Episodes

11h ago

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel break down the defining moments from the first round of the College Football Playoff. They examine how Alabama capitalized on Oklahoma’s mistakes, question Texas A&M’s late-game decisions against Miami, and assess why the Group of Five teams came up short. Then they wrap the conversation with the latest on Michigan’s pursuit of Kalen DeBoer. 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - Lasers, flyovers, 50 Cent & a purple sunset 2:15 - Why can’t there be more CFP home games? 4:30 - How the Rose Bowl sunset affects the kickoff time 10:30 - A possible fix to making bowl games matter 12:48 - Guess the price of a CFP hotel stay 22:27 - Alabama cashes in, Oklahoma misses chances 30:10 - What’s with Ryan Williams’ production drop-off? 33:31 - Should Texas A&M have run Marcel Reed at the end? 38:17 - Miami secures a program-defining win 45:38 - Why the Group of Five teams fell short 56:43 - Update: Michigan’s pursuit of Kalen DeBoer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

6d ago

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel take a deep dive into Michigan’s current situation, debate whether Kalen DeBoer is a realistic option, and explore why Kenny Dillingham could be an ahead-of-the-curve hire. Then, the guys shift to College Football Playoff Round 1 previews before closing with a conversation about the Heisman standard and what that honor truly represents. 0:00 - Welcome 0:31 - Where do things stand with Michigan? 3:55 - Does Kalen DeBoer go to Michigan? 13:08 - Michigan vs Alabama: Coaching culture 15:43 - Michigan vs Alabama: Conference factor 21:12 - Who’s next, if a star coach isn’t available? 26:06 - Does Kenny Dillingham go to Michigan? 35:13 - Why Kenny Dillingham could put Michigan ahead 41:33 - CFP Round 1 preview: Alabama vs Oklahoma 49:46 - CFP Round 1 preview: Miami vs Texas A&M 58:17 - CFP Round 1 preview: Tulane vs Ole Miss 1:03:20 - CFP Round 1 preview: James Madison vs Oregon 1:09:07 - Upholding the Heisman standard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 8

Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel break down a massive day in college football as the final CFP rankings drop and the playoff bracket is officially set. The guys examine why Notre Dame fell short of the CFP, Curt Cignetti’s two-year run, and the toughest corner of the CFP bracket. They also ask, is this the greatest CFP field we’ve ever seen? 0:00 - Welcome 0:34 - The final CFP rankings are in 5:39 - Time to rethink weekly rankings? 13:17 - Why the CFP should hold off on expansion 17:48 - Why conference realignment is the root problem 20:15 - Why Notre Dame fell short of the CFP 24:05 - The pros & cons of conference title games 40:13 - Curt Cignetti’s 2-year run is the best in the sport? 44:14 - The toughest corner of the CFP bracket is… 48:58 - Is this the greatest CFP bracket yet? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 3

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel break down the latest CFP rankings. They dig into what the College Football Playoff committee said about Alabama, whether the ACC can squeeze a team into the CFP, and Notre Dame’s path to a national title. Plus, a full slate of previews and a reminder that Jim Valvano’s iconic speech airs tonight on ESPN at 7 PM ET. 0:00 - Welcome 0:30 - Why did Alabama move up one spot? 3:26 - CFP rankings put ACC in tough spot 5:06 - Miami CFP hopes are still alive 11:43 - Notre Dame’s pathway to a national title 22:09 - Leagues battling for limited spots 28:09 - Should the committee sharpen its message? 34:23 - How much does the Big Ten title game matter? 46:57 - Preview: Jim Valvano’s iconic speech airs tonight 7P ET 47:55 - Preview: Georgia vs Alabama 50:07 - Preview: Indiana vs Ohio St 54:49 - Preview: BYU vs Texas Tech 57:53 - Preview: Duke vs Virginia 1:01:54 - Preview: North Texas vs Tulane 1:04:47 - Preview: Troy vs James Madison 1:07:03 - Preview: UNLV vs Boise St Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 1

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel dive into Lane Kiffin’s wild 6-week decision saga and what it means for Ole Miss after he chose career over a CFP run. They also break down whether Pete Golding is the right fit to take over Ole Miss’ program. Then the guys tackle the ACC title game controversy, should Miami have made it, and debate whether Texas is being unfairly punished for scheduling Ohio State. 0:00 - Welcome 0:37 - The 6-week drumbeat to Lane Kiffin’s decision 5:08 - Lane Kiffin chose his career, walked away from a CFP team 14:30 - Lane Kiffin’s wild exits outnumber his big wins 22:52 - Is Pete Golding the best head coach fit for Ole Miss? 34:23 - ACC title game: Should Miami have gotten in? 44:49 - Duke and James Madison to make the CFP? 49:43 - Texas being punished for their Ohio St loss? 56:29 - Should teams be ranked at the end of the season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 26

Rece Davis and Dan Wetzel react to the committee’s rankings ahead of Rivalry Week. They react to CFP Selection Committee chair Hunter Yurachek's insights on evaluating Ole Miss and Lane Kiffin, should he decide to leave the Rebels. Plus, the Six Pack of Picks for Rivalry Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 24

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel break down Week 13’s action. The coaching carousel with Justin Wilcox losing his job at CAL, while Mike Norvell keeps his job at FSU. The latest on Lane Kiffin, his future with Ole Miss and preview of the Egg Bowl. Plus, the names poised for the 2025 Heisman Trophy and a big preview of Michigan vs. Ohio State 00:00 - Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast:30 - Oregon Duck vs Pete Thamel4:15 - Why Rece Davis is mad at Pete Narduzzi6:27 - ACC Crazy Tie Breaker scenarios10:03 - Cal fires coach Justin Wilcox after 9 seasons14:10 Could ACC be left out of the College Football Playoff? 21:36 - Mike Norvell retained despite back-to-back losing seasons 23:49 CFP Coaching Carousel 2025: Big Names on the Move27:57 Where will Lane Kiffin end up?27:55 Where will Lane Kiffin end up?45:31 - CFP Coaching Carousel 2025: Big Names on the Move 48:09 - Who is in the mix for the 2025 Heisman Trophy? 54:34 Michigan vs Ohio State Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 19

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel react to the third batch of College Football Playoff rankings, discuss the latest on Lane Kiffin and unleash their Six Pack of Picks. 0:00 Welcome, Rece at MSG for Rankings Reaction 2:10 College Football Playoff ranking reaction 9:44 Would Notre Dame get in over Miami? 14:44 Potential Alabama conundrum 17:42 More CFP hypotheticals 22:56 The latest on Lane Kiffin 31:35 James Franklin introduced at Virginia Tech 37:55 USC at Oregon 41:28 Missouri at Oklahoma 44:05 Georgia Tech at Pitt 45:44 Tennessee at Florida 47:03 BYU at Cincinnati 48:34 Hawai’i at UNLV Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 17

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel break down every angle of the Lane Kiffin sweepstakes, should he stay at Ole Miss and chase a national championship, leave now, or leave next year? And for schools trying to poach him, when is it time to walk away? The guys also dive into the latest on James Franklin, and the biggest College Football Playoff storylines of the week: Who's a lock for the CFP, who makes it in between USC, Notre Dame, and Miami, and what if Auburn stuns Alabama? 0:00 - Welcome 0:32 - Lane Kiffin, will he stay or go? 5:57 - Should Lane Kiffin just stay and chase a Natty? 12:31 - For schools chasing Lane Kiffin, when should they walk way? 19:03 - Should Lane Kiffin stay and leave in a year? 21:45 - The advantages of staying at Ole Miss 24:48 - Update: James Franklin to Virginia Tech? 38:08 - Who's almost a lock for the CFP? 42:01 - The CFP USC-Notre Dame-Miami dilemma 47:22 - CFP chaos: What if Auburn beats Alabama? 51:03 - Make the case for keeping and cutting conference title games 58:43 - CFP changes that would benefit the fans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 12

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel react to the season batch of College Football Playoff rankings. Plus, they discuss where the ACC stands in the CFP race, if USC is on the ascent and the latest on the drama at LSU with Brian Kelly’s firing. Then, the guys get into the Six Pack of Picks, and talk about Maryland and UConn. 0:00 Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast! 0:30 College Football Playoff rankings reaction 13:14 Where does the ACC stand? 22:32 What about USC? 28:54 The latest on LSU and Brian Kelly 36:35 Rece & Pete's Six Pack of Picks 40:18 Notre Dame at Pitt 44:22 Iowa at USC 46:00 Oklahoma at Alabama 50:39 Texas at Georgia 53:56 USF at Navy 57:43 Maryland’s rough season 1:02:13 UConn’s stellar season 1:04:50 Kennesaw State at Jacksonville State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 10

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel debate whether a Heisman moment is essential to winning the Heisman …and if Fernando Mendoza has delivered on this. Then, they break down the current CFP picture specifically the chaos in the ACC, the Big 12 potentially sneaking a team in at the end, and which Big Ten powerhouse team will emerge on top. 0:00 - Welcome 1:41 - Fernando Menoza, new Heisman leader? 8:06 - The top team in the Big Ten is… 19:14 - ACC wheel of destiny: Who get’s a CFP bid? 32:18 - Big 12 to get the last at-large CFP bid? 39:05 - CFP: Some of the good, the bad, and the new 52:05 - The best player you might not know 54:19 - Which coach gets fired next? 57:26 - Proposals and ‘I do’ on and off the field Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 6

Pat Fitzgerald joins Rece Davis and Pete Thamel for his first public interview since his 2023 departure from Northwestern. The College Football Hall of Famer opens up about what he’s been up to, reflects on his time in Evanston, and discusses what the future might hold now that he’s back on the coaching market. Plus, Rece and Pete react to the first College Football Playoff rankings and wrap things up with their Six Pack of Picks. 00:00 - Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast! 00:30 - CFP rankings reactions 14:13 - Pat Fitzgerald joins the show! 17:33 - Pat feels "vindicated" after wrongful termination 24:13 - Pat on his coaching future 26:26 - Pat on handling the new era of college football 40:04 - Pat's ideal coaching fit 53:46 - Rece & Pete's six pack of picks 1:09:13 - Thanks for listening ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 3

Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel discuss the upcoming College Football Playoff rankings. They make picks on who they think will take the No. 1 spot and how many bids each conference gets. They also break down Auburn's coaching search and whether Clemson can recover from their tailspin season. Then, country superstar Kenny Chesney joins to talk about his new book drop, Heart Life Music, Tennessee Vols memories, his songwriting process and more! 0:00 - Welcome! 0:32 - CFP rankings: Who's taking No. 1 spot? 6:41 - CFP rankings: What to watch for 10:35 - How many CFP bids does each conference get? 18:20 - CFP rankings: Where does Michigan land? 21:37 - Auburn: Who replaces Hugh Freeze? 33:23 - CFP race: Miami is walking a fine line 37:54 - Can Clemson pull out of a tailspin? 46:29 - Kenny Chesney joins the pod! 47:27 - Kenny Chesney's Tennessee Vols memories 50:15 - Kenny Chesney shares his best lyric 53:41 - Inside Kenny Chesney's writing process 56:53 - Kenny Chesney's drink of choice 59:26 - Kenny Chesney's fave moment as GameDay guest picker! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 29

It’s a spooky Week 10 on the College GameDay Podcast! Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss risky coaching hires, early playoff rankings, their Halloween candy favorites and their Week 10 picks. 00:00 - Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast 04:48 - CFB scheduling issues? 11:15 - The latest on the coaching carousel 25:04 - Bill Belichick's call to go for 2 28:08 - Expectations from 1st CFP Rankings 36:02 - Six pack of picks 55:48 - Let's talk Halloween 58:11 - What's your favorite Halloween candy? 01:01:13 - Thanks for watching the College GameDay Podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 27

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel dive into LSU's move to fire Brian Kelly and what comes next for the Tigers. They kick around how much the Governor might actually matter in the coaching search and whether his voice will carry any weight. And with Lane Kiffin's name in the mix while Ole Miss is still chasing a playoff spot, the big question is if LSU can really wait until his season's over to make a move. 0:00 - Inside The Day LSU Fired Brian Kelly 5:19 - Surprised Brian Kelly Is Out After Texas A&M Loss? 6:39 - Brian Kelly Made LSU A Contender, Don't Forget! 14:09 - Who's Really Picking LSU's Next Coach? 21:14 - LSU To Make A Run At Lane Kiffin? 30:37 - Can LSU Wait Out CFP To Hire A Coach? 35:59 - Rank The Top Coaching Jobs: Florida, LSU, Penn State 48:21 - Auburn, Florida St, Wisconsin To Shake Up Coaching Market? 51:37 - What To Expect: GameDay at Cincinnati vs Utah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 23

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down a massive Week 9 slate! Can Missouri pull off a top-10 upset on the road against Vanderbilt? Will LSU save its season against Texas A&M? And can Houston keep rolling against Arizona State? We preview all the biggest matchups and storylines from across the country in this episode of the College GameDay Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 20

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel break down Billy Napier’s firing at Florida and what it means for the Gators’ future. Who’s next in line for the job... Could it be Lane Kiffin? The guys also dive into the mounting pressure at Florida State and Auburn, where frustration is beginning to boil over. :00 Welcome to the Podcast :41 Billy Napier out as Florida Gators Coach 5:46 Coaching Carrousel of College Football 7:40 Which coaches have their job secured? 14:05 What Florida really needs to do 21:58 Is Lane Kiffin headed to Florida? 37:04 Which coach could be in the hot seat next ? 48:42 Why this playoff system works right now 52:00 Impressions of James Franklin on GameDay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 15

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are back to preview a massive Week 8 in college football. Can Georgia get redemption between the hedges against No. 5 Ole Miss? Will Notre Dame’s playoff hopes survive a must-win clash with USC? The guys make their Week 8 picks and break down all the big storylines. Plus, Ivan Maisel joins the show to discuss his new book and reflect on the legendary career of Frank Leahy. All that and more on this episode of the College GameDay Podcast. 00:00 - Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast 00:54 - Lane Kiffin's jab at Kirby Smart 03:16 - A tough week for the refs 05:54 - Ole Miss vs Georgia preview 20:29 - Ivan Maisel joins the show 48:39 - Week 8 Six Pack of Picks 01:08:02 - Deep cut game of the week 01:13:53 - Thanks for watching / listening to the College Gameday Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 13

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel dive into the fallout from James Franklin's firing at Penn State. They unpack how his free fall unfolded, the moment Penn State realized he couldn't deliver a national championship, and why coaching contracts may never look the same again. Then they evaluate whether Indiana's Curt Cignetti or Nebraska's Matt Rhule should even consider the Penn State job before delivering their predictions on who could take the reins in Happy Valley. 0:00 - Welcome 0:30 - James Franklin firing is unlike any other 2:55 - Penn St realization: Franklin won't win it 4:55 - James Franklin free fall won't be the last 7:53 - Why coach contracts will shift 11:56 - Penn St players came up short, lacked passion & fire 14:56 - The reality is coaches don't build programs 19:36 - In today's game, anyone can win 29:08 - The Oregon loss' devastating effect on Penn St's season 36:09 - Should Curt Cignetti consider the Penn St job? 42:13 - Why Cignetti won't go to Penn St 47:07 - Making the case for Matt Rhule staying at Nebraska 55:17 - Predictions on who will get the Penn St job Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 8

Who’s to blame for North Carolina’s struggles this season? Can Indiana pull off a shocking upset over Oregon in Eugene? Will Alabama continue their SEC road dominance? Dan Wetzel and Pete Thamel break down all the chaos heading into a stacked Week 7 of college football. Plus, the guys play a special edition of “Would You Eat It?” — sampling some of the wildest foods from the Texas State Fair. All that and more on this episode of the College GameDay Podcast . 00:00 - Welcome to the College Gameday Podcast 00:43 - UNC in Shambles 20:57 - UNC Staff lacks college football experience 31:19 - Indiana vs Oregon Preview 35:59 - Alabama vs Missouri Preview 38:01 - Is Texas Tech for real? 40:32 - A tough stretch for the Gamecocks 41:14 -Another Kiffin in Baton Rouge 43:24 - The Latest on John Mateer 46:14 - Would you eat it? (Food from the texas state fair) 51:38 - Week 7 Six Pack of Picks 01:03:28 - Thanks for watching The CGD Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 7

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel break down Penn State's unraveling season. They ask if the UCLA loss has crushed the Nittany Lions' playoff chances and if James Franklin will remain with the program. Then they shift the conversation to Texas where they expose the Longhorns' flaws. And in Florida, even after a recent win, the guys question whether Billy Napier can survive the season and emphasize the steep challenge the program would face in replacing both its head coach and playcaller. 0:00 - Intro 0:37 - Penn State's issue: QB and scheme are misaligned 9:52 - Does UCLA loss end Penn State's CFP hopes? 12:59 - James Franklin's future at Penn State in question? 18:22 - Arch Manning under Texas pressure 23:57 - Arch and the entire Texas team are flawed 30:39 - If you fire Billy Napier, you have to fill two roles because… 35:13 - Which teams are true wagons? 45:47 - What is going on? Vanderbilt is entirely transformed 56:01 - Why Alabama can't sleep on Mizzou 1:00:32 - Final word: SEC, Western Carolina, Internet meltdowns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 1

Week 6 brings two massive showdowns in the SEC and ACC. Can Vanderbilt go into Tuscaloosa and upset Alabama for a second straight season? Will Texas survive a tough road trip to The Swamp? Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are back to break down a loaded Week 6 slate across college football. Plus, EJ Manuel joins the show to preview the heated Florida State–Miami rivalry and examine what’s at stake for both programs. All that and more on this episode of the College GameDay Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 30

Dan Wetzel is joined by ESPN's Ryan McGee and Max Olson to tackle the big question: Has college football ever been better? From Dan Lanning's statement win over Penn State to whether Kalen DeBoer and OC Ryan Grubb can keep their momentum rolling after knocking off Georgia, the drama keeps building. Throw in LSU-Ole Miss chaos fueled by Lane Kiffin's Internet antics and Bobby Petrino's return to Arkansas, it's clear this season shows no signs of slowing down. 0:00 - Has college football ever been better? 7:32 - The blueprint to win 17:43 - Dan Lanning: What's his ceiling in Year 4? 25:05 - Can Kalen DeBoer and OC Ryan Grubb stay hot? 30:43 - LSU vs Ole Miss: Madness on and off the field! 35:49 - Lane Kiffin to Florida? To Alabama? 45:19 - Arkansas and Bobby Petrino: The inevitable? 50:32 - Notre Dame to reach CFP without a big win? 56:25 - Last word: North Texas, New Mexico, New Mexico State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 24

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview two massive Week 5 showdowns in the Big Ten and SEC. Can Georgia protect their home winning streak and finally take down Alabama? Will Oregon survive the white out in Happy Valley against Penn State? The guys break it all down and give their picks. Plus, Ryan McGee stops by to talk Lane Kiffin and join in on our Week 5 six-pack of picks. All that and more on this episode of the College GameDay Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 22

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel dig into Clemson’s struggles, Billy Napier’s squandered lifeline at Florida, and an Indiana team that’s still finding ways to win. They examine whether Oklahoma is a true championship contender, discuss who they think will be favored in the Red River Rivalry, and weigh in on the officiating controversy that overshadowed Oklahoma vs. Auburn. 0:00 - Welcome 3:04 - Clemson's main issue is… 11:39 - Clemson's the new Florida State? 17:36 - Billy Napier was thrown a lifeline… 23:05 - What the Florida Gators should do next 26:08 - This year's Indiana is…Indiana 33:04 - Oklahoma: Title contenders? 35:25 - Red River Rivalry: Who's the favorite? 38:36 - The Oklahoma vs Auburn officiating issues 42:49 - Rece booked a fall wedding?! 51:39 - The stacked slate of blockbuster games ahead! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 18

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down some of the key matchups in Week 4. Can Florida bounce back and pull off an upset against No. 5 Miami? Will Jackson Arnold lead Auburn to victory in his return to Oklahoma? Plus, the guys dive into a Gameday wager that involved a DM to Tate McRae. All that and more on this episode of the College GameDay Podcast . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 15

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel dive into a packed week in college football, starting with UCLA and Virginia Tech's coaching shakeups. They also get into the weekend's messy kicking gaffes and wild fourth-downs. Then they debate whether it's finally time to buy into Texas A&M, and spotlight Georgia Tech's growing reputation as upset artists. Finally, Pete unpacks the mounting whispers about Mike Gundy's job security. 0:00 - Welcome 1:14 - UCLA & Virginia Tech clean house 7:43 - At Virginia Tech, who will choose the next coach? 10:58 - Can UCLA be fixed? 25:31 - A mess of kicking gaffes & huge 4th downs 30:08 - Time to believe in Texas A&M? 33:51 - Surprised? QBs who flopped vs carried 41:06 - Georgia Tech: Master of the upset? 49:09 - What happened when Boston College went to Stanford? 52:42 - Mike Gundy, the next coach to be fired? 58:00 - Diego Pavia forever Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 10

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel dig in on the mammoth matchup between two SEC powerhouses, the Georgia Bulldogs and Tennessee Volunteers. Then the guys breakdown two other Top 25 showdowns between Texas A&M and Notre Dame, and USF and Miami. Finally, Rece and Pete give their "6-Pack of Picks" from this week's slate of games. All that and more on the College Gameday podcast. 00:00 Welcome 00:36 Georgia vs Tennessee Preview 05:53 Joey Aguilar vs Gunner Stockton 12:49 Texas A&M vs Notre Dame Preview 14:59 Is There Enough Urgency at Notre Dame? 21:44 USF vs Miami Preview 26:31 Florida vs LSU Preview 30:00 Clemson's Saturday & The Wildest Game of the Weekend 32:13 Colorado vs Houston Preview 34:13 Rece and Pete's 6-Pack of Picks 48:23 Week 3 Deep Cut Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 8

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel kick things off by breaking down John Mateer’s performance at Oklahoma before sizing up the tough matchups that lie ahead for both Michigan and the Sooners. Then they zero in on Florida’s unraveling season, specifically the growing calls to replace Billy Napier and concerns about whether QB DJ Lagway might be the next domino to fall. From there, they turn their attention towards Mississippi State's blockbuster week and a certain Missouri fan who stole the Internet spotlight. 0:00 - Welcome 0:30 - BTS with GameDay…what could go wrong? 3:00 - Just how good is Oklahoma QB John Mateer? 6:57 - Michigan vs Oklahoma: Who has the tougher schedule? 13:21 - Sherrone Moore's return to Oklahoma falls short 21:20 - What's wrong with the Florida Gators? 32:05 - Mississippi State had the best week ever? 39:54 - That one Missouri fan, what you probably didn't know about them 43:12 - Fran Bran made his players sprint, was this the right call? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 4

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel react to TCU’s rout of North Carolina in Bill Belichick’s debut. How far can the Horned Frogs go this season? We preview the Top 25 showdown in Norman between Michigan and Oklahoma. Rece Davis reveals his Top 10 rankings heading into Week 2, and the guys give their “6-Pack of Picks” from this week’s slate of games. All that and more on the College GameDay podcast. 00:00 - Welcome 00:45 - TCU Dominates UNC in Belichick Debut 11:48 - Michigan vs. Oklahoma Preview 24:04 - Week 2 Games to keep an eye on 25:35 - Game Preview: Illinois vs Duke 30:36 - Game Preview: USF vs Florida 33:44 - Game Preview: Iowa vs Iowa State 36:37 - Game Preview: Kansas vs Missouri 40:20 - Rece Davis's CFB Rankings 47:08 - Rece and Pete's 6 pack of picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 1

Pete Thamel and ESPN’s Dan Wetzel take you behind the scenes of Lee Corso’s final College GameDay, then head to the sidelines for Ohio State–Texas and Arch Manning’s early struggles. From Alabama’s sudden vulnerability and LSU’s pressure-packed win to Tulane’s Katrina anniversary triumph and Mario Cristobal’s blueprint, the weekend delivered headline after headline. 0:00 - Welcome 4:06 - BTS of Lee Corso’s final College GameDay 6:59 - Ohio St vs Texas: Pete’s perspective from the sidelines 9:28 - What’s going on with Arch Manning? 23:28 - Open hunting season on Alabama after Florida St upset 28:30 - If not Kalen DeBoer at Alabama, then who? 34:58 - LSU handles pressure, beats Clemson 40:13 - Tulane beats Northwestern in NOLA on Hurricane Katrina anniversary 43:13 - Mario Cristobal’s winning blueprint against Notre Dame 48:01 - Now you know: Eyebrow raising college football headlines 53:40 - Nico’s rough UCLA start and other worthwhile games Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 28

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Dan Wetzel open with College GameDay’s farewell to Lee Corso before breaking down a loaded Week 1: Arch Manning vs. Ohio State, LSU–Clemson’s QB duel, Notre Dame–Miami, and Bill Belichick’s UNC debut. The question is, which game makes the first big statement? 0:00 - Welcome 0:43 - Lee Corso Forever: College GameDay’s Farewell 4:54 - Arch’s Run Game To Decide Ohio State-Texas? 19:05 - QB Battle Headlines LSU-Clemson Showdown 25:16 - Notre Dame vs Miami: Irish Without QB Run Threat 37:30 - Week 1’s Biggest Story Is Belichick’s Debut 39:31 - Game Previews: Alabama vs FSU, Utah vs UCLA, TCU vs UNC 47:42 - Game Previews: Syracuse vs Tennessee, Auburn vs Baylor 57:20 - Game Previews: Georgia Tech vs Colorado, Utah St vs UTEP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 25

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel open with a breakdown of Iowa State vs. Kansas State before shifting to the early storylines in the College Football Playoff race. They examine how Group of Five teams are positioning themselves, and what the ACC, SEC, and Big Ten paths to the postseason might look like. Finally, they turn to Week 1 matchups that could help set the tone for the season ahead. 0:00 - Welcome 3:55 - Key Thoughts: Iowa State vs Kansas State 12:05 - Who's In? Predicting the CFP Field 12:31 - Group of Five Race Heats Up: Navy, USF, Memphis… 18:49 - Big 12 Title & CFP Bid: Who Rises To The Top? 23:07 - Which Team Is The ACC Favorite? 23:44 - Who Take The SEC Crown? 25:27 - CFP Most Stacked Roster & Big Ten Favorite Is… 27:20 - Predictions: Seeding The Champs & At-Large Bids 34:06 - Who Snags The Final CFP Spot? 39:03 - Flaws In The 24- Or 28-Team CFP Proposal 44:15 - Week 1 Games To Look Forward To Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 21

Rece Davis and ESPN senior writers Dan Wetzel and Ryan McGee break down Iowa State vs. Kansas State, a Week 0 showdown with Big 12 and CFP stakes on the line. They dive into the X-factors that could swing the game, make their picks, and then turn to quarterback drama across the country, from Notre Dame’s starter to Ohio State’s choice to Auburn’s wild three-man plan. Finally, the crew tackles Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal and the big question: was the punishment enough? 0:00 - Welcome 1:48 - Iowa St vs Kansas St: Dublin has pints ready 10:37 - Iowa St vs Kansas St: Big 12 conference & CFP stakes 21:01- Iowa St vs Kansas St: The X Factor 23:56 - Iowa St vs Kansas St: The guys make their picks! 28:18 - Notre Dame's starting QB, did they pick the right guy? 43:35 - Ohio State's starting QB is… 45:21 - Auburn is starting 3 QBs… Are they okay? 53:08 - Michigan fined in sign-stealing scandal, what should've happened… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 18

Rece Davis, ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel, and former Wake Forest coach Dave Clawson dive into what to expect from the ACC this season. Can Clemson claim the conference crown, has Carson Beck won over the Miami locker room, do you dare doubt Louisville, and is Georgia Tech ready to slay giants once again? Add in SMU’s tougher schedule, Bill Belichick’s arrival at North Carolina, and a pack of sleepers, and you've got one unpredictable season ahead. 0:00 - Welcome 1:43 - Clemson has the tools, can they win a title? 6:43 - Miami locker room all in on Carson Beck? 11:50 - SMU’s tougher 2025-26 schedule 15:16 - Dare to bet against Louisville? 17:53 - Georgia Tech to keep slaying ranked teams? 20:46 - Belichick to bring a title to North Carolina? 26:47 - ACC sleepers that could crash the title game 31:52 - ACC check-in: Duke, Florida St, NC State 43:24 - ACC check-in: Syracuse, Virginia Tech, Virginia 58:48 - ACC preview: Total wild card teams Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 13

