The Auburn Observer

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

Justin and Painter get right down to business and discuss what all they learned from Auburn football’s first scrimmage of fall camp. The quarterback performances — and the order they were listed by Bryan Harsin — take the headline spot, which flows into a conversation about development and what the Tigers’ staff needs to prove in the fall.The guys talk about the standout freshmen from the scrimmage, take a three-level look at where Auburn’s defense stands and points out the areas that could see some movement on the depth chart before Friday’s second scrimmage.The episode ends with some love for Takeo Spikes and the proud town of Loachapoka, Alabama.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: Auburn Football/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 discuss the merits of marching bands, the harmonica, relearning the trombone, the smaller buttons on Rock Band guitar controllers and #TheShirt.In more pressing matters, the guys recap what they learned from Auburn basketball’s three-game tour in Israel — opening with two blowout victories and closing with a hard-fought loss to the senior national team. Which players stood out the most? How much of this can be carried into the regular season? And why was K.D. Johnson screaming at that basketball?Then it’s a move over to the first weekend of Auburn football fall camp, including updates on a pair of true freshmen who are making serious waves and a breakdown of what could realistically be expected from a completely retooled passing attack. There’s also a discussion of SEC West schedules and why Mike Leach teams can get weird in Year 3.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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 — including the Observations from football practices and basketball preseason games — and premium podcast episodes, subscribe with our current 25% fall camp deal by using the button below or 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

Wendell Green Jr. and Bruce Pearl via @icyywen on Twitter.Folks, we’re back. This time it’s forever. Pablo Escobarner and Dave McKinney join the Observer for good. Ohana means family.The boys talk about all the sports stuff happening right now.Follow Pablo (@PabloEscoburner), 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

Christian Clemente of Auburn Undercover makes his Observer podcast debut to talk about what went down for Auburn football during Big Cat Weekend and what to expect in the near future on the trail.Christian breaks down the Tigers’ two 2024 commitments — cornerback A’mon Lane and quarterback Adrian Posse — and discusses which 2023 players could be the next to join the fold. What’s going on with Bryan Harsin and his staff’s recruiting strategy? Are the low numbers a reason to panic, or should there still be some optimism among the fan base? Christian answers all these questions and more.The episode concludes with a look at Auburn basketball’s upcoming tour of Israel, which tips off Tuesday with a matchup against the U-20 national team in Jerusalem. What are the guys wanting to see from the Tigers overseas, and what do they expect from the four newcomers in orange and blue?Follow Christian (@CClemente247), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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 — including today’s newsletter on Yohan Traore — subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Photo Credit: @AmonLane2/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

Note: Due to the Media Days schedule, we’re unlocking both our premium SECMD recap episode from Friday and our Roster Draft episode from a couple of weeks back, in place of the usual free Monday episode.Justin and Painter keep you up-to-date with the latest important football transnational news, then dive into what they learned from Auburn’s trip to SEC Media Days in Atlanta on Thursday.They talk about Bryan Harsin’s bluntness in his time on the main stage and the top-down message he’s sending about his 2022 team. They also discuss the Tigers whose stock rose this summer, led by a new wide receiver, a returning defensive lineman and — somehow — the most talented offensive player on the team.The episode wraps up with some basketball talk, as Auburn finalizes its plans for the upcoming Israel tour that will be televised on SEC Network and Bruce Pearl promotes a longtime support staff member to a new role.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this episode for free 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: Jimmie Mitchell/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

