The Auburn Observer

Justin and Painter open the show with an important discussion on Little Italy, Waffle House and other late-night food options around downtown Auburn.Then they transition into a wide-ranging talk about several freshmen who are turning heads so far in spring practices, including Holden Geriner, Connor Lew, Kayin Lee and Keldric Faulk. Painter makes a great observation about what this youth movement could mean for a crucial Year 1 under Hugh Freeze.The last stretch of the episode is all about college basketball and the wild Final Four that will be in Houston this weekend. Justin makes a point about the teams remaining — plus the upset-heavy tournament in general — and what it says about Bruce Pearl and the Auburn program.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription (at just $40 for a full year) that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter put a bow on the 2022-23 Auburn basketball season. They start by looking back at the Tigers’ second-round NCAA Tournament exit at the hands of No. 1 Houston — and why the loss felt very representative of the campaign as a whole for Bruce Pearl’s squad.Then the guys take a big-picture look at the Auburn program and where it could be headed in relation to the rest of the SEC. They talk about what might be coming in terms of roster reconstruction and how Pearl sent a clear message with his postgame press conference Saturday night.We’ll talk spring football in the premium podcast later this week. Subscribers will get Observations from the latest practice viewing window on Monday evening. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription (at just $40 for a full year) that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Steven Leonard/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.com(This episode contains language which may not be suitable for all listeners or children.)The boys bicker about theme songs and they discuss Auburn’s tournament chances. They also do some bracket watching.Dave and Pablo shut down a counterfactual and they talk about the difference between the SEC’s depth and talent.To add the premium feed to your favorit…

Justin and Painter preview Auburn basketball’s NCAA Tournament matchup against Iowa. The guys talk about the Hawkeyes’ elite offense, their susceptible defense and how much these Tigers’ legacies would be affected by a run in March Madness. They also tackle the age-old question: 280 or 85/65 to Birmingham?After a spin through the rest of the bracket, they switch over to football. Justin talks about what he saw in an extended practice viewing window Monday. Painter finds himself agreeing with a wise saying from the podium. Check out Monday’s newsletter on Auburn drawing Iowa in Birmingham for the NCAA Tournament, along with 2,000-plus words of spring football Observations. You can also enter The Auburn Observer’s bracket challenge here. The grand prize is a lifetime subscription to the Observer, and other top pickers will receive free sub months or prizes from Homefield Apparel. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription (at just $40 for a full year) that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter look back at Auburn's SEC Tournament heartbreaker against Arkansas from Thursday. The guys discuss where the Tigers struggled the most, what propelled them to that big comeback and how things shook out in a dramatic final minute.Then they look ahead to Selection Sunday — where the Tigers will most likely be seeded, who they could face…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter preview Auburn basketball’s SEC Tournament opener against Arkansas. The guys discuss what all has changed for both teams since their first meeting, why the Tigers have an advantage in the all-important “vibes” department and what they expect to see from Bruce Pearl in his latest chess match with Eric Musselman.The episode concludes wi…

Justin and Painter break down Auburn basketball’s critical 79-70 victory over Tennessee. They look at why the Tigers were able to take advantage of Zakai Ziegler’s absence on both ends of the floor, how Wendell Green Jr. got his groove back, why the rest of the starters were so important and just how loud it got in the Arena when Lior Berman dunked.Then the guys take a quick look ahead to the SEC Tournament matchup against Arkansas and the latest round of Bracketology. How much can Auburn help its seeding in Nashville — or has the Selection Committee taught us that the postseason isn’t canon?The episode ends with some football talk, including a trip through a few big topics from the first week of spring ball and the impressive performances by several former Tigers during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription (at just $40 for a full year) that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s overtime loss at Alabama. They discuss why the Tigers were able to build such a big lead, what recurring issues tripped them up in the “fourth quarter,” what happened on that long foul review and more from a near-upset in Tuscaloosa.Then the guys switch over their focus to Saturday’s massive matchup against T…

