Until Saturday: A show about college football

Andy is joined by co-host of The Solid Verbal, Dan Rubenstein, to fix college football! With blueprints, hardhats and tacos in hand, the duo examines shortcomings in the sport that need reworking but, before then, the two dive into discourse about Tennessee's reported interest in Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott for its vacant head coach position. (2:15). Should there be a cap on the number of 5-star recruits a school can sign (6:30)? You punt, you lose a point (20:30). Consequences from end zone fumbles are too harsh (28:00). Let's make conference schedule reform a thing (34:15). Plus, Andy and Dan deliberate college football commissioner candidates (38:30), and the sport needs a central authority figure (46:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Dan Rubenstein on Twitter: @DanRubensteinCheck out The Solid Verbal podcast: https://www.solidverbal.comJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pac-12 commissioner candidate, Andy Staples, welcomes venerable Bay Area News Group reporter, Jon Wilner, to discuss the Pac-12 conference's intention to part ways with commissioner Larry Scott (:15). Why are the member schools' presidents splitting with Scott, and did the 56-year-old steward of the division live up to expectations? Who's on the (not so) short list of candidates (14:00), and what criticism of Scott's tenure seems unfair to Andy (16:30)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Jon on Twitter: @wilnerhotline Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Tennessee Volunteers scrivener extraordinaire, David Ubben, joins Andy in dissecting Tennessee's decision to part ways with head coach Jeremy Pruitt and athletic director, Phillip Fulmer. What lead to the Volunteers terminating Pruitt's employment? Is this cacophony of chaos par for the course? How will this impact recruiting? Does Kevin Steele's presence pose a possible roadblock for hiring a long(er)-term coach (13:15)? Plus, the guys propose solutions for the Vols' head coach vacancy (17:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow David on Twitter: @davidubbenJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 per month! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Chris Vannini discuss Tennessee's decision to fire head football coach Jeremy Pruitt with cause. An internal investigation by the school revealed recruiting violations occurred under Pruitt's watch. Who is on the shortlist to get the job? Billy Napier, Hugh Freeze, Luke Fickell & Bill O'Brien are all names that have been mentioned. Plus, Buckeyes WR Chris Olave announced he is returning to Ohio State next season. If Ryan Day can find a QB it looks like another run to the title game could be in the cards. Last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a long-awaited edition of "Dear Andy", Andy and Ari contemplate what it will take for Notre Dame to compete for, and win, a national ti+tle (1:30). What roster formula offers the Fighting Irish their best chance at a natty? Will recruiting a supreme talent at QB make all the difference? Can the Pac-12 return to relevancy (13:30)? If so, what efforts are required to help the conference regain attention and success? The final question the guys tackle is ranking which non-conference games they are most excited for next season (28:00). Lastly, Random Ranking: top-5 fast food breakfast dishes (34:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari react to three-time College Football National Champion, Urban Meyer, leaving the college football ranks to join the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars as the organizations newest head coach. Is Jacksonville's situation ideal for Urban Meyer (1:30)? Was this the perfect scenario for the 56-year-old nascent NFL coach to make the jump to the pros? In what facet of his coaching approach, will Meyer have to recalibrate in order to coach professionals (9:00)? What could be the perception of Meyer by NFL/Jaguars fans (16:30)? Will culture building have the same impact in the majors as it does in the minors, and which former staffer of Meyer's cabinet could join him at the next level (21:00)? Lastly, is there lingering concern about Meyer's health (30:30)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 per month! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach is joined by Stadium's Michael Felder. Steve Sarkisian called one of the cleanest games you'll see in college football in the National Championship. Will he have success at Texas? Ohio State just didn't have the firepower to score with the Crimson Tide. Nick Saban wins his 7th National Championship, this time with an unstoppable offense. Saban has proven he can do it in many different ways. Plus, last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari unpack everything from Alabama's, 52-24, 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship win over Ohio State. Though not at full strength, OSU's defense played uncharacteristically poor (2:15). The duo analyze a few questionable play calls by Ryan Day (6:00). Is Mac Jones a better Alabama quarterback than Tua Tagoviloa (8:45), and why was DeVonta Smith