Note: This podcast was originally a premium, subscribers-only episode posted on July 14. We’re unlocking this episode, along with the SEC Media Days recap, for all of our free listeners.For the third offseason in a row, Justin and Painter give their thoughts on the Auburn football roster via a head-to-head snake draft — each coming up with their own first-team offenses and defenses for a hypothetical showdown in Jordan-Hare Stadium.Who got the edge in the early rounds? How did Justin fall victim to Painter’s early strategy? Who is Painter’s new favorite breakout candidate? Which newcomers for a specific position group were completely forgotten by one of the hosts? And who picked Landen King? Listen to find out the answers to all of these important questions.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 — who is *not* the PA announcer for the Birmingham Barons, by the way — discuss Auburn football’s hire of former Dallas Cowboys scout Drew Fabianich as its general manager and director of scouting and development. The guys look at the move from both sides and what kind of impact this new position could have on the Tigers’ longterm future.Then it’s a switch to the release of the latest Blue-Chip Ratio and how Auburn has made the cut once again, but the wiggle room is shrinking. What do the Tigers have to do to maintain their spot as one of college football’s top 15 or so recruiters, and how do they compete against the insane talent stockpiles at several SEC rivals?The guys also talk about the Summer League showings for Jabari Smith, Sharife Cooper and JT Thor before previewing Auburn’s turn at SEC Media Days in Atlanta later this week. Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 open the show by looking back at the Nick Marshall-led 2013 squad and the lethal simplicity of the Tigers’ offense. They shout out the USFL, CFL and any other league that will pay players for being good at football — including the college game.Then it’s a look to Jabari Smith’s first weekend in the NBA Summer League in Vegas and why any hot takes about him are extremely premature. They also discuss Walker Kessler’s official addition to the Utah Jazz roster and why it could end up being a great spot for him to start his career.The back half of the show centers on Auburn football — first on a secondary that might be stronger than you think in 2022, then on the big-picture outlook for the Tigers ahead of SEC Media Days in Atlanta next week. What’s the right temperature for the program heading into the fall?Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 premium episode of the podcast has been unlocked for anyone to listen for free.Returning champion Nicole Auerbach of The Athletic joins Justin and Painter to give her insight on the Big Ten’s jarring additions of USC and UCLA and what Auburn’s neighborhood of the SEC might do next. They talk about the lack of big-picture leadership in college football, how everyone is basically looking out for themselves and why athletes and fans might be the biggest losers of this new era.In the second half of the episode — after a discussion of picking up golf as a worthwhile hobby — Justin and Painter look at the SEC’s next steps, Auburn football’s addition of Karmello English, Jabari Smith’s trash talking of the Houston Astros mascot and the levels of insanity for several SEC West fan bases.Follow Nicole (@NicoleAuerbach), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.To add the premium feed to your favorite podcast app — basically all of them except for Spotify — click the “Listen in podcast app” option and add the feed to your app of choice. This new feed will include both free and premium episodes, so you can unsubscribe from the free feed to avoid clutter in the app.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 podcast was recorded before Auburn picked up a commitment on Monday from 4-star wide receiver Karmello English. Look for a newsletter on his addition to the class Wednesday morning.)Justin and Painter open the show with a discussion of USC and UCLA’s stunning move to the Big Ten and what that means for the future of power conferences in college football. Then they break down what they see in new Auburn running back commitment Jeremiah Cobb, the major impact of Cadillac Williams and Zac Etheridge on the trail, and how this could be the start of a much-needed big month for recruiting on the Plains.The episode ends with a deep dive into the scheduling news for Auburn basketball, starting with a look at the home and road splits in the SEC and wrapping up with a preview of the Atlanta showdown with Memphis in December. Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 open the show by putting a bow on Auburn baseball’s memorable postseason and discussing the impressive progress Butch Thompson has made with the Tigers.Then it’s a switch over to the main topic — Auburn’s historic showing in the 2022 NBA Draft. They talk Jabari Smith surprisingly going No. 3 overall to the Houston Rockets and what exactly happened with the Orlando Magic and the Oklahoma City Thunder, plus Walker Kessler’s intriguing fit with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The guys close with a look at the last time Auburn football won double-digit games in back-to-back seasons and how that compares to the rest of the SEC. Can the Tigers get back there in the near future, even with the growing challenges on the shifting schedule?Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Jacob Taylor/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

After Painter shares his experimental idea for Chick-fil-A sauce and grits, Justin breaks down Auburn football’s new transfer addition of Western Kentucky graduate edge rusher Marcus Bragg. They discuss this much-needed addition to the roster and salute some rotational heroes of the past.Then it’s a conversation with Bennett Durando of the Montgomery Advertiser, who returns to recap Auburn baseball’s opening loss in the College World Series to Ole Miss and preview Monday afternoon’s elimination game against Stanford.The episode concludes with some basketball talk following a first look at Bruce Pearl’s 2022-23 squad during an open practice ahead of its upcoming overseas trip to Israel. There’s some NBA Draft chatter towards the end and, yes, Justin gets to brag on his Golden State Warriors for winning another title.Follow Bennett (@BennettDurando), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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