Justin and Painter open the show by recapping Auburn’s 32-point loss at Kentucky. They talk about why things went so poorly for the Tigers after the first 15 minutes, why the Wildcats were a particularly difficult matchup for them and how Auburn looked different in a tough road environment for the first time all season.The guys then look at what Auburn has to do to make it to the NCAA Tournament, thanks to a fresh update of the NET rankings and other projections.The episode ends with a preview of spring football, which starts Monday in Auburn. Painter specifically wants to talk about two position groups that will catch his eye the most over the next few weeks.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter open the show by talking about buying gum from a baseball stadium, prepaid wireless cell phones and creating a petition to bring back Movie Gallery. You know, the usual.The episode gets back on track with a breakdown of Auburn basketball’s 78-74 win over Ole Miss. The guys talk about how the Tigers were finally able to pull off a clos…

Justin and Painter open the show with a look back at Auburn basketball’s last-second loss to Vanderbilt. They talk about the biggest issue for the Tigers at the moment and discuss why they’re still firmly in the NCAA Tournament picture with four games left to play.Then it’s a switch to football for the third annual Spring Breakout draft. The guys go back and forth picking five non-returning starters they think will be the talk of spring practices, which start next Monday on the Plains.Thanks to everyone for their patience with this later-than-usual release. The podcast should be back on a regular schedule for the foreseeable future.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter unveil their secret agenda behind the newsletter and podcast before breaking down Auburn basketball’s 33-point rout of Missouri on Tuesday night. They talk about why Bruce Pearl’s Tigers were able to nail this specific matchup, what aspects of the win might be replicable moving forward and who stood out the most.Then the guys take a l…

Justin and Painter break down Auburn basketball’s 77-69 loss to Alabama from the weekend. The guys talk about how the Tigers were able to lead for most of the game and where the Tide took advantage to come away with the win down the stretch.Then they look ahead to the next three games that really feel like must-win ones for Auburn, starting with a home meeting against a Missouri team that is capable of putting up some of the best offensive numbers in the country. The episode concludes with a further discussion of which teams Auburn football should play permanently once Oklahoma and Texas join the SEC — and which current conference schools they would trade for new ones. 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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter open the show with a big-picture look at where Auburn basketball stands with seven games left in the regular season. They explain why the Tigers are firmly in the NCAA Tournament picture and break down some of the areas where Auburn can turn it around down the stretch.Then they switch over to a preview of Auburn’s massive home matchup…

Justin and Painter break down the historically rough shooting, the incredibly impressive defense and the highly controversial ending in Auburn basketball’s low-scoring close loss at a top-five Tennessee team. They look at all the aspects of what went down in Knoxville, from the offensive execution to the final no-call, before looking ahead to the Tigers’ trip to face Texas A&M on Tuesday.The guys also talk about Auburn’s red-hot week of recruiting both in football and basketball with the commitments of Walker White, Jayden Lewis, Malik Autry, Tahaad Pettiford and Labaron Philon. They discuss how Auburn’s new football staff is trying to set the tone in a cutthroat SEC landscape and how the 2024 class is shaping up to be exactly what the basketball program needs for the future.The episode ends with a loving tribute to Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim. (Not really. He’s the worst.)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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter open a packed show by looking back at Auburn basketball’s extremely efficient revenge win over rival Georgia and looking ahead at a brutal second half of the SEC schedule that starts with a trip to face Tennessee’s elite defense in Knoxville this weekend.The guys also discuss the recent commitment of Tahaad Pettiford in basketball — p…

