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The Auburn Observer

The Auburn Observer

486 episodes — Page 4 of 10

Episode 429: Rumble(s) in the Jungle

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comFor the second straight week, Justin and Dan preview not one, but two games for the upcoming weekend.They start by breaking down Auburn football’s return home against Vanderbilt, led by familiar foe Diego Pavia. They look at how the Tigers’ refocused offensive strategy from the win over Kentucky should carry over to this matchup and they discuss what Au…

Oct 31, 20244 min

Episode 428: Better Late Than Never (feat. Henry Patton)

Justin and Dan open the show by breaking down Auburn football’s 24-10 road win at Kentucky. They start with the resilient play of the Tigers’ defense, which won big at the line of scrimmage and played well on the back end down the stretch. Dan projects what Auburn’s secondary might look like in 2025 after throwing so many young players into the fire.The guys then switch over to the offensive performance. Justin explains why Auburn went so pass-heavy early and how the Tigers finally made the adjustment they needed to dominate the game. They rave over Jarquez Hunter’s historic rushing performance and how he deserved a moment like this.In the second half of the episode, Henry Patton of Auburn Rivals calls in from South Carolina to share what he saw in the basketball exhibition win over Furman. Henry explains why Auburn’s defense was so successful, how fans shouldn’t overreact to individual performances and where the two true freshmen stood out the most. The show ends with a discussion of Stanley Kubrick and Halloween movies.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Henry (@Henry_Patton23) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Oct 28, 20241h 21m

Episode 427: That's the Wall, Brother (UK + Furman Previews)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan open the show by previewing Auburn football’s road trip to Kentucky. The guys look at how this is a gettable matchup for the Tigers, even though they haven’t been able to take advantage of their previous opportunities this season. Justin has a theory about how this game might go. Dan shares what he wants to see on both sides of the ball.T…

Oct 25, 20246 min

Episode 426: Doomed to Repeat It (Mizzou Recap)

Justin and Dan stay up to break down Auburn football’s latest loss in a very winnable game — a blown 14-point lead on the road at Missouri.The guys open with their thoughts on how the Tigers’ offense problems have gone well beyond turnovers and into crippling amounts of inefficiency. Dan makes a point about what might happen if things could turn around toward the end of the season. Justin wonders if Auburn just is what it is at this point in the campaign.They also discuss the recurring woes on defense and special teams and how they played roles in the meltdown, even if scoring only 10 offensive points in an SEC game was the ultimate killer. They look at what might happen moving forward with the young players and why improved recruiting isn’t a guarantee of anything. The episode ends with a lightning round of Hallmark movies, Kansas City barbecue and North by Northwest.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Oct 20, 20241h 9m

Episode 425: Missouri Business (Mizzou Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan are back after Auburn football’s off weekend. They start by talking about what Justin learned at SEC Basketball Media Days in Mountain Brook this week and how Bruce Pearl’s Tigers aren’t going to sneak up on anybody this season with all the hype they’ve gotten already.The bulk of the episode is a preview of Auburn’s football trip to Misso…

Oct 17, 20248 min

Episode 424: Nothing But Net, Vol. 5

For the fifth straight year, the Observer podcast takes a break during football season and uses the off week to preview Auburn basketball’s upcoming campaign.This year, Justin and Dan take a player-by-player look through the Tigers’ heavily hyped 2024-25 roster, from the returning All-American presence of Johni Broome through the deep frontcourt and into a reloaded backcourt. They give their thoughts on each member of the squad and how they fit into the plan. They discuss the preseason hype surrounding the Tigers, reasons to believe they could be even better this season, areas of improvement to watch and how the blend of depth, experience and a little bit of youth should make for an exciting time for Bruce Pearl and Co. Then, they close the show by ranking world cuisines. If you are listening for free and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription for all newsletters and podcasts — Inner Circle members got this a few days early — click the button below or go to auburnobserver.com/subscribe.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: David Gray/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Oct 13, 20241h 33m

Episode 423: Proper Context (UGA Recap)