As Painter wonders if the goatee is making a comeback in contemporary life, Justin takes the start of preview magazine season in college football to ask a question — is Auburn’s 2022 roster being undervalued, considering its returning star power, or are the major doubts in the passing game that big of a deal?The bulk of this episode is a discussion of Auburn’s nine All-SEC picks in the new Athlon preview and what it would take for the Tigers to overcome their question marks at quarterback and wide receiver. The episode opens with some baseball chatter — including a breakdown of antagonistic fan bases in the SEC in light of Tennessee’s Super Regional exit — and closes with a look at Jabari Smith’s growing odds to become the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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

After a brief discussion of airports, Justin and Painter dive into Auburn football’s latest transfer addition — former LSU wide receiver Koy Moore. The guys discuss what Moore could bring to the Tigers’ offense in Year 1, Bryan Harsin’s transfer policy in this pivotal offseason and the state of the roster as summer workouts get rolling on the Plains.Elsewhere in the episode, there’s talk of Auburn baseball’s massive showing in a host regional, Allen Flanigan’s return to Bruce Pearl’s team, the positive vibes across plenty of athletic programs heading into the summer, the hold-up surrounding SEC football scheduling and what to expect from the basketball schedules once Texas and Oklahoma join the league.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 is joined by Blake Lovell of Southeastern Fourteen. They talk about the easiest coaches to like and who is most annoying. Blake agrees to play a made-up game of “Fill in the Blank.”Later in the show, they discuss Alabama’s commitment to staying ahead, Eric Musselman joining the upper crust of good and obnoxious coaches, Georgia hiring Mike White from Florida and Florida being OK with that. Then Painter wonders aloud why people are mean to Will Wade. They wrap up with a conversation about a growing restlessness at Kentucky, the duality of man in Rick Barnes and a brief examination of where Auburn should set expectations ahead of the next season.Follow Blake (@theblakelovell) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Matthew Shannon/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 with a late (and lengthy) discussion of the war of words between Nick Saban and Jimbo Fisher over NIL and recruiting. They wonder what the reaction would be like if Auburn was the team drawing the attention of Alabama’s head man and look back on the discourse around the Cam Newton saga in 2010.The bulk of the episode centers on Auburn football’s newest transfer additions, what fans should expect from them, and what it all means as Bryan Harsin tries to build a program that can “consistently compete” with the likes of Alabama and Georgia. Toward the end, there’s some basketball talk — mainly about Allen Flanigan’s good showing at the G League Elite camp in Chicago and some new notes about Bruce Pearl’s 2022-23 roster.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 open one of their longest episodes to date by roasting Mike Florio’s steak on Twitter and discussing the merits of K-Pop. Then it’s a switch over to the hardwood to break down what Auburn basketball might do next after Julian Phillips’ commitment to Tennessee.The football talk begins with a look at new Iowa State transfer safety Craig McDonald, followed by some appreciation for Colby Wooden. This week’s alternate universe journey takes the guys down a path where Russell Wilson picks Auburn in 2011, and the episode ends with a discussion of Nick Saban’s laughable claims of “parity.”Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Jacob Taylor/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

Inspired by a couple of recent hit movies, Justin and Painter spend this episode examining some alternate universes from recent Auburn football and basketball history.Topics include: What if Auburn decided to hire Kirby Smart instead of Gus Malzahn in 2013? What would have happened if LSU had won the “Six Kicks” game in 2016? How far would the Tigers have gone if they would’ve avoided those two late fumbles against Texas A&M in 2014? And what if Auburn just left the SEC?On the hardwood, the guys discuss a few spinoff scenarios from the Final Four run in 2019 and somehow come to the conclusion that the Tony Barbee hire was ultimately a good thing in the long run for Auburn basketball. (Yeah, this episode gets crazy.) Feel free to send in your own alternate universe theories!Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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