Justin and Painter open the show with a tribute to journeyman football players, from NFC Championship Game active quarterback Josh Johnson — recorded before his injury — to Auburn national champions Josh Bynes and Josh Harris. Then the guys switch over to Auburn basketball’s 80-77 loss at West Virginia. They talk about how the loss will go down more as a big missed opportunity than a crushing blow for the season, what lessons can be learned ahead of the final five weeks of the regular season and how Georgia becomes a real must-win game.They close with a discussion of Hugh Freeze’s time at the Alabama Football Coaches Association’s clinic over the weekend and Nick Saban’s secondhand comments about the wild world of NIL.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Steven Leonard/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin proposes that Painter should become the new voice of the Atlanta Braves. That, somehow, turns into a discussion about what coaches wear on the sidelines and which football head man should bravely start wearing full suits this fall.The guys recap Auburn basketball’s loss to Texas A&M and look at the recurring problems in defeats for Bruce Pearl’s …

Justin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s 15-point road win over South Carolina. They discuss the Tigers’ ever-improving balance among their veterans and how Wendell Green Jr. is playing some of the best ball in the SEC right now. The guys talk about the best way to view a winning streak in a favorable stretch of schedule and what all this could mean moving forward.Then it’s a switch over to football, where the hot topic is Auburn’s quarterback situation at the conclusion of the first transfer portal window. What should be expected out of Robby Ashford? Can Holden Geriner get in the mix? And who could the Tigers target in the spring window?Also: Is it smart to bring a baked potato to a sporting event?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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter break down Auburn basketball’s 67-49 win at LSU, marked by a ferocious defensive performance, more magic from the Wendell Green Jr. and Jaylin Williams and yet another impressive game from Lior Berman.Justin provides the analysis direct from Baton Rouge. Painter checks in with his updated vibes on Auburn basketball’s turnaround from P…

Justin and Painter continue their war on basketball referees in the cold open. They wonder how a game can have zero free throws in the first half and more than 40 in the second half. Do something about this, Greg Sankey.The guys then break down what they learned from Auburn’s 69-63 victory over Mississippi State. They talk Jaylin Williams’ monster shooting performance, Wendell Green Jr.’s late-game heroics, why the turnover and interior struggles might be anomalies and how the Tigers have to attack the next two road games.The episode concludes, once again, with a look at the latest transfer pickups for Auburn football — Kentucky defensive tackle Justin Rogers and Ole Miss linebacker Austin Keys. Justin explains the value of these instant-impact SEC transfers, and Painter gives props to the new staff for exceeding expectations with early recruiting.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin asks Painter what his signature item at Niffer’s would be, and the answer is something that no one would have ever expected.Then the guys tackle the more important business: Recapping Auburn basketball’s road win at Ole Miss. They discuss how the Tigers were able to win with offense instead of defense, the resurgence of both Wendell Green Jr. and…

Justin and Painter open the show by honoring Bruce Pearl and the back-to-back Super Bowl champion Auburn men’s basketball team. The guys discuss why the Tigers were able to play so well against Arkansas, how this victory was an important reset for the rest of the season and where Auburn could get even better moving forward.The episode concludes with some football discussion, centering on the additions of Tyler Scott, Mosiah Nasili-Kite and DeMario Tolan — the Tigers added Lawrence Johnson right after this was recorded. They also talk about Bryan Harsin’s newfound love of Georgia and Monday night’s national championship game.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

Jordan Hill of Dawgs247 returns to preview Auburn basketball’s road trip to Georgia with Justin and Painter. The guys look at how Mike White has already improved the Bulldogs, how they match up with the Tigers and what this early-season matchup means for both programs. Later on in the episode, Justin asks Jordan the question a lot of Auburn fans might be thinking — is there anything that can slow down Kirby Smart and the Georgia program for the next several seasons? They also talk about how Georgia’s upcoming quarterback battle could have a ripple effect at any other schools looking for a signal-caller in the portal this offseason.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 Jordan (@JordanDavisHill), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. 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