Rece Davis and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel dive into the wide-open Big 12 chase. From heavyweight contenders to sneaky upstarts, they spotlight two teams poised to set the early tone, explore how Utah and Texas Tech could crash the Big 12 title game, and examine how the league’s middle tier could shake things up. 0:00 - Welcome 5:25 - Who are the Big 12 title contenders? 10:56 - Two Big 12 teams to watch at the top of the season 19:01 - Utah and Texas Tech to make the playoff? 23:35 - Big 12 mid-pack teams making moves 39:04 - Picks for Big 12 title run, champ, and CFP bid 42:04 - Big 12 teams fighting to get out of the cellar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 6

Rece Davis and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel take a wide-angle look at the SEC, opening with title contenders before zeroing in on a jam-packed CFP bubble. They break down which playoff hopefuls are worth the hype and which ones could be headed for a letdown. Plus, they tackle the big question: just how many SEC teams can realistically make the playoff cut? 0:00 - Welcome 1:27 - Bring on the preseason data deep dives 3:54 - The SEC is stacked with CFP bubble teams 9:39 - SEC frontrunners with big questions looming 19:46 - SEC playoff hopefuls: Who to buy/bail on? 29:49 - How many SEC teams will make the playoff? 31:36 - Other SEC teams worth your attention 42:36 - SEC championship: Who's built to win? 43:52 - Who's got a better ride than Gunner Stockton? 46:43 - Who's got the best car on GameDay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 30

Rece Davis and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel dive into the Big Ten title chase, asking the question: Can Penn State finally go the distance? As Ohio State navigates a high-stakes quarterback battle and Oregon reloads under Dan Lanning, Illinois is looking to reverse its luck in one-possession games. Meanwhile, sleeper teams like Nebraska, USC, and Iowa are quietly making noise… setting the stage for a season full of surprises. 00:00 - Welcome 1:53 - The Big Ten true title contenders are… 5:57 - Is Penn St a lock to win the Natty? 9:06 - Which QB will lead the Ohio St Buckeyes? 14:17 - Has Ohio St gone too far vs Michigan? 22:10 - Oregon reloaded with the right players? 28:05 - One-possession games to break Illinois’ way? 30:20 - Big Ten sleepers: Nebraska and Michigan 38:59 - Big Ten sleepers: USC and Indiana 49:05 - Big Ten sleeper: Iowa 54:10 - Who’s still figuring it out in the Big Ten? 1:03:19 - What you need to know about the college sports executive order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 24

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel kick things off with a trivia question: how many true freshman QBs have ever led their teams to 10+ wins? That sparks a deep dive into this season’s most compelling quarterback battles… from Ohio State’s high-stakes decision to Notre Dame’s brutal schedule to the uncertainty swirling at Alabama and Colorado. But as teams weigh their options under center, one bigger question hangs over it all: is the 12-team playoff the final answer… or just the next chapter in college football’s evolution? 0:00 - Intro 2:21 - Trivia: Name true freshmen QBs who've won 10+ games 6:28 - Trivia: Name redshirt freshmen QBs who've won 10+ games 17:34 - QB races: Who's ready to break away this fall 22:13 - Ohio State QB: Who starts vs Texas and Michigan? 34:04 - Notre Dame's future QB faces tough schedule 45:00 - QB battles at… Colorado, Alabama, Oregon 53:59 - Which teams will ride one QB? Which ones will rotate? 56:49 - Will the college football playoff stay at 12 teams? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 16

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down this year’s SEC Media Days, where the spotlight was bright, but the drama was dull compared to the heat of the 1990s. The real fireworks may be coming in Week 1. With heavyweight matchups like Texas–Ohio State and LSU–Clemson on deck, the guys predict how the headlines might read when the dust settles. Plus, ESPN’s Bill Connelly drops by to share insights from 'Forward Progress', a new must-read guide for every college football fan. 1:00 - SEC media days: Big stage, no heat 3:26 - SEC media days in the 1990s: Plenty of unfiltered feuds 13:02 - Is Ole Miss QB Austin Simmons an SEC game-changer? 19:26 - Is the SEC the deepest conference? 24:29 - Forecasting big outcomes for Week 1 31:36 - Texas vs Ohio State: Potential headlines 37:31 - Alabama vs Florida State: Potential headlines 38:31 - LSU vs Clemson: Potential headlines 42:26 - Steve Sarkisian: What you might not know 43:49 - Kenny Dillingham: What you might not know 46:05 - The go-to college football guide: Forward Progress 50:09 - CFP or the regular season: What's better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 10

Pete Thamel and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel dig into the latest from Big 12 Media Days, where one of the biggest headlines is the conference’s decision to scrap its preseason poll. Why did they do it? In response, the guys put together a poll of their own, predicting who will rise, fall, and crash the conference title race. Then they turn to Texas Tech’s aggressive offseason spending: will the Red Raiders’ high-stakes strategy pay off, and is this the new blueprint for building a contender? 1:15 - Why did the Big 12 cancel its preseason poll? 3:47 - Utah and Arizona State to win the Big 12? 6:54 - Big 12 sleepers: Cincinnati and Iowa State 10:09 - Oklahoma State and Arizona to finish last in Big 12? 13:45 - Texas Tech big money roster moves 27:11 - Colorado QB battle: Who will lead the Buffs? 31:41 - UCF Scott Frost: Nebraska was not the right job 40:13 - Is Hugh Freeze playing too much golf? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 25

Rece Davis and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel dive into college football’s wild evolution—unpacking the blunders of the BCS, the mounting pressure on the playoff committee, and the lengths coaches will go to chase a title. They also break down a historic NIL lawsuit shaking up the system and expose the murky world of tampering. 0:00 - BCS blunders: Where the old system went wrong 8:52 - CFP committee: Their toughest test 13:40 - The price of the playoff: How far will coaches go? 19:42 - Historic NIL case unfolds: Wisconsin vs Miami 26:52 - How does the NCAA actually police tampering? 29:36 - College Baseball World Series controversy 37:00 - Is Arch Manning really that good? 40:21 - CFB stock watch: Contenders and concerns 48:38 - No city does Fourth of July like… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 18

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham, to talk about rising expectations for the Sun Devils heading into the 2025 season. Can ASU be more than a flash in the pan? How does Dillingham keep his team from reading their own headlines? And where is the ceiling for quarterback Sam Leavitt? Then, after a realignment chat, Rece and Pete take you through their list of the top 5 quarterbacks for the upcoming season. 0:00 – Welcome and introducing Kenny Dillingham 01:33 – When did you know Sam Leavitt was the guy? 02:40 – Sam Leavitt’s journey to Arizona State 04:23 – Keeping Sam Leavitt balanced 12:14 – Keeping momentum from year to year 14:58 – Lessons from the BYU game 21:08 – Where does the Big XII stack up against the SEC and Big Ten 24:07 – Replacing Cam Skattebo 27:16 – CFB realignment intel 36:19 – Rece & Pete’s Top 5 QBs for the ’25 CFB season 56:04 – Rece & Pete’s sleeper QBs for the ’25 CFB season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 10

On June 6th, Judge Claudia Wilken approved a deal between the NCAA, its most powerful conferences, and lawyers representing all Division I athletes. Paving the way for schools to pay players directly for the first time. This landmark moment seems poised to change the landscape of college athletics, especially NCAA football. Rece Davis and Pete Thamel breakdown what we know right now, what the hurdles in the road could be, and discuss whether or not coaches and administrators will be able to follow the rules, now that the rules are clear. Then LSU head coach Brian Kelly joins the show for an exclusive sit down with the College GameDay podcast. 00:00:00 - Judge OK’s $2.8 billion dollar settlement 00:06:22 - Now that the rules are clear, will coaches play fair? 00:18:50 - Brian Kelly joins the show 00:25:03 - Brian Kelly on season opener at Clemson 00:28:15 - Harold Perkins and Whit Weeks health updates 00:31:17 - Garrett Nussmeier season expectations 00:34:42 - Garrett Nussmeier NFL Draft prospect 00:36:54 - How good is the LSU supporting cast on offense 00:39:12 - Brian Kelly on adjusting to LSU 00:42:20 - Brian Kelly on CFP seeding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 4

Pete Thamel and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel break down the SEC’s push to have its grueling schedule factor more heavily into the College Football Playoff. They dive into whether the new 5+11 format truly rewards the best teams, especially with strength of schedule still a murky metric. The duo also weighs in on the uncertain future of the USC–Notre Dame rivalry, growing frustration from Ohio State fans over noon kickoffs, and Michigan’s looming NCAA meeting in the Connor Stalions case. Then, Alabama star Ryan Williams joins the show to talk EA SPORTS College Football 26, training with DeVonta Smith, and his bond with coach Kalen DeBoer. 04:33 - SEC gauntlet schedule deserves CFP reform 07:15 - Will the CFP 5 + 11 playoff format deliver? 16:21 - The State of the USC-Notre Dame rivalry 18:06 - Why USC-Notre Dame Matters in 2025 20:28 - Ohio State fans are over Noon kickoffs 28:49 - Michigan Connor Stalions update 37:38 - Alabama’s Ryan Williams CFB 26 cover star 39:35 - Inside Ryan Williams CFB 26 cover shoot 44:28 - Ryan Williams on training with DeVonta Smith 55:22 - Ryan Williams interview reaction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 29

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel explore the potential future of the College Football Playoff format heading into 2026. They delve into the possibility of expanding to a 16-team playoff and discuss the SEC’s openness to participating in a broader format. Also on the pod, Rece Davis sits down for an exclusive one-on-one interview with Dabo Swinney and Bill Belichick. Together, they reflect on the evolving landscape of NCAA football, sharing insights into their coaching philosophies, key influences, and distinctive coaching styles. The conversation also highlights how both coaches are adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the college football world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 20

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Duke head coach Manny Diaz! From detailing his aggressive portal strategy to landing quarterback Darian Mensah, to navigating a tough schedule and fueling the storied UNC rivalry, Diaz lays out his blueprint for building a winning culture. He speaks candidly about the trait he sees in championship teams, the rising support for Duke football, and even offers advice to his former colleagues at ESPN. 0:00 - Manny Diaz on Duke's competitive advantage 3:35 - Manny Diaz talks portal strategy and QB Darian Mensah 13:35 - Duke's demanding schedule 19:56 - The trait that leads to wins 24:12 - Manny Diaz on the support for Duke football 28:01 - The Duke-North Carolina rivalry 32:26 - Manny Diaz shares some advice to those at ESPN 37:53 - Duke's potential pathway to the CFP 40:37 - 16-team CFP coming in 2026? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 14

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel dive into the spotlight surrounding Bill Belichick, including his one-hour sitdown with Rece and Dabo Swinney. Rece unpacks the dynamic between the two coaches, Belichick’s presence at the ACC meetings, and their deep football talk—from rugby punts to NFL minds in the college game. Pete shares his latest scouting notes on rising college football talent, while the duo also hits on Miami’s QB outlook, the viability of a new rules committee, and one wild idea: could College GameDay actually end up at the Vatican? 0:00 - Belichick looms large at ACC meetings 2:25 - Belichick and Dabo sit down for one-hour interview 6:35 - Belichick and UNC: What’s real, what’s rumor? 13:10 - The moment Belichick called himself a rookie 16:10 - Belichick and Dabo talk ball 24:03 - Latest on Miami QB Carson Beck 25:22 - On Pete’s radar: College football prospects 33:55 - A new committee to enforce rules - Will it works? 43:27 - Get College GameDay to the Vatican? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 7

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel kick things off with the latest on Michigan’s Sherrone Moore, who’s expected to serve a two-game suspension. Then they zoom out to tackle a pressing question across college football: are schools really spending $35 to $40 million on their rosters? Later, Rich Rodriguez joins the show to reflect on his impact on the modern offense, his return to West Virginia, and the what-if scenario involving Terrelle Pryor. 0:00 - Two-game ban expected for Michigan coach Sherrone Moore 10:21 - Are schools really spending $35M - $40M on their rosters? 15:36 - Jared Curtis, top 2026 quarterback, commits to Georgia 21:06 - Rich Rod on his role in offensive evolution 26:14 - Rich Rod on some notable WVU staff faces 29:40 - Rich Rod on the journey back to West Virginia 33:29 - Could Terrelle Pryor have been a mountaineer? 41:09 - Rich Rod on Pat McAfee's career at WVU 44:15 - Rich Rod looks towards next season's Backyard Brawl rivalry game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 30

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down the biggest moments from the NFL Draft—both on camera and behind the scenes. Then they're joined by Ohio State’s national championship-winning head coach Ryan Day, who gives a glimpse into life beyond the sidelines: from his ties to Jimmy Fallon and Adam Sandler, to watching his players go pro, to navigating recruiting as a dad alongside his son. He also weighs in on Ohio State’s looming quarterback battle and what to expect in their high-stakes opener against Texas. 0:00 - What happened off-air at the NFL draft 6:23 - Rece Davis' and Mel Kiper's heated exchange on Shedeur Sanders 16:36 - Ryan Day on watching his players get drafted 25:04 - Ryan Day shares his ties to Jimmy Fallon and Adam Sandler 28:40 - Ryan Day gives a glimpse of his recruiting pitch 30:24 - How Ryan Day coaches players making big NIL money 35:22 - Why Ryan Day favors one transfer portal window 40:21 - Ryan Day on what it's like recruiting with his son 43:02 - Who will be the Buckeyes' starting QB? 44:08 - How will Ohio State vs Texas in week one play out? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 21

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down the lingering questions surrounding Nico Iamaleava—did he leave Tennessee too soon, prioritizing financial opportunity over development? Is UCLA truly committed to him? And can he work his way into future NFL Draft conversations? Then, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst and Insider Matt Miller joins to spotlight the player everyone’s talking about: Jalon Walker. He also weighs in on how Travis Hunter’s game will translate to the NFL and where Shedeur Sanders might land if he isn’t taken at No. 3. To close the show, the guys pay tribute to Lee Corso and his legendary 38-year run on College GameDay. 0:00 - Nico Iamaleava should've prioritized development 9:26 - Will Nico make it into NFL draft conversations? 12:55 - How committed is UCLA to Nico? 17:06 - Why NFL draft Day 3 matters 20:29 - The NFL draft heats up at pick number… 26:55 - Why everyone's favorite player at the NFL draft is Jalon Walker 30:41 - Which part of Travis Hunter's game will be used in the NFL? 32:07 - If Shedeur Sanders doesn't get picked at No. 3, when will he go? 36:02 - Are the Titans making a mistake taking Cam Ward at No. 1? 46:28 - Unforgettable Lee Corso moments before he retires Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 16

Rece Davis and ESPN National Recruiting Director Tom Luginbill dive into the ongoing saga of Nico Iamaleava — from his NIL-first approach in high school to the unraveling of his relationship with Tennessee. They explore the big question: where does Nico go next — North Carolina? UCLA? Later, ESPN senior writer Heather Dinich joins to discuss who should be held accountable for creating a sustainable framework for player compensation. Wrapping up the episode, ESPN College Football Reporter Dave Wilson checks in from Texas to reflect on the legacy of RC Slocum at Texas A&M — a coach who, despite being fired, continues to stand by the Aggies. 0:00 - Former Cal RB Jaydn Ott transfers to Oklahoma 3:16 - Unraveling the Nico Iamaleava saga 5:14 - No surprise now, Nico prioritized NIL during high school recruitment 7:23 - Is Nico a fit for Belichick at North Carolina? 10:37 - UCLA to take a swing and get Nico? 17:28 - Is Nico grown enough to call the shots? 23:30 - Heather Dinich's sleeper picks - Florida & Illinois! 25:15 - The coach who shaped Texas A&M: RC Slocum 28:52 - RC Slocum was fired but still roots for the Aggies 34:11 - Why can't the Aggies win consistently? 38:21 - How far will Mike Elko take Texas A&M this year? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 11

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly, creator of the SP+ ranking, discuss the rise of Arch Manning as he takes the reins at Texas. Will the fan love last—or is he destined for backlash, like other rising stars? The crew also breaks down this season’s elite quarterback contenders, asking: who’s in line for the QB1 crown—Penn State’s Drew Allar or LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier? Meanwhile, Ohio State and Purdue are in flux, with sweeping roster and staff overhauls underway. With the transfer portal about to swing open, both programs are ready to steady their ships this offseason. 0:00 - Texas QB Arch Manning to be the next college football villain? 11:52 - Early preseason No. 1 team pick: Clemson 17:41 - Penn State QB Drew Allar on track for No. 1 spot in 2026 NFL Draft? 20:52 - Ohio State's major roster and staff changes 31:02 - New coach Barry Odom begins Purdue rebuild 38:08 - Spring buzz on Ole Miss QB Austin Simmons 39:58 - Spring buzz on Oklahoma coach Brent Venables 40:49 - Spring buzz on Alabama's unknown starting quarterback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 5

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, discuss the final possession of the NCAA title game - How Florida, chaotic and unpolished throughout the tournament, leaned on depth, resilience, and opportunity to survive Houston’s relentless pressure. 0:00 - How the NCAA title game unfolded 3:55 - Todd Golden vs Kelvin Sampson 6:19 - Is Florida a new blue blood hoops school? 7:16 - Florida navigates season under Title IX probe 9:00 - All that stood between Houston and the title 11:19 - A closer look at the last four possessions 13:26 - Raw postgame images from each locker room 19:35 - This Final Four is what the tourney deserved 21:08 - Todd Golden is a rising star, has an analytics edge 24:57 - Walter Clayton Jr: Final Four Most Outstanding Player 27:29 - College hoops over NBA - A growing trend? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 2

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down a defining week for Stanford football. The program hired Frank Reich, signaling a clear embrace of an NFL-style identity—but that move raises big questions, especially around recruiting and whether Andrew Luck, now Stanford’s general manager, can convince Reich to stay beyond one season. If he can’t, then who steps in next? Out in Colorado, Deion Sanders grabs headlines with a $54 million extension. The next big question: Can he keep the Buffaloes competitive in the Big 12? 1:58 - Stanford hires Frank Reich, embraces NFL identity 6:03 - Stanford's recruiting challenge 8:25 - Reich's historic comeback game with Maryland Terrapins 10:23 - How many schools will adopt the GM model? 13:53 - Stanford's split with Troy Taylor was unavoidable 16:10 - Stanford's next coach: Who is a good fit? 23:16 - Deion Sanders lands $54 million extension 30:51 - The art and chaos of picking a perfect bracket 35:43 - The dread and pain of a game-turning rewrite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 31

Sam Ravech, host of Countdown to GameDay on the ESPN YouTube channel, and Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, discuss the powerhouse teams hungry to take on Duke—or at least eager to see the Blue Devils fall—as the NCAA Tournament title game approaches. Off the court, more drama unfolds as the transfer portal swells with players, raising the question: should the portal window be pushed until after the tournament ends? Meanwhile, one coach in particular has drawn the ire of Maryland fans: Kevin Willard, who made a high-profile exit for Villanova. How did it all unfold—and what did it cost the Wildcats? 0:00 - The clear cut top 4 teams chasing the NCAA Tourney crown 6:33 - Wave of players hit the transfer portal 8:43 - Why not move the portal past the NCAA Tourney title game? 12:21 - The current transfer portal window forces rushed decisions 19:11 - Duke's biggest threat is Houston 24:00 - SEC to end their 12-year title drought? 28:30 - How Coach Kelvin Sampson completely transformed Houston 34:44 - Michigan State's costly mistake against Auburn 38:55 - How Coach Kevin Willard's exit from Maryland unfolded 43:18 - What it cost Villanova to land Kevin Willard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 26

Rece Davis and ESPN Radio's Ian Fitzsimmons discuss, is a Colorado vs Syracuse spring game a genius move or not? They think it's worthwhile. They're also keenly aware of the conversations surrounding players being poached for the spring transfer portal. To this, Rece says maybe it's time for programs to put their players under contract. This leads to a discussion on the transfer portal, and if it's needed at all and if players should have the same freedom to move as coaches do. Is it even possible to keep an entire roster and coach on the same team for a whole season? 0:00 - Is it okay for sideline reporters to wear sneakers? 4:03 - Keep the best teams in the postseason 15:41 - Colorado vs Syracuse spring game - hit or miss? 23:13 - Is it time to institute player contracts? 26:50 - Fair for players to face transfer portal limits while coaches don't? 29:31 - Possible to get players and coaches to stick with programs a full season? 39:04 - The must-watch team to watch this spring - who ya got? 42:24 - The best sushi - try Tuscaloosa, Alabama Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 24

Pete Thamel and Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, discuss how the NCAA Tournament is transforming—and if this is really for the better. The SEC's 14 teams in the field edged out mid-major teams which led to chalk in the first and second round. Is this what kills the domino of upsets and Cinderella runs everyone is so used to? Also, what happens to the Big East? Will their teams secure spots among the power conferences? As of right, BYU is turning heads and grabbing headlines. Do they have a chance to win a tourney title and why do they have lofty expectations for the next few years to come? 0:00 - Why chalk is okay in the first and second rounds 5:10 - Did the SEC deserve 14 teams in the tournament? 14:45 - Is there room for the Big East alongside the SEC and Big Ten? 21:03 - Why BYU will top headlines in the coming years 25:08 - How BYU signed future NBA star AJ Dybantsa 28:48 - The Rick Pitino - John Calipari rivalry 33:58 - Why did Rick Pitino bench RJ Luis? 39:32 - The two Sweet 16 matchups to watch 40:59 - Maryland head coach Kevin Willard to Villanova? 49:30 - The ACC's most interesting head coach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17

Pete Thamel, Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, & Bill Connelly, ESPN writer, discuss the traps in the Midwest Region! Houston may be a top seed, but a showdown with Gonzaga looms large. Also in the region are McNeese and High Point, who are eyeing Cinderella runs that could shake up the bracket. Kentucky, the No. 3 seed, has stumbled into March looking anything but steady, and Tennessee’s coach is looking to rewrite history for himself. The guys end their tournament bracket preview by unveiling who they think will fill the Final Four spots. 0:00 - Houston's brutal second round matchup against Gonzaga 3:52 - McNeese & High Point could be potential upset picks 5:48 - Kentucky, the No. 3 seed, looked disheveled the past couple of weeks 10:15 - UCLA vs. Utah St: Two big brands meet in the first round 12:07 - Tennessee's coach has a tortured NCAA Tournament history 14:19 - Jeff Borzello's Final Four picks 16:05 - Bill Connelly's Final Four picks 17:05 - Pete Thamel's Final Four picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17

Pete Thamel, Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, & Bill Connelly, ESPN writer, discuss the battlefield that is the West Region. UConn’s Dan Hurley is eyeing a massive upset over No. 1 seed Florida, while Oklahoma’s NBA-bound star is ready to step into the spotlight. Colorado State sees a clear path forward, but may stumble to Texas Tech or St. John's. With so many top contenders colliding, which team will make emerge and advance to the Final Four? 0:00 - What makes the West Region a gauntlet? 5:06 - UConn's Dan Hurley to upset Florida, the No. 1 seed? 13:16 - Oklahoma's coveted NBA prospect 14:46 - Colorado State's favorable pathway 16:37 - Drake's strategy is to run down the shot clock, will it work? 20:08 - Maryland ready to go on a run, can they get to the Elite Eight? 23:37 - Texas & St. John's are heavyweights in the West Region 25:37 - Why Kansas vs. Arkansas is a spicy matchup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17

Pete Thamel, Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, & Bill Connelly, ESPN writer, discuss the East Region - the NCAA Tournament's biggest offensive powerhouse. BYU is ready to light up anyone in their path, but VCU lurks as a defensive force capable of shutting down the best. The guys also dive into Arizona’s star player that might be able to carry the team and if Duke can survive without Cooper Flagg. 0:00 - East region: The tourney's offensive powerhouse 2:02 - BYU: The elite scoring team 3:08 - VCU plays some of the best defense in the region 3:55 - Alabama isn't as tough as you think 5:00 - Why Oregon lost their way this season 6:30 - How college ball is evolving 11:30 - Baylor has been bit by the injury bug 14:22 - Arizona has the most enigmatic player in the country 17:02 - Can Akron's coach lead his team to upset Arizona? 22:26 - How long can Duke go without Cooper Flagg? 23:57 - Why Montana doesn't stand a chance 25:37 - Saint Mary's is an anomaly this season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17

Pete Thamel, Jeff Borzello, ESPN college basketball insider, & Bill Connelly, ESPN writer dive into their first gut reactions to the field, from Auburn’s No. 1 seed in the South Region to UC San Diego surging in with momentum. Plus, they break down key first-round matchups like Marquette vs. New Mexico and Louisville vs. Creighton, and debate how far teams like Yale and Michigan State can really go. 0:00 - Initial gut reactions to the tourney bracket 10:09 - Auburn: The number one seed in the south region 10:27 - UC San Diego entering the tourney with momentum 12:07 - Iowa State likely out after major player injury? 14:43 - Fun matchup: Marquette vs. New Mexico 15:46 - How far can Yale go? 18:00 - Spicy close matchup: Louisville vs. Creighton 19:28 - Michigan St: A chalky pick 22:05 - No. 1 seed Auburn doesn’t have a history of winning 24:00 - Should the SEC have 14 teams in the tourney? 27:16 - Preview: First Four play-in games Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 12

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & ESPN writer Bill Connelly discuss Bowling Green's splashy offseason move by hiring Eddie George as their new head football coach - It's also a big win for the Mid-American Conference whose offseason has seen other coaches and players leave for greener pastures. The guys also look at early storylines for next season. Is Clemson back? Are they a top five team right now? Will Notre Dame's new roster get them to the College Football Playoff? Who will lead the charge at the quarterback position, Steve Angeli or CJ Carr? 0:00 - Why eyes are on Eddie George at Bowling Green 2:22 - The two emerging head coach hiring trends 6:10 - The talented coaches & players leaving the MAC 13:41 - The MAC rivalry you may not know about 14:19 - A way-too-early CFP scenario prediction 19:17 - Will Clemson be a top five team next season? 21:26 - In a 14-team CFP, what is the 4-4-2-2-1-1 model? 36:39 - How will head coach Marcus Freeman reset Notre Dame? 40:38 - Who will be Notre Dame's starting quarterback be next season? 42:23 - How is Rece on EA Sports CFB 25 Dynasty Mode? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 5

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the bitter standoff between the ACC, Florida State, and Clemson that threatened to fracture the conference. Now that a settlement has emerged, they get into what it entails and if it's sustainable through 2030. Then, Field Yates, NFL Draft analyst joins the pod! He attended the NFL Combine and shares which players he thinks put on a standout performance and the possible hits Will Howard's and Shedeur Sanders' draft stock took. 0:00 - Why were the ACC, Florida State & Clemson at odds? 6:13 - How big of a deal is the ACC, FSU, Clemson settlement? 10:20 - How much revenue will be paid to players? 13:22 - What will college football look like in 2030? 15:39 - Will streaming services want to broadcast games? 18:18 - The best way to watch the NCAA Tournament 21:12 - How good are AI chat bots at NCAA Tourney trivia? 23:27 - Why teams will overthink DL Mason Graham 25:17 - The NFL draft difference makers outside the top 10 30:30 - Will Howard’s poor performance at the NFL Combine 35:26 - Did Shedeur Sanders shoot down his NFL draft stock? 39:54 - Field Yates’ near altercation at the NFL Combine 44:20 - Should teams be charged a timeout for faked injuries? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 26

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & Matt Miller, NFL draft insider discuss the quarterback class lacking surefire stars and how this could potentially create volatility in the draft order. Specifically, they get into Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders who flashed toughness and precision throughout the season yet still needs the right team to believe in him. They also look at Travis Hunter, a two-way talent. Will he stick with the cornerback position, where great players are scarce, or chase the money at wide receiver? Finally, they evaluate some familiar-named quarterbacks expected to go in the latter rounds. Could one rise up to be an NFL star? 0:00 - Why college spring games could disappear 7:21 - What is the depth level of the 2025 NFL draft class? 9:52 - Will Travis Hunter play both ways in the NFL? 16:56 - The player to NOT be blindsided on 18:17 - Could QB Shedeur Sanders fall out of the top 10 draft picks? 24:23 - Pros & cons about QB Cam Ward 26:40 - Where will QBs Quinn Ewers, Jalen Milroe, Dillon Gabriel land in the draft? 31:00 - What kind of NIL deals do players at smaller schools have? 32:50 - Besides NIL, the highest currency in college football is… 36:37 - The best time to be a college free agent 38:00 - Where to find NIL data on schools? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 18