so effective? The Crimson Tide boast the nation's best recruiting class in 2021; is this type of success sustainable and can Nick Saban keep being, well, Nick Saban (13:00)? Despite the Buckeyes trailing Alabama, marginally, in recruited 5-star prospects, the national champion's ability to curate and cultivate talent continues to transcend comprehension (18:15). Who is the only team that can oppose the Alabama machine, according to Andy (22:30)? Is it still alright to cross swords over the 4th spot in the CFP (34:00)? Before closing, the guys rank their top-5 programs based off this season (38:00)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari look ahead to the final clash of the 2020 season on Monday night in the College Football Playoff National Championship game between Ohio State and Alabama. The duo canvass the recruiting prowess of both programs (2:30), and highlight the difference-makers in the national title bout. How does this year's Crimson Tide squad compare to previous years (10:00)? What about in recruiting and defense? Could this contest develop into a no holds barred, running-focused game (16:45)? Andy and Ari examine both program's position groups and compare the talent on each side (20:45), plus the guys place both squads' defenses under a microscope (24:00). Last but not least, prediction time (35:00)!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcomes The Athletic's NFL draft savant Dane Brugler to the program to assess the talent taking the field at the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship game. Justin Fields is set to take center stage yet again following his outstanding performance against Clemson, but will he walk across the stage on the first night of the draft in Cleveland (:30)? Which Alabama defender has impressed Dane the most this year, has the best chance to be drafted highest (5:00)? Dane analyzes the skillset of one of college football's most dynamic talents, DeVonta Smith (6:45). How does Dane view Mac Jones (9:45)? Does his stock stand to rise depending on his performance Monday night? How does the QB draft class project after this season, and where could Kyle Trask land in the draft (12:30)? Plus, Dane notes the players he'll be keeping his eyes on in the National Championship game (21:30).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Dane Brugler on Twitter: @dpbrugler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcomes The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach to react to the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner, DeVonta Smith (:30). The duo examine Smith's season, and discuss that despite his less than ideal physique, according to pundits, how truly magnificent a year this was for him both performance-wise and style-wise. The two converse about Trevor Lawrence earning Heisman votes despite missing time this season, and breakdown their Heisman ballot (9:30). Before wrapping, the duo respond to news Tuesday afternoon of the possibility of the National Championship being postponed because of Covid-19 concerns from Ohio State (17:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Nicole on Twitter: @NicoleAuerbach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Ohio State linebacker & Big Ten Network analyst Joshua Perry joins Nicole Auerbach to discuss the 2021 National Championship game between the Buckeyes & Alabama. Ohio State RB Trey Sermon looks like Ezekiel Elliot in 2014. Justin Fields, Chris Olave & Garrett Wilson torched the Clemson secondary. Can they do it against Bama? Many college coaches are being rumored for NFL jobs, will Urban Meyer end up with the Jags? Will Jim Harbaugh sign an extension at Michigan? Last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Staples is joined by The Athletic's Max Olson to react to the head coaching changes at Texas. What went wrong with Tom Herman, and how can Steve Sarkisian succeed in Austin? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari react to an entertaining College Football Playoff semifinal round, headlined by an astonishing, convincing Ohio State win over Clemson. Though there were numerous noteworthy performances on behalf of the Buckeyes, Trey Sermon certainly shined (4:00). How did the former University of Oklahoma do-it-all back find himself in a potentially career-defining stretch of games? OSU finally overcame Clemson, the hurdle taunting them in recent years (15:00). How important was it for the Buckeyes to squash this boogeyman, especially one that has lured in-state prospects away from them? Should we be concerned about Justin Fields' potential rib injury (26:15)? Lastly, Notre Dame covered! And other Rose Bowl takeaways (29:15).