Justin and Dan break down what they both saw from the Sanford Stadium press box on Saturday as Auburn football fell once again on the road at rival Georgia, 31-13.The guys talk about how the Tigers statistically fared better in Athens than in seasons past, but that should be talked about in the full context of what’s gone on this year. They look at the lack of efficiency from the offense, Payton Thorne’s doomed fourth-and-1 run and how Auburn needs to reengineer its attack during the off week.Toward the end of the show, Justin gives an honest review of Auburn’s defensive performance against Georgia while Dan looks at the number of young players lining up for the Tigers. They also take a trip through the wild, upset-heavy Week 6 in college football before paying tribute to some anniversary albums.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Oct 6, 20241h 28m

Episode 422: The Conglomeration (feat. Jordan Hill and Ben Wolk) (UGA Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan open the show by discussing the big news of the midweek: 5-star quarterback Deuce Knight’s long-awaited flip from Notre Dame to Auburn. The guys talk about what makes Knight such an intriguing prospect, how he fits into the Tigers’ system and why they will likely be in the market for a transfer rental in 2025.Then the fellas bring on thei…

Oct 3, 202416 min

Episode 421: Snatched from the Jaws of Victory (Oklahoma Recap)

Justin and Dan break down what all went wrong for Auburn football in its disastrous fourth quarter against Oklahoma on Saturday. They look at the inexplicable decision-making on offense that opened the door for the Sooners to make their improbable comeback and how the Tigers continue to find ways to lose winnable games. Justin makes a point about how it felt like Auburn got too tense down the stretch. Dan looks back at the first-half missed opportunities.The guys also look at the positives from the performance, including a youth movement on defense and Auburn’s ability to actually move the ball well against a strong opponent. They also point to the special teams errors throughout the game before wrapping up with a recap of a wild Week 5 in college football.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Sep 29, 20241h 24m

Episode 420: Storm Clouds (Oklahoma Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan open the show by looking at what’s at stake for Auburn football at the end of what has been a disappointing stretch of home games to start the 2024 season. They look at how the visit from Oklahoma could be make or break when it comes to having any chance at an improved record this fall.The guys, as usual, break down both sides of the ball…

Sep 27, 20246 min

Episode 419: Failure to Launch (Arkansas Recap)

Justin and Dan open the show with their big-picture view of Auburn football’s 24-14 loss to Arkansas — the second time this month that the Tigers have lost to a team they beat on the road last season. Justin makes a point about recruiting. Dan looks at the lack of forward progress.Then the guys do their usual offense and defense breakdowns, starting with an attack that turned the ball over five times and made a switch from Hank Brown back to Payton Thorne at quarterback. Then it’s a look at a defense that played well enough to win in a lot of areas, with the gigantic exception of the most important downs.The episode ends with a journey through the Week 4 results across college football and a discussion of bands that were more than just their one or two well-known hits. Basketball practice starts this week, by the way.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Sep 22, 20241h 25m

Episode 418: Gut Check Time (Arkansas Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comAfter a brief discussion of Auburn basketball’s newly announced charity exhibition game in November against a new-look Florida Atlantic squad, Justin and Dan break down a crucial SEC football opener for the Tigers against some familiar visitors in the Arkansas Razorbacks.They start with the matchup between Auburn’s defense and Arkansas’ offense, which n…

Sep 20, 20246 min

Episode 417: Thin Mint (UNM Recap)

Justin and Dan break down what they saw from a down-and-up Auburn football homecoming win over New Mexico in Week 3.The guys open with a look at Hugh Freeze’s decision to go with Hank Brown over Payton Thorne and how they felt the redshirt freshman played in his first career start. They discuss why the Tigers had such a hard time running the ball early against the Lobos and how they were able to fight through it after halftime. Justin cautions everyone on going overboard about this offensive performance. Dan gives his thoughts on the o-line shuffle.In the second half of the show, the guys look at what was a rough overall night from an Auburn defense that had too many penalties and mental mistakes. They talk about the continued issues in a thin secondary, a surprising showing from the run defense and the players who still found ways to stand out with their performances. Justin wonders about the future at punt returner.The episode concludes with a SEC-centric look at what else went on in college football during Week 3, including some truly surprising results and a couple of hot seats in the Sunshine State.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Sep 15, 20241h 31m