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the meeting of power brokers in New Orleans and how the decisions from this event could shift the balance of power in the sport. Will this lead to a future SEC and Big Ten partnership? If so, can the Big 12 and ACC level up their teams enough to remain in the sphere of relevance? Meanwhile, in basketball, the NCAA Tournament could expand to 76 teams. The guys get into how this doesn't just benefit teams at the top but is also transformative to those who can break through and get into the field. 0:00 - Should the SEC teams play 8, 9, or 10 conference games? 6:21 - What’s the best way to get more eyes on college football? 12:18 - Will the SEC & Big Ten form a future partnership? 15:48 - Why the current peace in college football won’t last 22:38 - The Big 12 & ACC need to bring the pressure 32:24 - Why expand the NCAA hoops tourney to 76 teams? 40:20 - The hoops tourney expansion primary positive effect 43:28 - Why QB John Mateer to Oklahoma is interesting 45:55 - Can QB Miller Moss sneak Louisville into the CFP? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 12

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss why former Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles could be the missing piece that pushes Penn State to win a national title. Also, they say Clemson is flying under the radar when they shouldn't be. The guys bring out all the details on how Clemson leveled up. Then, ESPN national recruiting reporter Eli Lederman joins the pod to talk North Carolina, specifically how Bill Belichick has yet to put together a star-studded roster. Finally, Rece and Pete get into the underrated basketball history at Auburn and Alabama, and why you should have eyes on that Saturday matchup! 0:00 - Which Ohio State coaches are out? 5:00 - Penn State to win a title with DC Jim Knowles? 8:00 - Why you shouldn't sleep on Clemson right now 10:53 - Is Texas the number one team going into next season? 13:41 - What to expect from the College Football Playoff meetings 20:30 - Did Belichick recruit any high school stars for UNC? 23:27 - Who did Belichick bring in from the transfer portal? 32:15 - What you need to know about UNC quarterback Bryce Baker 35:00 - Why Auburn vs Alabama is a blockbuster college basketball game 45:30 - Rece's first-ever concert was with Elvis Presley? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 22

Rece Davis and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, take a birds eye view of the first year of the 12-team playoff and discuss the concerns they have from both the regular season and the postseason. Moreover, they get into the broader topic of college player professionalization and how they see that moving forward. Then they touch on the best stories that caught their eye and the stories coming this fall. The pod has a survey! Fill it out to contribute your thoughts on how the pod went this season: https://forms.gle/UHFg4idbbA5q7SHFA 0:00 - Welcome 1:50 - CFP National Championship recap with Ryan McGee 15:28 - What fixes should be made to the 12-team playoff? 19:30 - How should conference disparity be addressed? 27:30 - How should college player professionalization be addressed? 34:43 - How to differentiate college football from the NFL? 40:24 - The best parts of the regular season 45:10 - What to look forward to next season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 21

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Harry Lyles Jr., host of "Countdown to GameDay" on the ESPN College Football YouTube channel, discuss the adversity Ohio State overcame to win the College Football Playoff National Championship, the end of the narrative about Ryan Day's job being at stake, Notre Dame's promising future and more! 0:00 - Ohio State claims 7th national title 2:41 - Ohio State coach Ryan Day's gutsy call 4:34 - Did Notre Dame respond correctly on third-and-11? 5:39 - Ohio State's formula to secure the win 7:28 - What will Notre Dame's roster look like next season? 11:25 - The narrative that's been put to rest 12:20 - What's in store for Ohio State next season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 14

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Notre Dame's resiliency, the path to outlasting Ohio State, and how a national title will affect each coach in the eyes of their programs and fans. Then, Indiana Coach Curt Cignetti joins! He breaks down what he's seen from both Notre Dame and Indiana when he played them this past season. He also talks about how quarterback Kurtis Rourke played an entire season on a torn ACL, how he's rebuilding Indiana, and what to expect from their new quarterback! 0:00 - How Notre Dame has found ways to win 5:00 - The lore around Notre Dame 9:00 - How to deal with Ohio State's offensive line 12:37 - Ohio State fans fully embracing Coach Ryan Day? 18:11 - Notre Dame vs. Ohio State: Previous matchups 23:29 - National Championship game predictions 30:23 - Indiana coach Curt Cignetti joins! 31:00 - Cignetti on this year's transfer portal 32:44 - Kurtis Rourke played an entire season on a torn ACL? 34:00 - Cignetti on signing ex-Cal QB Fernando Mendoza 35:53 - Cignetti breaks down how the title game will go down Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 11

Rece Davis and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss the moment when Texas could've turned the tide of the game, Texas' future with Arch Manning, Jack Sawyer's unyielding loyalty and impeccable leadership with the Buckeyes, and If Notre Dame can keep the national title game close against Ohio State. 0:00 - Ohio State's soul killing plays 4:57 - Ohio State vs Texas: Who had the better regular season? 6:30 - Ohio State Jack Sawyer's scoop-and-score 9:09 - The person that bleeds buckeyes from their veins and their soul 11:16 - Is Texas close to eventually winning a national title? 15:20 - Notre Dame to put up a fight against Ohio State in national title game? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 6

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the 54 seconds of football that changed Notre Dame's program, the eyebrow raising injuries for both Notre Dame and Penn State, the gauntlet Ohio State is in to get to the national title game and their next mammoth matchup against Texas, the transfer portal moves that caught Pete's eye, and more! 0:00 - A day dedicated to a notable Notre Dame coach 1:00 - The semifinals matchups everyone wanted? 4:26 - Notre Dame's crucial 54 seconds against Georgia 8:48 - Can Notre Dame run their punt team off the field before a play? 12:22 - The Big Ten's dominant season + a note about the top conference debate 22:19 - Penn State & Notre Dame key injury updates 27:02 - Penn State & Notre Dame storylines you may not know 30:23 - The team to take down Ohio State 34:57 - Texas' major execution issues 41:29 - The most interesting transfer portal moves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 2

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Ohio State's bludgeoning of Oregon, the person they caught wearing a Cheshire Cat grin at the end of the game, the rivalry between two coaches that they've picked up on, the mess of the Texas - Arizona State game, what Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman's said to his team following the Sugar Bowl's postponement, and more. 0:00 - Unbelievable Ohio State stat of the night 5:00 - Which Ohio State Buckeye stunned Oregon? 5:47 - Ohio State mindset that pushed them to a win 9:00 - Texas was playing with their food? 11:42 - Why Arizona State deserves their flowers 16:52 - The trend for Big 12 teams after they reach the top 18:46 - What Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman said about the truck attack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 31, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly, creator of the SP+ college football ranking system, discuss the adjustments teams need to make to push through to the semifinals. In between, they talk about the obnoxious team they can't wait to watch, the section of the bracket they view as a dogged cage match, the unfair assessment of Ohio State's quarterback, how risky Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman will be, the biggest threat to the Sugar Bowl winner and more! 1:58 The toughest section of the playoff bracket 5:33 How teams are prepping for the Rose Bowl 12:02 Fair to criticize Ohio State's Will Howard? 18:20 Did Oregon previously overachieve against Ohio State? 21:52 What NFL scouts expect from the Sugar Bowl 26:39 Gunner Stockton auditions for Georgia starting QB role 32:21 The stakes for Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman 35:18 Will Georgia's title-winning character pull them through? 38:46 Who is the Peach Bowl underdog yapper? 40:42 The best non-Indiana story goes to… 47:50 Can Penn State continue their undefeated streak in the Fiesta Bowl? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 23, 2024

Pete Thamel, Harry Lyles, host of "Countdown to GameDay" on the ESPN College Football YouTube channel, and Heather Dinich, ESPN College Football Playoff insider, discuss how Notre Dame made history, the deep issues behind the underwhelming playoff games, what you can't bring from the NFL to college, and the job security of coaches James Franklin and Ryan Day. 0:00 - The difference between the Notre Dame & Ohio State playoff home games 3:15 - What led to the first round blowout games 11:35 - The under-the-radar playoff issue: Neutral sites 17:02 - How Penn State's James Franklin & Ohio State's Ryan Day silenced critics 32:18 - Why Ohio State Jeremiah Smith had the best weekend 34:10 - Quarterfinal games: Things to look forward to Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 16, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network discuss the teams that have it the worst in the first round of the College Football Playoff, whether Indiana can continue their historic win streak, SMU going into a Penn State home game, Clemson's uneven matchup against Texas, Ohio State's redemption game and so much more! 0:00 - How will teams handle frigid first round playoff games? 4:02 - Notre Dame has an opportunity to beat Indiana and make a run to the title 12:35 - SMU beware of a Penn State home "white out" game 20:06 - Does Clemson stand a chance against a mighty Texas team? 26:35 - Ohio State finally gets a home night game, takes on Tennessee 39:22 - Best in game: 2024 Heisman winner Travis Hunter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 11, 2024

Marty Smith & Ryan McGee of "Marty & McGee" take over the pod! They're joined by Matt Miller, NFL draft analyst, to discuss Bill Belichick potentially going to North Carolina and his glaring college football weakness. They also get into the possibility of college players being coached at the NFL level and Belichick's ability to focus more on the player-coach relationship. 0:00 - College football is morphing into the NFL 2:27 - Belichick to handle rosters & black tie events? 4:06 - Belichick's weakness: Drafting players 9:08 - Belichick to deal with college free agency? 12:25 - College players ready to be coached at NFL level? 16:32 - College players need mentorship 22:25 - UNC to let Stephen Belichick coach in the future? 25:26 - UNC to give total control to Belichick? 32:47 - Early NFL draft look 36:44 - Who will win the Heisman trophy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 9, 2024

Pete Thamel, Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, and Heather Dinich, national college football insider, discuss the teams that got screwed out of the College Football Playoff and why they don't have sympathy for them. They also get into Ohio State's gauntlet of a pathway to the title, Clemson's direct pathway to the CFP through the ACC, neutral sites and player injuries preventing teams from making long CFP runs, and the intensified pressure for teams to grow competitively fast! 0:00 - Heather Dinich joins from outside the CFP Selection Committee room 1:43 - Clemson and Arizona State rewarded for title wins 3:56 - CFP discussions to change format begin on January 20 9:58 - Which teams got screwed this year? 14:18 - Indiana and Notre Dame meet in the first round 16:43 - How will Ohio State respond in first round after Michigan loss? 20:08 - Clemson keeps winning ACC, why not stay? 26:32 - Pressure on teams to grow competitively fast 28:35 - Best in game: Georgia backup QB Gunner Stockton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 5, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the Georgia vs. Texas rematch, the Big 12 team that will fall out of the College Football Playoff, the irony SMU is more likely to make the CFP over Alabama, and more! In this episode, they look at all the conference title matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. 2:47 - Georgia vs Texas rematch! 10:07 - Penn State faces Oregon, the singular undefeated team 13:05 - Iowa State vs Arizona State, loser won't make the playoff 16:02 - ACC title game to determine number of ACC teams in CFP? 20:37 - Could UNLV upset Boise State and nab the 12th playoff bid? 23:41 - Potentially a fun snowy American Athletic title game 26:19 - Is it Ohio's year to take the Mid-American title? 27:24 - High drama in Sun Belt title over Marshall's coach 28:41 - After C-USA title game, will Western Kentucky's coach leave for Purdue? 33:39 - If Penn State loses to Oregon, does their final ranking put them behind Ohio State? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 4, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer who says his team can win a national championship. But first, he gives his thoughts on the Week 15 rankings which project Alabama as the last team to secure a playoff bid. Then, he addresses his team's loss to Oklahoma (24-3). After, Rece and Pete talk about Alabama's ranking position ahead of Miami, Ole Miss and South Carolina, if SMU will fall out of the playoff bracket completely and how far Georgia could tumble if they lose the SEC title game to Texas and simultaneously pick up their third loss. 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - Alabama to stay in last playoff spot? 3:06 - SMU not locked into playoff 4:47 - Effect of Georgia losing SEC title game 6:22 - Kalen DeBoer on being in the playoff 8:03 - Kalen DeBoer on losing to Oklahoma 9:18 - Kalen DeBoer on his players adjusting to the coaching change 11:05 - Kalen DeBoer on the intensity of the SEC 12:44 - Kalen DeBoer on winning the national championship 15:10 - Kalen DeBoer on playing in cold climates 16:02 - Kalen DeBoer on where he'll watch the ACC title game 17:35 - Alabama deserves to be ahead of Miami? 28:08 - Compelling playoff matchups 30:39 - What could be the biggest change in the rankings? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 2, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss flag planting being insulting, why it became a trend this year and what to do about it. They also get into Ohio State's collapse to Michigan, why their $20 million roster couldn't pull in a win and their missing key factor. Then they talk about Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord and his sweet revenge, not just on Miami but on Ohio State. Lastly, the guys get into playoff bids and the decision to choose between an SEC three-loss team or Miami. 0:00 - Welcome 1:14 - Ohio State scoreless in second half against Michigan 7:39 - Beating Michigan: What Ohio State is missing 17:10 - Flag planting is insulting, invites conflict 22:18 - Why is flag planting a rivalry week theme this year? 24:12 - Flag planting calls one's character into question 30:11 - Best In Game: Syracuse Quarterback Kyle McCord 34:28 - Miami's questionable strategy against Syracuse 35:47 - Throwback to the final play of the 2013 Iron Bowl (Kick Six lore) 39:09 - College Football Playoff decisions: SEC three-loss team or Miami? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 27, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel dissect the resumes of three-loss SEC teams and ruminate on Tulane (In the AAC) and if they could make it into the CFP over a Big 12 team with three losses. Next, Pete talks about the days leading up to moment when North Carolina fired coach Mack Brown. He also lays out Brown's possible replacements. Lastly, they look at Week 14 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top! 0:00 - CFP Week 14 Rankings: Two Big Winners 2:30 - Is the SEC similar to the Big Ten? 7:47 - How should teams be ranked? 12:23 - CFP final bids: Big 12 three-loss champ or AAC two-loss champ 15:11 - Coming up: Preview of a CFP-related crucial game 16:39 - North Carolina fires football coach Mack Brown 26:57 - Rivalry from the Big 12 to SEC: Texas vs Texas A&M 32:16 - ACC teams meet: Georgia Tech vs Georgia 34:22 - High CFP stakes game: South Carolina vs Clemson 38:57 - Will Syracuse upset Miami's ACC title game hopes? 41;01 - Ohio State to beat rival Michigan, who won last three years? 43:58 - Iowa State trying to stay atop Big 12 with Kansas State win 45:15 - Notre Dame vs USC: One team climbing, another falling 49:06 - Ranking the top Thanksgiving dishes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 25, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss Ohio State's high caliber game, Indiana getting caught, and how they each fit into the College Football Playoff picture. Do both teams look like playoff teams? Is Indiana deserving of a CFP spot? They also get into the Alabama - Oklahoma game where a penalty robbed Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams of a top moment this year, which brings into question the usefulness of instant replay. Will the game eventually see robot umps on the field? Lastly, they talk about Ole Miss' chances of getting into the CFP, Big 12 teams battling for a conference title, and the CFP format fix that could remedy a glaring issue. 0:00 - Welcome 1:26 - Do Indiana & Ohio State Look Like Playoff Teams? 8:52 - CFP Spot Wasted If A Team Is Not A Natty Contender? 15:18 - How To Evaluate Nonconference Schedules? 19:06 - Best In Game: Nebraska Takes Win Against Wisconsin 20:02 - Alabama's Lack Of Depth Exposed Against Oklahoma 22:02 - The Egregious Call In The Alabama-Oklahoma Game 30:40 - Ole Miss Blew Opportunities To Beat Florida 38:30 - Big 12 Chaos: Nine Teams Vying For Title Game Bid 44:22 - CFP Fix: No Automatic Bye For Top Conference Champs 47:26 - Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins: Greg Schiano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2024

Rece Davis and Matt Miller, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst & Insider, look at Week 13 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out the reason Ohio State is shuffling their offensive line around, who Cam Skattebo is, why The Swamp is a dangerous spot for Ole Miss, and the uniforms the guys are looking to forward to seeing on the field! 3:48 - Indiana vs. Ohio State 10:22 - Colorado vs. Kansas 15:00 - Wisconsin vs. Nebraska 20:02 - BYU vs. Arizona State 23:37 - Alabama vs. Oklahoma 28:11 - Alabama QB Jalen Milroe Draft Status 30:43 - Ole Miss vs. Florida 35:29 - Army vs. Notre Dame 40:20 - GameDay Deep Cut: UNLV vs. San José State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 20, 2024

Rece Davis and Joey Galloway, former Ohio State wide receiver, discuss the importance of protecting a quarterback. They get into the heated debate on whether or not it makes sense for Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti to bench Kurtis Rourke this weekend as the Hoosiers take on Ohio State. The guys also take a look at the College Football Playoff Week 13 rankings and give their thoughts on the competitive state of the SEC and which teams could make it to the conference title game. They end the show with some early predictions on which teams could come out on top of the Big 12, ACC, Mountain West and the American conference! 1:51 - Should Indiana sit quarterback Kurtis Rourke for Ohio State game? 9:04 - Bigger game for Indiana: Ohio State or CFP first round? 18:50 - Rankings issue brewing amongst two loss SEC teams 24:04 - Is the SEC having their greatest season ever? 32:08 - The steep impact of taking on a single loss 36:36 - Ohio State adjusts to offensive line injuries 40:45 - Rapid fire: Which team is the best team? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 18, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss Oregon coach Dan Lanning's bold calls, Kansas disrupting BYU's perfect season, Arizona State's shot at a conference title, the lack of statement wins in Texas' and Indiana's schedules, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel's clever press conference move, and Louisville's botched game against Stanford. 0:00 - Welcome 3:10 - Are SEC Teams A Cut Above Everyone Else? 5:31 - Oregon Won Against A Formidable Wisconsin Team 14:14 - A Big 12 Scoreboard Whiplash 22:14 - Resume Comparison: Texas vs Indiana 31:30 - Does Intent To Schedule Matter? 38:58 - Tennessee Penalty & Subsequent Press Conference 42:22 - Best In Game: Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty 47:45 - Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins: Louisville Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 14, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Matt Miller, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst & Insider, look at Week 12 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out Pete's update on Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava and if he will be cleared from concussion protocols to play Georgia. Also, tune in to find out about Georgia quarterback Carson Beck's tanking draft stock, why Rece picked Washington this week around, their thoughts on if Texas-Arkansas is really a rivalry, and if Navy will be eliminated from the AAC title game! 0:00 - Tennessee vs. Georgia 11:07 - Michigan State vs. Illinois 12:59 - Kansas vs. BYU 17:29 - Cincinnati vs. Iowa State 20:46 - Utah vs. Colorado 24:45 - Texas vs. Arkansas 30:21 - Friday game preview: UCLA vs. Washington 34:22 - GameDay deep cut preview: Tulane vs. Navy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 13, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and EJ Manuel, former Florida State quarterback and first-round NFL draft pick, discuss the values they consider when it comes to ranking teams, Georgia's deep drop in the rankings, Miami's fall to Georgia Tech, and what is going on with Florida State's quarterback, coordinators and head coach Mike Norvell. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 7:00 – When Ranking Teams, What Values Do You Consider? 14:00 – CFP Committee Valuing Strength Of Schedule Enough? 22:15 – CFP Question: Is The ACC A One-Bid League? 26:25 – What’s Going On With Florida State? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 11, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss LSU being unable to contain Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, Georgia's chances of taking on a third loss, Miami finally finding its first loss, Florida State's loss of both of coordinators and the fallout from the Holy War game between Utah and BYU. Utah's athletic director Mark Harlan says the game was "stolen" from them! Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 3:30 - LSU Jarring Night Game Home Loss To Alabama 19:03 - Best In Game Alabama QB Jalen Milroe 22:17 - Utah AD Says Game Against BYU Was ‘Stolen’ 30:09 - Big 12 Title Game TO Include Colorado? 38:37 - Miami Finally Found A Loss, Fell To Georgia Tech 46:30 - Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins: Gov Jeff Landry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 7, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear on the "College GameDay" broadcast show, look at Week 11 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out the non-quarterback difference makers in the Alabama-LSU game, whether Ole Miss can clip Georgia, and if Vanderbilt can continue their competitive streak in the SEC! 1:08 - Alabama vs. LSU 8:34 - Georgia vs. Ole Miss 17:30 - Iowa State vs. Kansas 20:41 - South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt 27:10 - Colorado vs. Texas Tech 31:57 - Friday Game: Iowa vs. UCLA 37:22 - Under The Radar Game: Miami vs. Georgia Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 6, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear on the “College GameDay” broadcast show, discuss this season's first round of College Football Playoff rankings. More specifically, they get into whether Indiana can overtake Miami and Penn State, if two ACC teams can make it into the bracket, Boise's pathway to a title and more! They also talk about the future of the CFP, the pros and cons of autobids and why there should be trust in a CFP committee. They end the show with a glimpse of this weekend's CFP elimination games - Alabama vs. LSU and Georgia vs. Ole Miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 4, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss what it takes at the highest level of the sport, for Penn State to take down a team like Ohio State. They also get into the amount of pressure there is on coaches and why it's not so easy to take a beat to enjoy a moment of victory. Then they talk about what could possibly be going on with Georgia's quarterback Carson Beck given the amount of interceptions he's throwing. Finally, they touch on South Carolina bringing Texas A&M back down to Earth and if SMU can make the College Football Playoff! Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 0:28 - Penn State’s Glaring Weakness Against Ohio State 06:16 - Shoud Ohio State Be Concerned About QB Will Howard? 16:24 - A Crucial Matchup Loss Is Not The End Of The World 23:21 - Is Georgia QB Carson Beck Regressing? 37:28 - ACC TItle Game Set? Miami vs SMU? 44:20 - Dumb Loses more Than Smart Wins: ULM Meltdown 46:18 - ICYMI SC Players SIng Fantasia’s Song To Coach’s Wife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 31, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear each week on the "College GameDay" broadcast show, look at Week 10 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out all about the elite defensive talent going into the Texas A&M vs. South Carolina game, whether or not Ole Miss wide receiver Tre Harris will play on Saturday against Arkansas, why Pete says SMU has jumped up leagues, and more! 1:35 - Ohio State vs. Penn State 6:49 - Pitt vs. SMU 11:52 - Florida vs. Georgia 16:52 - Texas A&M vs. South Carolina 21:29 - Ole Miss vs. Arkansas 25:56 - Indiana vs. Michigan State 29:27 - Oregon vs. Michigan 30:29 - Friday Preview: San Diego State vs. Boise State 33:15 - GameDay Deep Cut Preview: Vanderbilt vs. Auburn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 30, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and former Ohio State wide receiver Joey Galloway, discuss why Penn State may need two quarterbacks against Ohio State, the problem with Ohio State's offensive front, and the stakes for each team going into Saturday's big game. Plus, Galloway gets into why Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith stands out from all others that have gone through that locker room. Lastly, the guys talk about the precarious position Ole Miss is in at this time of year, the rake Texas A&M might step on this weekend, and why it's hard for them to take their eyes off of SMU and Pitt. 0:00 - Welcome 2:03 - Ohio State vs Penn State: Who Needs This Win More? 6:38 - OSU vs PSU: OSU Could Shuffle Their Offensive Front 15:40 - The Pressure On Ohio State To Take A Win Against Penn St 26:55 - The Identity Of Ole Miss Hangs In The Balance 40:20 - It’s Weird That SMU & Pitt Are Atop The ACC Standings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 28, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss Texas A&M Mike Elko's cryptic postgame comment and who he was really directing it at. Hint: It's not who you would expect. They also get into Elko's deft maneuver to switch out quarterback Conner Weigman for Marcel Reed which ended up winning them the game against LSU. Then, they cover Colorado's bowl berth, the groove Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers seems to have found, Alabama's awkward homecoming atmosphere and why the SMU vs Duke game on Saturday was both awful and great. 0:00 - Welcome 9:00 - How Is Indiana An Execution Monster? 18:00 - Texas A&M Mike Elko Deftly Navigated QB Maneuvers 29:48 - Best In Game: Texas A&M QB Marcel Reed 35:00 - More Big 12 News: Colorado Clinches Bowl Berth 42:43 - An Awful & Great Game: SMU vs Duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 24, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear on the "College GameDay" broadcast show, look at Week 9 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out if Indiana can score a win against Washington, the team you may not expect to have the best defensive line in the country, and why SMU vs. Duke could end up being a key game in the ACC! 2:06 - Washington vs. Indiana 11:57 - LSU vs. Texas A&M 18:55 - Penn State vs. Wisconsin 25:23 - Notre Dame vs. Navy 33:25 - Texas vs. Vanderbilt 42:00 - Friday Preview: Boise State vs. UNLV 45:32 - GameDay Deep Cut Preview: SMU vs. Duke 50:35 - What Are You Looking Forward To This Week & Beyond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 23, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & Roman Harper, former Alabama safety and host of "Read & React" on SEC Network discuss Alabama's high expectations, the growing pains the players are going through when it comes to adjusting to schemes and if they might take on another loss this weekend against Missouri. Then they get into Oklahoma's woes and why offensive coordinator Seth Littrell found himself out of the job. Next, Harper details the outcomes that would have to fall into place for Penn State to win a CFP national championship. Lastly, Thamel reveals what it would cost USC to part ways with head coach Lincoln Riley. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 1:41 - Roman Harper: Why Football Is A Game Of Inches 10:18 - Roman Harper On Alabama’s Transition Period 19:42 - Roman Harper Previews LSU @ Texas A&M 27:32 - What’s The Source Of Oklahoma’s Offensive Woes? 42:07 - Coaching Carousel Name: USC’s Lincoln Riley 47:03 - Coaching Carousel Name: Florida’s Billy Napier Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 21, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel plus Ryan McGee and Marty Smith from "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network dive into all the wild scenes from the Tennessee field storming after their win against Alabama, then turn their attention to the controversial Georgia-Texas pass interference call. On this subject, they talk about what steps the officials should've taken, whether or not coaches should speak out against officials, and possible corrective courses of action going forward. Finally, Marty shares with the group the text message he got from Georgia Coach Kirby Smart! 0:00 - Welcome 2:03 - Tennessee Fans Storm The Field After Alabama Win 11:12 - Tennessee QB Nico Iamaleava Has The Right Resources 12:53 - What Went Wrong For Texas Against Georgia? 22:31 - Coaches Must Reserve Their Opinions On Officiating 33:51 - Kirby Smart: We’re Supposed To Be Doubted 43:14 - QB Cam Ward Keeps Miami Out Of Trouble 48:56 - Best In Game: Missouri QB Brady Cook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 17, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear each week on the "College GameDay" broadcast show, look at Week 8 matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out about Alabama's communication issues, the hard times Tennessee's offense is going through, what to expect from North Texas when Army plays them in November, and more. Don't forget to leave a comment on the games you picked to win the weekend! 1:40 – GameDay BTS: How An Oregon Student Got A Second-Chance Kick For $100,000 3:21 – Nebraska vs. Indiana 8:16 – Georgia vs. Texas 14:16 – Alabama vs. Tennessee 21:50 – Miami vs. Louisville 26:13 – Michigan vs. Illinois 30:44 – Oregon vs. Purdue 34:36 – GameDay Deep Cut Preview: North Texas vs. Memphis 38:39 – GameDay BTS: How Rece Took The Superdog Pick Lead 42:48 – The Best Uniforms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 16, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel give an early look at what some first round CFP matchups might look like, and talk about how teams with early big nonconference wins might pay for this down the line. Then they get into Indiana's long non-winning history and how coach Curt Cignetti has helped give the Hoosiers their second best season start. Lastly, they bring up the coaches they think might end up on the coaching carousel. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 01:20 - Utilizing The AP Poll To Project The CFP Bracket 15:31 - CFP Question: Does A Three-Loss Team Get In? 22:36 - HC Curt Cignetti is Reintroducing Winning At Indiana 34:28 - Coaching Carousel: HC Jobs To Possibly Open Up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 14, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel & Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss Week 7's marquee matchup, Oregon vs. Ohio State, how the Ducks proved they can play in the Big Ten, the questionable moment when Oregon sent out a 12th defender and whether this was intentional or not, and Ohio State's quarterback Will Howard's slide that ran out the clock and lost them the game. They also get into USC's own clock mismanagement snafu, except in this case, why didn't USC didn't take all of their timeouts? Before rounding out the show, they get into Ole Miss' costly loss to LSU in overtime, players faking injuries, and Texas coach Steve Sarkisian trolling Oklahoma with a corny dog. 0:00 - Welcome 00:36 – Oregon Punched Up To Ohio St, A Gold Standard Team 11:36 – Did Oregon Purposefully Send Out A 12th Player? 24:42 - Unforgivable: USC Leaving Timeouts On The Table 36:22 – Players Faking Injuries: How To Discourage This? 42:31 – Best In Game: Texas Blowout Against Oklahoma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 10, 2024