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Andy Staples welcomes Ron Veal to the show. Ron is an Atlanta-based QB coach who worked with Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence before they were the future top draft picks they are today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Michael Felder discuss Friday's semi-final matchups. Alabama's vertical threat will be too much for Notre Dame. Can DC Clark Lea do anything to stop the Crimson Tide's passing attack? Ohio State & Clemson is undoubtedly the better matchup, especially at QB. Trevor Lawrence & Justin Fields have been competing with each other since High School. Plus, predictions & last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcomes four beat writers who are covering the College Football Playoff for The Athletic. Bill Landis has the latest on Ohio State's roster. Grace Raynor reports from Clemson where Dabo Swinney is owning the spotlight. Aaron Suttles goes inside the Crimson Tide. Plus, Pete Sampson offers insight into how the Fighting Irish are prepping for a difficult opponent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy early Christmas! Andy and preparing-to-open-his-third-eye Ari Wasserman, react to the Auburn Tigers tabbing Boise State head coach Bryan Harsin as their next head coach (1:30). Is Harsin the right fit for the job? Are there any perceived pitfalls? The duo analyze both Auburn's and Boise State's recruiting track record and deliberate impact Harsin could have in that field (10:30). There's salt in this year's Sugar Bowl! Dabo Swinney and Kevin Wilson's, Ohio State offensive coordinator, banter has all the makings for a must-watch football game (21:30). Can we please get more of this type of needling, and why is it so frowned upon?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanSubscribe to The Athletic and receive one free subscription to give to a friend, family member or whomever! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Stadium's Michael Felder give their takes on the 2021 College Football Playoff. Is the selection committee a broken system? Somehow 9-2 Army didn't make a bowl game while 2-8 South Carolina did. Undefeated Cincinnati didn't even get consideration for the top 4. Dabo Swinney doesn't think Ohio State deserves to be in the playoff. Last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari Wasserman serve up their reaction to the College Football Playoff Selection Day top-4 teams (:30). Was this the playoff we were expecting? Was there a team that was snubbed, say a Cincinnati (10:30)? The duo imagine what an eight-team playoff would look like with this field of teams (13:30). Which program in that eight-team scenario would surprise the field? Was Texas A&M's exclusion from the playoff justified (20:45)? Is Notre Dame the right number four? Should optimism be sky high for Aggies fans moving forward?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanGet a subscription, gift a subscription! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcome Max Olson to the program to place a holiday-themed bow on championship weekend (:30). What were the biggest takeaways from conference headline bouts? Who will be number four? What's case can be made for Texas A&M, Cincinnati and Notre Dame? The duo play the 'truth serum test' to decide the top-four clubs (8:15). Who would Alabama want to play least? What matchup is optimal for them? The gents then rely on the eye test to determine the nation's best four squads (21:00). Lastly, the locals for the bowl games may look a little different this year (31:45).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Max on Twitter: @max_olson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari discuss the current playoff rankings and matchups they'd love to see post-conference championship weekend (:30). The duo also converse about Auburn's head coach vacancy and who could fill that position on the Tigers' roster. Also, Auburn is a better job than Tennessee...right (23:00)? Will Mario Cristobal stay in Eugene? What about Matt Campbell in Ames? Plus, the guys preview the exciting slate of conference championship games this weekend (29:00). Could Northwestern upset OSU? Would Ohio State punch their playoff ticket even if they won in an unimpressive fashion? Could a two-loss Oklahoma team contend for the CFP (36:00), and will we see more shoes fly in Alabama-Florida (40:00)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanGet a subscription, gift a subscription! Buy one subscription to The Athletic and give one for free - visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari plunge back into the College Football Playoff rankings discussion following the week four reveal. Under what circumstance could Cincinnati, Florida or Oklahoma be compared to Texas A&M or even slide into the fourth spot (:30)? The 'A-Team' attempts to imagine a playoff without the Rose Bowl (13:30). Is USC officially dead in the water, and should we prepare the chip of death (22:00)? Lastly, how would the committee perceive a Clemson overtime loss in the ACC Championship Game (27:15)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanBuy one subscription, gift one for free! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Chris Vannini discuss the latest news in college football. The Pac-12 Championship is set as Oregon will replace UW to play USC. Gus Malzahn & Auburn finally part ways after years of speculation. The ACC has hired Jim Phillips to replace John Swofford as Commissioner. The most unique championship weekend maybe in CFB history is officially here! Plus, last call on 'the shoe' heard round the world & Jaret Patterson's great season.Artifact: heyartifact.com/andy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The penultimate college football Saturday ended on a high note with LSU upsetting Florida in Gainesville. A Gators player threw a shoe & impacted the game! Yes, it was bizarre as it sounds. This was the biggest upset of the season. Alabama is up next for the Gators in the SEC Championship. If Bama loses, college football playoff scenarios get fun. USC & UW will play in the Pac-12 Championship game, but there is a backup plan. College football will become politics for the next week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In another dynamic Thursday edition of the show, Andy and Ari react to the Southeastern Conference and ESPN's handshake deal that will grant the network broadcast rights to conference football and basketball games (:30). What does this mean college football? How much are we going to miss the broadcast jingle, tradition and Verne Lundquist dancing the Soulja Boy? The gents segue into week 15and discuss the preceding weeks' lack of "Oh, Martha!" outcomes (9:45). Though marginally underdogs, is Iowa the superior team headed into Saturday's Wisconsin matchup (14:15)? Andy and Ari preview Florida and Alabama's last stepping-stone contests on their way to, presumed, SEC title game appearances (17:00). Is the clock ticking on Chris Del Conte and Texas' Tom Herman decision (23:15)? The Commonwealth Cup can be viewed as either a springboard or mire for Justin Fuente depending on the outcome (25:30). What about Virginia Tech is alarming to Ari? What should we expect from North Carolina-Miami this weekend (34:30), and what does the future hold for the Tar Heels? Ari takes up arms to defend USC's playoff aspirations while Andy applies a generous amount of seasoning to the double-serving of crow he's set to eat (38:30). To wrap, the duo Randomly Rank defunct mall stores (46:30). Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanGive the gift of The Athletic! Buy one subscription, gift one for free! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rankings reaction time! Andy and Ari dish on the committee's third playoff ranking, including: it's about time the Big Ten makes a move to help Ohio State (:30). Plus, Andy and Ari each have plans to help OSU out. Speaking of "out", would the Buckeyes be the odd team out if Florida and Clemson were to win their respective conference championships (15:00)? Ari does is best Captain America impression and, though battered, bruised and tired, stands up to his Thanos-esque opposition and defends USC from possible playoff exclusion (granted they win out in convincing fashion -- 22:30). We play a round of Dismissing Out of Hand (29:30). Under what condition could Andy change his stance on USC (34:30)? Plus, the guys serve up their thoughts on Cincinnati, Indiana and more eye test versus resume talk (42:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanGive the gift of The Athletic! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples to buy one, gift one subscription! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Stadium's Michael Felder dish on the latest news in college football. UNLV QB Max Gilliam apologizes for appearing on Bravo's 'Below Deck'. Louisville Head Coach Scott Satterfield has made a mess of his interview for the South Carolina job. Plus, last call on conference scheduling & Nick Saban. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy is joined by national college football writer for The Athletic and one half of The Shamrock podcast Matt Fortuna to round up Saturday's action and, in this case, breaking news. The duo react to Oklahoma assistant, Shane Beamer's, expected new role as South Carolina's head football coach (:15). Andy and Matt analyze the hiring and detail Beamer's background and his coaching experience. Notre Dame overcame a sputtering start to down Syracuse, and Ohio State rolled past Michigan State, setting up a brilliant pitch for a OSU-Georgia clash (7:30). Iowa State's impressive triumph over West Virginia just adds to Matt Campbell's already strong coaching resume, but are we certain he'll leave Ames (17:30)? Was Coastal Carolina-BYU the prohibitive game of the year thus far (19:30)? Is the Big Ten ready to revise their conference title rule, or is there a chance Ohio State doesn't play for the league crown (28:30)? After another tough loss on Saturday, is it still safe to say Mario Cristobal is a contender for the possible Texas head coach vacancy (40:00)? Lastly, Jeremy Pruitt sounds off about his quarterback situation, leading Andy to answer why his decisions have been questioned and if he'll remain the top dog in Knoxville (51:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Matt on Twitter: @Matt_FortunaListen to Matt on The Shamrock podcast: https://apple.co/37IoEOq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another splendid Friday of Andy and Ari pointing out just how bad the Big Ten has potentially bungled their conference's playoff hopes. Will the league reverse course and allow a conference title contender to play despite falling short of the six-game threshold (1:00)? Though a decision is still looming, the SEC isn't pleased about the