

Trump briefly turned his attention to college basketball star Caitlin Clark, who he praised for her impressive achievements on the court. He compared her to a young Tiger Woods, noting her potential to transform women’s sports. Yet, while his admiration for Clark was clear, he maintained that athlete compensation should remain market-based, leaving structural changes to the forces of demand.

While Trump and Belichick’s conversation spanned from personal philosophies to sports rules and social issues, one major topic was left conspicuously untouched. As listeners anticipated a potentially revealing discussion on a divisive issue, the hosts steered clear, leaving fans speculating on what might have been revealed had the question been posed.