Kevin Clark, host of the "This is Football" podcast, and Spencer Hall, host of "Big Dumb Football" on ESPN's College Football YouTube channel, fill in for Rece Davis and Pete Thamel. They look at Week 7 weekend matchups and give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games. Tune in to find out who they think is slightly better between Ohio State and Oregon, whether or not LSU's Brian Kelly is going to get fired, the wide talent variance in the Red River Rivalry, and more! 1:13 - Ohio State vs. Oregon 7:35 - Ole Miss vs. LSU 12:59 - Red River Rivalry: Texas vs. Oklahoma 17:44 - Kansas State vs. Colorado 22:11 - South Carolina vs. Alabama 26:25 - Penn State vs. USC 34:44 - Iowa State vs. West Virginia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 9, 2024

Kevin Clark, host of the "This is Football" podcast, and senior writers Heather Dinich and Jake Trotter fill in for Rece Davis and Pete Thamel. They discuss the big rankings shifts in the AP Poll that happened as a result of all the Week 6 upsets, whether or not two ACC teams will end up with playoff bids over Notre Dame, and if any other Group of Five team can make it into the rankings over Boise State. Also, ahead of Ohio State vs. Oregon, they get into the longtime bond between Ohio State's Ryan Day and Chip Kelly, and ahead of the Red River Rivalry, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers return from his oblique injury. 0:00 - Welcome 2:11 - The AP Poll vs College Football Playoff Rankings 10:57 - AP Poll: Clemson Climbed To No. 10 14:51 - Debating Whether The CFP Committee Looks At Brands 19:15 - AP Poll: Boise State Is The Lone Ranked G5 Team 22:45 - Red River Rivalry This Sat: Texas vs Oklahoma 28:30 - Dark Horse Team To Win The National Championship Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 7, 2024

Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network dive into all the weekend chaos! Vanderbilt taking down No. 1 Alabama was by far the biggest stunner. The guys get into how it all happened and what's to come for Tennessee who faces Vanderbilt at the end of the season. They also give a nod to all the sprightly digital jabs traded by fans and teams as a result of these games, and take a look at how this could shape the College Football Playoff. 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - Is Everyone Recovering From The Weekend Chaos? 9:14 - Best In Game: Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia 16:20 - Vanderbilt Has A Functional SEC Roster This Season 24:38 - Texas A&M QB Conner Weigman’s Statement Game 34:21 - Heisman Contender: Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 3, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear each week on the “College GameDay” broadcast show, look at Week 6 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out whether or not Miami quarterback Cam Ward is a threat to Cal, what's wrong with Auburn, the revamped profiles of the national championship teams Michigan and Washington facing each other for a rematch, and more! 1:27 - How will Cal fans welcome Stanford Steve? 5:10 - Miami vs. Cal 8:31 - Missouri vs. Texas A&M 13:30 - Michigan vs. Washington 15:06 - Auburn vs. Georgia 17:21 - Iowa vs. Ohio State 19:00 - Clemson vs. Florida State 21:05 - GameDay Deep Cut Preview: Syracuse vs. UNLV Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 3, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the SEC and Big Ten middle-of-the-field teams that are currently on the cusp of making the College Football Playoff, what stands out the Big 12's CFP contenders so far, which unranked Big 12 teams might slide their way into a playoff spot, and whether it makes sense for Clemson, one of the few ranked ACC teams, to be all the down at No. 15. They also get into what NFL scouts have said about who they think is the top quarterback in college football! 0:00 - Welcome 1:03 - AP Poll Highlights SEC Teams Lining Up For CFP Spot 07:40 - AP Poll Highlights Big Ten Teams Up For CFP Spot 14:03 - AP Poll Indicates Big 12 To Have Single CFP Bid 22:39 - Who Is The Top Quarterback In College Football? 32:19 - Making The Transition From College To The NFL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 30, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss heart-of-a-champion Georgia and their climb from being down 28 points against Alabama - what they did right and what they could have done better to pull out a win. They also give credit to Alabama freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams for his spectacular end-of-game touchdown play. Then they get into two big weekend calls: Kentucky's play call that put them over the top and the refs' decision to overturn Virginia Tech's touchdown. 00:00 - Welcome 00:27 - Alabama Freshman WR Ryan Williams' TD Catch 02:00 - Georgia's Comeback Victory Ripped Away By Alabama 09:30 - Georgia's Successes & Missteps 26:18 - Kentuckys Big Call Won Them The Game Over Ole Miss 31:58 - Miami Still Faces Issues, Despite Win Against VA Tech 44:36 - Colorado Responds To Doubters, Wins Against UCF Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 27, 2024

College GameDay's Rece Davis and Stanford Steve look at Week 5 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out, in Kentucky vs. Ole Miss, whether or not Ole Miss is ready for SEC games. They also get into why Louisville vs. Notre Dame is a playoff elimination game for the Fighting Irish. Finally, they talk about who can be more productive on fourth downs, Georgia or Alabama. 0:48 - UNLV QB Matthew Sluka leaves the Rebels 7:09 - What Georgia needs to overcome 8:56 - What Alabama needs to overcome 12:30 - Kentucky vs. Ole Miss 16:20 - Colorado vs. UCF 21:04 - Louisville vs. Notre Dame 25:01 - Illinois vs. Penn State 27:52 - Deep cut preview: Maryland vs. Indiana 30:46 - Deep cut preview: Arkansas vs. Texas A&M 33:38 - Arizona vs. Utah 35:47 - Oregon vs. UCLA 38:27 - Georgia vs. Alabama Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 25, 2024

Rece Davis and Heather Dinich, ESPN senior writer, discuss the root of Alabama and Georgia's rivalry, the strategy Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer is zeroing in on for Saturday, and why Georgia will keep the game close. They also get into how the outcome of this matchup will figure into each team's playoff contention chances. 0:00 - Georgia vs. Alabama: Rivals born from excellence 0:52 - George’s losses to Alabama 2:04 - Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer’s Saturday strategy 3:21 - Alabama’s advantage: Executing explosive plays 4:16 - Georgia’s defense could stop Alabama’s explosive plays 5:21 - How Alabama’s quarterback Jalen Milroe factors into the game 6:51 - Why Georgia shouldn’t be underestimated 8:39 - Is Georgia the best overall team right now? 12:21 - Georgia vs. Alabama: How the CFP committee might evaluate this game 14:42 - The CFP committee should evaluate teams wins-losses absent of conference names 19:13 - What would be an exciting possible CFP on-campus game? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 23, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, give their flowers to Colorado for their Hail Mary touchdown that tied the game and led to the Buffaloes' overtime win against Baylor. The guys also get into Oklahoma Brent Venables' candidness about switching out quarterbacks in the game against Tennessee. Then they get into their shock at North Carolina's program-shaking loss to James Madison, 50 -70. 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - Great Saturday Theater: Colorado Vs Baylor 14:05 - Right Now: Colorado’s Travis Hunter Among Top Players 21:19 - Best In Game: BYU WR Parker Kingston 27:23 - Why Did Oklahoma Bench QB Jackson Arnold? 38:24 - JMU’s Wild Victory Against North Carolina, 70-50 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 20, 2024

College GameDay's Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve look at Week 4 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out what might go down in USC vs. Michigan, whether or not Utah's QB Cam Rising will start against Oklahoma State, and why they think Miami vs. South Florida will be a high-octane high scoring game! 3:49 - Illinois @ Nebraska 6:42 - Florida @ Mississippi State 11:43 - USC @ Michigan 16:32 - Utah @ Oklahoma State 21:12 - Miami @ South Florida 22:44 - Tennessee @ Oklahoma 30:58 - UL Monroe @ Texas 36:51 - A story about young AJ Hawk and Kirk Herbstreit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 18, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview Rece's sit-down interview with Tennessee coach Josh Heupel and go over his ties, as a Heisman Trophy runner-up and quarterbacks coach, to Oklahoma. They also get into Florida State and Clemson possibly dropping their lawsuits with the ACC and potentially being let out of the grant of rights. Then UNLV coach Barry Odom joins to talk about his strong 3-0 start to the season, the Mountain West being shaken up by the Pac-12, and his strategy for making the College Football Playoff! 0:00 - Welcome 2:00 - Tennessee HC Josh Heupel Heads To Oklahoma 06:13 - Florida State & Clemson To Drop ACC Lawsuits? 12:46 - UNLV HC: NIL Opportunitites Are Better In Las Vegas 17:16 - UNLV Coach Talks Strategy On Making The CFP 20:43 - UNLV Coach: A Star I Would LIke To See At A Game... 25:38 - MIchigan Starts QB Alex Orji Over Davis Warren Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 16, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss South Carolina's "2001-A Space Odyssey" iconic field entrance and how the Gamecock's game against LSU could have been different if quarterback LaNorris Sellers wasn't injured. They also get into Billy Napier's 1-2 record this season and why he could be out as Florida's head coach. Before ending the show, they touch on Texas quarterback Arch Manning's dominant performance, Georgia's surprising narrow win, and Washington's blunder against Washington State. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 2:00 - One Of The Great Field Entrances In CFB… 04:08 - SC Wins If QB LaNorris Sellers Isn’t Injured? 07:21 - FLA HC Billy Napier Likely Not To Return Next Season 13:03 - Florida Coach Search Likely To Center On Lane Tiffin 24:24 - Florida State Earned Their Way To Bottom 10 List? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 13, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve, who all appear each week on the “College GameDay” broadcast show, look at Week 3 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out all about this week’s rivalries, specifically whether Washington’s team – who made it to the College Football Playoff championship game last season – can hold their own against Washington State, who’s more heated between West Virginia and Pitt, and if Colorado vs. Colorado State will have the same type of drama (penalties, ejections, etc.) as last year. 3:23 - Arizona @ Kansas State 6:56 - LSU @ South Carolina 14:16 - Alabama @ Wisconsin 20:36 - Texas A&M @ Florida 24:58 - Washington State @ Washington 29:49 - West Virginia @ Pitt 34:27 - Colorado @ Colorado State 38:55 - Saturday Preview Odd and Ends Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 11, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and the father of SP+ analytics, Bill Connelly, discuss the next site the College GameDay crew is headed to - Columbia, South Carolina for the LSU vs. South Carolina game this Saturday. While the LSU offensive line has received many accolades, they could face communication issues from the loyal South Carolina fanbase who will inevitably turn out to support their Gamecocks. The crew also gets into the big rivalry games this weekend, Oregon vs. Oregon State and Washington vs. Washington State, before turning their attention to the latest edition of the AP poll and how this stacks up against Bill's SP+ rankings. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - How Gameday Chose The Next Game Location 04:30 - How Will Miz’s Defense Handle Boston College’s QB? 08:05 - Can LSU Establish Game-Wrecking Control Over SC? 15:12 - The Oregon-Oregon State Football Rivalry Lives On 27:30 - How Does This Week’s AP Poll Compare To SP + Rankings? 35:10 - Brief Story: The Chicken Curse Out Of South Carolina Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 9, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, get into the loss the Notre Dame fighting Irish took against Northern Illinois Huskies, what the Huskies did to take the win, and how this affects both teams' playoff chances. They also get into overreaction that shouldn't have happened to Michigan after they lost to Texas. Lastly, they end the pod with a look at the Colorado vs. Nebraska game, how it highlighted two teams in college football that took two completely different paths to build a program, and where this got each of them. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 0:49 - Notre Dame’s Schedule Was Wide Open 05:00 - Is Notre Dame Dead When It Comes To The Playoff? 10:29 - Was Michigan’s Loss Against Texas Really A Surprise? 14:46 - NC State, Tennessee & Texas Defensive Fronts 24:44 - Quick Trip To Negative Town: SEC Teams 34:48 - Colorado’s Offensive Line Couldn’t Beat Nebraska 41:13 - Best In Game: Texas QB Quinn Ewers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 6, 2024

Pete Thamel, Harry Lyles Jr., college sports sideline reporter Harry Lyles Jr., and Stanford Steve, ESPN sports betting analyst, look at Week 2 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out what Stanford Steve hasn't seen from Michigan in the last three years, who on Iowa is probably going to be an NFL player, the x factor in the Colorado vs. Nebraska game, and which team's receiving core is one of the most underrated in the country. 0:00 - Texas (-7.5) at Michigan 2:58 - Iowa State at Iowa (-3) 5:16 - Colorado at Nebraska (-7) 9:19 - Tennessee (-10) at NC State 13:04 - Boise State at Oregon (-21.5) 16:41 - Arkansas at Oklahoma State (-7.5) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 4, 2024

Pete Thamel and college sports sideline reporter Harry Lyles Jr. discuss Clemson's Dabo Swinney's earned spot at the top of college football, why he can't be forced to change when it comes to using the transfer portal, and what on-the-field adjustments he'll make following Clemson's loss to Georgia. They also get into what to look for in Saturday's Texas vs. Michigan potentially iconic game, why Missouri has hope in this 12-team college football playoff era, and why Colorado State is better than you think. 0:00 - Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 01:34 - Clemson’s Loss To Georgia Stirs Transfer Portal Convo 07:49 - Clemson HC Dabo Swinney Can’t Be Forced To Change 13:00 - What Stands Out For Sat Game: Texas vs Michigan? 25:24 - First Impressions: Missouri, A Potential CFP Team? 32:58 - New CFP Era To Eliminate Great Non-Conference Games? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 3, 2024

Rece Davis and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss Florida State's second start of season stumble against Boston College and the pressure the Seminoles have been under since they were left out of the College Football Playoff last December. They also get into the crisis Florida is in after their loss to Miami, USC Kyron Hudson's incredible one-handed catch between two defenders, and LSU coach Brian Kelly's subsequent outburst in the postgame press conference. Timecodes: 0:00 - Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 03:10 - Florida St Takes A Loss To Boston College, Now 0-2 11:23 - Florida St Has Been Struggling Since Dec 2023 20:52 - Florida In A Crisis After Week 1 Loss To Miami 29:19 - Best In Game: USC WR Kyron Hudson’s One-Handed Catch 39:28 - Theatre Or Genuine? LSU HC Brian Kelly Slams Fist On Table 47:07 - SEC Headliner Teams Disappoint In Week 1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 30, 2024

Pete Thamel, Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, and Stanford Steve, ESPN sports betting analyst, look at Week 1 weekend matchups, give their thoughts on what they think is important to know going into those games, and then pick the teams they think will come out on top. Tune in to find out what is wrong with Georgia's schedule, whether Western Kentucky's transfers can take on Alabama, how Michigan might open the season, and if there's a reason to root for USC. 1:11 - Georgia vs. Clemson (-11.5) 5:11 - Notre Dame at Texas A&M (-3) 9:40 - Miami (-2.5) at Florida 15:40 - Penn State (-7.5) at West Virginia 22:44 - Western Kentucky at Alabama (-31.5) 29:50 - Fresno State at Michigan (-21) 35:29 - USC vs. LSU (-4.5) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 28, 2024

Pete Thamel and Ryan McGee, host of "Marty & McGee" on SEC Network, discuss the documentary that everyone in college football is talking about, "Untold: Sign Stealer." They get into the validity of the film, the sentiment coming from former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions, the disrespect of the doc dropping just before Michigan's opening game and the impact of this in the years to come. On top of this - for the GameDay show loyalists - they get into the show's next on-site location, College Station, Texas. There, GameDay will preview everything you need to know before Notre Dame takes on Texas A&M! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 26, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the pivotal eight minutes that defined the Georgia Tech-Florida State game, the run defense Georgia Tech built in the offseason and the challenges they have ahead. They also warn Florida State fans to not ring the alarm bells yet, embrace the growing pains and to have some trust in their quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. Timecodes 0:00 - The One Thing You Can Count On…Run. The. Ball. 1:35 - Georgia Tech Stuns Florida St In Season Opener 4:21 - What Was The Turning Point In The Game? 9:49 - GT’s New Defense Put Pressure On FSU QB DJ Uiagalelei 12:23 - Georgia Tech Still Has Challenges Ahead Of Them 23:10 - A Comparison Of Pregame Practices: Georgia Tech & FSU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 22, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel bring you the podcast from Dublin, Ireland where Florida State will play Georgia Tech on Saturday. They discuss the reasons why Georgia Tech could make this a close game and why Florida State's offensive coordinator Alex Atkins will be absent for the game. They also shout-out ESPN's Harry Lyles who put together a story on Georgia Tech punter David Shanahan who will have a chance to play in his home country this weekend. Finally, they round out the pod on the controversy swirling around the CFP Group of Five playoff bid. Timecodes: 0:00 - The College Gameday Podcast Is In Dublin! 04:40 - Is Georgia Tech Sneaking Around The Chicken Coop? 10:49 - FSU’s Two Main Transfers Will Help Define Their Season 12:13 - FSU HC Mike Norvell Recruited A Very Special Defense 15:33 - Saturday’s Dublin Game Will Feature An Ireland Native 19:07 - The Impact Of This Game On FSU’s & Georgia Tech’s Season 27:08 - For CFP, Will There Be Controversy Around G5 Bid? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 19, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN Senior Writer Ryan McGee pore over the changes in college football this season and then wind in their expectations of changes to come in the near future. Then they bring forth their latest notes on this week's Saturday slate of games, just before ruminating on Ohio State's latest announcement that the Buckeyes' starting quarterback will be Will Howard. Timecodes: 0:00 - The Most Anticipated Season Of All-Time Is Here! 04:30 - Stay Ready, There Are Even More CFB Changes To Come 09:56 - Will North Carolina Leave The ACC? 13:51 - Saturday Opener: Florida St. vs Georgia Tech 25:26 - Saturday Game Preview: Montana St vs New Mexico 31:00 - Saturday Game Preview: SMU vs Nevada 38:26 - Take A Look At Georgia’s Awful Schedule 41:20 - BTS: ESPN’s Insiders At A Bruce Springsteen Concert Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 14, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel give their in-depth analysis on which five teams will take the conference champion playoff spots and the seven teams that will fall into place for the other at-large spots. Follow along as they give you a primer on why these teams stand out from all the rest - whether it be their lead quarterback, the amount of returning starters they have, the transfers they've gained to bolster different parts of their roster, the schedule they face, and more! Timecodes: 0:00 - Teams Likely To Nab A Playoff Bid 2:16 - Georgia and Texas 11:55 - Ohio State and Oregon 25:06 - Clemson and Florida State 39:05 - Liberty and Boise 51:15 - Alabama and Miami 55:23 - Notre Dame and Penn State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 7, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel catch you up on everything from Pitbull buying the naming rights to Florida International's football stadium, to the latest on Michigan's alleged off-campus scouting operations, to how they think Connor Stalions will be portrayed in the Netflix documentary, to the teams they think are on the fringe of making the CFP. Timecodes: 0:00 - Welcome 2:01 - Teams On The Fringe of Making The CFP 3:19 - Pete Lays Eyes On The NCAA’s Notice Of Allegations Draft 10:51 - Michigan Not Cooperating? Apply Financial Pressure 16:28 - Who Blew The Whistle Against Michigan? 23:25 - The Most Interesting Part Of This Connor Stalions Story Is… 27:35 - Season Preview Michigan 33:14 - Season Preview Iowa 43:41 - Season Preview Kansas State 48:06 - Season Preview Utah 51:30 - Season Preview Tennessee 57:48 - Season Preview Missouri Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 31, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss what caught their eyes from SEC Media Days, what to know about Texas and Oklahoma ahead of this season, why they think Ole Miss might make the playoffs and what other teams that are piquing their interest as they pour through their pre-season research. And now that College Football 25 is out, Rece shares a behind-the-scenes story as to why he was told not to record too many memorable lines for the game. Timecodes 0:00 - Welcome 0:25 - Preview: Potential CFP Contending Teams 3:36 - Is This The Most Anticipated CFB Season Ever? 11:00 - Which Teams Will be Within CFP Contention? 15:36 - Will Conference Championship Games Cycle Out? 19:30 - Season Preview: Teams Playing For A CFP Spot 20:15 - Season Preview Team: Colorado 23:39 - Season Preview Team: Oklahoma 27:15 - Season Preview Team: Louisville 30:19 - Season Preview Team: SMU 39:08 - Season Preview Team: West Virginia 40:50 - Season Preview Team: Texas A&M 46:02 - Season Preview Team: NC State & Virginia Tech 51:08 - Season Preview Team: Liberty 52:07 - Season Preview Team: Appalachian State 54:09 - Final Toughts On Auburn & Washington 56:05 - Top Picks In This Group: NC State & Virginia Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 25, 2024

Rece Davis and Ian Fitzsimmons from ESPN Radio open the show honing in on Florida State, their playoff snub last season, and why more media coverage wouldn't have helped the Seminoles' case for a CFP. To put it simply - If the ACC wants more representation in the CFP they need to build more elite teams. Then they turn their attention to UCLA's DeShaun Foster, who seemed to have a bit of stage fright during his Big Ten media day opening statement, before moving onto their thoughts on the rest of the field - Specifically, Nebraska's big hurdles, the depth in Ohio State and Michigan's rosters, the quarterbacks at Oregon and USC, and notable roster gains at Penn State. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 19, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss what caught their eyes from SEC Media Days, what to know about Texas and Oklahoma ahead of this season, why they think Ole Miss might make the playoffs and what other teams that are piquing their interest as they pour through their pre-season research. And now that College Football 25 is out, Rece shares a behind-the-scenes story as to why he was told not to record too many memorable lines for the game. Timecodes: 0:00 Welcome 3:04 - Quick Preview Texas and Oklahoma 8:07 - Making Picks When Teams Have New Roster Makeup 12:00 - Teams That Could Be Fun To Watch This Season OSU Roll 14:21 - SEC Media Day Unanticipated Storyline from Arkansas 21:09 - Quick Preview & Expectations of Ole Miss 26:00 - CFP Predictions SEC Teams Over/Under 33:13 - CFB 25 BTS: Rece Lends His Voice To The Game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 12, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the eyebrow-raising moments at the Big 12 Football Media Days including Pete's interview with Colorado's Deion Sanders, on top of Oklahoma State's Mike Gundy's comments on Ollie Gordon's II's arrest for suspicion of DUI. Then they give the lay of the land for the Big 12 going into next season, specifically their thoughts on conference leaders in Utah, Kansas and Arizona, as well as how Iowa State will do if they can get over the mental hurdle of losing one-score games. They also ponder some alternate name options for the conference - why not call it the Gargantuan 16? 0:00 Welcome 0:27 - A Must Watch: Deion Sanders & Pete Thamel 05:16 - Colorado’s Issue Last Season: Their Defense 12:12 - Mike Gundy During Big 12 Media Days 15:06 - Gunday Contextualizes Ollie Gordon II’s DUI Arrest 22:46 - OK State: Last Season & Next Season 25:00 - Who Will Win The Big 12? 33:15 - Big 12 Unforced Error: Non-Conference Games 41:21 - Who Plays In The Big 12 Championship Game? 46:11 - The Stress Of A Pete Thamel Story Chase Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 3, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with coaches to pick their minds on what it takes to build program, what players they have their eyes on and what philosophies they’ve come to impart to the people around them. Tune in to listen to Fran Brown from Syracuse, Spencer Danielson from Boise State, Eliah Drinkwitz from University of Missouri, Jedd Fisch from the University of Washington, Jeff Lebby from Mississippi State University, Matt Rhule from University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Jonathan Smith from Michigan State University. 0:10 - Coaches Reflect On The Moment They Were Hired 0:57 - Coaches On Strategies, Culture & Emerging Talent 04:26 - Defensive Notes From College Coaches 05:13 - Raising The Bar Every Single Year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 24, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson to discuss the moment last season - after his team won the Mountain West title - when he was officially moved from interim to full-time head coach. They also get into running back Ashton Jeanty's elite skillset and the upcoming quarterback battle between Malachi Nelson and Maddux Madsen. 0:00 Welcome 00:15 - Group Of Five Playoff Pathway To A Title 01:20 - Remembering The Great Boise St-Oklahoma Fiesta Bowl 04:49 - The Moment Spencer Danielson Became Boise State’s HC 16:36 - Boise State HC On Recruiting The Current Roster 21:43 - RB Ashton Jeanty’s Elite Skillset 26:50 - Boise State’s Shot At Title With Expanded CFP 29:46 - Boise State’s Upcoming QB Battle: Malachi vs Maddox 39:25 - A Quick Dive Into Boise State’s In-Season Schedule 40:49 - Boise St, Memphis & Toledo Could Make CFP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 18, 2024

On the latest episode of the College Gameday Podcast, Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss which ACC and SEC teams they think will outperform themselves this year - specifically, they look into NC State and if they can stop stepping on the rake, the embers of a possible Virginia Tech revival, Tennessee toeing the line at a playoff contention and more! 0:00 - Welcome 00:32 - How Did Pete Celebrate The Celtics’ 18th NBA Title? 09:55 - The Only Independents In FBS: UCONN & Notre Dame 11:08 - Rece’s ACC Sleeper Team: NC State 12:31 - Pete’s ACC Sleeper Teams: Syracuse & Boston College 24:46 - Pete’s SEC Sleeper Team: Texas A&M 28:15 - Rece’s SEC Sleeper Team: Tennessee 35:08 - More On Celtics Celebration in Pete’s House Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 13, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss which teams they think will propel to the top of the Big Ten and Big 12 conference rankings this year. They also try their hand at the Love It Or Hate It Game where they have to dish out their preference on topics like the transfer portal, Nick Saban's retirement and Deion Sanders on X! 0:00 - Welcome 1:00 - Surely CBB Officials Love UCONN’s Dan Hurley’s Decision 07:08 - Big Ten Teams To Be Bullish On: Nebraska & Rutgers 14:27 - The Big 12 Favorite Team Will Be: Utah 19:43 - Getting Used To The Schedule Changes 25:20 - Using Team Schedules To Explain The CFP Format 28:17 - Love It or Hate It: Current State of Transfer Portal 32:08 - Love It or Hate It: Nick Saban’s Retirement 35:02 - Love It or Hate It: Deion Sanders on X 36:32 - Love It or Hate It: Best Pregame Entrance 38:42 - Remembering NBA Legend Jerry West Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 6, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and college basketball insider Jeff Borzello discuss UConn Dan Hurley's big on-court energy and if this unabashed east coast guy would make the move to Hollywood to coach another preeminent team, the Los Angeles Lakers. They also preview potential coaching candidates for UConn should Hurley decide to make the move. 0:00 Lakers aggressively pursuing UConn’s Dan Hurley 5:12 Hurley to bring his big on-court energy to the pros? 7:44 From college to the NBA: How would Hurley fit in? 9:15 Hurley to Hollywood? He’s an unabashed east coast guy 15:15 Hurley’s potential relationship with LeBron James looms large 21:54 Hurley’s potential impact on the western conference 22:48 Potential coaching candidates for UConn if Hurley leaves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 5, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Missouri head coach Eliah Drinkwitz to discuss wide receiver Luther Burden's "Luther instincts," the "revolutionary" style of the head coaches at the SEC meetings, some of the discussions at the SEC meetings, and the case for keeping walk-ons as part of college football going forward. Drinkwitz also jokes about how he and his family go through adversity each time they board a Southwest flight. 0:00 - Welcome 0:28 - Where Does Missouri Rank As CFP Contenders? 03:20 - Missouri Coach Eliah Drinkwitz Joins The Pod 04:01 - How Last Season Impacts Returning Players 05:39 - Missouri’s State Law Created An NIL Advantage 08:57 - Luther Instincts On The Field From WR Luther Burden 11:35 - Coach Drinkwitz Pulls The Veil Back On SEC Meetings 17:30 - Drinkwitz: Walk-Ons Are Necessary For Player Safety 20:37 - Coach Drinkwitz’s Gameday Connor Stallions Quip 21:53 - Drinkwitz: I’m A Seinfeld Guy Through & Through 24:47 - How To Find What Your Family Is Made Of 26:27 - “I Don’t Have Any Tools’ To Fix Things Around The House” 28:14 - Missouri’s Chance In The College Football Landscape Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 29, 2024