situation. Could BYU travel to Ohio Stadium to take on the Buckeyes, or is it a pipe dream? In a scenario where, say, a BYU or Cincinnati were to play and upset OSU, would that non-power 5 team be catapulted into the playoffs? The guys preview a veritable weekend matchup, Ohio State-Michigan State (18:00). Is there a chance Mel Tucker can rally his crew to pull off a stunner, or will the Buckeyes roll as expected? Is Ari willing to bet cold, hard cash on Auburn-Texas A&M (24:15)? What about the Tigers makes the guys believe they can play spoiler? The duo stay in SEC land to outline Florida-Tennessee (35:30) before moving to West Virginia-Iowa State, where the guys ponder if the Cyclones, coming off an emotional win, will be ready for the Mountaineers (37:00). An abnormal Bama-LSU clash (42:15) precedes BYU-Costal Carolina (44:30) and Urban Meyer to Texas talk (46:15). Lastly, another scintillating edition of Random Rankings (57:00)!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanDecember 4th is your last opportunity to take advantage of The Athletic's $1 a month for an entire year deal! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Though there was little change atop the College Football Playoff rankings in week two, the scant movement spurred an extensive CFP discuss between Andy and Ari. If Texas A&M keeps piling on Ws, will they leap frog Ohio State (1:00)? What's impeding OSU from securing a comfortable position among the top-4? Under which circumstance is Ohio State truly in danger of being ousted? The guys react to Gary Barta's comments about the committee's reasoning behind the Buckeyes' present standing (8:45). Did the Big Ten "screw" Ohio State (14:00)? Was implementing a six-game minimum to compete in the conference championship nearsighted? What can the division take from what the ACC is doing with Clemson and Notre Dame? Another rollicking round of 'Alive or Dead' (20:30) shepherds the duo to Ohio State playoff hypotheticals (35:00). Andy then welcomes OrangeBloods.com columnist, Anwar Richardson, to chat the state of the Texas Longhorns (39:45). Typing post haste to get to the largest matter at hand: what's the game plan against KU? On a more serious note, what's the 411 on Tom Herman's job security? Is Urban Meyer the go-to coach should Herman get the ax? Are Mario Cristobal and/or Matt Campbell serious contenders to run the program, and could a BBQ series lure Andy away from The Athletic?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanFollow Anwar on Twitter: @AnwarRichardsonJoin The Athletic for just $1 a month for an entire year! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Stadium's Michael Felder discuss the latest news in college football. Northwestern is officially the Big Ten West Champions. Vanderbilt kicker Sarah Fuller is the victim of unnecessary criticism after being the first female to play in a power 5 game. Derek Mason is fired as Commodores Head Coach. Who will replace him? The Heisman race is heating up! Plus, last call. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy is joined by The Athletic's national college football writer, Max Olson, to survey the college football landscape following week 13's action. Under what scenario does Texas A&M earn a CFP berth (2:00)? Do the Aggies need "convincing" victories to persuade the committee, or are wins in their own right enough to propel them to the final four? Another day, another round of Big Ten games cancelled (8:45). What are the repercussions of these missed games for Ohio State, Wisconsin and the like? Could the Buckeyes fall short of the six-game minimum to compete in the conference title game? If so, who would contend for the league crown (18:30)? How would this impact the CFP standings? Another marquee win for Iowa State and Matt Campbell, another excruciating loss for Texas and Tom Herman (27:30). Is Herman's time as the Longhorn's leader done? Who could man the helm in Austin (24:30)? Plus, Andy and Max dish on which coaches could move this off-season (41:00). To cap off the show, the guys detail a historic weekend, from Sarah Fuller suiting up for Vanderbilt to Jaret Patterson running wild in New York (49:00)Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Max on Twitter: @max_olsonJoin The Athletic for just $1 a month for an entire year! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eat turkey, be merry and listen to Andy and Ari as they prepare you for a fun weekend of college football action. Andy reacts to Nick Saban positive Covid-19 test and myriad news leading up to turkey day (:30). Afterwards, will Ari cave and, again, take Michigan to cover, or will he finally wise up (6:30)? Who will punch their ticket to the Big 12 Championship, Iowa State or Texas (9:00)? Should the Longhorns suffer a loss, is the Tom Herman era as good as done? Upset! Upset? Did the persuasive Mack Brown influence Andy and Ari into picking a Tar Heels stunner over Notre Dame (25:00)? In SEC country, will Kyle Trask bolster his Heisman-contending resume with a big outing against Kentucky (if the game is played, that is), or can Mark Stoops and the Wildcats pull off the upset (31:15)? Why is Bama favored so handily in the Iron Bowl (32:15)? Clemson is certain to bury Pittsburgh, right...right (43:30)?! Are we dismissing Colorado's chances against USC too soon (50:00)? A stomach-rumbling Random Ranking has Andy and Ari debating the top Thanksgiving dish (spoiler alert: nothing tops stuffing--55:30).