Episode 416: Start Blasting (feat. Adam Cole) (UNM Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comAdam Cole of the Opelika-Auburn News tags in for Justin and joins Dan to preview Auburn football’s Week 3 bounce-back opportunity against New Mexico.The fellas discuss the ongoing debate at quarterback: Should the Tigers stick with Payton Thorne, or is it time to switch to Hank Brown? They also discuss Auburn’s desire to run the ball more, the younger d…

Sep 12, 20246 min

Episode 415: Déjà Vu (Cal Recap)

Justin and Dan spend the majority of the show breaking down Auburn football’s continued offensive woes with Hugh Freeze and Payton Thorne against bowl-quality opponents. They look at how the Tigers’ problems in the 21-14 loss go beyond just one player or position group — and how it’s on the staff to make fixes ASAP.The guys also look at how Auburn’s defense struggled early and made the necessary adjustments, especially in the secondary and in the pass rush. They discuss how the defensive turnaround is a sign for improvement for the team as a whole, but there’s a lot of work to do after another home loss as a double-digit favorite.The episode concludes with a look at what else happened in a wild Week 2 of college football, with a few programs — including ones on Auburn’s schedule — sharing in some relative misery this weekend. Justin also breaks some music news to Dan.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Sep 8, 20241h 29m

Episode 414: The Litmus Test (Cal Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan get you ready for Auburn football’s rematch with Cal in Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday afternoon.The guys start by discussing uniform rules, conference realignment and time zones. Then it’s a breakdown of the matchups on both sides of the ball, starting with Auburn’s defense against a new-look Cal offense — that may or may not have its s…

Sep 5, 20247 min

Episode 413: That's Bingo (Alabama A&M Recap)

Justin and Dan recap Auburn football’s 73-3 win over Alabama A&M to open the 2024 season. They start with a deep dive on the Tigers’ new wide receivers and why things looked different Saturday night — even when compared to other paycheck blowouts.The guys also discuss Payton Thorne’s many highs and noticeable lows from the big win, a dominant defensive performance that could have been better, a strong night from the special teams and what appeared to be an injury-free contest for an Auburn team that went quite deep in all three phases.The episode ends with a journey around the games that caught their eye in Week 1, a Mount Rushmore discussion of villain performances in superhero films and a salute to redneck caviar.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Sep 1, 20241h 26m

Episode 412: All the Above (Alabama A&M Preview)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan open the show by discussing the Alabama A&M matchup and why they think it’s important to play as many paycheck games against in-state teams as possible. Then they take a look at the visiting Bulldogs’ recent history and why the Tigers should be able to take care of business Saturday night.Topics inside this game preview include: Important…

Aug 30, 20249 min

Episode 411: What's the Story, Glory Glory?

Justin and Dan take a position-by-position look at Auburn’s 2024 roster heading into Week 1 against Alabama A&M — the top names, the younger players to watch and the breakout picks.The guys look at the continued shuffling on the left side of the offensive line and why the Tigers might take some extra time to figure it out. They make their predictions for the main rotation at both wide receiver and defensive tackle while also looking at some areas of concern in the secondary. Some special teams chatter rounds it all out.The closing segment goes deep on Oasis and UK bands that made a successful jump over to the US at different points in time. Dan also gives his review of the original Beetlejuice. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Aug 27, 20241h 32m

BONUS: The 2nd Annual Auburn Grubserver

If you’re coming to Auburn for a game, you need to know where you eat. For the second year in a row, we’ve got you covered with a bonus episode, just for Observer subscribers. This time, we asked our readers and listeners for their picks for the best restaurants in the area. The result is a list of more than 50 recommendations, starting with our top vote-getters all the way to a lightning round of personal favorites. Thanks again to everybody who participated. Next year, we’re making this a full-on awards show. Feel free to shout out more spots in the comments or tweet them to us.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Dan (@dnpck) on Twitter.Photo: Bow & Arrow/Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Aug 25, 20241h 1m