(This episode contains language which may be offensive to some listeners or inappropriate for children.)Dave, Pablo and Painter discuss Hugh Freeze's promising first act assembling his staff and quickly bolstering Auburn's recruiting. Dave is forced to reminisce on his college apartment.Also, Painter refuses to talk about the Chicago Bulls upcoming opponents. Painter and Pablo push back on Dave’s working theory that SEC basketball isn’t as good as some are saying. Pablo suggests that Auburn might benefit from a heavier dose of Jaylin Williams.They end the episode talking about the surprising careers of quarterbacks Stetson Bennett and JT Daniels. Follow Dave (@DaveCMcKinney), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comPainter returns to the Plains to take in a basketball game and give his take on what he saw from the stands in Neville Arena on Wednesday night. Justin gives his perspective on Auburn’s 61-58 victory over Florida and why the victory needs to be taken in the full context of everything that’s happening in the SEC.Toward the end of the episode, the guys di…

Auburn Undercover’s Christian Clemente and the Opelika-Auburn News’ Adam Cole join Painter to discuss football’s signing day, promise on the recruiting trail, what expectations should be moving forward, and what position Auburn bolstered most.They also talk about who can contribute immediately, players who will be good developmental pieces, where Auburn still has work to do and players who are fun interviews.Follow Adam (@colereporter), Christian (@CClemente247), and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin checks in from Los Angeles to discuss a very busy Sunday in the sports world with Painter in Parts Unknown.The guys break down what they saw from Auburn basketball’s 74-71 loss to USC. They talk about why this loss feels a lot different than the one to Memphis, where there were signs of optimism and what continues to hold Bruce Pearl’s team back before SEC play.Then the switch over to football to discuss a loaded pre-signing day visit weekend — one that featured the commitments of FIU transfer Rivaldo Fairweather, 4-star safety Sylvester Smith and 3-star defensive lineman Stephen Johnson. They look ahead to the start of the early signing period and also talk about the shift in transfer quarterback talk from Grayson McCall to Devin Leary.Then Justin and Painter wrap up with a few minutes of discussion about perhaps the single-greatest sporting event they’ve ever seen: Sunday’s World Cup final between Argentina and France.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: @AuburnMBB/Twitter 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter open the show by paying tribute to the late Mike Leach. Then they discuss the news of the week for Auburn football — including Christian Robinson’s departure, Zykevious Walker’s decision to stay, the newest developments on the recruiting trail and the upcoming visit from Coastal Carolina quarterback Grayson McCall.The guys then switch over to basketball, where they recap Auburn basketball’s less-than-stellar win over Georgia State. They talk about what Bruce Pearl’s Tigers need to do in order to regain momentum ahead of a huge road trip to USC and Washington.There’s also discussion of Christmas movies and the underrated 2000s thriller Red Eye. Happy holidays.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics

Note: Justin and Painter recorded most of this episode several hours before news broke of Auburn hiring former Tulsa head coach Philip Montgomery to be its next offensive coordinator and former Baylor defensive coordinator Ron Roberts to the same position. The intro covers both of those reported hires, just in case you hear something out-of-date towards the end of the show.The guys then break down what they learned from Auburn basketball’s first loss of the season — an 82-73 defeat at the hands of Memphis in Atlanta. What went so wrong for Bruce Pearl and his team in this matchup? Why was the defense so ineffective? And how concerned should fans be moving forward?The back half of the episode includes our two Homefield Apparel $50 gift card giveaways, discussion of new football commitments Colton Hood and Tyler Williams and a closer look at Robby Ashford and the quarterback situation in 2023.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) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Steven Leonard/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comIf you’re subscribed to the free podcast feed only, you’ll hear a short clip from this premium episode. If you’re an Auburn Observer subscriber, enjoy the full thing. You can subscribe to get premium access for $6/month or $60/year by clicking this link.Painter breaks his phone and preemptively complains about waiting in line. Justin reminisces on his days working retail during the holiday season. That ought to tell you how the rest of the episode is about to go.The guys talk about how the transfer portal hasn’t really affected Auburn football too much yet and who the Tigers might go after as the boards start to fill out. They also discuss the continued construction of Hugh Freeze’s coaching staff and why it’s understandable that some fans might be getting antsy.Then they switch to a preview of Auburn basketball’s big matchup against Memphis in Atlanta on Saturday. Painter points out similarities between the two sets of Tigers, and Justin proposes that the winner of this game gets to say they were going to sign Jalen Green if he didn’t go the G League route. There’s also talk about basketball scheduling and how to fix the Heisman Trophy ceremony.

Justin and Painter open the show by recapping Auburn basketball’s decisive win over Colgate. Why were the Tigers so effective on offense? Who stood out in the big victory? Where could Auburn have been even better? And will Painter use this as an opportunity to further communicate his fears about the Tigers’ shooting ability? (Yes.)Then the guys are joined by Christian Clemente of Auburn Undercover/247Sports. Christian breaks down who and where to watch when it comes to Hugh Freeze and his new Auburn football staff’s strategy in the transfer portal and in the rest of the 2023 recruiting cycle. They also talk all about the playoffs — the CFP and, of course, the vastly more important FCS ones.Listen to the episode to learn how you can enter for a chance to win a $50 Homefield Apparel gift card and how buying a gift subscription to The Observer can turn into free months on your own subscription during the holiday season.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the 2023 Football Roster Tracker — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Christian (@CClemente247), Justin (@JFergusonAU), and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. 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

Dave, Pablo, and Painter talk about Auburn’s newest head coach.(This episode contains explicit language.)Follow Dave (@DaveCMcKinney), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner), and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

(NOTE: This episode was recorded late Sunday afternoon. Reports surrounding Hugh Freeze’s candidacy shifted Sunday night. So, if any info sounds out of date here, that’s why.)Justin and Painter dive into Auburn football’s coaching search after Lane Kiffin made the somewhat surprising decision to stay at Ole Miss. Who could be next in line for the Tigers, and who are some names that make sense as the search evolves?Then the guys break down what they learned from the Iron Bowl, including the strong performances on the ground from Robby Ashford and Jarquez Hunter and the upcoming reset for a defense that had a hard time with Alabama’s star-studded attack. The episode concludes with a recap of Auburn basketball’s comeback win over Saint Louis. How were the Tigers able to rally late, and what does it mean for a team that will get some much-needed time to recover over the next two weeks?If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including all of this weekend’s Observations — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

In another double recap episode, Justin and Painter break down the big second-half performances for Auburn football in its 41-17 win over Western Kentucky and for Auburn basketball in its 72-56 win over Texas Southern.The guys talk about what really changed for Cadillac Williams’ Auburn team after halftime and why it didn’t have a whole lot to do with adjustments. They discuss a stubborn, old-school ground game finding major success again, a defense that’s playing its best ball late in the season and a senior class that willed the Tigers to arguably their most impressive win in more than a year.Then it’s a switch over to basketball, where Bruce Pearl’s Tigers used another second-half surge to put away an upset-minded small conference team at home. They break down what they saw out of Jaylin Williams, Chris Moore and K.D. Johnson and why there’s still plenty of reasons to be optimistic about this team before previewing the teams Auburn will face in Cancun this week.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including all of this weekend’s Observations — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Austin Perryman/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter break down a weekend for defense-first victories on the Plains — Auburn football’s 13-10 win over Texas A&M and Auburn basketball’s 67-59 win over USF — and the unveiling of the new football performance center.The guys talk about how the Tigers turned back the clock in a night that celebrated Cadillac Williams and nodded to the undefeated 2004 season. They discuss how Auburn’s defense was able to dominate Jimbo Fisher’s Texas A&M offense, how the offense did just enough with its explosive running game to win and how special teams helped after they hurt a week ago.Then it’s a switch over to basketball, where Bruce Pearl’s team used elite defense and a second-half surge to put away USF for a second straight season. Justin and Painter talk about how Auburn’s offense has a lot of work to do, why Allen Flanigan and Wendell Green Jr.’s big games were huge and what can be expected from the Tigers in the Winthrop game Tuesday night.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including all of the weekend’s Observations — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter recap Auburn football’s wild 39-33 overtime loss to Mississippi State. The guys discuss what all was different in the first game under interim head coach Cadillac Williams, why the Tigers were able to actually complete a second-half comeback for the first time all season and how some avoidable mistakes proved to be too much. Then it’s a look over to the hardwood, as Bruce Pearl’s basketball squad opens its 2022-23 season Monday night against an intriguing George Mason team. They talk about what the Patriots are going to bring to the Plains, where the Tigers will have some clear advantages and what they want to see from the rotation in the first competitive game for the new squad.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including our coaching candidates breakdown — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comA lot of things happened in a few hours. Justin keeps his word and joins the boys.Follow Dave (@DaveCMcKinney), Justin (@JFergusonAU), Pablo (@PabloEscoburner), and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics

Justin and Painter open the show with the news of Auburn reportedly zeroing in on Mississippi State athletic director John Cohen. They discuss why Auburn might be going in that direction, what Cohen could bring to the table and how it can be hard to determine what makes a good or bad hire in college sports administration.Then the discussion switches over to Auburn’s 41-27 loss to Arkansas, which snapped a six-game winning streak in the series. Bryan Harsin and the players don’t seem to have any answers for what’s going on, and neither do the hosts of this podcast. It’s a whole lot of the same.Fortunately, the episode ends with some talk about Auburn basketball ahead of its exhibition against UAH on Wednesday night. The guys talk about how the lineup and rotation could be pretty unpredictable early and what they’re specifically wanting to see from the Tigers in their first action in front of fans.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including Saturday’s Observations — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

(Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)Dave, Josh and Painter talk about why Auburn is an outlier in its conference. They discuss the athletic director opening and briefly look at an LSU team that’s showing improvement.In the second half of the show they talk about Auburn basketball’s win expectancy and home-court advantage.Follow Josh (@joshdub_), Dave (@DaveCMcKinney) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. 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

Justin and Painter recap Auburn football’s 48-34 loss to Ole Miss in Oxford. They discuss the Tigers’ historically rough day in run defense, the newfound explosiveness from its own ground game and how Lane Kiffin schemed his way to success over Bryan Harsin.The guys also talk about Tennessee’s win over Alabama on Saturday and the new-look timeline for a decision on the future of the football program, including a new athletic director hire.The episode ends with some discussion of the newly released KenPom projections for the 2022-23 college basketball season and why Auburn got a lot of love in them.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including tomorrow’s Film Room — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter recap Auburn’s 42-10 loss to Georgia in Athens. The guys discuss just how familiar a lot of it felt for the Tigers — both inside Sanford Stadium and in the context of the 2022 season under Bryan Harsin.They break down the biggest thing that separates Auburn from one of its biggest rivals and how that should affect the future direction of the program. They also talk about what Auburn’s defense well did early, why the offense was ineffective for yet another game, and how uncertain everything feels moving forward for Harsin and his staff.The episode ends with a discussion of Chance Westry’s knee surgery and an early look at the big games on Auburn basketball’s nonconference schedule.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the Observations from the Georgia game — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter break down Auburn's 21-17 loss to LSU — another hot start, another cold finish and another wasted opportunity for Bryan Harsin's program.The guys discuss Harsin’s decision-making on fourth downs, timeouts and the ill-fated trick-play interception from Koy Moore. They also talk about just how good Auburn’s defense was in defeat and why pinning the recurring problems on “execution” isn’t absolving the coaching staff of blame at all.Justin preemptively apologizes for how he sounds during this podcast. Sinuses are the worst.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the Observations from the LSU game — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

Painter makes an important admission at the start of this episode. Justin tries to recap what happened in the final minutes of Auburn’s overtime win over Missouri.The guys discuss what all continues to go wrong for the Tigers’ offense and why there’s little belief that things could change soon. They give their credit to Auburn’s defense for a winning performance and look at what the hosts did specifically to give themselves a chance to escape with a win.The episode ends on a lighter note, as there’s a brief discussion of Bruce Pearl’s basketball roster and the eternal popularity of Charles Barkley.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the Observations from this game — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

There’s no real need to get creative with this podcast description. Auburn football lost to Penn State by 29 points on Saturday. Justin and Painter are here to talk about all the Tigers’ problems during their big loss — both in the immediate future and within the big picture.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the Observations from this game — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

This week’s podcast title comes directly from Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin in the wake of the Tigers’ very underwhelming 24-16 victory over San Jose State in Week 2.Justin and Painter recap the lows and the very few highs of Auburn’s win, including a rough start on offense, a problematic pass defense, T.J. Finley’s post-interception rebound and the biggest thing that kept the Tigers from falling victim to Blood Week.The guys break down what they’ve seen from Auburn through two paycheck games and what has to change — quickly — for the upcoming matchup against Penn State and the start of SEC play. They also take a look at what happened elsewhere in college football. (Note: This episode was recorded shortly before Nebraska announced it had fired Scott Frost.)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 by clicking this link.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

Friend of the program Dan Peck makes his return to the Observer podcast to fill in for Painter and recap Auburn’s 42-16 win over Mercer.The guys discuss the nights for both T.J. Finley and Robby Ashford, look at the overall performance of the multi-pronged rushing attack and the new-look offensive line and discuss which position group impressed the most despite not putting up deep numbers in the box score.They switch over to the defensive side of the football, headlined by Cam Riley’s career night and a great display from the defensive front against an overmatched opponent. The episode ends with a look forward at what all Auburn could correct heading into Week 2 and a look around at the major action in Week 1 of the college slate — including some big results involving SEC teams.Follow Dan (@DanielAllenPeck) and Justin (@JFergusonAU) on Twitter.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.Photo Credit: Zach Bland/Auburn Athletics 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

Justin and Painter open the show by saluting former Auburn center and all-around good guy Nick Brahms after his medical retirement from football. They then switch over to T.J. Finley’s confirmation as Auburn’s new starting quarterback and his first time in front of the media Monday afternoon.The bulk of the episode is a position-by-position breakdown of the Tigers’ two-deep depth chart ahead of the season opener against Mercer. Which position groups have improved the most? Which ones are the biggest question marks heading into the fall?Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.auburnobserver.comJustin and Painter open the show by looking at the Week Zero schedule in college football and letting you know which games you should spend your time watching before the main event next week.Then it’s a rundown of what we’ve learned so far in Auburn’s extended game week preparation for the opener against Mercer, including the latest on the quarterback battle and the offensive line situation.The guys spend the second half of the show looking at how a certain advanced ratings system views the Tigers heading into the season — and why it’s important to look at Auburn’s schedule in the proper context. Painter further professes his love for Ellis Johnson’s hair.They make a vow that this will be the last time they run through the same old offseason storylines again, because actual football happens soon. Thank goodness.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Auburn Athletics

Justin opens the show complaining about turf and potentially irritating Arkansas fans even further with an honest Wikipedia mistake. Painter considers the Mississippi Phenomena once more.They spend most of the episode talking about the two most intriguing parts of Auburn football’s depth chart heading into an extended week of game prep — the closing stages of a quarterback race led by T.J. Finley and the uncertainty surrounding the center position up front.The guys also discuss Damari Alston’s recent rise, Keionte Scott’s impressive start, the observations from Auburn’s open Saturday practice at Jordan-Hare Stadium and who might be named team captains later this week.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re listening to 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 with our current 25% off fall camp deal by clicking this link.Photo Credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics 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