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari Wasserman react to the first rankings from the College Football Playoffs committee! What are the guys' interpretation of the committee's top-4 teams? How do fringe teams like Texas A&M (11:00) and BYU (20:00) improve their standings? Plus, determine which teams are dead or alive (25:00), and some combination of BYU, Cincinnati and the Pac-12 need to roll the nice and play one another (32:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriwassermanExperience The Athletic for just $1 a month for 12 months starting on Black Friday! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach welcomes 'the Group of 5 guru' Chris Vannini to the show. In-season scheduling is the hot topic in college football with BYU & Cincinnati in the middle of the fray. Florida State & Clemson are in a kerfuffle about Saturday's postponed game. The 1st college football playoff rankings of the season will be released Tuesday night. Nicole & Chris discuss what to expect from the committee. Plus, last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ari! Again?! Haven't you learn Michigan will never cover this year? I suppose not because that's how Andy and Ari tee off today's show, discussing the Harbaugh Hopeful's triple-OT win over Rutgers (:15). *Taps mic* Yes, hello, uh, why hasn't a certain personnel move been made at UM yet? Also, will Cade McNamara keep the starting QB role? Listen Michigan fans, there's a silver lining to all this: your coach didn't sign a contract extension (unlike a handful of certain programs -- 3:30). Ohio State isn't the "juggernaut we thought they were" after being tested by Indiana (15:00). What deficiencies on Ohio State's roster did Ari think IU exposed? This segues into Tuesday's grand reveal of the College Football Playoff rankings (19:45). Who do Andy and Ari believe will occupy the top-4 rankings? Who outside the top-4 could contend for CFP berth? Where will BYU and Cincinnati fall in the pecking order? Clemson and Florida State did a lot of finger pointing in what turned out to be a postponement (30:00). A disappointing outcome for Vols fans leads to the guys deliberating which fan base they feel the worst for (39:30). Plus, which coaches in the last five years can say they've reached the ceiling of their program (53:15)?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Andy Staples & Ari Wasserman preview the college football weekend. #9 Indiana @ #3 Ohio State is a rare top 10 matchup. The SEC is back with 6 games after last week's postponements. Do Cincinnati and BYU deserve to be in the college football playoff picture? Is Oregon HC Mario Cristobal the right replacement for Jim Harbaugh? Other games of note: Wisconsin @ Northwestern, Oklahoma State @ Oklahoma, UCLA @ Oregon & USC @ Utah. Enjoy the college football weekend! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcomes ESPN's NFL Primetime co-host and college football analyst, Booger McFarland, to today's show! The guys discuss their mutual admiration for Chris Berman and Tom Jackson and the football highlight mecca they created, and the series Andy and Booger grew up adoring, NFL Primetime (1:00). Booger describes working alongside Boomer and acting as the program's number two. The duo commiserate over big guy fashion, and also share style tips for those of broader build, plus Booger talks about how his nickname stuck. With Will Muschamp out at South Carolina, who are the top options to assume the Gamecocks' top leadership position (10:30)? Booger and Andy pinpoint qualified and interesting names for SC's head coach vacancy, and chat about developing culture within a program. Staying in the SEC, why has LSU's defense taken a massive step backwards (19:30)? Is a year of experience all that's needed to remedy the cullender-like defense? Booger ranks his top-4 teams ahead of next week's opening CFP rankings (28:30), and Notre Dame is a lot better in the trenches than what we expected!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Booger on Twitter: @ESPNBooger Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach is joined by Stadium's Michael Felder to discuss the latest news in college sports. Miami's next 2 games are postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak. The 2021 NCAA Tournament will be played in a bubble. Cal & UCLA got a game in on 43 hours notice on a Sunday afternoon. The 2020 college football season is officially off the rails & the goal is to get to the college football playoff. Nicole & Michael dish on Notre Dame, the Big Ten, and debate whether Northwestern can beat Wisconsin. Tom Herman says rumors about Urban Meyer being the next Texas head coach is hurting the Longhorns on the recruiting trail. Can Jim Harbaugh save his job at Michigan? Plus, last call! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Andy Staples & Matt Fortuna react to another drama-filled college football weekend. Michigan looks horrific once again, this time in a blowout loss to Wisconsin. Will Jim Harbaugh get fired or is will the pandemic save his job? Would Mario Cristobal be a good hire to replace Jim Harbaugh. Big Ten tiers! The guys debate the 2020 Big Ten hierarchy. Notre Dame continues to look good with QB Ian Book in complete control of the Fighting Irish offense. Miami escapes with a win vs. Virginia Tech & Ari will have to do the 'Paqui one chip challenge'. Week 2 of the Pac-12 season is in the books. Will Chip Kelly succeed at UCLA? The 2020 coaching carousel is starting to spin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari have said it before and they'll keep on saying it: everyone's doing the best they can. So with that said, what's the best Wisconsin can do against Michigan considering the cloud of questions looming over the Badgers' football program? Why are the Wolverines opening as favorites in spite of their recent struggles (3:45)? The Fighting Irish aim to build off last week's monumental win against Clemson this Saturday versus Boston College (15:30). Time to pinch your nose! Miami-Virginia Tech is the most smelly line of the week (19:00)! Will 'Win-diana' keep their perfect record intact against Michigan State (28:15)? Who needs their first win of the season more: Penn State or Nebraska (33:30)? Will Arkansas rise to the occasion in Gainesville without Sam Pittman (48:15). And out the door, the guys deliver this week's Random Rankings (1:04:30)!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy kicks off today's show discussing postponed SEC games, including Alabama-LSU. How could the SEC maneuver schedules to manage this delay, and will the CFB Playoff considering moving the semi-finals and final? The Liberty Flames, one of the most surprising stories in college football this year, are undefeated and rank among the countries top-25 teams. What's the secret to their success? Among everything that's contributed to their success, redshirt junior QB Malik Willis, and his noted development, has been a revelation for the Flames and head coach Hugh Freeze. Join Andy as he chronicles the Atlanta, Georgia native's ascension. From a prospect who yearned to play quarterback, to the transfer portal and the steps he made to better his game that has ultimately led him to being the spark of the Flames' success (10:00).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesJoin The Athletic for just $1 a week! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach welcomes Big Ten Network's Mike Hall to the show. Mike talks about his new storytelling project which includes a great anecdote about Julia Roberts. Of course, Mike is here to talk B1G football. Penn State is the surprise of the season at 0-3 & Indiana is on the other side of the fence at 3-0. Hoosiers Head Coach Tom Allen is the real life version of Ted Lasso. How talented is 2020 Ohio State compared to Buckeyes teams of the past? Mike also talks about how he got into the business and shares his unique perspective on covering sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari react to Clemson, the top-ranked team in college football, falling to Notre Dame (1:30). What was key in the Irish's victory? How does this loss impact the Tigers' playoff chances? Both Maryland and Texas A&M handedly brought home Ws in their matchups (14:00). What happens now with Penn State? Where do the guys envision Texas A&M towards the last couple weeks of the season? Oh boy, let's talk Michigan (19:00). Ari offers 10 replacement options for Jim Harbaugh, and Andy judges whether they are viable candidates (24:00). Pac-12 after dark is back! USC survives Arizona State's near upset, and Chip Kelly's Bruins continue their slide (39:30). The duo entertain some coaching what-ifs, including: which Power-5 program will Hugh Freeze land at, and Scott Frost and Nebraska don't seem to be making much headway (48:30).Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanJoin The Athletic for just $1 a week! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy and Ari Wasserman cover the upcoming college football slate. Great, now that you know that, here's where it gets saucy...well...not really because Andy doesn't use sauce when he tears into over 100 juicy, savory, delicious Chick-fil-A nuggets in this week's payoff pod (:30). The guys set the framework for the challenge before jumping into lines for the Pac-12's opening weekend (9:45). Is USC the conference favorite? What can we expect from the Trojans against Arizona State? Will an Oregon team that's lost key contributors this off-season be able to handle Stanford (14:45)? The duo also discuss the position the conference is in follow the Cal-Washington cancellation (20:30). Ari is amped for Big Ten talk! Who ya got in Michigan-Indiana (26:00)? Will Milton and co. bounce back after last week's stunning loss to Michigan State? Can Indiana keep rolling? Should we expect Ohio State to breeze past Rutgers, or is this not the Scarlet Knights of the past (41:00)? Double-down on Clemson? Can DJ Uiagalelei power the Tigers past ranked Notre Dame (44:15)? Who will be the biggest shrimp at the world's largest cocktail party (49:30), and does Florida's lesser recruiting class, compared to Georgia, already put them at a disadvantage? Plus, Texas-West Virginia, Texas A&M-South Carolina, Tennessee-Arkansas and BYU-Boise State (1:00:30)!