Who has the right model when it comes to building out a team - Georgia, Michigan or Clemson? Rece Davis, Bill Connelly and Ryan McGee get into it! They also take a look at Bill's latest SP+ rankings and mull over how an SEC or Big Ten team going 9-3 compares to a Big 12 team going 10-2. Before ending the pod, they bring up a few 'new' conference matchups that are on the horizon - BYU-Utah, Texas-Texas A&M, and Oklahoma-Texas A&M. 0:00 - Welcome 0:52 - BTS On Covering Auto Racing Driver Kyle Larson 04:34 - CFB Players At The Coke 600 Motorsports Race 07:16 - Riding The Ups & Downs Of The CFB Rankings 09:06 - A Quick Lou Holtz Story 11:14 - Riding The Ups & Downs Of The CFB Rankings 13:14 - An Overview of SP+ Projections For The Coming Season 18:45 - Top “New” Conference Match-Ups To Look Forward To 25:31 - Building Dreams: The Georgia Vs. Michigan Model 27:49 - Building Dreams: What About The Clemson Model? 34:29 - Remembering Bill Walton, A Great Football Fan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 20, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby to discuss how he's developed his offensive prowess, the players that will light up the field this season, the advantage his program has over others, and the "yeet yeet" call that always turns heads down in Starkville. 0:00 Welcome 0:20 - Ken Jean Auditions To Be On Gameday? 02:56 - Gameday To Wrigley Field 06:22 - Jeff Lebby Joins The Pod 07:36 - Lebby on Shaping The Roster 10:55 - Lebby on Mississippi St’s Advantage Over Others 15:13 - Jeff Lebby On The Difficult Part Of His Job 19:04 - The Offensive Minds That Impacted Coach Lebby 24:27 - Coach Lebby’s Favorite Baylor Story Of Robert Griffin III 30:08 - Lebby’s Yeet Yeet Call That Players Are Dialed Into 38:23 - House v. NCAA Case: Why This week Is A Pivot Point In College Athletics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 15, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel get into Ohio State's and Michigan's current rosters - who came back and who joined - and who they think will emerge as the starting quarterback. They also look towards the big game in Ireland, Florida State vs. Georgia Tech, and GameDay's first in-season destination, College Station, where they'll be covering Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M. 0:00 Preview of Week 0: Florida State vs. Georgia Tech 4:41 Preview of Week 1: Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M 6:37 Early preseason No. 1 pick: Ohio State or Georgia? 9:28 Who will be Ohio State's starting QB? 18:25 Who will be Michigan's starting QB? 22:33 Very early concerns ahead of the CFP 32:40 Next week: A vote on a revenue-share plan with players Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 7, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss why Colorado, particularly head coach Deion Sanders, remains to be relentlessly fascinating. They also get into what to expect from the program now that they've moved from the now defunct Pac-12 to compete in the Big 12. Next, they chat about what it was like covering the NFL Draft with the accomplished Nick Saban. Then they round out the show with a preview of a possible legal settlement which could open the door for players to be part of a revenue sharing model. 0:00 - Welcome 03:18 - Fair To Criticize Deion Sanders' Candidness? 07:10 - Colorado's Big Scheduling Blunder 13:14 - First Impressions of Colorado's Current Program 15:38 - Expectations For Colorado, Now In The Big 12 19:09 - Nick Saban's Approach To On-Air Draft Analysis 23:35 - The Story of Oatmeal Crème Pies at the NFL 25:08 - NCAA To Backpay Players Following Antitrust Lawsuit 32:42 - What's On The Horizon For Rece & Pete? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 24, 2024

Pete and college football writer Paolo Uggetti, who covered USC football, discuss the Heisman Trust's "reinstatement" of Reggie Bush's 2005 Heisman Trophy to Bush, his contentious legal battle with the NCAA, the anomaly of OJ Simpson's Heisman Trophy sitting in USC's Heritage Hall but not Bush's, and what's next for Bush and USC's football program. 0:00 Reggie Bush has his 2005 Heisman Trophy back 1:45 USC's Heritage Hall, where the Trojans' Heisman Trophies sit 3:08 How Reggie Bush influenced USC over the years 4:37 The day Reggie Bush was allowed back on USC's campus 6:05 Reggie Bush and the NCAA's contentious relationship 10:40 USC's upcoming press conference 12:08 The time Reggie Bush got excited about the hip hop duo Kid 'n Play 13:32 Some Reggie Bush stats 14:59 What's next for USC and Reggie Bush? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 17, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel take stock of the latest notable players in the transfer portal, how they performed last season and what to expect from them next season. Then NFL Insider Field Yates joins to lift the curtain on the NFL Draft drama circulating around the Minnesota Vikings, QB Drake Maye and other teams trying to make a splash in this year's draft. Finally, they get into some QB drafting strategy and what aspects of a player can't be measured ahead of the draft. 0:00 Welcome 0:54 - What’s It Like To Have Dinner WIth Rece & Pete? 02:58 - Where Will CB Cormani McClain Transfer To? 06:05 - RB Damien Martinez Leaves Oregon St 09:24 - NFL Insider Field Yates Joins The Pod! 11:48 - Where Does The Drama Start In The NFL Draft? 13:23 - Addressing QB Drake Make Criticism 18:37 - How Many QBs Go In The First Round? 21:39 - QB Comparison: Michael Penix vs Bo Nix 25:04 - Draft A QB Backup Or Future Star? 28:55 - Prediting Draft Surprises At CB Position 29:47 - Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell 44:20 - What You Can’t Measure In The NFL Draft 44:48 - Film Study With NFL Insider Field Yates 46:08 - Do Fractional Arm Measurements Matter? 46:41 - Draft Night Conundrum: DT T'Vondre Sweat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 9, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN College Basketball Insider Jeff Borzello delve into UConn's NBA-like offense and the defense that won them a national title against Purdue. They also get into which UConn players will be remembered on this team. And looking to next season, they discuss what roster changes will happen and what Dan Hurley said about the Kentucky head coach job. 0:00 How UConn's defense helped them win 5:00 The stretch that determined the game 6:24 Which individual players will be remembered? 8:21 Where does UConn rank among repeat teams? 14:51 UConn's offense in comparison to an NBA offense 17:54 Dan Hurley responds to the Kentucky head coach job 19:58 What does UConn do to get a threepeat? 21:36 UConn's expected roster changes 22:35 Is there more college basketball news coming? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 8, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN College Basketball Insider Jeff Borzello recount how they came to break the news that John Calipari is leaving Kentucky and headed across the SEC to Arkansas. They also get into what they think Calipari will do with Arkansas' roster, who Calipari might hire, and whether or not Arkansas will reach the NCAA Men's Tournament Final Four round in the next four years. Lastly, they get into whether or not Kentucky can fill Calipari's spot with UConn's Dan Hurley, Chicago Bulls' Billy Donovan, or even Alabama's Nate Oats. 0:00 When the John Calipari-Arkansas whispers started 2:37 John Calipari's fall from dominance 4:49 How John Calipari fits in with Arkansas 6:15 The moment the John Calipari-Arkansas deal happened 10:52 Will Arkansas make the Final Four? 14:16 Kentucky basketball head coach candidates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 7, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and ESPN College Basketball Insider Jeff Borzello break down the Men's NCAA Final Four games - specifically the early slog in the NC State vs. Purdue game and the shooting performance Alabama's Mark Sears put up against UConn's Stephon Castle. And ahead of the championship game, they get into what UConn's Donovan Clingan needs to do to stop Purdue's Zach Edey. 0:00 No. 1 seeds set to face off in men's championship game 3:07 NC State vs. Purdue early slog 8:55 Should Purdue worry about Braden Smith? 14:57 UConn vs. Purdue battle of the bigs 19:15 Foul or not on UConn's Aaliyah Edwards 23:12 Alabama needed to create more threes 25:18 In comparison: UConn and the great Duke teams 26:56 In comparison: UConn and the great Florida teams 27:57 In comparison: UConn and Villanova's 2018 team 32:44 Alabama's Mark Sears was a warrior 34:55 Who will win the men's championship game? 37:34 Who will win the women's championship game? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 3, 2024

On today’s episode of the College Gameday Podcast, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst & Insider Matt Miller joins Rece Davis and Pete Thamel to discuss quarterback draft prospects Drake Maye and JJ McCarthy. Matt shares which team is the best fit for Drake Maye and why JJ McCarthy may not be drafted in the first round. Then, the guys dive into why NC State’s basketball star, DJ Burns, would make a great offensive tackle. Finally, Matt shares which player will be the biggest surprise in the 2024 NFL Draft! 0:00 Welcome To the College Gameday Podcast 01:09 Don't Sleep on UNC QB Drake Maye 03:43 Which Team Does QB Drake Maye Best Fit With? 07:35 Could JJ McCarthy Not Be Drafted In The 1st Round 11:03 Are There Concerns for JJ McCarthy’s Shoulder Issues? 14:45 Huge Turnout For QBs at Michigan Pro Day 20:07 How To Avoid Group Think in NFL Scouting 23:08 Learned Lessons in NFL Scouting 26:45 Players Matt Would Jump On The Table For 28:33 Chargers Will Pick Michigan's Mike Sainristil 31:10 Predicting The Biggest Surprise In The Draft 33:57 Pete’s Prediction of 6 QBS Drafted In First Round Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 3, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss UConn being in the greatest-team-ever conversation and how Dan Hurley would fit into the NBA. Then, Pete gives a preview of his latest story - Donovan Clingan's side job as a landscaper. On another note, Rece and Pete turn their attention to NC State and chat about the hope that program has spurred for themselves from the tournament. 0:00 Rece: Is there such thing as a repeat champion? 2:10 Is UConn in the greatest-team-ever convo? 6:21 The NC State program now has hope 8:41 NC State and Alabama's path to the championship 11:49 How to stop NC State's DJ Burns 13:01 Could DJ Burns play for the NBA or NFL? 18:30 UConn's Donovan Clingan's side job as a landscaper 20:36 Dan Hurley's coaching track record 26:21 Could UConn's Dan Hurley be an NBA coach? 31:10 A Dan Hurley family story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 1, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN College Basketball Insider Jeff Borzello discuss the teams that have just landed in the Final Four spots in the Men’s NCAA tournament – specifically how a missed free throw by Virginia in the ACC tournament impacted NC State’s trajectory to the Final Four. They also talk about UConn’s evisceration of Illinois, the No. 2 offense in the country. And although Duke lost to NC State, Borzello notes that the Blue Devils’ future is bright as they are looking forward to Cooper Flagg, the number one college recruit in the country who has committed to their program for the following season. Finally, the two round out the pod with a preview of the Final Four games and who they think will be the NCAA tournament champion. 0:00 The Final Four teams are set 1:05 A missed free throw in the ACC tournament affected NC State’s trajectory to now 8:49 Illinois should’ve adjusted to UConn’s Donovan Clingan 12:01 The difficulty for UConn to win a back-to-back title 24:22 How Zach Edey fits into Purdue’s game 29:38 Tennessee’s dependence on Dalton Knecht 31:53 Breaking down NC State DJ Burns’ game 37:22 The future of Duke with No. 1 college recruit Cooper Flagg 42:17 Final Four preview: Alabama vs UConn 45:20 Final Four preview: Purdue vs NC State 48:20 The best basketball players in the portal right now 51:25 Who will be the men’s NCAA tournament champion? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 25, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN College Basketball Insider Jeff Borzello discuss Kentucky head coach John Calipari's uncertain future with the Wildcats. They delve into his need to change his staff, his need to shift his focus to developing older rosters, and the pros and cons that come with working with him. From the school's perspective they get into the $33M+ the Wildcats would have to spend to buy Calipari out, and the lack of coaching options out there for his replacement. Next, Borzello highlights which programs are still in need of a coach and which programs that would support a coach if a coach were to land there. Lastly, Thamel and Borzello recap their favorite games and players of the NCAA Tournament so far and preview the upcoming games they are looking to watch in the Sweet 16 round. 0:00 Will Kentucky fire Calipari this week? 7:45 SMU can afford Calipari's $33M buyout 13:22 Adjustments Calipari should make 26:48 Louisville caught flat footed in head coach search 30:38 Are all top coaches headed to SEC and Big Ten? 36:55 Schools in need of a coach 50:00 Jeff's favorite NCAA Tournament moments so far 55:53 Sweet 16 game previews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 20, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel dive into Clemson's lawsuit against the ACC - specifically how this affects Clemson's, Florida State's, and North Carolina's future with the league, and whether or not ACC will even remain a league. They also get into how this affects less profitable football programs like Northwestern, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, and Indiana, and take time to really underscore how important it is for programs like those to become more competitive in order to not get left behind. Then they shift their attention to the College Football Playoff - ESPN six-year $7.8 billion contract and question how it's fathomable that players aren't getting a cut of the pie. Lastly, Pete shares the news that Washington's Troy Dannen replaces Trev Alberts as Nebraska AD, and that Iowa's OT Kadyn Proctor is reentering the portal and rejoining Alabama. 0:00 Welcome To The College GameDay Podcast 01:02 Clemson Files Lawsuit Against ACC 03:45 Clemson’s Lawsuit Shifts Eyes To North Carolina 06:35 Salvaging the ACC Without Clemson and FSU 12:40 Clemson Files Lawsuit Against ACC 16:22 The Value That Is Unique To College Sports 27:30 CFP and ESPN Deal 31:30 Troy Dannen In As AD Nebraska 39:11 Kadyn Proctor Enters Transfer Portal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 18, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview the men's NCAA tournament bracket. They discuss their takeaways for each region, possible upsets, and then make their final four and conference champion picks. More specifically, they discuss UConn as the number one seed and who could possibly take them on, the pros and cons of Arizona, their doubts for Houston making it very far, what to keep in mind when watching NC State, what Kentucky brings to the table, Purdue's and Tennessee's baggage, and so much more! 03:30 - East preview: UConn's pathway 13:00 - East preview: Possible upsets 16:45 - East preview: The effect of Illinois' Terrence Shannon Jr. 22:30 - West preview: North Carolina's defense against other teams 25:00 West preview: Possible upsets 28:25 - West preview: The problem with Clemson 37:00 - West preview: The intrigue of Arizona 44:20 - South preview: The potholes in Houston's pathway 46:00 - South preview: How quickly will NC State fall? 58:34 - South preview: Kentucky's Reed Sheppard 01:05:51 - Midwest Preview: Purdue's & Tennessee's baggage 01:11:00 - Midwest preview: Possible upsets 01:22:00 - Full bracket preview: Final picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 13, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel share their shock for the news that Nebraska's AD and alum Trev Alberts is expected to agree to a five-year deal with Texas A&M, then expand on Alberts' lengthy history with the Cornhuskers and why they think money may not be the primary deciding factor in this potential move. Then they sit down with Syracuse head coach Fran Brown to discuss the text that got him his job, the obstacle he faces while on the job, and how he plans to dominate recruiting in New York, New Jersey, and beyond. 0:00 Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 0:20 Texas A&M Hires Trev Alberts as New AD 09:54 Pete Reacts To Syracuse Fran Brown Hire 11:24 How Fran Brown Got The Syracuse HC Job 25:00 How Brown’s NJ Roots Influence Syracuse’s Program 34:00 Brown Addresses Recruiting Against Big Ten & SEC Teams 49:00 It’s Important To Be There For Players And Staff 56:05 What Determines Success For Syracuse Football 57:23 Syracuse’s Dino BBQ Or Clemson’s Smoking Pig? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 7, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Michigan State head coach Jonathan Smith to discuss his swift transition into the role, him having to take on the transfer portal chaos, and how he sees the in-state rivalry with Michigan. Smith also gets into his QB days at Oregon with Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson, and what it's like to rub arms with MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo. Lastly, Rece reflects on an old MSU game where comedian Ken Jeong went viral after shouting out his wife, "Tran, you complete me Ho. That's her last name. That's her last name. Relax, ESPN." 0:00 - Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 00:18 - Why Are We Moving Off The 12-Team Playoff? 12:08 - Unique League Matchups 22:54 - Coach Smith On His Arrival at MSU 31:51 - Coach Smith: Tom Izzo Is Awesome To Lean On 35:22 - MSU Coach Smith Gives a Snapshot of Aidan Chiles 51:28 - Jonathan Smith: Ochocinco Caught My Best Throw 52:52 - Rece: The MSU Fight Song is Underrated 01:01:45 - Rece's Memory of Ken Jeong at Michigan St 01:06:06 - Can Pete sing the Syracuse fight song? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 29, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and ESPN.com Senior Writer Ryan McGee discuss former USC quarterback Caleb Williams' excitement ahead of the NFL Draft and how he's not pushing an agenda by saying he'd be "excited" if the Chicago Bears take him at No. 1. They also make some player leader picks ahead of the NFL Combine. Lastly, Rece and Ryan chat about how they haven't even adjusted to a 12-team playoff before discussions picked up about a 14-team playoff, and how, for field storming, we should just be like Clemson and walk off the field. 0:00 - Welcome To The College GameDay Podcast 0:15 - Indianapolis Wind Cut My Spleen 01:23 - NFL Draft Underwear Olympics 02:43 - Caleb Williams Leverage with NFL Teams 10:30 - Caleb Williams No Agenda 14:15 - Run the Fastest 40 At The Combine 20:49 - St. Elmo’s Cocktail Sauce 23:00 - 14 Team Playoff 28:24 - Court Storming 37:30 - Craziest Field Storming Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 21, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Boston College head coach Bill O'Brien to discuss how he's constructing his program - from targeting o-line players, to developmental coaches, to incorporating NIL. Then he gets into his previous experience and how programs like Penn State, the Houston Texans, and New England Patriots shaped him as a coach. Then, Rece and Pete get into why former Missouri Athletic Director Desireé Reed-Francois would leave for the University of Arizona, the Pac-12's move which shows why they don't want to go away, and what Pete thinks everyone should keep an eye on in college football right now. 0:00 - Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 02:12 - First Impressions of New Boston College HC Bill O’Brien 03:46 - Boston College HC Bill O’Brien Sits With Pete Thamel 07:04 - HC O’Brien: We Need To Target The Right Guys To Build The Team 13:52 - HC O’Brien: Boston College Has To Be Part of NIL Landscape 21:35 - O’Brien Kept Penn State Football From Disintegrating 24:49 - Boston College Faces A Challenging Schedule 30:38 - Why Would Francois Leave Miz For Arizona 36:42 - Pac-12 Hints They Don’t Intend To Go Away 40:05 - Gameday Is Headed To UCONN This Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 14, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule to discuss how his NFL experience - paired with his time at Temple and Baylor - will help him revive Cornhuskers football, why Rhule rooted for defensive coordinator Tony White to get the UCLA head coach job, and what in the world a Runza is. Then, Rece and Pete get into what it's been like working with former Alabama head coach Nick Saban since he joined ESPN, how Pat McAfee has been able to bring Saban's personality out front and center, and how sure they are that Alabama fans are totally patient, pragmatic, and calm following Saban's retirement and not at all worried that Ryan Grubb is going to the Seahawks. 0:00 - Welcome To The College Gameday Podcast 01:24 - Ohio St, UCLA, Boston College Coaching Moves 04:05 - HC Matt Rhule On The Difference Between Year 1 & 2 06:05 - HC Matt Rhule Brings NFL Experience To Nebraska 09:00 - Rhule On The Attraction Of Being A College Coach 13:12 - HC Matt Rhule On Rebuilding Nebraska Football 19:23 - HC Matt Rhule On QB Dylan Railoa Coming To Nebraska 23:04 - HC Matt Rhule: I Just Want To See Our Players Rip It 25:55 - HC Matt Rhule DC Tony White Is The Coolest In The Room 28:02 - Nebraska Athletic Director Trev Alberts’ Farm Stories 30:08 - HC Matt Rhule: Jahmal Banks Has Raised The Bar 32:05 - HC Rhule: Security Didn’t Want Me Storming The Court 33:23 - Nebraska HC Matt Rhule’s Favorite Local Lincoln Spots 37:38 - Former Bama HC Nick Saban Joining ESPN Was No Surprise 43:36 - Nick Saban Is Already 100 MPH On NFL Draft Draft Prep 44:50 - Bringing Out Nick Saban’s Personality On Gameday 47:26 - Peculiar For UCLA Chip Kelly To Go To Ohio State 51:25 - Alabama Shouldn’t Worry About Grubb Going To Seahawks 59:11 - The Apple Vision Pro Is The Bane Of Our Existence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 7, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel sit down with Washington head coach Jedd Fisch to discuss the two iconic head coaching sires - Stephen Belichick and Brennan Carroll - on his staff, what he's seen of Washington quarterback Will Rogers, and how the NCAA tampering rules affected his departure from Arizona. He also shares a story about his relentless pursuit to get into the OJ trial. Then, Rece and Pete get into the details of the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff structure, Dartmouth players possibly unionizing, and whether or not Rece is jinxing the North Carolina Tar Heels! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 1, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Tennessee being investigated by the NCAA for NIL violations, and the subsequent attorneys general of Tennessee and Virginia antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA. They also get into the future of Michigan under Sherrone Moore and then bring in ESPN NFL Draft Analyst Matt Miller to go over what we can expect from the NFL draft.Tune in next week for when new University of Washington Head Coach Jedd Fisch joins the pod!0:00 - NCAA Investigating Tennessee For NIL Violations 11:35 - Update: NCAA Is Sued Post-Tennessee Investigation 14:30 - Michigan Hires Sherrone Moore As Head Coach To Replace Harbaugh 23:26 - NFL Draft Prediction: QBs Will Dominate The Top 32:20 - Are We In An Era of Extreme Offense? 36:44 - Will There Be a 1st Round RB In The NFL Draft This Year? 43:00 - The Big 12 Football Schedule For 2024 Is Here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 26, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel talk about Ohio State’s boatload of portal additions - including Alabama quarterback Julian Sayin and Alabama defensive back Caleb Downs - and how this affects new Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer’s program in the upcoming season. Rece and Pete also get into how Ohio State head coach Ryan Day built and supplemented his team. Then, they make some way-too-early pre-season game picks and get into a discussion on how fairly coaches are being judged. 00:05 Ohio State's Shift In Roster Makeup 09:38 What If We See Ohio St vs Michigan In The Playoffs? 15:20 Way Too Early Team Picks For Pre-Season 19:42 Does The Playoff Affect How We Judge Coaches? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 25, 2024

Pete Thamel and ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter convene for an emergency podcast to talk about the news of Jim Harbaugh leaving the national champion Michigan Wolverines to coach the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers. They get into what kept Harbaugh from getting on the plane to Atlanta, what this means for the Michigan program, and the possibility of Michigan offensive coordinator/offensive line coach, Sherrone Moore, stepping into the head coach role. 1:33 What kept Harbaugh from going to Atlanta? 2:10 What’s next for Michigan? 2:34 Who will be Michigan’s next head coach? 5:36 Adam Schefter’s Harbaugh memories 7:44 Expectations for Sherrone Moore 11:20 How well does Harbaugh pair with Charges Quarterback Justin Herbert? 12:55 Where is Michigan Quarterback, JJ McCarthy’s, range in the draft? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 18, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel reflect on new coach hirings, retirements and changes that have shaken the college football world. They discuss latest news of Freshman Caleb Downs possibly entering the transfer portal, the surprise retirement announcement of Nick Saban and his reasons why plus where Jim Harbaugh will land next. We get a behind the scenes look into Rece’s thoughts on his exclusive interviews with these coaches. Hopefully Jim Harbaugh won’t announce where he’s coaching next while Pete is on vacation. Rece's Exclusive Interview with Jim Harbaugh After Winning the National Championship https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yljRESjsZjo&ab_channel=ESPN Rece's Exclusive Interview with Nick Saban After Announcing His Retirement https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-NTaEbfAtg&ab_channel=ESPN 00:20 - Caleb Downs Headed To Portal 02:04 - Alabama Ripple Effects After Saban’s Retirement 04:48 - Nick Saban BTS Interview Moments 18:01 - Asking Jim Harbaugh About His Future Plans 21:16 - The Question Rece Wishes He Asked Jim Harbaugh 22:31 - Jim Harbaugh BTS Interview Moments 25:12 - Jim Is The Best Team Builder 27:29 - If Harbaugh Leaves Michigan, Who Takes Over? 29:26 - Nick Saban BTS Interview Moments 32:28 - Rece’s Early Reporter Days Covering Nick Saban 36:35 - Saban and Harbaugh’s Relationship With The Media 39:33 - Alabama and Michigan Players Headed To The Portal 42:26 - Teams Moving Quickly On Portal Players 44:13 - Washington Hires Arizona’s Jedi Fish As HC 47:09 - Arizona Hires San Jose St’s Brent Brennan As HC 51:22 - Harbaugh To Leave Michigan During Pete’s Vacation 52:36 - College Gameday Pod Off-Season Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 11, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel convene for an emergency podcast following Nick Saban’s retirement from coaching. The guys discuss how it would always be a surprise when Saban decided to retire, if he is the greatest coach in the history of college football, how he revived the University of Alabama football program, the university using Saban’s success to boost academics, what Rece is hearing from Alabama fans, what’s next for Saban after coaching, and who’s on the shortlist of candidates to coach the Crimson Tide. 0:00 Nick Saban retires from Alabama 1:22 Saban’s retirement was always going to be a surprise 4:07 Rece on Saban: Great coach in history of CFB 7:53 Alabama was down when Saban arrived in 2007 8:26 Alabama capitalized on football’s success 9:36 Saban’s impact on the Tuscaloosa community 11:20 What Rece is hearing from fellow alumni 14:53 What’s next for Nick Saban? 17:58 Early Alabama coaching candidates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 9, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are chatting at midfield of NRG Stadium following the Michigan Wolverines’ 34-13 victory over the Washington Huskies in the College Football Playoff national championship game. The guys discuss Michigan dominating despite Washington’s chances, the Wolverines relying on the big play, what makes this a Jim Harbaugh-style championship, the legacy of this win for Michigan, what’s next for Harbaugh, and parting thoughts on the 2023 season. 0:49 MICHIGAN DOMINATED, WASHINGTON HAD CHANCES 1:39 DONOVAN RETURNS FROM WITNESS PROTECTION 2:08 MICHIGAN’S BIG PLAYS 2:38 WASHINGTON WAS A LITTLE OVER-AMPED TO START 3:35 A HARBAUGH CHAMPIONSHIP: DOMINANT, MESSY AWKWARD 6:00 MICHIGAN PROVED TO BE ELITE 7:35 BLAKE CORUM’S CHAMPIONSHIP MOMENTS 8:33 HARBAUGH WON WITH HIS ROOTS: DEFENSE & RUNNING THE BALL 9:16 MICHIGAN PLANTS THE FLAG 10:18 WHAT’S NEXT FOR JIM HARBAUGH? 13:13 FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE 2023 SEASON Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 6, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel share their final thoughts on the Michigan Wolverines against the Washington Huskies in the national championship game. They discuss an update on Dillon Johnson’s health, Michael Penix Jr.’s massive hands, how both teams scouted the College Football Playoff, if Rece revealed his man crush to Will Johnson, keeping an eye on the Wolverines’ defensive personnel, who they like to win the game, the latest on the portal moves and NFL draft declarations, and if Michigan would target Kalen DeBoer if Jim Harbaugh left Ann Arbor. Later, GameDay's Jen Lada talks to former Wolverine and current Cleveland Brown Maurice Hurst from the Mercedes-Benz ESPN College Football Podcast Sprinter. 1:20 DILLON JOHNSON INJURY UPDATE 5:46 DOES WASH OL TROY FAUTANU HAVE TROUBLE BUYING PANTS? 6:30 MICHAEL PENIX’S MASSIVE HANDS 9:30 THAMEL: WASHINGTON HAD TWO SEASONS 11:00 WASH & MICH SCOUTED ALL THE POTENTIAL CFP TEAMS 12:00 BOTH TEAMS SEEM VERY RELAXED 12:39 DID RECE REVEAL HIS MAN CRUSH TO WILL JOHNSON? 14:21 WASHINGTON’S THE UNDERDOG AGAIN (+4.5) 21:30 MICHIGAN’S DEFENSIVE PERSONNEL WILL BE TELLING 25:50 MICHIGAN HASN’T SEEN AN OFFENSE LIKE WASHINGTON 28:00 PICK THE GAME: MICHIGAN (-4.5) V. WASHINGTON 36:30 TEXAS’ TE JA'TAVION SANDERS DECLARES FOR THE NFL DRAFT 37:26 WHO WILL MIAMI LAND AT QB? 38:15 THAMEL: I EXPECT J.J. MCCARTHY TO DECLARE FOR THE DRAFT 39:00 MICHIGAN WILL BE RADICALLY DIFFERENT NEXT SEASON 41:30 SPECULATION: HARBAUGH MOVES ON, WHO WOULD MICHIGAN TARGET? 43:45 JEN LADA WITH MAURICE HURST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 5, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss how Washington stayed on script to make the national championship game, the Huskies’ offensive line keeping Michael Penix Jr. upright, Rece potentially interviewing Jim Harbaugh after winning a title, and Kalen DeBoer’s championship experience. Plus, the latest on Ohio State and Miami’s quests for a transfer portal quarterback. And, could Judge Judy fund an NIL program? 02:10 - Washington Clinches Title Appearance 07:29 - Washington Interior O-Line vs Michigan interior D-Line 12:44 - Connor Stalions at Rose Bowl Game 14:42 - How Would Fans React To Michigan Title 25:20 - Kalen DeBoer Wealth of Championship Experience 32:11 - Upcoming Transfer Portal News 34:44 - Miami's QB Situation 39:05 - Judge Judy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 2, 2024