By popular demand, we’ve unlocked last week’s premium episode for all listeners. 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 future premium podcast episodes subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Matt Brown of the excellent Extra Points newsletter joins Justin and Painter to talk about all the off-the-field matters that are important to Auburn and the rest of college athletics.The guys discuss Mark Emmert’s impending departure and who might make sense as the future president of the NCAA (besides Painter). Then it’s a discussion of NIL, collectives and what might be changing when it comes to college athletes getting paid. They also talk about conference realignment and when Texas and Oklahoma might be joining Auburn in the SEC.Towards the end of the episode, Matt shares some insight on what you probably clicked on this podcast to hear about — the EA Sports College Football video game. He shares a few #scoops about the game and what you might see next summer.Follow Matt (@MattBrownEP), Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo Credit: @EASportsCollege/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 discuss Auburn basketball’s big-time signing of Morehead State transfer center Johni Broome. They break down his game on both sides of the floor, examine how he fits into the Tigers’ frontcourt and talk about what his arrival will mean for others up front.The guys then turn their attention to Julian Phillips, the second 5-star former LSU commitment who could be finding his way onto the Plains. They discuss Phillips’ game and consider other options Auburn could target with its final open scholarship spot.The episode wraps up with a look back at a quiet NFL Draft for Auburn, featuring the lone pick of the Tennessee Titans-bound Roger McCreary. How much did the one-pick weekend matter for Auburn, and what does it mean for Bryan Harsin’s program moving forward?Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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 — including our full breakdown of Johni Broome — subscribe using the button below or clicking this link.Photo Credit: Jacob Taylor/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 opens the show with an important question on a topic close to his heart. Then, he and Justin discuss former LSU 5-star Julian Phillips’ upcoming official visit to the Plains.The guys talk about the evolution of Auburn’s frontcourt for the upcoming season, including the roles for Allen Flanigan and Jaylin Williams. (NOTE: This episode was recorded before recent visitor Brandon Huntley-Hatfield’s commitment to Louisville on Sunday evening.)The episode wraps up with some early thoughts on Owen Pappoe, Cam Riley, Wesley Steiner and the rest of Auburn’s linebackers heading into the summer months — along with the recent news of Marquis Robinson’s return to the Tigers.Donate to this year’s EDSBS Charity Bowl and email a screenshot of your receipt to [email protected] to get a free month of the Observer added to your subscription. Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Matthew Shannon/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

After a brief discussion on Easter ham and the history of brunch, Justin and Painter focus on two big-name transfer big men that Auburn basketball has in its crosshairs — Morehead State’s Johni Broome and Tennessee’s Brandon Huntley-Hatfield. Then it’s a switch over to football, as Painter wants to know the answer to a very important question: Can the Tigers be successful in 2022 with a Tank Bigsby-led offense, given the real question marks in the passing game?Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 discuss the value of sharing ice cream with people you have gotten into fights with recently. Then, more importantly, they talk about what they learned from Auburn’s 2022 A-Day Game and spring football as a whole.The guys break down the quarterback performances, led by offensive MVP Robbie Ashford. Then they transition to the underwhelming rushing numbers and the depth situation on the offensive line before taking a look at who impressed on the defensive side of the ball.Then it’s a look at Auburn’s latest 2023 football commitment and a couple of transfer portal additions that Bruce Pearl’s Tigers could go after in the near future.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Jacob Taylor/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

Disclaimer: Walker Kessler announced he was entering the NBA Draft right after this podcast was originally recorded, so there’s an intro to the intro this week — Justin and Painter discuss the big man’s decision to go pro, then launch into the original recording. There will be some comments in the main portion that are quite out of date.Also in this episode, there’s a look back at the Final Four through some Auburn lens and a discussion of the Tigers’ raiding of LSU this early offseason. Then the guys transition to a few football topics, including Robby Ashford, Sean Jackson and Landen King.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: Jacob Taylor/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 take the halftime break of Auburn football’s spring practices to discuss what they’ve learned so far. They look at all the confirmed injury absences to the Tigers’ starring cast and what that means for newcomers and young players trying to break through in 2022.Then it’s a switch over to basketball, where Bruce Pearl is looking to reload his roster after the departure of Devan Cambridge and, potentially, multiple NBA draft entries. The guys look at the top priorities in transfer portal and the late deciders among the 2022 class, including 5-star big man Yohan Traore.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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: 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 79-61 loss to Miami in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. They discuss what all went wrong for the Tigers — some surprising, some not-so-surprising — and how it led to an early exit in March.In the second half of the episode, they look back at the big picture for the 2021-22 SEC champions and how they should be ultimately viewed in Auburn basketball history. Then they switch to the immediate future of Bruce Pearl’s program, starting with some roster changes in what should be an interesting offseason on the Plains.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) 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.Photo Credit: Matthew Shannon/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