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWassermanJoin The Athletic for just $1 a week! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy welcomes Barstool Sports personality, co-host of the "Unnecessary Roughness" podcast and Texas A&M alumna, Kayce Smith, to today's show! Tacos, pickle juice shots and college football, what more could you want from a college town? The duo discuss what College Station has to offer before chatting about the Aggies, Jimbo Fisher and season expectations. Why hasn't A&M been able to close the gap between itself and Alabama? Andy and Kayce gab over how jumpin' Jacksonville will be this weekend with the Florida-Georgia game. Will Clemson survive Notre Dame without Trevor Lawrence? The two talk bets recently made with Ari Wasserman and Barstool Sports' Brandon Walker. If the Wolverines fall to Indiana, will anything happen in the Michigan-Harbaugh marriage? Plus, Wisconsin-Purdue is cancelled, and the Big Ten's handling of the virus versus the SEC.Rundown:(:30) Tacos & pick shots & college football, oh, my!(5:15) Aggies expectations & the immovable 'Bama gap(15:00) Florida-Georgia(16:30) Clemson-Notre Dame & bets(25:15) Michigan-Indiana, Wisconsin & moreFollow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Kayce on Twitter: @KayceSmithJoin The Athletic for just $1 a week! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's Nicole Auerbach & Chris Vannini kick off the show with Michigan State's upset over Michigan. Pac-12 after dark & MACtion are officially back this week and the college football season finally feels whole. #9 BYU & QB Zach Wilson have their biggest game of the season Friday night at Boise State. The college football playoff committee has a difficult task this season trying to compare unequal scheduling formats. Plus, last call! Why isn't Northwestern ranked? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a weekend full of nail-biters, Andy and The Athletic's Ohio State scribe, Bill Landis, start today's show with Ohio State's commanding win over Penn State (1:00). Can anyone compete with OSU in the Big Ten? Was this performance expected out of the Nittany Lions? The duo take an early glance at the CFB Playoff picture and discuss who they believe are true contenders (5:00). The Trevor-Lawrence-less Clemson Tigers were tested in a conference bout against Boston College, though DJ Uiagalelei rallied his club and illustrated his remarkable ability (10:30). Andy and Bill admire some rarely-seen undefeated Big Ten teams (17:15) before chatting about where the winless Nittany Lions go from here (18:45). Will Wisconsin play Purdue next week (22:15)? How would another lost game affect, not only the Badgers, but the conference as a whole? Who's ready for some Pac-12 football (26:16)! Andy then welcomes in The Athletic's Michigan State penman, Colton Pouncy, to react to the Spartan's shocking win over Michigan (29:00). Was this a fluke win by Michigan State? How does this victory shape Mel Tucker's image following last week's loss? Is "Slick Rick" the conference's best kept secret? Is Michigan as good as we initially thought? What does the rest of the season hold for these two programs?Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Bill on Twitter: @BillLandis25Follow Colton on Twitter: @colton_pouncyJoin The Athletic for just $1 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/andystaples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy reacts to Trevor Lawrence testing positive for Covid-19. What does this mean for Clemson? Who will start under center for the Tigers? The day has dawned. It's time for Ari to conquer a most vile villain, dark beer. Yes, Michigan downed Minnesota last week saving Andy from fulfilling a bet himself (1:00). The guys recap the Wolverines' victory over the Golden Gophers, and discuss what a win over P.J. Fleck's flock means for the program. Joe Milton and co. have their in-state rivals on the horizon in the Spartans (15:30). What can we expect from the matchup? Is Milton for real? Can Michigan overcome Ohio State, or are they a secondary/tertiary threat in the Big Ten? Speaking of OSU, the Buckeyes travel to Penn State for a...potentially anticlimactic conference contest (22:45)? Will the Nittany Lions drop their first two games of the season after losing last week to Indiana? Why does this bout, which is typically hyped, seen far less interesting? In SEC country, Mississippi State is at odds with Alabama in Tuscaloosa (29:45); Arkansas seeks to upset Texas A&M (31:45); Missouri-Florida is anybody's guess (35:15) and LSU looks to build off last week's 'W' against Auburn (37:30). Can Texas overcome Oklahoma State (43:30)? And from a wider lens, is Tom Herman and Texas' loss of 2022's top-rated prospect, Quinn Ewers, a symbolic loss? The guys settle on a bet for next week (58:45) before digging into their sweet Random Rankings (1:02:15)!Follow Andy on Twitter: @Andy_StaplesFollow Ari on Twitter: @AriWasserman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.