Pete Thamel and Paolo Uggetti run it back one last time at the Rose Bowl, this time recapping the Washington Huskies’ 37-31 win over the Texas Long Horns in the College Football Playoff semifinals. The guys discuss the Huskies winning yet another one-score game, Washington’s wide receivers, Michigan needing to prepare for a different kind of offense and what image they’ll remember from Michigan defeating Alabama in the Rose Bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 2, 2024

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel react to the Michigan Wolverine’s 27-20 overtime victory against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff semifinals. The guys discuss how Michigan out SEC’d Alabama, Jim Harbaugh’s gutsy fourth down call, Blake Corum’s overtime touchdown run, J.J. McCarthy making plays and a cathartic win for the Wolverines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 1, 2024

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Desmond Howard discuss fans swarming Des, if a 12-team playoff will hasten expansion to 16 teams, Des’ thoughts on how Michigan will use J.J. McCarthy against Alabama ,and Washington’s offensive line against Texas’ front seven. Then, Rece and Pete talk about Texas and Washington not flinching in close games, why Florida State getting blown out by Georgia doesn’t mean much, and the new year-to-year nature of college football. 0:00 Desmond Howard joins the podcast 2:48 That time they wouldn’t let Mack Brown on the field at the Rose Bowl 4:05 This is the last four-team College Football Playoff 6:58 Will the 12-team playoff hasten expansion to 16? 8:35 Rose Bowl preview 9:39 How will Michigan handle Jalen Milroe’s legs 11:51 Desmond on how Michigan will us J.J. McCarthy 13:39 Washington’s offensive line vs. Texas’ front seven 15:29 BREAK 16:42 Sugar Bowl preview 17:16 Anything to glean from last year’s Alamo Bowl 19:13 Washington of offensive funk 20:35 Washington manufacturing offense 21:14 Texas also found way to win close games 23:01 Cousin connection in the Sugar Bowl 24:12 Georgia beats Florida State 63-3 25:41 It’s a shame FSU left out of CFP 28:24 How to fix bowl season 30:39 FSU’s blowout loss doesn’t mean anything 32:36 CFB becoming more like CBB 33:33 Florida is auditioning for a new conference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 30, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve are in the bowels of the Rose Bowl for their College Football semifinal preview. The guys lead off with Michigan-Alabama, discussing the clash of styles, J.J. McCarthy and Jalen Milroe needing to use their legs, and what this game means for Jim Harbaugh’s legacy. Then they get into Washington-Texas, talking about Washington’s end of season gauntlet, Quinn Ewers blossoming, and not a lot of hype around Michael Penix Jr. Later, they pick the games and eat steak — to wrap up the Race for the Ribeye. 0:00 CGD Podcast at the Rose Bowl 1:53 Rose Bowl Preview 3:44 Clash of styles 5:25 Will time off help J.J. McCarthy? 8:55 Wolverines defensive line advantage 9:38 Wolverines tight end advantage 12:21 McCarthy needs to use his legs for first downs 12:36 Michigan’s lack of postseason success 14:15 Jalen Milroe learning how to run 15:03 Michigan hasn’t seen a QB like Milroe 16:57 Is this Nick Saban’s best coaching job? 20:46 What’s at stake for Jim Harbaugh’s legacy? 23:32 You can’t get bored playing Michigan 26:35 Sugar Bowl Preview 28:43 Where does the Sugar Bowl hinge? 31:04 Washington’s end of season gauntlet 32:48 No one’s talking about Michael Penix Jr. 34:49 Washington needs to clean up its defense 36:24 Let’s talk about Quinn Ewers 38:40 Double does of bitterness for Ohio State fans 40:14 Quinn Ewers likely to return to Texas 41:22 J.J. McCarthy lively headed to the NFL 43:35 Interesting moment for Michigan 44:52 Picking Michigan (-1.5) vs. Alabama 48:11 Picking Washington vs. Texas (-4) 50:28 Who would be favored in Texas-Alabama? 55:42 Let them eat steak! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 22, 2023

Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve discuss Florida State's Friday board meeting and the expectation that they will challenge the ACC grant of rights. They also look to where FSU could turn to if they chose to leave the ACC. Lastly, the guys deliver on what to expect from Saturday's bowl games. 0:00 FSU expected to challenge ACC grant of rights 2:04 Where would FSU go? 10:40 Birmingham Bowl: Troy (-7) vs. Duke 13:06 Camellia Bowl: Arkansas State (-3) vs. Northern Illinois 15:21 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: James Madison (-2) vs. Air Force 18:36 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Georgia State vs. Utah State (-1.5) 20:34 68 Ventures Bowl: South Alabama (-17) vs. Eastern Michigan 23:20 SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl: Utah (-6) vs. Northwestern 28:19 EasyPost Hawai'i Bowl: Coastal Carolina vs. San Jose State (-9) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 19, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Ole Miss’ recent monster portal haul and dissect effective transfer portal strategy. They also get into QB Dylan Raiola’s commitment to Nebraska and QB Dante Moore’s commitment to Oregon. Then - as the pod record timer is running - Pete breaks the news that Tulsa’s QB Braylon Braxton has entered the portal. Rece finishes out the show by tossing up the question, ahead of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, have you ever put butter on a Pop-Tart? 0:00 QB Dylan Raiola commits to Nebraska 5:54 Nebraska is ready to go all-in on NIL 7:33 Portal winners are the teams spending money 12:28 Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss portal domination 19:43 Pete stops the show to break news 20:49 Tulsa’s QB Braylon Braxton enters the portal 21:28 Oregon’s collection of quarterbacks 26:08 Where will FSU’s QB Cam Ward go? 30:00 Pete’s take on the Fenway Bowl 31:18 Rece’s butter on a Pop-Tart pop culture reference 32:31 Rece’s take on the Pop-Tarts Bowl 34:21 Preview of the GameDay pod in LA! 36:00 A “quick” Georgia High School football story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 12, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss what we didn't see when Bill Belichick swung by the College GameDay set at the Army - Navy game, who their Heisman Trophy votes went to, and quarterbacks landing in the transfer portal. Then they look at the most motivated teams going into the end-of-the-year bowl games before giving a preview of some upcoming podcast postseason episodes. 00:00 Delineating the Army - Navy rivalry spirit from all other games 6:27 Lee Corso archival video behind-the-scenes moment 8:35 Bill Belichick's on-set surprise 13:08 Rece and Pete disclose their Heisman Trophy votes 18:50 Quarterbacks in the transfer portal 27:06 Should coaches emphasize pursuing a QB or developing one? 28:32 Coaches' biggest challenge is player retention 31:20 Producers Taylor and Sara share their experience at the Army - Navy game 38:21 Race for the Ribeye payoff could take place at the Rose Bowl 42:26 Bowl games: Who is motivated vs. unmotivated? 49:38 Podcast postseason episodes coming! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 7, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss why we are seeing more parity in college football, how the Heisman will be remembered, and the development of LSU's quarterback Jayden Daniels. Then Bill Connelly, creator of the SP+ ranking, joins to give a snapshot of the college football playoff semifinals. SportsCenter commentator and sports betting analyst Stanford Steve also joins the pod. He shares why he has no problem with FSU being out, then lays out why the Army-Navy game absolutely lives up to the hype. 00:00 FSU being out of CFP is a new level of controversy 8:39 Why are we seeing more parity in CFB? 13:08 Losing will be less punitive in CFB 14:54 How will the Heisman be remembered? 21:00 LSU did a great job at developing Jayden Daniels 22:12 Creator of the SP+ ranking Bill Connelly joins the pod 22:40 Bill is big mad about FSU being left out of CFP 36:39 Formula vs. Committee in a 12-team CFP 43:39 Bill's snapshot of the CFP semifinals 52:11 SportsCenter commentator and Race for the Ribeye winner Stanford Steve joins the pod 54:19 Steve has no problem with the FSU decision 1:02:28 What Pete's hearing in the quarterback transfer market 1:10:29 College GameDay heads to Army - Navy game in Foxborough, MA 1:16:13 Steve's tasty Army - Navy bet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 4, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel deliver their thoughts on Florida State being left out of College Football Playoff, whether it was fair to judge them based on the ACC title game, and the "Alliance" delaying the CFP expansion this year. Then, ESPN senior writer Ryan McGee joins the show to talk about possible big-picture changes to the CFP committee, and Ohio State’s Kyle McCord and Oklahoma's Dillon Gabriel hitting the transfer portal. 00:00 Undefeated Florida State is left out of CFP 6:08 Is it unfair to judge FSU on the ACC title game? 10:00 Rece: It's time for expansion 11:00 The "Alliance" delayed the 12-team CFP this year 13:34 SMU snubbed from New Year's 6 19:29 ESPN senior writer Ryan McGee joins 22:03 A look at possible big picture changes to CFP committee 30:44 Will 12-team playoff bring peace and prosperity? 37:47 OSU and Oklahoma quarterbacks enter the transfer portal 47:04 Preview: Michigan vs. Alabama in the Rose Bowl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 1, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve discuss the most likely chaotic scenarios for the committee and the semifinal matchups they want to see. Then, the guys pick Week 14 titles games in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. 00:00 Most likely chaotic scenarios for the committee 1:19 Which CFP semifinal matchup do you want to see? 4:38 Race for the Ribeye Week 14 Picks 7:15 New Mexico State at Liberty (-10) 11:10 Oregon (-9.5) vs. Washington 15:19 Oklahoma State vs. Texas (-14.5) 18:38 Miami vs. Toledo (-7.5) 21:39 Boise State (-2) vs. UNLV 25:12 Georgia (-6) vs. Alabama 32:48 SMU at Tulane (-4) 37:03 Appalachian State at Troy (-6.5) 39:14 Michigan (-23) vs. Iowa 42:04 Louisville vs. Florida State (-2.5) 48:43 If Georgia loses, who takes the no. 2 seed? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 29, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Ohio State falling to No. 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings, if there’s any way for the Buckeyes to sneak back in, Bobby Petrino returning to Arkansas, and how San Diego State can stand out. Next, Bill Connelly, creator of the SP+ ranking, joins and dives into chaos scenarios, the numbers going into Oregon-Washington, whether Iowa can score against Michigan, and Georgia's x-factor against Alabama. 00:00 Ohio State slips to No. 6 in the CFP rankings 5:07 Preview: The big stakes games this weekend 11:38 Arkansas brings back ex-head coach Bobby Petrino as OC 20:49 San Diego State lands Sean Lewis 35:52 Oregon vs. Washington numbers 38:03 Louisville vs. Florida game preview 43:26 Oklahoma State vs. Texas, Mike Gundy’s tall task 46:43 Iowa vs. Michigan, can Iowa score? 54:35 Georgia vs. Alabama, the x-factor is Dillon Bell 59:07 The SP+ top 4 teams Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 27, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Michigan's rivalry win over Ohio State, the electric atmosphere in Ann Arbor, and the brewing battle for the College Football Playoff No. 4 spot. Then, ESPN senior writer Ryan McGee joins the show to talk about the news of Texas A&M hiring of head coach Mike Elko, what he brings to the team, and the initial challenges he now faces. Finally, the discussion turns to Alabama winning the Iron Bowl over Auburn with a miracle touchdown on fourth-and-goal. 00:00 The electric atmosphere when Michigan beat Ohio State 8:00 How should the CFP Committee judge Florida State? 12:00 Could OSU's Mike Gundy end Texas' CFP hopes? 16:20 Who wins right now? Texas or Florida State 17:15 Who wins right now? Texas or Oregon 20:00 CFP Rankings: The fight for No. 4 22:20 Oregon vs. Washington Preview 25:15 ESPN Senior Writer Ryan McGee joins the show 26:00 News: Texas A&M hires Mike Elko 33:30 Texas A&M HC Mike Elko's credentials 40:00 Texas A&M HC Mike Elko's first test 43:20 Recapping Alabama vs. Auburn's thrilling ending 58:00 Recapping a great rivalry weekend Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly discuss Barry Odom and UNLV’s exciting season, their advice for coaches seeking the next job, and Missouri vying for a 10-win season. Then, the guys pick 10 Rivalry Week games in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. 0:00 Year of Bill Connelly and Barry Odom 2:20 How they evaluate Coach of the Year 5:49 Barry Odom and UNLV’s exciting season 8:12 Advice for coaches seeking new jobs 11:01 “I might be a duck for a while” 14:50 Missouri vying for 10 wins 15:50 Pete sabotaging ad reads 16:22 Bill’s Japanese-themed Thanksgiving 19:36 Race for the Ribeye: Week 13 22:33 Ole Miss (-10) @ Mississippi State 26:11 Iowa @ Nebraska (-2) 29:11 UTSA @ Tulane (-3) 32:53 Oregon State @ Oregon (-13.5) 37:02 Kentucky @ Louisville (-7) 41:15 Ohio State @ Michigan (-3.5) 50:43 Maryland (-1) @ Rutgers 52:51 Washington State @ Washington (-16.5) 58:26 Florida State (-6.5) @ Florida 1:05:01 North Carolina (-3) @ N.C. State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 20, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss a top-tier College GameDay environment at James Madison University, a sensation performance from the Jonas Brothers, and Jordan Travis’ injury altering the College Football Playoff picture. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about the one scenario that would leave the SEC out of the CFP, Georgia’s dominance, Ohio State-Michigan as a fitting ending to the four-team CFP era, what we’re losing with a 12-team playoff and their favorite Thanksgiving dishes. 0:00 Incredible GameDay at JMU 2:24 Pete’s lasting impression of Harrisonburg 3:52 Jonas Brothers performance 6:39 Special moment for JMU 9:28 Rece’s JMU reflection 13:14 Top teams pushed, not beaten 15:14 Jordan Travis out for the season 22:40 The one scenario that leaves the SEC out of the CFP 24:45 Ryan McGee 28:17 Georgia rolls 36:31 What we’re losing in a 12-team playoff 43:11 Conference championships have to go 45:08 Bye weeks are too NFL 47:37 No one looking out for the sport 52:00 Favorite Thanksgiving dish Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 16, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve pick nine games from Week 12 in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. 0:00 Steve road tripping to Harrisonburg 2:19 JMU’s past GameDay crowds 3:41 Jonas Brothers performing on GameDay 7:03 JMU’s transition to FBS 11:12 Steve fridge update 14:25 The internet having fun with Jamey Chadwell 17:20 Louisville (-1) @ Miami 19:52 SMU (-8.5) @ Memphis 21:39 Appalachian State @ JMU (-10.5) 26:16 Georgia (-10) @ Tennessee 30:43 North Carolina @ Clemson (-6.5) 33:28 UNLV @ Air Force (-3) 37:58 UCLA @ USC (-7) 42:11 Washington @ Oregon State (-2.5) 46:26 Texas (-7.5) @ Iowa State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 15, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Georgia showing respect to Ole Miss, if an elite team will be able to puncture the Wolverine offensive line, and Michigan’s day in court. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about Jim Harbaugh keeping it weird, their theories on why Texas A&M can’t win big, and the and the emotions for Oregon State as they face Washington. 3:30 Georgia paying a compliment 4:19 Pete medium Georgia take 5:41 Michigan’s the closet team to Georgia 7:36 Potential Wolverine weakness 9:53 Michigan at Maryland 13:25 Michigan’s day in court 18:30 What if Harbaugh went full Nathan Jessep 19:49 Ryan McGee 23:06 Harbaugh: Weird enough 25:00 Why is Texas A&M historically average? 33:41 Should A&M hire Jeff Traylor? 35:15 Huge moment for the Aggies 38:16r Washington at Oregon State 41:17 Washington’s defense 43:25 The emotions around this game for the Beavers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 13, 2023

Pete Thamel and ESPN.com ’s Dave Wilson discuss Texas A&M firing Jimbo Fisher, the mood in College Station, coaching candidates, and Texas dodging another rake against TCU. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about Boise State firing Andy Avalos and Mississippi State firing Zach Arnett. Plus, which jobs might open up next? 0:00 Dave Wilson joins the show :31 Texas A&M fire Jimbo Fisher 2:35 The mood in College Station 5:55 Ross Bjork’s press conference 7:14 Jimbo’s huge buyout 10:45 Who does Texas A&M hire? 14:45 Does A&M need a Texas guy? 19:16 Texas keeps dodging rakes 24:36 Bill Connelly joins the show 26:04 Bill on who A&M should hire 31:04 Northwestern rebounding 32:48 Boise State fire Andy Avalos 36:15 Who should Boise State hire? 40:51 Mississippi State fires Zach Arnett 41:25 Who should Mississippi State hire? 47:06 Brady Hoke retires 52:30 Which jobs open next? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 10, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve pick eight games from Week 11 in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. 5:41 Maryland (-2.5) @ Nebraska 8:23 Michigan (-4.5) @ Penn State 14:02 Alabama (-10.5) @ Kentucky 16:41 Miami @ Florida State (-14.5) 19:55 Tennessee (-1) @ Missouri 24:08 Rutgers @ Iowa (-1.5) 28:50 Ole Miss @ Georgia (-10.5) 35:11 USC @ Oregon (-16.5) 43:30 Jen Lada and Elle Duncan in the Mercedes-Benz ESPN College Football Podcast Sprinter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 8, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the unchanged College Football Playoff rankings, how closely the top five teams are grouped, the latest on the Michigan investigation, the legal system getting involved, and the most effective punishment if the Big Ten finds the Wolverines guilty. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about what an upset would look like from Penn State, USC and TCU. Plus, the NCAA has a ripe chance to let the good PR flow. 0:00 New CFP rankings 5:44 The CFP Committee’s consistency and football judgement 8:06 The latest Michigan twist! 9:52 Delineating between information sharing and on-site scouting 15:36 How Michigan should be punished 19:52 Big Ten teams’ history of suing the conference 24:04 Bill Connelly, Michigan at Penn State 28:11 Ole Miss at Georgia 31:15 USC at Oregon 35:21 Oregon vulnerable secondary 37:26 Would Caleb Williams skip a bowl game? 41:25 Texas at TCU 44:20 Texas avoiding rakes 50:27 NCAA do the right thing with JMU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 6, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss why Rece thinks Texas won the weekend, Oklahoma State taking down Oklahoma in the last Big 12 Bedlam, and USC players not responding to Alex Grinch. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about Ole Miss winning an elimination game, if the Rebels can hang against Georgia, all of the updates in the Conor Stalions-Michigan story, and Alabama beating LSU in a high-speed affair. 0:00 Rece’s Texas take 4:21 Steak bet 10:05 Oklahoma State wins Bedlam 14:16 Rece on MegaCast in the ThunderDome 22:30 USC fire Alex Grinch 26:37 Ryan McGee 29:15 Ole Miss beats Texas A&M 30:10 Can Ole Miss beat Georgia this weekend? 33:30 Rakes in Texas’ CFP path 38:14 Does Jim Harbaugh coach this weekend? 43:44 Michigan story has transcended sports 50:44 Us vs. The World Only Works for So Long 56:53 Alabama beats LSU in a track meet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 2, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve pick 11 games from Week 10 in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. 8:36 Kansas State @ Texas (-4) 13:09 Texas A&M @ Ole Miss (-3.5) 17:34 Notre Dame (-3) @ Clemson 21:26 Oklahoma (-5.5) @ Oklahoma State 26:22 Missouri @ Georgia (-15.5) 30:53 Iowa (-3) @ Northwestern 34:54 James Madison (-5.5) @ Georgia State 36:45 Kansas @ Iowa State (-2.5) 39:39 Washington (-3.5) @ USC 43:47 LSU @ Alabama (-3) 50:12 UCLA (-2.5) @ Arizona Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 1, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the first set of College Football Playoff rankings, the rankings tell us anything about the committee, Florida State’s spot in the top four, chaos scenarios, and Rece asking Boo Corrigan if Michigan’s alleged sign-stealing will factor into their decisions. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about his brush with sign-stealing, Dabo Swinney arguing with a fan on the radio, and Swinney being the victim of a monster he created. 0:00 First CFP Ranking 4:38 Rooting for chaos 6:29 Is Florida State in trouble at No. 4? 10:20 The limits of head-to-head results 14:12 Chaos scenarios 19:54 Boo Corrigan on Michigan 23:16 Ryan McGee 26:30 Washington shutout of top 4 27:42 Story Time with McGee 31:11 Latest on Michigan & Conor Stalions 38:30 Dabo vs. Tyler from Spartanburg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 30, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Michigan’s alleged sign-stealing, why it’s the defining story of this season, Kansas changing the trajectory of the Big 12 by beating Oklahoma, Oklahoma State bouncing back, Oregon laying the beatdown on Utah, and the ACC Wheel of Destiny. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about if Washington’s peaked, the ups and downs of the Pac-12, Louisville surging, Georgia Tech’s expectations, and Rece’s challenge to Alabama fans. :31 Pete on sign stealing 4:19 How will this affect Michigan on the field? 7:55 Kansas upsets Oklahoma 11:52 Kansas State playing well 14:37 Oklahoma State turning it around 24:14 Oregon whooped Utah 28:49 ACC Wheel of Destiny 33:56 Is Bill Connelly hiding info from Rece? 36:50 A big favorite finally pulls the upset 38:31 Did Washington peak? 41:45 Pac-12 ups and downs 42:46 Explain Georgia Tech 45:08 Louisville surging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 26, 2023

Rece Davis and Stanford Steve pick eight games from Week 9 in the latest edition of the Race for The Ribeye. :55 Steve having trouble with his fridge picks 6:34 Race for the Ribeye standings 7:30 Oklahoma (-10) @ Kansas 10:20 BYU @ Texas (-17.5) 15:53 Georgia (-14.5) vs. Florida 21:35 Oregon (-7) @ Utah 26:26 Duke @ Louisville (-4) 31:47 Tennessee (-3.5) @ Kentucky 34:22 Ohio State (-14.5) @ Wisconsin 37:34 UNLV @ Fresno State (-7.5) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 25, 2023

Rece Davis kicks off the show talking about Michigan’s purported sign stealing and how much he actually care about the ordeal. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to discuss being the line between mocking and being bothered by Michigan’s attempt to gain an edge, if college football should transition to helmet communications, how good they think Michigan really is, the “best vs. most deserving” debate, and which conference could miss out on the College Football Playoff. :28 Theater of the Abusrd: Michigan Sign Stealing 3:06 How much should we care? 9:22 How does this happen? 10:37 Sign Stealing diminishes accomplishments 11:00 Bill Connelly joins the podcast! 12:20 Torn between mocking and bother 18:14 Sign stealer has a career in logistics 20:31 Exploring helment communications 26:05 How good is Michigan? 31:02 Best vs. Most Deserving Debate 38:04 Top Tier Schools Parody 39:52 Which conference is most vulnerable to miss the CFP? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 23, 2023

Rece Davis holds it down with Pete Thamel on assignment, kicking off the podcast talking about Ohio State winning with defense, what should we expect from Penn State, Michigan stealing signs, Oz the Mentalist and a conundrum on the GameDay set, and North Carolina blowing it against Virginia. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to discuss Washington nearly losing to Arizona State, Alabama cleaning up the penalties, what’s still ahead for Tennessee, Lincoln Riley shutting down press availability after USC lost to Utah, and how do you say “Marriott?” 0:00 Ohio State beats Penn State 3:00 Expectations for Penn State 7:30 Michigan’s spies 9:00 Oz The Mentalist 18:00 North Carolina Blows It 22:15 Ryan McGee 27:36 Washington survives Arizona State 31:56 Alabama cleans it up against Tennessee 35:44 Tennessee’s tightrope forward 39:17 Year of the Near Miss 45:25 Utah beats USC 53:49 Utes have won four-straight against the Trojans 57:30 How do you pronounce “Marriott?” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 19, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve pick eight Week 8 games in the latest addition of the Race for the Ribeye. 6:46 Race for The Ribeye: Week 8 7:18 Penn State @ Ohio State (-4) 10:40 Washington State @ Oregon (-20) 13:05 Minnesota @ Iowa (-3.5) 18:15 Tennessee @ Alabama 24:44 Duke @ Florida State (-14) 30:00 Georgia State @ Louisiana (-2.5) 31:56 Utah @ USC (-6.5) 37:07 Clemson (-3.5) @ Miami Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 18, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel give some love to the Tuesday night games that featured trash-talking billboards and more thin-skinned head coaches. Then, the guys discuss College GameDay heading to Columbus, if Ohio State-Penn State will provide more clarity or chaos, and if Nittany Lion passing game will slice the Buckeye secondary. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about The James Franklin Experience, if an 11-1 Iowa could make the College Football Playoff, Alabama-Tennessee, and if there’s any optimism for USC with Utah coming to town. 3:35 WONDERFULLY THIN-SKINNED COACHES: BILLBOARD KERFUFFLE 8:43 COLLEGE GAMEDAY GOES TO COLUMBUS! 10:56 WHAT TO EXPECT: PENN STATE VS. OHIO STATE 19:55 CAN PENN STATE’S OFFENSE MEASURE UP? 23:26 PENN STATE’S MENTAL HURDLE 27:32 RYAN MCGEE JOINS THE SHOW 28:12 HOW CAN PENN STATE OVERCOME THEIR ROAD BLOCK? 30:42 WILL PENN STATE BE VICTORIOUS? 32:42 CAN IOWA MAKE THE CFP? 41: 42 ALABAMA VS. TENNESSEE PREVIEW 46:48 ALABAMA DEFENSIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH 50:05 UTAH VS. USC PREVIEW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 16, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel look back at their time in Seattle and discuss the electric early-morning environment, if both teams could win a national championship, if the better team won, USC melting down against Notre Dame, and if the loss will inspire change in Lincoln Riley. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about Brock Bowers’ injury, how many teams are College Football Playoff contenders and their early thoughts on Penn State-Ohio State. 1:00 Washington was electric 2:30 Both teams could win the championship 5:00 Oregon’s play calling 9:55 Did the better team win? 13:03 The spotlight on Kalen DeBoer 20:19 USC melts down against Notre Dame BREAK 23:13 Adversity for Lincoln Riley 29:25 Will the Big Ten adapt to Lincoln Riley? 31:35 Brock Bowers out 4-6 weeks 35:42 Bill Connelly BREAK 38:39 Missouri looks good at mid-season 41:16 Weird Georgia team right now 44:21 Is North Carolina legit? 47:25 How many CFP contenders are there? 52:51 Early leans on Penn State @ Ohio State 56:55 Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 12, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve pick nine Week 7 games in the latest addition of the Race for the Ribeye. 7:29 Race for the Ribeye: Week 7 Picks 8:15 Oregon @ Washington (-3) 15:11 Texas A&M @ Tennessee (-3.5) 19:23 Iowa @ Wisconsin (-10) 22:40 Marshall @ Georgia State (-1) 24:52 Wyoming @ Air Force (-10.5) 27:54 USC @ Notre Dame (-3) 32:11 Miami @ North Carolina (-3) 37:05 Missouri @ Kentucky (-2.5) 39:12 UCLA @ Oregon State (-3.5) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 11, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss watching college football on a Tuesday, College GameDay headed to Seattle, the showdown between Bo Nix and Michael Pennix Jr., North Carolina and Miami trying to take the next step, USC at Notre Dame, Dillion Gabriel stepping up for the Sooners, and the Group of 5 game with big time bowl implications. 1:15 Theater of the Absurd: Coastal Carolina vs. Appalachian State 8:48 Paradigm Switches Throughout CFB History 11:35 College GameDay goes to Seattle! 12:26 Could Oregon or Washington Make the CFB? 15:45 Washington vs. Oregon Showdown 19:17 QB Comparison: Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr. 24:28 Miami vs. UNC Preview 29:33 Wonderfully Think Skinned Coaches 37:24 Rivalry Renewed: USC at Notre Dame 46:49 Dillion Gabriel Steps Up in Big Games 49:08 Biggest Questions About Washinton vs. Oregon 52:49 Game to Watch this Week: Miami vs. UNC 53:58 G5 Games with NY6 Implications Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 10, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss a wild day at the Cotton Bowl that saw Oklahoma victorious over Texas, if both the Longhorns and Sooners could make the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame’s offensive identity, a philosophical question about firing coordinators, Miami nearly retiring Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins, and Georgia looking like a near-finished product. 3:24 Oklahoma was ready 8:28 Dillion Gabriel 10:33 Could OU and Texas make the CFP? 12:44 SEC ready 16:54 Hartman House of Horrors 23:40 Notre Dame offensive identity 28:11 Would firing Alex Grinch actually help USC? 32:53 Ryan McGee 36:23 Wacky ending to USC-Arizona 46:05 Miami blows it against Georgia Tech 57:06 Alabama pulling it together 1:03:06 Georgia looking more and more polished Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 6, 2023

Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve hold it down with Rece Davis sidelined and make their Week 6 picks. They discuss if Maryland can take a step forward vs Ohio State, Steve’s first time at the Red River Showdown, why Texas A&M-Alabama is the toughest game to project, and if Fresno State is the best G5 team. 1:30 Maryland @ Ohio State (-20) 5:52 Texas (-6.5) vs. Oklahoma 12:44 LSU (-6.5) @ Missouri 15:52 Washington State @ UCLA (-3.5) 17:18 Alabama (-2.5) @ Texas A&M 21:25 Kentucky @ Georgia (-14.5) 25:11 Fresno State (-6) @ Wyoming 29:19 Jen Lada with Kenneth Murray Jr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 5, 2023

Pete Thamel, Ryan McGee and Bill Connelly discuss the 5-0 Missouri Tigers, whether the No. 1 team in the country should be judged on accomplishment or potential, which conference will be left out of the College Football Playoff, if Kentucky can topple Georgia, Quinn Ewers in the Heisman mix, their biggest concerns about the transfer portal and the best games of Week 6. 0:00 Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast! 4:03 Who’s the No. 1 Team in the Country? 11:15 Which League Will Be Left Out of CFP? 17:42 Can Kentucky Take Down Georgia? 23:42 Texas and Oklahoma: An Actual Carnival 31:49 Texas State Fair Menu Breakdown 34:53 Biggest Concerns With Transfer Portal 39:45 Most Interesting Game: UCLA vs. Washington State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 3, 2023

Ryan McGee and Marty Smith invade the College GameDay Podcast with Rece Davis and Pete Thamel on assignment. The guys discuss undefeated Kentucky facing undefeated Georgia this weekend, which team is the true No. 1 in the land, Oklahoma quieting getting it going, Nick Saban delegating, fake accents and Mark Stoops making bourbon. Then, Paolo Uggetti stops by to talk about USC-Colorado, Caleb Williams as the first Gen-Z star quarterback, and the mood in Southern California and USC and UCLA prepare to enter the Big ten. 1:32 - Upcoming battle of undefeateds with Kentucky @ Georgia 8:00 - Who’s the best team in the country? 14:02 - Notre Dame downs Duke, Riley Leonard update 16:38 - The scene in Lexington for Marty & McGee 20:27 - Alabama takes care of Mississippi State 23:51 - Most difficult part of being a head coach 28:45 - Paolo Uggetti, their thoughts after visiting Boulder 33:07 - Caleb Williams is the first Gen-Z star QB 38:34 - Mood in SoCal as USC and UCLA head toward B1G move Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 28, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel carry the load with Stanford Steve out for the day. They discuss College GameDay’s first trip to Durham for football and dive deep into Notre Dame-Duke. Then, the guys pick eight Week 5 games including Utah-Oregon State, USC-Colorado, Clemson-Syracuse, and Kansas-Texas. 1:52 - GameDay going to Durham 6:50 - Previewing Notre Dame-Duke 16:13 - Louisville @ N.C. State 20:58 - Utah @ Oregon State 23:10 - USC @ Colorado 26:42 - Florida @ Kentucky 29:26 - Clemson @ Syracuse 31:42 - Kansas @ Texas 34:31 - LSU @ Ole Miss 36:51 - Notre Dame @ Duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 27, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Michigan State firing Mel Tucker, if this will be the most attractive open job opening this season, and which coaches are on the early candidate short list. Then, Bill Connelly joins to talk about Texas A&M’s Conner Weigman’s going down and veteran Max Johnson replacing him, a weird game in Jerry World, the best games of the weekend, Michigan hitting the road, and writing off the SEC at your own peril. 00:00 - Mel Tucker fired 10:03 - How attractive is the Michigan State job? 17:03 - Early candidates 21:17 - Bill Connelly, Texas A&M QB injury 25:18 - A&M-Arkansas @ Jerry World 31:11 - Best Week 5 Games 33:43 - Utah @ Oregon State 35:28 - Michigan @ Nebraska 38:13 - USC @ Colorado 41:43 - Conference Sensitivity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 25, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss coaches getting petty with Dan Lanning’s pregame speech and Ryan Day’s postgame interview. Plus, did Ryan Day know that Lou Holtz was being interviewed by Lou Holtz? And is Lane Kiffin a “low talker?” Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about Kiffin missing his chance against Nick Saban, Notre Dame only have 10 men on the field at the end of the game, if the Pac-12 is the best conference, and GameDay heading to Duke. [4:24] Dan Lanning's pregame speech [7:25] Ryan Day's postgame interview [13:55] Lou Holtz interviewing Lou Holtz [21:55] Coaching sensitivity [24:55] Lane Kiffin "low talking" [28:36] Ryan McGee [34:20] Kiffin's missed opportunity vs. Saban [42:08] Notre Dame with only 10 men on the field [48:21] Notre Dame's "choice" error [51:37] Ohio State-Texas line [1:01:48] Pac-12 the best conference? [1:06:53] GameDay goes to Duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 21, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel, and Stanford Steve have you covered with picks for Week 4 of the season! They start off hot with if Clemson has what it takes to take down Florida State, if Colorado can keep the momentum to defeat Oregon, and why the Washington State vs. Oregon State is going to be an electric game to watch. Plus, will Notre Dame be able to come out victorious against Ohio State? Timecodes: :00 Welcome to the College GameDay Podcast 4: 20 Florida State (-2) @ Clemson 8:14 Ole Miss @ Alabama (-7) 14: 21 Colorado @ Oregon (-21) 19:24 UCLA @ Utah (-4.5) 23:32 BYU @ Kansas (-9) 27:44 Oregon State (-3) @ Washington State 32:05 Iowa @ Penn State (14.5) 35:45 Ohio State (-3) @ Notre Dame Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 20, 2023

Pete Thamel and Rece Davis give you the latest on what you need to know heading into Week 4 of the season. They break down the must watch game of the week Notre Dame and Ohio State, who can heat up Sam Hartman, and the history of this matchup. Then, Bill Connelly joins to discuss if Notre Dame will be forced to join a conference, who will come out on top of the Florida State vs. Clemson game, and the formula for success in the UCLA vs. Utah matchup. 1:20 What to Expect: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State 17:44 Will Notre Dame be Forced to Join a Conference? 21:37 Bill Connelly Joins the Show! 22:02 Will Notre Dame be forced to Join a Conference? 28:10 Florida State vs. Clemson Week 4 Preview 41:22 Blow-Up or Blowout: Colorado vs. Oregon 45: Penn State vs. Iowa Week 4 Preview 47:36 Formula for Success: UCLA vs. Utah Week 4 Preview 49:44 Oregon State vs. Washington State Week 4 Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 18, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the Colorado revival, Colorado State failing to finish the game, Rece introducing himself to The Rock, the Prime Effect spreading to the Lululemon and double-stroller crowd, Georgia facing adversity, and defensive coordinator drama at Ole Miss. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about Tennessee losing in The Swamp again, which quarterback should start for Alabama against the Rebels and how players handle benching. Later, Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. [0:39] Colorado survives, Colorado State should've put the Buffs away [8:32] Rece and The Rock [13:32] The only two trustworthy teams in the country [21:04] Spencer Rattler [27:47] DC drama at Ole Miss [30:44] Ryan McGee, Vols lose in The Swamp [39:13] Which QB should Alabama play agains the Rebels? [48:35] How players handle benching [52:49] Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 14, 2023

Rece Davis and Stanford Steve carry the load with Pete Thamel on assignment. They kick it off with Oregon’s solid win at Texas Tech, two-point conversions and why Week 3 is exactly the kind of weekend Steve loves. Then, the guys the pick 10 games including Penn State at Illinois, Kansas State at Missouri, LSU at Mississippi State, Washington at Michigan State and the Backyard Brawl. [4:50] Nice road win for Oregon against Texas Tech [6:06] Rece's rant on going for two [9:18] Picks [15:09] Penn State @ Illinois [18:39] Kansas State @ Missouri [21:24] LSU @ Mississippi State [23:55] Minnesota @ North Carolina [26:48] South Carolina @ Georgia [30:10] Washington @ Michigan State [35:44] Tennessee @ Florida [39:03] BYU @ Arkansas [40:38] Patt @ West Virginia [43:41] TCU @ Houston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 13, 2023

Rece Davis starts off the podcast riding solo with Pete Thamel on assignment. Rece sorts through the Week 3 slate and finds the most compelling games. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to discuss a modern rivalry in Missouri-Kansas State, if the spread for Georgia-South Carolina is too big, SEC’s disappointing non-conference start, how Michael Penix Jr. will react under pressure, keeping an eye on Western Kentucky’s Malachi Corley against Ohio State, if Alabama will move on from Jalen Milroe and which ranked team steps on a rake. [17:30] Bill Connelly [21:03] Kansas State-Missouri [27:13] South Carolina-Georgia [29:13] SEC's non-conf woes [35:10] Michigan State-Washington [39:27] Malachai Corley [43:13] Will Alabama move on from Jalen Milroe? [49:17] Which ranked team steps on a rake? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 11, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel start with their Saturday in Tuscaloosa, watching Texas push Alabama around. Then, the Longhorn Network’s Fozzy Whittaker stops by to talk about Texas’ biggest win in years, staying consistent in the Big 12 and Quinn Ewers giving up Chick-fil-a. Then, Rece and Pete discuss Michigan State suspending Mel Tucker amid an ongoing university sexual harassment investigation. Then, Ryan McGee and the guys get into Alabama losing its edge in the fourth quarter, Miami making a statement, never believing in Texas A&M, and Colorado as the story of September. Later, an all-time Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Finally, Jen Lada talks to Tim Tebow in the Mercedes-Benz ESPN College Football Podcast Sprinter. [0:00] Texas pushes Alabama around [5:56] Fozzy Whittaker [14:39] What's different about Quinn Ewers [20:20] Michigan State suspends Mel Tucker [26:00] Ryan McGee, Alabama loses its fourth quarter edge [33:22] Does Nick Saban dig a loss? [37:47] Miami-Texas A&M [43:40] Story of September: Colorado [54:53] Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins [59:33] Jen Lada and Tim Tebow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 8, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve start the show by asking Steve about his first on-site College GameDay. Then, the guys preview a loaded Week 2 slate by picking 10 games, including Alabama-Texas, Colorado-Nebraska, Miami-Texas A&M, Texas Tech-Oregon, Iowa State-Iowa and more. [13:34] Texas @ Alabama (-7) [27:24] Nebraska @ Colorado (-3) [33:34] Texas A&M (-4.5) @ Miami [36:20] Oregon (-6.5) @ Texas Tech [40:09] Notre Dame (-7.5) @ N.C. State [43:14] Ole Miss (-7.5) @ Tulane [46:09] Iowa (-4) @ Iowa State [49:33] Utah (-7.5) @ Baylor [52:55] Wisconsin (-6.5) @ Washington State [56:17] Oklahoma State (-3.5) @ Arizona State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 6, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the worst kept secret in college football: GameDay heading to Tuscaloosa. Plus, Rece wants a do-over for Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins following Clemson’s loss to Duke, and could GameDay visit Durham this season? Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about Texas State beating Baylor, what his numbers say about Florida State after beating LSU, if Dabo Swinney needs to modernize his offense and a first look at Alabama-Texas. [11:13] DLMTSW do-over: Clemson [15:10] Riley Leonard's homework [17:10] Could GameDay make it to Durham? [20:19] Bill Connelly, which game blew up his numbers? [26:27] What do the numbers say about Florida State? [37:06] Nebraska @ Colorado [40:43] Can Alabama pass the Texas test? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 4, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel react to an exciting Week 1 in college football. They discuss Colorado’s statement win in Deion Sanders’ first game, TCU’s near-catastrophic state of affairs, college football as a one-year business, Rece slotting Florida State at No. 1 on his AP ballot and the big weekend ahead for the SEC. Then, Ryan McGee stops by to talk about watching North Carolina-South Carolina from the stands, Drake Maye’s composure, the ACC’s pretty good 72 hours, the new clock rules and Nebraska losing in a positively Frostian way. [0:00] Deion Sanders and Colorado's statement win [7:56] Tough times for TCU [12:14] Florida State should be No. 1 [23:15] Big weekend ahead for the SEC [26:01] Alabama vulnerability? [32:44] Ryan McGee watching the Carolinas from the stands [37:57] A good 72 hours for the ACC [47:08] New clock talk [58:17] Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins [1:02:12] McGee meets another weird fan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 1, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Stanford Steve start the show by asking Steve his thoughts on the collapse of the Pac-12. Then, the guys preview the Week 1 slate by picking West Virginia-Penn State, North Carolina-South Carolina, LSU-Florida State and more. Plus, what will they be keeping an eye on during the first college football weekend. [13:49] Fresno State @ Purdue [16:21] West Virginia @ Penn State [19:58] UTSA @ Houston [23:16] North Carolina vs. South Carolina [27:54] Toledo @ Illinois [34:43] South Alabama @ Tulane [38:43] LSU vs. Florida State [45:38] What they're watching for in Week 1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 30, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Jim Harbaugh advocating for revenue sharing with student-athletes, the real reason Nick Saban didn’t release a depth chart, and who’s on the Apathy Trailer to Tanksville? Then, the guys are joined by Bill Connelly to settle a score, and preview the Thursday and Friday slate of games. Plus, Bill’s College Football Playoff teams. [0:00] Harbaugh says pay the kids [4:44] Saban doesn't drop the depth chart [12:45] Bill Connelly collects his winnings [17:50] Florida at Utah [25:29] Nebraska at Minnesota [31:05] N.C. State at UConn [38:36] Louisville vs. Georgia Tech [43:31] South Dakota at Missouri [46:17] Bill's CFP teams Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 28, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel lead the show with their biggest impressions from Week 0, the ACC nearing a deal with Cal and Stanford, and which Week 1 games may be overlooked. Then, Desmond Howard stops by to talk about which player reminded Rece of Des, USC's defense still appearing problematic, Sam Hartman's debut for Notre Dame, and if the starters at Alabama and Ohio State will retain that designation all season. Later, Ryan McGee and the guys discuss Billy Napier's coaching style, which coaches they'd take in a cage fight, the border battle between North Carolina and South Carolina, and the ACC fighting for survival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 25, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Stanford Steve for the 2023 Race For The Ribeye. Steve will be on the show every Friday to pick the weekend’s games against the spread. Losers of this season-long contest buy the winner a steak dinner. They start by discussing Jim Harbaugh’s three game self-suspension and Washington losing running back Cam Davis to injury. Then, the guys pick the entire Week 0 slate. 0:00 - Jim Harbaugh self-suspended three games 7:00 - Washington loses RB Cam Davis 13:48 - Race For The Ribeye returns! 15:02 - Navy vs. Notre Dame -21 20:46 - UTEP -1 @ Jacksonville State 22:55 - Ohio @ San Diego State -2.5 25:34 - UMass @ New Mexico State -6.5 28:32 - Hawaii @ Vanderbilt -17.5 34:29 - San Jose State @ USC -30.5 40:29 - FIU @ Louisiana Tech -11 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 23, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel welcome Georgia head coach Kirby Smart onto the podcast to discuss naming Carson Beck the starting quarterback, what kind his sports dad he is, getting scratch-offs for Julymas, navigating tragedy and mourning with his team, and how he defines success for this season. Then, Rece and Pete finish their conference previews with the SEC. Later, they predict how many SEC teams make the College Football Playoff, and share their playoff semifinalists. [00:00] Kirby Smart [30:00] Georgia [35:35] LSU [39:16] Alabama [49:01] Texas A&M [55:09] Ole Miss [58:03] Arkansas [1:00:54] Mississippi State [1:03:04] Auburn [1:05:40] Tennessee [1:09:52] Florida [1:16:59] South Carolina [1:22:26] Kentucky [1:25:16] Missouri [1:29:33] Vanderbilt [1:32:22] CFP Talk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 21, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel continue their conference previews with the ACC. They break down the latest news with Stanford and Cal, if this is the year Florida State finally wins the conference, and who will be a breakthrough ACC team this year. :44 - The Latest with Stanford and Cal 5:41 What’s Next for Georgia? 11:39 - ACC Preview 13:40 - ACC Preview: NC State 19:24 - ACC Preview: North Carolina 30:48 - ACC Preview: Florida State 37:18 - ACC Preview: Clemson 43:13 - ACC Preview: Duke 48:48 - ACC Preview: Pittsburgh 57:57 - ACC Preview: Louisville 1:01:00 - ACC Preview: Wake Forest 1:03:07 -ACC Preview: Syracuse 1:06:31 - ACC Preview: Boston College 1:10:07 - ACC Preview: Virginia Tech 1:12:55 - ACC Preview: Georgia Tech 1:15:40 - ACC Preview: Virginia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 17, 2023

Rece Davis and Ryan McGee discuss Ryan’s thoughts on the ACC flirting with expansion during realignment, and the schism between Michael Oher and the Tuohy family. Then the guys preview the Group of 5, including Tulane, UTSA, Boise State, Troy, South Alabama and Liberty. Plus, will the Group of 5 crack the New Year’s 6 and which team is destined to be the worst team in the country this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 15, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel continue their conference previews with the Big 12. They discuss the talent of Texas, why Pete thinks Kansas State will be victorious as Big 12 champions, and what’s next for Iowa State with the sports wagering investigations. Plus, will a Big 12 team land a spot in the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive year? 2:05- Texas Preview 8:29 - Oklahoma Preview 11:01- Kansas State Preview 15:21 - TCU Preview 18:30 - Baylor Preview 21:23 - Texas Tech Preview 24:54 - Oklahoma State Preview 29:16 - UCF Preview 33:38 - Iowa State Preview 35:12 - Iowa State Sports Wagering Investigation 36:45 - Kansas Preview 40:17 - BYU Preview 43:25 - West Virginia Preview 48:29 - Houston Preview 52:30 - Cincinnati Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 11, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the Cal and Stanford to the ACC chatter, why they think that chatter is dumb, and things they'd love to see in the Pac-12's final season that will never actually happen. Then, the guys preview the Pac-12 for the final time. Later, Pete has thoughts on the NCAA denying Tez Walker's transfer request to North Carolina. [3:44] Rece on Cal & Stanford to the ACC chatter [12:34] Rece and Pete's Pac-12 finale dreams [17:03] Oregon State [22:14] Utah [28:41] USC [36:31] Washington [42:17] Oregon [49:18] UCLA [55:52] Washington State [58:47] Cal [1:01:33] Stanford [1:06:25] Colorado [1:12:08] Arizona State [1:16:45] Arizona [1:21:38] Tez Walker Situation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 3, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel begin their march through conference preview season beginning with the Big 10. Can Michigan stay out of its own way? How will Ohio State deal with a massive transition at quarterback? Can Penn State puncture their way into the Big Ten title game? The guys cover every team in the conference. Plus, Pete provides an update on the Pac-12 and conference realignment. [1:36] Preview Start [2:54] Michigan [13:50] Ohio State [25:22] Penn State [31:57] Maryland [36:40] Michigan State [39:54] Indiana [43:19] Rutgers [47:58] Wisconsin [53:40] Iowa [59:04] Illinois [1:05:00] Minnesota [1:10:45] Nebraska [1:12:16] Purdue [1:13:52] Northwestern [1:16:29] Conference Realignment Update Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 1, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Colorado leaving the Pac-12 for the Big 12, the Pac-12 fighting for its existence, the Buffs surviving in the age of realignment, harmony by homogenization in the new Big 12, if any team can really get out of the ACC right now and teams Rece should consider when filling out his AP Poll ballot. [11:49] Could more schools leave the Pac-12? [13:41] Colorado is a survivor [18:47] Parity in the new Big 12 [25:13] Update on the ACC [33:32] Rece’s fear filling out the AP Poll Ballot [37:51] Oregon State [45:33] Iowa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 25, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Brock Bowers’ one weakness, Florida State’s offensive line, if North Carolina can uplift the ACC, College GameDay going to Charlotte for Week 1, whether Luke Fickell is bringing evolution or revolution to Wisconsin, a Howard Schnellenberger story, and a pair of bold predictions about Alabama’s future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 19, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the start of conference media days, coaching cliches, Kirby Smart’s podium appearance, Georgia’s first realistic opportunity to lose, if Jimbo Fisher and Bobby Petrino have gotten into a big argument yet, more reports of an “imminent” media deal for the Pac-12 and Rece's fashion advice for Pete. [5:09] Kirby Smart at SEC media days [19:53] When could Georgia lose? [25:14] Texas A&M [33:40] More reports of a Pac-12 media deal [40:29] Which comes first: Pac-12 media deal or Week 1? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 11, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Northwestern firing Pat Fitzgerald after reports of hazing inside his program, needing more perspective and scale from the investigation, the lack of transparency from the administration, what happens next with the football team and potential coaching candidates. Plus, their thoughts on Bob Huggins’ messy exit from West Virginia. [0:00] Northwestern fires Pat Fitzgerald [4:46] Wanting more details [9:01] Northwestern’s lack of transparency [14:48] Team initiations, surprise that hazing is still happening [19:43] What happens to the football program [32:14] Northwestern’s advantages, coaching candidates [38:33] Bob Huggins not going quietly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 27, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete winning the National Sports Media Association’s sportswriter of the year, Bill Hancock taking slings and arrows until he steps down in 2025, the ineffective punishment of vacating wins, why NCAA investigations are more painful than the penalties, which teams could break into the top tier of the sport this fall and the two most likely outcomes in the Pac-12’s pursuit of a television deal. [11:05] CFP Executive Director Bill Hancock stepping down in 2025 [19:42] Les Miles wins vacated, means nothing [32:49] Possible breakthrough teams in 2023 [37:22] The Pac-12’s pursuit of a new TV deal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 21, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel cover the West Coast soap opera of San Diego State leaving the Mountain West to explore new relationships, and which Taylor Swift song is most apt for this story. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to discuss his summer vacation to Germany, games he’s interested in watching early in the season, if his numbers like Penn State, USC’s defensive free agent haul, the Pac-12 appearing to be deep and conference realignment ruining their summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 15, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the SEC’s business decision to stick with an eight-game conference schedule, if the selection committee should knock the SEC for it, Pete’s day covering Congress and candidates to run college football. Plus, can Bo Nix be a first-round pick, which quarterback is going to shoot up draft boards and the most interesting producer at ESPN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 6, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the congressional hearings in Washington D.C. attempting to establish a structure for NIL, the need for a linear direction in the sport, and deciding on a functioning model for the next generation. Then, they discuss if Colorado and Arizona are headed to the Big 12 or if the Pac-12 can pull a rabbit out to get a deal done that is satisfactory for its members. Plus, Pete and recast Ted Lasso with college football stars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 31, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel ponder what college football will look like in the near future. They predict how player acquisition, compensation and the playoff will change during the next five years. Plus, they discuss how the Pac-12 survives and how the ACC’s future is tied to the SEC’s incentive to grow. Later, they build $15 college football rosters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 23, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel talk about the unresolved issues with the Big Ten’s new TV deal, the key players in this upheaval and where things stand now. Then, USF head coach Alex Golesh stops by to discuss immigrating from Russia as a child, how he fell in love with football, similarities between Jim Tressel and Mike Gundy, the modern roster overhaul, and how Gerry Bohanon reminds him of Hendon Hooker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 18, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by FAU head coach Tom Herman. Herman discusses when he knew he wanted to return to coaching, the most daunting thing about his time working in media, if he has any regret about not waiting for a “bigger” job, learning he’s not going to change college football alone, Casey Thompson’s commitment, how the new playoff opens the door for teams like FAU and his outlook on the 2023 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 8, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss their time covering the NFL draft in Kansas City, what Pete appreciates about Deion Sanders, Colorado’s lack of continuity and when the Buffs will exit the national consciousness this season. Plus, what do the Jonas Brothers smell like? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 26, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s luggage situation as he arrived in Kansas City from Manhattan, what would they do at No. 2 in the NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson training near Rece’s barber shop, their draft crushes, the robust tight end class, how the story of night one will be told, Colorado’s mass exodus to the transfer portal after the spring game and Notre Dame's Tyler Buchner entering the portal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 20, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s joint across Florida sideline reporting at Florida State, Florida and Miami’s spring games, the first Football Power Index and which team they’d slot at No. 1, if Alabama will add a quarterback before the transfer portal closes, who they would not take at No. 3 in the draft, needs for Rece’s Jaguars, and producer Sara’s trip to Tampa Bay to see Taylor Swift. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 13, 2023

Rece Davis is riding solo on the podcast, discussing which types of stories they’ll cover for the NFL draft on ABC, his thoughts on Bryce Young vs. C.J. Stroud at the No. 1 overall pick, Kliff Kingsbury joining USC as an analyst, Bob Petrino calling plays for Jimbo Fisher, where College GameDay could land in Week 1, Florida State’s big September and why he’s being hailed as a hero at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 4, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel convene for a celebratory podcast following UConn’s victory over San Diego State in the national championship. The guys discuss why there isn’t a bluer blood program than the Huskies in the last 25 years, the Aztecs going over half of the game without a field goal, UConn rediscovering its identity in the Big East, what the women’s game has that the men’s game lacks, their lasting memories of the tournament and Pete catching Rice’s spring practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 3, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss what they’ll remember from Saturday’s Final Four, Pete’s vantage point of Lamont Butler’s buzzer beater, the case for the Aztecs on Monday, UConn’s potent offensive weapons, the greatest tournament shots of all time, and if the NCAA should host the men’s and women’s Final Fours in the same city. Plus, Rece’s interviews with UConn’s Dan Hurley and San Diego State’s Brian Dutcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 28, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the foul call at the end of Creighton-San Diego State, Pete encountering a deranged Creighton fan harassing referee Lee Cassell on the plane home, three of the four Final Four teams nearly losing en route to Houston, which team they think will win it all, Rece’s realization watching the tournament, star-crossed teams, their favorite game so far, Texas hiring Rodney Terry and where Rece should take Pete for dinner to settle their bet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 20, 2023