Episode 410: Your Typical August (Mostly) Basketball Episode

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comWith Auburn football season starting next week, Justin and Dan decide to pivot (basketball term) and do 2/3 of this episode on Bruce Pearl’s Tigers. The guys break down Auburn basketball’s 2025 SEC schedule, from the double Saturday draw against Alabama and the road-heavy start to the three straight home games and the make-or-break stretch to close the …

Aug 23, 20247 min

Episode 409: Need That +4 (feat. Nathan King)

Nathan King of Auburn Undercover makes his return to the podcast to join Justin and Dan for a final wrap-up of the Tigers’ 2024 football fall camp.The guys discuss the developing situation along the offensive line and why that could be an issue for the Tigers early in the season. They also look at Amaris Williams, Malik Blocton and a very productive defensive front — along with the news that Hank Brown is the new backup quarterback behind Payton Thorne on the Plains.Towards the end of the episode, Nathan gives his thoughts on Auburn’s Maui Invitational draw and the 2024-25 schedule before getting a pitch to watch Jerry Maguire from Dan. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Aug 20, 20241h 11m

Episode 408: Brake Check

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comIn a fall camp filled with optimism, Justin and Dan break down some areas that could be concerns for Auburn football this season — a “brake check,” if you will, for the 2024 Tigers.The guys discuss what we still don’t know about Payton Thorne and the Auburn passing offense, which somehow leads to a metaphor from a Gwyneth Paltrow movie. They also look a…

Aug 16, 20246 min

Episode 407: Got the Juice

Justin and Dan break down what they saw inside Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday during Auburn football’s first scrimmage of fall camp.The guys open with plenty of praise for Malcolm Simmons and an impressive group of freshman wide receivers, followed by a breakdown of what was a mixed bag kind of day for Payton Thorne and the first-team offense. They also discuss what stood out on an impressive defensive front, the players who caught their eye and some special teams updates.If you want to have Auburn/Opelika area restaurant suggestions that you want to be included on this year’s Grubserver “Where Should I Eat?” special episode, email them to [email protected] or comment below.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Aug 12, 20241h 19m

Episode 406: You Have to Be a Killer

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan break down a busy first week of Auburn football fall camp, with a focus on the Tigers’ offense — after talking to all five assistants on that side of the ball.The guys discuss Payton Thorne and where they could see the most improvement from him that doesn’t have anything to do with the new weapons. They talk diva receivers and Auburn’s ve…

Aug 9, 202413 min

Episode 405: Studio Quality

Justin and Dan open the show with a traditional vibe check on the first few days of Auburn football fall camp. They look at how things could be different for the Tigers on the field in 2024 and how the recruiting success has put the coaching staff ahead of the curve.Later in the episode, the guys discuss Auburn basketball officially announcing its neutral site matchup in Atlanta against Ohio State and how a crazy non-conference schedule is getting even crazier. Switching back to football, they look at the players with the most buzz so far in practices.Be sure to check out Monday’s practice newsletter here, and look for observations from camp on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Aug 6, 20241h 26m

Episode 404: Bubble Tape

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan break down what they learned from the first day of Auburn football’s 2024 fall camp. They open with a discussion of the familiar feeling for the program and how much different it is from this time last year.After looking at Payton Thorne’s day and his grip on the quarterback job, the guys talk about the players who stood out to them on th…

Aug 2, 20246 min

Episode 403: Always Be Closing

Justin and Dan run through all the massive recruiting news from Auburn’s Big Cat Weekend — including the commitments of Anquon “Newboy” Fegans, Derick Smith, Antonio Coleman, Blake Woodby, John Alan Maguire, Hezekiah “Hezi” Harris, Shadarius Toodle and JaMichael Garrett.They discuss how the Tigers have been able to capitalize on the coaching change on the other side of the state in one big way and how all of this recruiting success is just part of the equation. The guys also preview fall camp and look back at fantasy football busts. Painter gives his Final Thoughts for the final time as an on-air producer.Click here to order your Auburn Observer koozies — with the new logo — for $5 each. Click here to subscribe to the site for the special sale price of $45 for your first year.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 30, 20241h 23m

Episode 402: Trivia Night II — The Pearl Era

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comDave and Pablo join Ferg, Dan and Painter for another round of trivia. Final Four levels of controversy ensues. Follow Dan (@dnpck), Dave (@FOTPDave) Justin (@JFergusonAU), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Auburn Athletics

Jul 26, 20245 min

Episode 401: Vandalism

The show opens with an important announcement regarding the future of The Auburn Observer.Justin, Dan and Painter then talk where Auburn was slotted in the preseason SEC predicted order of finish. They explain why they think the Tigers’ spot is quite fair and how the league’s balance of power shows just how thin the margins might be in 2024.The guys also discuss the All-SEC teams, including a surprise omission from all three for Auburn tight end Rivaldo Fairweather. The episode concludes with a salute to JT Thor against Team USA ahead of Olympic basketball and an important question: What’s the best part of your day?If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 23, 20241h 14m

Episode 400: Deep in the Heart of Texas

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comIn a very special episode, Dan calls in on his road trip back to Auburn from Dallas to recap 2024 SEC Media Days with Justin and Painter.The guys talk about what they heard from Hugh Freeze, Payton Thorne, Eugene Asante and Keldric Faulk. Topics include Freeze’s comfort level heading into Year 2, the pressure on Thorne to improve, Asante’s infectious en…

Jul 19, 20247 min

Episode 399: Unprecedented Levels of Back (feat. Jordan Hill)

Jordan Hill of Dawgs247 tags in from SEC Media Days in Dallas. He talks to Justin and Painter about several football topics, but they start with the news of Auburn basketball scheduling a two-game series with Purdue.After that and some #NameChat, the guys turn their attention to Greg Sankey’s comments on the 16-team conference and why further expansion isn’t a priority right now.Dan surprisingly arrives for the fourth quarter of the episode, where the discussion turns to a recurring issue at Georgia. Justin and Jordan also give their first impressions of EA CFB 25.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: SEC This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 16, 20241h 21m

WATCH: Auburn's full roster in EA Sports College Football 25

At long last, EA Sports College Football 25 released via Early Access on Monday afternoon — giving Auburn fans their first opportunity to play with the Tigers in an official video game in 11 years.With friend of the newsletter Justin Lee joining (after a little technical difficulty), Ferg went through the entire Auburn 2024 roster on Twitch. Here is a 30ish-minute video looking at all the Tigers on the game, from established stars like Jarquez Hunter and Rivaldo Fairweather to new talents such as Cam Coleman and Amaris Williams.The guys went position-by-position through the roster, so you can see all the overall ratings and some of the individual skills for each player on this video. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 15, 202431 min

Episode 398: Coast to “Coast”

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Dan open the show by breaking down the news of Auburn’s latest transfer portal pickup: Maryland linebacker Fa’Najae Gotay, who is entering his seventh season of college football.Then the guys discuss the cancelation of the UCLA series and how wild conference realignment is, ironically, going to cut down on these rare coast-to-coast matchups. …

Jul 12, 202410 min

Episode 397: Saddle Up

Justin is back from his two-week podcast absence. Painter is on a well-deserved vacation. Dan is in the driver’s seat yet again.Justin and Dan discuss Auburn’s player picks for next week‘s SEC Media Days in Dallas. They talk about Keldric Faulk’s surprise selection and why it’s so important. They also look at the Tigers choosing to send Payton Thorne after what happened in his first season on the Plains.The guys also talk the latest player health news involving Auburn football — specifically Tyler Scott and Alex McPherson — before a wide-ranging movie segment to close the show.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 9, 20241h 26m

Episode 396: Peck Pack Exclusive Vol. 1

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin Lee and Dan start the show with a discussion about Suni Lee, Deadpool and Dr. Britt Baker.Then Bill Cameron tags in to talk about Jim Fyffe, fantasy baseball and concerts.Follow Dan (@dnpck) on Twitter.Photo Credit: The Gadsden Times

Jul 5, 20246 min

UNLOCKED — Episode 391: Timelines (feat. Alex Kirshner)

Alex Kirshner of Split Zone Duo makes his usual summer return to the podcast. He chats with Justin about a wide range of college football topics, starting with the hot seat chatter in the SEC and how timing is everything when it comes to rebuilds.Alex gives his honest take on the Tigers’ 2024 roster, including what he feels about the decision to roll with Payton Thorne at quarterback for one more season. The guys also talk about Ole Miss and Missouri’s chances of really making an impact in the league this fall, what could be coming up in a post-House settlement for the NCAA and why the new-look ACC isn’t set up for success.The episode ends with Alex sharing his College Football 25 dynasty mode plans and why it’s OK to be ruthless with roster management in sports video games. Follow Alex (@alex_kirshner) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jul 2, 202459 min

Episode 395: I Do Appreciate You

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comAdam Cole of the Opelika-Auburn News joins Dan and Painter. They discuss roster management and continuity. They ask Adam about baseball and Steely Dan.The show ends with a 1999 movie discussion.Follow Adam (@colereporter), Dan (@dnpck) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers

Jun 27, 20249 min

Episode 394: Season of Positive Vibes

Dave and Pablo join Dan and Painter. They discuss a busy offseason for Auburn football. Dave and Pablo talk about the propaganda machines at work for some other SEC programs.The show ends with a brief film discussion.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Dave (@FOTPDave), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jun 25, 20241h 12m

Episode 393: Second Opinions

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comIn another offseason free-for-all episode, Dan and Painter share their own answers to questions from Justin’s recent Aubserver Mailbags.These questions include: Are you buying the hype for Auburn basketball in 2024-25? Which of the two Observer sports will make their respective Final Fours first? Who are the guys’ own favorite non-stars from Auburn foot…

Jun 21, 20245 min

Episode 392: Boiling Hot

Justin and Dan open the show talking about their psychotic fantasy baseball league. The actual sports conversation starts at 15:07, as the guys talk about Auburn basketball’s SEC/ACC Challenge matchup at Duke. They look at what the game means for the program and what a showdown between two very different rosters might look like in December.Then they switch over to football, where Eric Winters’ commitment leads off a conversation about the hot summer for recruiting. They talk about the local flavor of the top of the class, how Auburn is taking advantage of the changes at Alabama and why the rebuild is more than just talent acquisition.The episode ends with Justin wanting to talk about peanuts and Painter putting out one of his best closing questions to date.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Eric Winters/Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jun 18, 20241h 23m

Episode 390: A Matter of Respect

The guys open the show by going through some listener feedback on the latest Auburn football trivia episode. Then they look at how the Tigers took home a national title in track and field and nearly grabbed another before looking at how the athletic program did from top to bottom in 2023-24.They also dissect the big basketball news of Dan Hurley turning down the Lakers — which means that, yes, Bruce Pearl will not be the next head coach at UConn. There’s also a discussion of Auburn and Alabama’s basketball rosters for next season, how much respect the rivalry should get on the hardwood and the confidence levels coming out of both camps.Towards the end of the episode, the guys talk about Jabari Smith coming back to Lee County for his youth basketball camp and his pitch to Auburn’s top recruits. Dan also starts casting his new FX original miniseries “JetGate.”If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jun 11, 20241h 22m

Episode 389: Trivia Night

In The Observer’s first — and hopefully not last — trivia showdown episode, Painter tags Pablo in to face Dan in Justin’s journey through Auburn football facts.Who will prevail in the matchup between Big Pants and Medium Pants? What answers will make Pablo lose multiple hours of sleep? How does Dan know all of these athletes personally? And why did Justin second-guess the way he wrote several of these questions?Play along at home or enjoy listening to the head-to-head challenge. If you enjoyed this episode, let us know, and we might make this a recurring feature.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jun 7, 20241h 4m

Episode 388: Still Goin’ In

Justin, Dan and Painter open the show with a look back at early 2000s music that somehow becomes kinda relevant to the theme of the day. They start by talking about Auburn football’s past weekend of official visits, headlined by 5-star wide receiver Caleb Cunningham. The guys talk about the Tigers’ ability to recruit elite wideouts early in Hugh Freeze’s tenure, despite not having the big on-field results just yet. How much pressure do the Tigers have to produce through the air in 2024?After a salute to the most interesting recruit in the 2025 class, they turn their attention to Auburn basketball and the recruiting efforts to land Carmelo Anthony’s son — more than 20 years after the fateful Sweet 16 showdown.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Caleb Cunningham/Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Jun 4, 20241h 14m

Episode 387: Animals Swinging Golf Clubs (feat. Matt Cohen)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comMatt Cohen of AL.com makes his first and last appearance on the Observer podcast. He joins Justin and Dan to talk about Auburn men’s golf winning the national championship and his insight from John Cohen (no relation) on the Nike deal.Matt breaks down why the Tigers were so dominant on the links this season, what makes Jackson Koivun a golfing machine a…

May 31, 20247 min

Episode 386: Heating Up (feat. Rich Silva)

With Dan on vacation, Rich Silva of the Montgomery Advertiser tags in to talk Miles Kelly’s transfer to Auburn basketball and preview SEC Spring Meetings in Destin.The guys break down Kelly’s game and how he fits into Auburn’s plans for next season. They look at how the Tigers were able to add a proven scorer from a power conference and continue to add more versatility for the SEC championship push.Rich talks about what he wants to hear from Auburn’s leaders during spring meetings, and Painter holds him accountable for his controversial food opinions.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU), Painter (@paintsharpless) and Rich (@rich_silva18) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

May 28, 20241h 14m

Episode 385: It’s the Winds of Change

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin, Dan and Painter discuss the news of a landmark college sports settlement that will pave the way toward schools directly paying athletes.The guys talk about the importance of the news and why they believe it’s the right thing to do — even if this is just the beginning of legal hoops to jump through for all parties involved.Somewhere in that discu…

May 24, 20249 min

Episode 384: Complementary Basketball

Justin, Dan and Painter discuss a wide range of Auburn basketball topics, headlined by the signing of transfer Ja'Heim Hudson. They talk about Hudson’s reptilian nickname, what he brings to the table for the Tigers and why Bruce Pearl went with fit over numbers in the frontcourt.The second half of the episode tackles the topics of Auburn’s hunt for another guard in the transfer portal, the talk of the toughest non-conference schedule in the Pearl Era and how Johni Broome never considered the transfer portal. For more on Auburn basketball, check out The Stretch 4 newsletter from Monday afternoon right here.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Ja’Heim Hudson/Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

May 21, 20241h 18m

Episode 383: Unlimited Bread (feat. Christian Clemente)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comChristian Clemente of Auburn Undercover makes his return to the show to break down Auburn football’s recruiting in the Class of 2025.Christian gives his insight on the Tigers’ chances at 5-star quarterback Julian Lewis, the other big-name recruits on the board, the in-state targets to watch and Auburn’s plans at several key positions in this cycle.The g…

May 17, 20245 min

Episode 382: Run It Back (feat. Blake Lovell)

Blake Lovell of Southeastern 14 (soon to be 16) joins the show for his annual offseason tour through SEC basketball.The guys talk about JP Pegues, Johni Broome’s return and the returning player Blake thinks could be in for a huge season. They also look at the roster overhauls at Kentucky, Arkansas and elsewhere in the conference while looking ahead to Texas and Oklahoma’s additions. Painter asks an important question. The episode concludes with an early look at Auburn basketball’s SEC opponent breakdown and a petition to visit the Houston County Farm Center.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Blake (@theblakelovell), Dan (@dnpck), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

May 14, 20241h 14m