Rece Davis and Seth Greenberg discuss Michigan State making another Sweet 16 and Tom Izzo’s joy after the tragedy on campus, Jim Larrañaga enjoying Miami’s run, Houston playing its best basketball, potential Cinderellas left in the field, why conference affiliation doesn’t inform tournament matchups, and if Jon Scheyer has a deal with a tanning salon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 18, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down why Fairleigh Dickinson University defeating Purdue is the biggest upset in the tournament’s history. Then, they debate if it’s time for the Boilermakers to rip up the model or if their history of losses in the tournament are psychological. Next, Pete honors the memory of his friend Phil Hopkins and shares the kismet of Purdue’s upset. Later, they discuss if another one-seed will go down and the impact of Sasser’s injury for Houston. Plus, Rece offers comforting words for Purdue fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel break down the keys to Princeton’s mammoth upset over Arizona, the shocking ending to Virginia’s season, and the tournament's power to cement or destroy legacies. Next, Pete quizzes Rece’s knowledge of upsets in tournament history, and they reminisce on the biggest upsets they witnessed in person. Then, they discuss the impact of Brandon Miller and Marcus Sasser’s groin injuries and how they could impact the bracket. Later, Pete and Rece discuss how the team with the best prospects does not make them the best team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 13, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview the South Region in the NCAA Tournament. But first, the guys talk about which teams missed out on the tournament, a backdoor-cut news dump and how they’re making their bracket picks. Then, the guys discuss if Alabama will succumb to the Brandon Miller scrutiny, if Charleston can provide chaos, Pete continuing to drive the Furman bandwagon, Rece’s prediction for the winner of Creighton-N.C. State, Mizzou’s attitude and if Arizona could take down the Crimson Tide. Plus, their picks for which teams win the South. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 13, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview the East Region in the NCAA Tournament. They discuss if Memphis could get caught flatfooted after winning Conference USA, Jon Scheyer figuring out his players’ roles, picking against teams they don’t trust and that queasy feeling facing Michigan State. Plus, Rece picks a plucky up-start team to make the Final Four. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 13, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview the Midwest Region in the NCAA Tournament. They discuss Marcus Sasser’s injury status for Houston, Auburn spiraling into the tournament, Indiana lacking excuses to lose to Kent State, Kennesaw State making the dance after earning a 1-28 record three years ago and if Penn State is gassed. Plus, is the tournament really that wide open this year? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 13, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel preview the West Region in the NCAA Tournament. They discuss Kansas lacking a luxury from last season, St. Mary’s seeding-KenPom disconnect, the matchup that Pete is most excited for and Rece’s favorite player in college basketball. Plus, the guys review their Final Four picks and reveal their tournament champions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 7, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss cocktail sauce hotter than Anthony Richardson after the NFL combine, which quarterback they’d select first in the draft and why Rece would be a terrible GM in any sport. Plus, it’s championship week and the guys share their winners for the SEC, Big East, Pac-12, Big Ten, ACC and Big 12 tournaments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 1, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the arrest warrant issued for Jalen Carter, their thoughts on the Brandon Miles story following last week’s interview with Alabama AD Greg Byrne and what Pete is hoping to see this week in Indianapolis at the NFL combine. Then, Joe Lunardi stops by to talk about his process evaluating teams, why the selection committee favors participation over accomplishment, a team that is in more trouble than it seems and why he disappears after the bracket is released. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 22, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne to discuss the decision to allow Brandon Miller to continue playing, the latest on the fatal shooting of Jamea Jonae Harris, Nate Oats' press conference and the new information learned in Tuesday's court hearing. Later, Rece and Pete discuss the latest rumblings on Pac-12 realignment and Rece's iconic call in Blacksburg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 16, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s vacation to Mexico Mike Krzyzewski returning to Cameron Indoor to pay respects to Mike Brey, who should hire Rick Pitino, if John Calipari should leave Kentucky, candidates for the Texas job, the Pac-12’s statement of self-affirming love and Georgia’s new-old offensive coordinator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 8, 2023

Rece Davis is joined by Jay Bilas to discuss if Zach Edey is actually bigger than 7’4”, Jay's favorite kind of halftime show, if there are magnets in Red Panda’s bowls, the lack of a bottom in the Big 12, if fans really like parody and the NCAA’s latest blunder. Plus, Rece goes 94 Feet with Jay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 2, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Seth Greenberg’s bit at the top of GameDay broadcast, if Stetson Bennett made a mistake not going to the Senior Bowl, scouting the people not players, whiffing on Josh Rosen, the most underrated part of Jalen Hurts’ development, if they were aware of National Signing Day and who’s popping at the Senior Bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 26, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Rece’s time in Syracuse, a flaw in Drake Maye’s scouting report and what Nick Saban may do with Bill O’Brien heading to the Patriots. Then, Rick Barnes stops by to talk about when he stopped using a whistle, what’s going through his mind before games, facing Texas, the transformation of basketball culture at Tennessee, and why the “football school” or “basketball school” label doesn’t matter. Later, the guys get into if there will be a first-time champion in hoops, college basketball’s G-League problem and LSU’s accounting department. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 19, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s gift to Rece, what’s happening at Arkansas, TCU hiring Kendal Briles and Jaden Rashada wanting out of Florida because his NIL deal fell through. Then, ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller stops by to talk about Jim Harbaugh staying at Michigan, Rece’s Jaguar fandom, where he stands on Will Levis and CJ Stroud answering questions in the playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 10, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are in the bowels of SoFi Stadium, looking back at a 65-7 Georgia win over TCU to repeat as national champions. They discuss the moment being too big for the Horned Frogs, Georgia’s vibe on the podium, Rece dropping TCU to No. 6 in his AP ballot and the Bulldogs being the favorite to three-peat. Later, they get into a way-too-early Top 25, where things stand with Alabama and their 2023 College Football Playoff teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 4, 2023

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and David Pollack discuss whether USC has a scheme or a talent problem on defense, Lincoln Riley’s job of building for the Big Ten, if this Rose Bowl win is a potential jumping off point for Penn State, Mississippi State winning for Mike Leach, if Max Duggan can replicate CJ Stroud’s performance against Georgia, how TCU can out-physical the Bulldogs and Stetson Bennett letting it rip in big moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 2, 2023

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss a remarkable day for college football, what they’ll remember about the College Football Playoff semifinals 10 years from now, Michigan’s ill-fated Philly Special, Stetson Bennett’s perfect fourth quarter, early thoughts on a Georgia-TCU title game, CJ Stroud’s epic performance in a losing effort, the end of an era for the Rose Bowl, Kevin Warren’s candidacy to run the Bears, and whether Jim Harbaugh and Ryan Day will stick around. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 28, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss TCU against Michigan in the College Football Playoff semifinal, Max Duggan having some Jim Harbaugh in him, Michigan being in complete alignment and how the Horned Frog defense could trip up the Wolverines. Then, Bill Connelly stops by to talk about if TCU can force Michigan to throw the ball, if we’ll get a classic game in the semifinals, which team can pull an upset and Pete's bonus lookahead question. Plus, the guys pick the semifinals, and the rest of Saturday and Monday’s games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 26, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss an Elmo-themed Christmas in the Thamel household, Drake Maye deciding to stay at North Carolina, Maye speaking to offensive coordinator candidates, coaches being unwilling to police themselves, if Ohio State’s offensive line can contain Jalen Carter, how the Buckeyes respond after losing to Michigan, which playoff quarterback they’d pick to win two games, the main storyline of the playoff, how TCU stays in the game against the Wolverines, Rece’s trip to Buc-cee’s, and chili and cinnamon rolls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 19, 2022

Rece Davis returns from vacation alongside Pete Thamel to discuss their adopted Jaguars’ walk-off win over the Cowboys, five-star quarterback Dante Moore flipping from Oregon to UCLA, Bo Nix returning to Oregon, where all of this leaves DJ Uiagalelei, Rece’s first-time experiences with Mike Leach, which teams are motivated in the bowls leading up to Christmas, why you shouldn't trust Liberty against Toledo and Rece’s time in Disney World. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 15, 2022

Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly lead off the podcast with the breaking news of Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker signing on as new NCAA president. The guys talk about whether the job matters anymore and the problems Baker is walking into. Then, they get into Navy firing Ken Niumatalolo and Purdue hiring Ryan Walters. Later, they discuss the early batch of bowl games including an exciting matchup between UTSA and Troy, Oregon State's uptick, and Jim Mora's UConn revival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 13, 2022

Pete Thamel and David Pollack discuss the passing of Mississippi State head football coach Mike Leach. They get into how different Leach was from everyone else in his profession, how he ushered in a new era of football, what a Leach production meeting was like before calling game, Leach’s fascination with Whitey Bulger, his coaching tree and if he is the best “bad job” coach in college football history. Then, Greg McElroy stops by to talk about Leach’s belief in him as a high school quarterback, how Leach evaluated quarterbacks, Leach keeping McElroy on his toes after decommitting from Texas Tech, Leach’s commitment to his beliefs and his influence across the sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 8, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss why Phil Longo leaving North Carolina for Wisconsin raised their eyebrows, Rece’s night at the National Football Foundation and his picture with Andrew Luck. Then, David Pollack hops on to talk about if he’d take Caleb Williams or Drake Maye in the NFL draft today, when college football will finally be rid of the NCAA and his multiple Christmas trees. Later, Bill Connelly on whether Georgia caught a tough draw against Ohio State, his excitement for UTSA-Troy in the Duluth Trading Cure Bowl, why Scott Satterfield thinks it’ll work in Cincinnati when it didn’t at Louisville, and Christmas biscuit recipes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 5, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the four teams in the College Football Playoff semifinal, the committee going through a process of elimination for the final spot, the most interesting thing about the semis, why Ohio State is equipped to beat Georgia, Max Duggan gutting it out in a losing effort, what makes this Michigan team great, what an expanded playoff would look like this year, other bowl games they’re excited to watch and Colorado hiring Deion Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 2, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their conference championship picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss the case for hiring a football coach before hiring an athletic director, if Scott Frost will get another shot in the AAC, if Utah can score enough against USC, pucker power in the Big 12 title game, the MAC championship eluding Ohio, if Stetson Bennett IV can add an SEC title to his resume, if Tulane can punch a Cotton Bowl ticket, the Boise State turnaround, if anyone can talk themselves into Purdue and the consolation prize ACC title game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 30, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the lack of good options for the playoff if one of the top four loses this weekend, which of the top four is most likely to be upset, intense Irish interest in the quarterback market, Hudson Card entering the transfer portal, Hugh Freeze’s introduction at Auburn, what’s keeping Pete’s phone alive and if Deion Sanders would take the Colorado job. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 28, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the possibility of the season going out with a whimper during championship weekend, if TCU’s playoff spot is secure even if it loses to Kansas State, Michigan squeezing the life out of Ohio State, Pete taking calls about the Auburn job on Saturday morning during the show, if producer Sara is happier now with Nebraska hiring Matt Rhule than when Scott Frost was hired, why Wisconsin pivoted from Jim Leonhard to Luke Fickell, South Carolina’s two week turnaround and a reflective edition of Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 24, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 13 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss essential items on their Thanksgiving dinner plate, the nastiness of the Egg Bowl, the best game on Friday, rooting for silliness in N.C. State-North Carolina, how the red zone will determine The Game, Auburn’s annual Iron Bowl crusade, Rece’s Nick Saban impression, seeing the path but not getting there with Notre Dame over USC, and Washington-Washington State to close the weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 23, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the historic moment and the enormous stakes in Ohio State-Michigan, the synchronization of Michigan’s offensive line, if Marvin Harrison Jr. could be the top draft pick in 2024, Drew Henson getting heckled playing minor league baseball in Columbus, the path to victory for Michigan, Ryan Day not running the Lamborghini into the ditch, if Notre Dame could make things interesting against USC, Kansas extending Lance Leipold, swirling Lane Kiffin to Auburn rumors, what it would take to for Auburn to hire Cadillac Williams and where the lightning bolt will hit on Saturday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 21, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the lack of space between the top teams in the sport, Caleb Williams’ sensational night, Max Duggan saving TCU again, the most stunning single game performance of the season, Oklahoma State falling off a cliff, watching games together on the flight home from Bozeman, Georgia lacking an aura of infallibility, if a potential one-loss Ohio State is a lock for the playoff, a good day for LSU and Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 18, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 10 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss who you should pick in your World Cup pool, how the Netherlands are Chizik-esque transition defense, a relatively concise way to figure out the Big Ten West, UConn exceeding projections, tension and pettiness with Iowa-Minnesota, the lack of defensive advantage in USC-UCLA and the beleaguered Houston Cougars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 17, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s birthday plans, faux outrage from LSU fans, nobody knowing when college basketball season starts, if they wrote off Clemson from College Football Playoff contention too early, where chaos may strike this weekend, Illinois matching up with Michigan, whether the bowl games should pay the players and Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 14, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel lead the show talking about the a former University of Virginia football player killing three current players on Sunday. This podcast was recorded was recorded early on Monday morning. The, the guys discuss Texas-TCU turning into a defensive struggle, the Horned Frogs answering the bell and winning a different way, the Longhorns’ offensive disappearing act, TCU responding to a different way of doing things under Sonny Dykes, if Michigan will be punished for its nonconference schedule, Illinois struggling, who’d they bet a nickel on to win the Pac-12 championship game and if that team will make the playoff, College GameDay heading to Bozeman, and the coldest game they’ve ever covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 11, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 10 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss the Bill Connelly System, why the top four teams will be unhappy in the expanded playoff, Purdue falling apart, Alabama lacking an edge on the road, Tulane’s defensive turnaround, Iowa and Wisconsin finding a rhythm, transfer quarterbacks galore in Oregon-Washington, Baylor hitting its stride, the last game they’d put money on this week, Rece’s love for Drake Maye, and interesting subplots in TCU-Texas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 9, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete’s absence from Monday’s show, Rece commanding the pulpit, the latest batch of College Football Playoff rankings, if the CFP will have its first semifinal rematch, how Rece irked Tennessee fans, Jalen Carter swallowing linemen whole, the numbers’ infatuation with Texas, a hypothetical line for TCU-Oregon at a neutral site, what Liberty beating Arkansas does for Hugh Freeze and if it’s too early for Christmas coffee cups at Dunkin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 7, 2022

Rece Davis rides solo today with Pete Thamel ailing on the sidelines. Rece discusses his feeling riding into Sanford Stadium on Saturday, Georgia putting Tennessee in its place, Stetson Bennett IV being Georgia’s heartbeat, Brian Kelly’s official adoption by the LSU fam-uh-lee, the interesting dynamic and power structure in the SEC, Alabama and Clemson looking stale, and TCU succeeding after addressing its own staleness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 4, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 10 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss a new position for Brock Bowers on the depth chart, a weeknight edition of Pac-12 After Dark, how many points are needed to win between Tennessee and Georgia, why Bill is mad at the College Football Playoff committee, if LSU can stay on schedule, a pivotal point in Texas’ season, the DJU coda game, why Clemson shouldn’t be in the top four, Tulane being in an expanded CFP and if some of the guys on the podcast hate fun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nov 2, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Tennessee at No. 1 in the first College Football Playoff ranking, if an SEC champion could miss the playoff, when Rece first sees the rankings, Pete’s Tuesday night watching MACtion, Illinois’ path to the playoff, how the Volunteers will line up against Brock Bowers, a vote of confidence in Tennessee’s offense against Georgia defense from coaches around the sport, if they’re just picking at Georgia’s flaws and a huge test for Jayden Daniels against Alabama’s defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 31, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Auburn relieving Bryan Harsin of his head coaching duties, where fits among great moments in Auburn dysfunction, pervasive issues within the program, how the school treated Harsin during the offseason, an Alabama obsession causing problems, candidates for the job, Rece’s advice for Lane Kiffin, needing a little back-slap to make it on the Plains and which school should send a moving truck to pick up Harsin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 31, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel recap their time at Jackson State and share the impact of the changes Deion Sanders has made. Then, they break down the biggest news in college football including the Michigan-Michigan State brawl in the Big House and the challenges facing Mel Tucker moving forward. Next, they discuss Steve Sarkisian’s public apology to Longhorn nation and Hypnotoad strikes again. Later, they discuss the new media deal for the Big 12 and share their predictions of who the committee will rank as the number one team in college football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 28, 2022

Rece Davis Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 9 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss when Bill’s formula becomes his gut, if Ohio State is weakness free, a possible low scoring slobber-knocker in the Carrier Dome, Adrian Martinez earning everyone’s trust, Cincinnati’s 19-game AAC winning streak and a massive test for Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 26, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Pete turning off Rece’s ranking show to watch Netflix, what they’re excited to see in Jackson this weekend, Pete’s side trip to Hattiesburg for a Thursday night game, if Penn State will test Ohio State’s defense, an interesting moment in time for Michigan State, the contrast in pace between Kentucky and Tennessee, South Carolina’s strong start and more on the messes at Texas A&M and Miami. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 24, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel look back at Week 8 to discuss if Oregon could sneak back into the College Football Playoff, the Rece Davis Principle, their favorite part of the weekend in Eugene, Bo Nix’s redemption arc, Clemson’s quarterback change, Texas A&M needing a jackhammer and a shovel, GameDay heading to Jackson State, when Deion Sanders could make the jump to a Power 5 job, and Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 21, 2022

Rece Davis Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly make their Week 8 picks in the Race for the Ribeye and discuss Bill dragging everyone into the mud with his picks, inclusion vs. meritocracy with the College Football Playoff, if Syracuse can move the ball on Clemson, Ole Miss’ ham-and-egg start, Oregon’s upswing, how much they trust Texas, the collection of tailbacks in Penn State-Minnesota, sticking with preseason hunches, and TCU’s winning streak against ranked teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 19, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss an issue that Rece foresees with expansion coming to the College Football Playoff, if Syracuse could be frisky in Death Valley, the differences between playing at Oregon and Auburn, most likely to wear a toga on set and if they're adjusting their methods to making picks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 17, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss a historic day in Knoxville with Tennessee toppling Alabama, the Volunteers’ path to the playoff, advantage the crowd supplied the home team at Neyland, Rece and Pete’s great escape from the stadium, their differing stances on Tennessee’s goalpost GoFundMe, TCU earning a seat at the playoff table, Oregon finding its identity, Michigan dominating Penn State, Rece’s thoughts on the state of the Crimson Tide, their biggest takeaways from the weekend and Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 14, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly look ahead to Week 7 and make their picks in this edition of the Race For The Ribeye. The guys discuss Bill issuing apologies for disrespect the SP+ projected, James Franklin’s history in Ann Arbor, this weekend's atmosphere in Rocky Top, a huge game in the Big 12 between Oklahoma State and TCU, Dino Babers drastically changing the Syracuse’s style of play, if Florida State can keep it close against Clemson, a pivotal point in the season for USC and Utah, and their locks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 12, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss the interesting moment in time for Ohio State, their eagerness to see Michigan against a top opponent, the overlooked ranked matchup of the weekend, predictions for the second half of the season, what we’ll learn after watching USC-Utah, Rece texting Bill Walton about the Grateful Dead and a Volunteer fan rapping about the Tide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 10, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel recap the weekend's biggest games, discuss the future of Kansas, and give an injury update on Jalon Daniels. Then, they discuss Texas going toe-to-toe with other SEC teams and the new dimeson that Quinn Ewers is unlocking for Texas. Next, they share how Tennessee's win over LSU proves they are a legitimate contender in the SEC. Plus, they discuss the electric atmosphere for the rivalry game between Tennessee and Alabama next week. Later, Rece and Pete give their dumb loses more than smart wins pick of the week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 7, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly look ahead to Week 6 and make their picks. The guys discuss Bill moonlighting as a soccer writer, if they’d think differently of LSU if the Tigers won in Week 1, TCU’s undefeated College GameDay record, where to find the best barbecue on the way to Lawrence, Oklahoma’s vulnerability to the big play, believing in UCLA, N.C. State’s disappointing offense and if they’re over the Nick Saban-Jimbo Fisher drama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 5, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by David Pollack to discuss David’s new high-speed internet, David’s best Georgia-Auburn story, the Bulldogs’ youth and immaturity, what Alabama’s offense will look like if Bryce Young doesn’t play, Jimbo Fisher needing to evolve offensively, baseless speculation about who Fisher should hire as offensive coordinator, if Kansas’ undefeated season ends on Saturday, and TCU’s defense. Then, the guys lookahead to pivotal games this weekend for Notre Dame, Miami and Arkansas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 3, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Wisconsin dumping Paul Chryst after getting embarrassed by Bret Bielema, the unrealistic expectations placed on Graham Mertz, if Jim Leonhard is a lock to lose the interim tag, Colorado entering the coaching market, Texas A&M’s getting outscored in its own red zone, GameDay heading to Lawerence, Dumb Loses More Than Smart Wins and Rece picks an NFL team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 30, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Bill Connelly to pick this week’s games and the results show a shocking twist of events. Then, they analyze what to expect with the NC State - Clemson matchup. Plus, they discuss how Alabama struggling on the road is officially a thing, but lest we forget Alabama has Bryce Young. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 28, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss key matchups of the week, if Florida can survive the SEC gauntlet of talent, and how weather will impact this week’s games. Then, former Virginia coach Bronco Mendenhall joins to break down the NC State - Clemson matchup, reveals why he left coaching, and what power level a program would need to be to get back in the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 26, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel give their weekend bullet points breaking down what went wrong with Miami against Middle Tennessee, and Adrian Martinez’s breakout performance against Oklahoma. Then, they discuss the biggest upset of the day being the Missouri fumble against Auburn showing that dumb loses more than smart wins. Then, they break down the crazy A&M and Arkansas game, and the defeated Sam Pittman’s post-game press conference. Next, what was Rece’s biggest miss calculation in his fight with David Pollack about Clemson and Wake Forest? Plus, they discuss the emotional gauntlet of a season Appalachian State is having. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 23, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly look ahead to Week 4 and make their picks. The guys discuss Rece being hung up on last week’s Super Dog pick, their lack of conviction in Iowa State-Baylor, the “ESPN Hates My Favorite Team" game, if Tennessee can excise the demons against the Gators, the Fighting’ Flecks, Bo Nix running in a Palouse fog, Arkansas’ shaky pass defense, Bill’s Barry Odom jersey and USC’s turnover luck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 21, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss if Tennessee can turn the corner this week against Florida, previewing the Pac-12 road traps matchups, the impact of pucker power, and discussing Drake Maye’s sincere apology to NC State. Then, Dan Mullen joins Rece and Pete to discuss what separates playing Knoxville compared to other places in the SEC, the most impolite fanbases, the differences in quarterback development, and Georgia’s performance this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 19, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss their time in Boone, Rece signing a person’s face, Luke Combs’ professional beer chug, Appalachian State’s “Big Ben” moment, Arizona State firing Herm Edwards, candidates for the job in Tempe, Washington pushing around Michigan State, their most impressive teams for the weekend, bandwagons that could get shaky and Clemson skepticism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 16, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly are loading up on games and picking through the Week 3 slate. They preview Miami-Texas A&M, BYU-Oregon, Mississippi State-LSU, Oklahoma-Nebraska, Penn State-Auburn, Michigan State-Washington, Texas Tech-N.C. State, UTSA-Texas and Kansas-Houston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 14, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel are joined by Gene Wojciechowski to discuss Gene’s GameDay story on what it’s actually like for coaches when they’re fired, why coaches wanted to talk to him about it, the psyche of head coaches, and the Tennessee Volunteers. Then, Rece and Pete talk about BYU attempting to build its College Football Playoff resume, the difficulties Texas could face against UTSA, praising Air Force, Kansas knocking off West Virginia and games that sound better than they’ll actually be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 12, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Nebraska firing Scott Frost, if the Cornhuskers can turn this very early firing into an advantage, candidates for the job in Lincoln, offensive struggles dooming Notre Dame to a loss against Marshall, Appalachian State winning in College Station and stealing College GameDay from the Aggies, Chase Brice finding a home in Boone, and if Texas should get a participation trophy for narrowly losing to Alabama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 9, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly start the show discussing which other teams Stetson Bennett could start for, Pat McAfee joining College GameDay, Quinn Ewers having his Porsche towed and Nick Saban’s elite record in “openers.” Then, the race for the ribeye continues with Week 2 picks, including Alabama-Texas, Tennessee-Pitt, Iowa-Iowa State, Florida-Kentucky, Oregon State-Fresno State and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 7, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel talk to David Pollack on the way to football practice about the most "disturbing" thing he saw rewatching Clemson, when it will be safe to start Cade Klubnick, other teams copying Notre Dame’s defensive game plan against Ohio State, which games they’re eyeing on Saturday and an Anthony Richardson encore. Then, Rece and Pete discuss the latest on Michigan’s belabored quarterback point, West Virginia in need of a sign of progress, Oregon State rolling Boise State, bad Mike Leach impressions, Baylor-BYU, N.C. State not perpetuating its own stereotype, and Rece’s Saturday that will span from Austin to Palo Alto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 5, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss how LSU-Florida State perfectly encapsulated the sport, Iowa relying on safeties to beat South Dakota State, Rece’s reoccurring dream that he can’t get to the GameDay set, Appalachian State’s botched two-point conversion, Stetson Bennett’s stellar performance, which Pac-12 loses were disqualifying for the College Football Playoff, why Georgia should be No. 1, the evolving Buckeyes, Oregon State thumping Boise State and a brand new Arizona team winning in Week 1. Plus, who was the real MVP while the GameDay crew was in Columbus? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 2, 2022

Rece Davis, Pete Thamel and Bill Connelly start the show discussing Rece eating Italian food with his hands, Connecticut pizza, the latest on conferences jockeying for TV contracts, the importance of the late TV windows and the odds we see an expanded playoff in the near future. Then, the Race for the Ribeye revs up in week one as the guys pick Illinois-Indiana, Georgia-Oregon, Cincinnati-Arkansas, Utah-Florida and Notre Dame-Ohio State. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 31, 2022

Pete Thamel and Rece Davis discuss Sam Pittman’s interesting analogy for Cincinnati, what to expect from the post-playoff Bearcats, if Florida and Arkansas could both lose their home openers, and Rece piloting the Stetson Bennett VI bandwagon. Then, David Pollack drops by and the guys get into Georgia’s wide receiver room, if Ladd McConkey is related to Phil McConkey, David’s first Friday night lights experience on the sidelines, Pete’s portal pet peeve and Jim Harbaugh attempting to split the baby. Later, Rece and Pete pick the Thursday night games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 29, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel discuss Nebraska finding a new way to lose, the curse of Bo Pelini, Michigan’s interesting plan to quell any quarterback drama, the time a West Virginia fan sent Mark May $500 in pennies, Rece’s trade value, an offseason of robust hype for Tennessee, lobbying for free cookies, what to expect from Wake Forest with Mitch Griffith, and Auburn and Texas A&M name their starting quarterbacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 26, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel look ahead to Week 0 and day dream about their ideal game-watching setups. Then, Bill Connelly joins the show to picks games with steaks on the line. The guys discuss their philosophies for picking games, tight games in Hawaii favoring Hawaii, an unfavorable outlook for Vanderbilt, Illinois’ defense, and if Nebraska will shed its unlucky streak or Pat Fitzgerald will celebrate a win with a Guinness. Plus, Rece’s Big Ten West champion, too much UConn talk and who’s been to Ireland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 24, 2022

Rece Davis and Pete Thamel kick off the inaugural episode of the College GameDay podcast by talking about Nick Saban’s contract extension through 2030 and what they remember from Alabama’s coaching search from 2007. Then David Pollack stops by to discuss Rich Rodriguez battling spies, Rece’s AP Top 25 ballot, if Utah can start the season strong, Texas A&M’s talent level, USC being a test case for the new era of the sport, if Rece is ignoring the Group of Five, the learning curve for Marcus Freeman, what would induce more conference realignment in the short term and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aug 18, 2022

Join ESPN College GameDay host Rece Davis and Senior Writer Pete Thamel, as well as many of GameDay’s key analysts and contributors, as they discuss and debate the biggest stories and break down the biggest games in college football, while also leaning into the key basketball moments and storylines as well. With episodes Mondays/Wednesday/Fridays in the fall, and a year-round weekly presence this is the place to be for the college sports fan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices