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ESPN College GameDay

English, Football (American), 1 season, 157 episodes, 6 days, 1 hour, 20 minutes
About
The ESPN College Football Podcast with Herbie & Pollack is hosted by Kirk Herbstreit, David Pollack and Kevin Negandhi. They will kick off each week on Monday discussing the games from that weekend. On Wednesday's, they react to the rankings and Friday's look forward to the biggest matchups ahead. This is the place to get all your college football info from the top analysts in the sport.
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Boston College HC Bill O'Brien on coming home + why Missouri AD Desireé Reed-Francois would leave for Arizona

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/21/20241 hour, 7 minutes, 35 seconds
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Nebraska HC Matt Rhule on Recruiting QB DYLAN RAIOLA + Rebuilding Cornhuskers Football

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/14/20241 hour, 5 minutes, 4 seconds
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Washington HC Jedd Fisch Talks About Football ROYALTY On His Staff, the Big Ten-SEC Advisory Group, Bon Jovi > Springsteen

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/7/20241 hour, 1 minute, 17 seconds
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NCAA being SUED 👀 Michigan after Harbaugh + NFL Draft Talk

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/1/202450 minutes, 17 seconds
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Ohio State Buckeyes NEW Roster Additions From Alabama; Way-Too-Early Pre-Season Game Picks; Are Coaches Being Judged Fairly?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/26/202427 minutes, 5 seconds
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EMERGENCY POD: Jim Harbaugh Leaves Michigan To Coach Chargers

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/25/202417 minutes, 28 seconds
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Changing of The Guard: Jim Harbaugh’s Unknown “Biblical” Future; Life After Nick Saban at Alabama

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/18/202459 minutes, 8 seconds
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EMERGENCY POD: Nick Saban Hangs It Up

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/11/202422 minutes, 11 seconds
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Michigan Wins National Championship the Harbaugh Way

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/9/202415 minutes, 56 seconds
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National Championship Picks: Michigan-Washington; Michael Penix’s Massive Hands; Jim Harbaugh the Artful Dodger

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. 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? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/6/202445 minutes, 37 seconds
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How Would College Football Fans React to Michigan Winning the Title? OSU & Miami Searching for QBs

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/5/202448 minutes, 24 seconds
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Cardiac Huskies Win Another One Score Game, Punch Ticket to Title Game; How Do Michigan and Washington Match Up?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/20247 minutes, 2 seconds
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RAPID REACTION FROM THE ROSE BOWL: Michigan Masterclass Punches Ticket to National Championship

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/202413 minutes, 38 seconds
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Desmond Howard on the Rose Bowl; Sugar Bowl Cousin Connection; Florida State’s Blowout Doesn’t Mean Anything

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/1/202437 minutes, 16 seconds
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CFP Semifinal Preview From THE ROSE BOWL; Don’t Get Bored Playing Michigan; Let’s Talk About Quinn Ewers

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/30/202359 minutes, 18 seconds
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Florida State Calls SPECIAL BOARD MEETING + Saturday bowl games!

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/22/202334 minutes, 35 seconds
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Ole Miss Portal DOMINATION; Pete’s Breaking News on Tulsa’s QB; Does Butter Go On A Pop-Tart?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/202341 minutes, 33 seconds
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Bill Belichick Drops by College GameDay Set; LSU QB Jayden Daniels Wins Heisman; QBs Dive Into the Transfer Portal

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/12/202355 minutes, 24 seconds
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FSU Out is a NEW LEVEL of Controversy; Quarterbacks Galore Hit the Portal; College GameDay Heads to the Army - Navy Game

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/7/20231 hour, 22 minutes, 44 seconds
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Florida State Left Out of CFP; SMU ROBBED from New Year's 6 Bowl; Quarterbacks Hit the Transfer Portal

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/4/202352 minutes, 13 seconds
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The MOST LIKELY Chaotic CFP Scenarios for the Committee + Week 14 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/1/20231 hour, 9 minutes
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Ohio State Falls to No. 6; Bobby Petrino RETURNS to Arkansas; Georgia's X-Factor Against Alabama

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/29/20231 hour, 3 minutes, 56 seconds
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Michigan Takes Down Ohio State; Texas A&M Hires Mike Elko; Alabama Stuns Auburn with Miracle TD

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/27/20231 hour, 4 minutes, 19 seconds
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Ohio State-Michigan: Winner Take Everything; We're Missing THE Upset of the Season; Week 13 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/20231 hour, 12 minutes, 33 seconds
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Jonas Brothers Rock GameDay; Jordan Travis' Injury; Scenario that leaves the SEC Out of the CFP?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/20/20231 hour, 3 minutes, 7 seconds
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“The Jonas Brothers Are Busy;" Caleb Williams’ Final Game?; North Carolina Looking Milquetoast; Week 12 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/16/202355 minutes, 1 second
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How Georgia Shows Respect; Texas A&M is Historically Average; Oregon State at Washington Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/15/202351 minutes, 51 seconds
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Texas A&M Fires Jimbo Fisher; Mississippi State & Boise State Oust Their Head Coaches; Coaching Candidates Galore

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/13/20231 hour, 1 minute, 26 seconds
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Voodoo in the Michigan-Penn State Line?; Georgia’s Underrated Ariel Attack; Ole Miss Outside CFP Chance; Week 11 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/10/202357 minutes, 28 seconds
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CFP Top Five is Very Tight; Delineating Legal vs. Illegal with Michigan; How do Penn State, USC, TCU Pull Upsets?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/8/202354 minutes, 41 seconds
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Did Texas Punch Its CFP Ticket?; USC Fires DC Alex Grinch; Michigan Investigation Transcends Sports

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/6/20231 hour, 8 minutes, 14 seconds
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Final Big 12 Bedlam; Jim Harbaugh Loves Judge Judy; Arizona Flavor of the Moment; Week 10 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/202356 minutes, 26 seconds
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First CFP Rankings are Out; Florida State in Trouble?; Washington Shut Out of Top 4; Dabo vs. Tyler from Spartanburg

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/1/202357 minutes, 53 seconds
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Kansas Upsets Oklahoma, Changes CFP Race; Oregon Whoops Utah; Louisville Landing Haymakers

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/30/202358 minutes, 36 seconds
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Oregon Ready for a Fight Against Utah; Be Careful Chasing Oklahoma; Week 9 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/202344 minutes, 46 seconds
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How Much Should We Care About Michigan’s Sign Stealing?; Just How Good Are the Wolverines?; Most Vulnerable Conference to Miss CFP

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/25/202345 minutes, 59 seconds
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Ohio States Wins with Defense; North Carolina Blows It; Alabama Right on Schedule; Year of the Near Miss

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/23/20231 hour, 6 minutes, 12 seconds
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If Not Now, When, Penn State?; Can Florida State Score on Duke?; Tiebreakers Galore; Week 8 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/202349 minutes, 36 seconds
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Clarity or Chaos in Ohio State-Penn State?; The James Franklin Experience; Fearing an Iowa Playoff Run

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/18/202357 minutes, 6 seconds
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Washington AND Oregon Look like CFP Threats; USC Melts Down; How Many Contenders are Left?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/16/20231 hour, 6 minutes, 54 seconds
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GameDay Headed to Seattle; What Does Iowa-Wisconsin Mean for the Big Ten East?; UCLA’s Inside Track; Week 7 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/202346 minutes, 10 seconds
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Oregon-Washington Preview; Big Game Dillion Gabriel; Wonderfully Thin-Skinned Coaches

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/11/20231 hour, 2 minutes, 47 seconds
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Oklahoma and Texas are SEC Ready; Sam Hartman House of Horrors; Should USC Fire Alex Grinch?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/20231 hour, 11 minutes, 50 seconds
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Oklahoma-Texas Face Off in the Red River Showdown; Toughest Game to Project; Week 6 Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/6/202339 minutes, 31 seconds
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Which Conference Could Miss the College Football Playoff?; Quinn Ewers in the Heisman Mix; Week 6 Best Games

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/202345 minutes, 55 seconds
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College Football Week 5 Recap; Georgia Escapes Jordan-Hare; Caleb Williams Star Gen-Z QB

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/3/202344 minutes, 18 seconds
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College Football Week 5 Picks; GameDay Goes to Durham; Notre Dame-Duke Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/202344 minutes, 2 seconds
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Michigan State Fires Mel Tucker; Best Week 5 Games; Conference Sensitivity

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/27/202349 minutes, 19 seconds
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College Football Week 4 Recap; Dan Lanning & Ryan Day Get Petty; Pac-12 the Best Conference?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/25/20231 hour, 11 minutes, 46 seconds
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Week 4 Picks; Saving the Graphic; Poking the Bear

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/202350 minutes, 43 seconds
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Formula for Success; Dirty Secrets; Last Stand for Elite Status

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/20/202359 minutes, 50 seconds
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College Football Week 3 Recap; Teams You Can Trust; The Prime Effect; Could Alabama Finish Unranked?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/18/20231 hour, 40 seconds
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College Football Week 3 Picks; Where Are the Upsets?; Backyard Brawl Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/202355 minutes, 57 seconds
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Compelling Week 3 Matchups; SEC Non-Conference Woes; Washington-Michigan State Preview; Tennessee on Upset Watch?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/13/202354 minutes, 56 seconds
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College Football Week 2 Recap; Texas Arrives; Nick Saban Digs a Loss; Mel Tucker Suspended

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/11/20231 hour, 16 minutes, 22 seconds
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College Football Week 2 Picks; Alabama-Texas Deep Dive; Texas A&M-Miami an NIL-Era Referendum

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/8/20231 hour, 2 minutes, 22 seconds
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Clemson Thrashed by Duke; What the Numbers Say About Florida State; Will Alabama Pass the Texas Test?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/6/202351 minutes, 48 seconds
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College Football Week 1 Recap; Deion Sanders & Colorado Plant the Flag; Florida State Should be No. 1; The ACC Officially Expands

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/4/20231 hour, 7 minutes, 32 seconds
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College Football Week 1 Picks; Stanford Steve on the Collapse of the Pac-12; If Not Now, When, Florida State?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/1/202350 minutes, 32 seconds
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Saban Withholds Depth Chart; Previewing Thursday & Friday; Apathy Trailer to Tanksville

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/30/202356 minutes, 54 seconds
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Week 0 Recap; QB1 at Alabama & Ohio State; ACC Trending Toward Expansion

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/28/20231 hour, 2 minutes, 26 seconds
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Week 0 Picks; Stanford Steve Joins the Race For The Ribeye; Jim Harbaugh vs. Everybody

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/25/202350 minutes, 27 seconds
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Georgia's Kirby Smart on Carson Beck, Scratch-Offs, Success in 2023; SEC Preview; Rece & Pete's CFP Teams

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/23/20231 hour, 40 minutes, 23 seconds
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ACC Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/21/20231 hour, 22 minutes, 8 seconds
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“The Blind Side” Dispute; Group of 5 Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/17/20231 hour, 5 minutes, 44 seconds
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Big 12 Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/15/202359 minutes, 23 seconds
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Pac-12 Preview (One Last Time)

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/11/20231 hour, 31 minutes, 49 seconds
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Big Ten Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/3/20231 hour, 31 minutes, 3 seconds
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Buffs Bolt Pac-12; Beautiful Big 12 Tar Pit; ACC Latin Legal Phrases; B1G Snobbery

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/1/202353 minutes, 25 seconds
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ACC Media Days; GameDay to Charlotte; Copying Wisconsin; Bold Alabama Predictions

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/25/20231 hour, 5 minutes, 24 seconds
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SEC Media Days; Clicheville; Texas A&M Macro-Question; Tipped Linen Pocket Squares

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/19/202347 minutes, 44 seconds
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Pat Fitzgerald Fired; What's Next for Northwestern; Bob Huggins' Sad Exit

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
7/11/202348 minutes, 57 seconds
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Sportswriter of the Year; The Dumbest NCAA Punishment; 2023 Breakthrough Teams

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/27/202343 minutes, 15 seconds
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Mountain West’s Cruel Summer; Early Games to Watch; This Year’s Tulane?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/21/202353 minutes, 50 seconds
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SEC Sticks to 8 Conference Games; Congress and the NCAA’s Inertia-Off; Bo Nix a First Rounder?

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/15/20231 hour, 4 minutes, 22 seconds
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Domino Effect; Skepticism Reigns; The Marvelous Ted Lasso Recasting

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
6/6/202346 minutes, 55 seconds
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College Football in 5 Years; Cold-Blooded Billion Dollar Business; ACC at a Crossroads

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/31/202352 minutes, 59 seconds
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Big Ten’s TV Problems; Tony Petitti’s Fire Truck; USF’s Alex Golesh

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/23/202352 minutes, 17 seconds
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FAU's Tom Herman; Not Changing College Football on His Own; Fake Louis Vuitton Belt

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/18/202355 minutes, 5 seconds
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NFL Draft Recap; Deion-Palooza; Foul Aromas

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
5/8/202342 minutes, 41 seconds
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What to Do at No. 2?; Draft Crushes; Tight End Talk; Day One Questions; Colorado Exodus

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/26/202344 minutes, 16 seconds
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Ugliest Sideline Reporter; FPI Released; Height & Slight; Taylor Swift

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/20/20231 hour, 5 minutes, 1 second
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Pendulum Swinging Toward Bryce Young; Where’s GameDay Going Week 1?; “I'm A Hero”

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/13/202347 minutes, 38 seconds
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UConn Back to Breathing Fire; Women’s Hoops Soars; Lasting Moments

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/4/202337 minutes, 9 seconds
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Butler Buzzer Beater; Combined Final Four Weekend?; Rece Sits Down with Dan Hurley & Brian Dutcher

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
4/3/20231 hour, 9 minutes, 39 seconds
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Leave It In the Arena; Who Do You Like?; Basketball Psychology Podcast

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/28/202351 minutes, 42 seconds
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Seth Greenberg; Classic Michigan State; Larrañaga Enjoying the Journey; Imposing Identity

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/20/202341 minutes, 51 seconds
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Biggest Upset in Tournament History; Almost Famous; Catastrophic Oversight

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/18/202333 minutes
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Mammoth Upsets; Eternal Pucker Power; Tremendous Drama

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/17/202338 minutes, 33 seconds
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South Region Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/202333 minutes, 2 seconds
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East Region Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/202322 minutes, 49 seconds
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Midwest Region Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/202327 minutes, 37 seconds
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West Region Preview

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/13/202331 minutes, 19 seconds
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First QB Off The Board; Furman Bandwagon; Conference Tournament Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/7/202351 minutes, 44 seconds
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Jalen Carter Arrest Warrant; Pete at the Combine; Joe Lunardi

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
3/1/20231 hour, 1 minute, 5 seconds
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Alabama AD Greg Byrne on Brandon Miller, Nate Oats' Press Conference and More

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/22/202357 minutes, 33 seconds
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Coach K Returns Courtside; Is the Texas Job Elite?; Like It Don’t Love It

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/16/202351 minutes, 15 seconds
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94 Feet with Jay Bilas; The Best Thing College Hoops Has Going; Alabama Coordinator Situation Resolved

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/8/202354 minutes, 41 seconds
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Volume of Information; Give Me a Guy; Modestly Aware of Signing Day

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
2/2/202354 minutes, 51 seconds
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Rick Barnes; Will He Always Take Out The Trash?; Alabama OC Situation; Incentivized to Stay

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/26/202356 minutes, 35 seconds
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Offseason Reading; Serial Flirt; Draft Crush; Modestly Divisive

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/19/202355 minutes, 20 seconds
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Dynasty Established; TCU Subnarrative; Offseason of Relentless Optimism

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/10/202333 minutes, 41 seconds
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USC’s Meltdown; Penn State Cul-De-Sac; Stopping TCU; Bennett’s Give-A-Damn

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/4/202359 minutes, 46 seconds
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Recapping the CFP Semifinals; Michigan What-Ifs; Big 12 Credibility; Rose Bowl Reset

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
1/2/20231 hour, 16 minutes, 22 seconds
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Joe Horned Frog; Michigan’s Superpower; Dead Fish and Squealers; Semifinal & Bowl Picks

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/28/20221 hour, 20 minutes, 27 seconds
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Elmo’s NIL Value; Confident or Shaken?; Bulldog Bandwagon; Buc-ee’s Gift Cards

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/26/20221 hour, 14 minutes, 38 seconds
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Appreciation Not Passion; Big Flip; Cuban Coffee; Bowl Motivation; Tower of Terror

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/19/202251 minutes, 19 seconds
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New NCAA Prez; Leach Changed Everything; Ken Niumatalolo Fired; Early Bowl Games

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/15/20221 hour, 4 minutes, 22 seconds
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Remembering Mike Leach

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/13/202248 minutes, 15 seconds
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Tailgaters Drinking Rosé; Crush Collision; Travel Tree & Chocolate Gravy

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/8/20221 hour, 12 minutes, 47 seconds
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CFP is Set; Benefit of the Doubt; New Blood; Good to Be a Homer

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/5/20221 hour, 1 minute, 33 seconds
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Conference Championship Picks; Suspend Disbelief; Obscure Conference Injury Updates

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
12/2/20221 hour, 10 minutes, 44 seconds
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Frustrations of the Rich; Dry Town Skepticism; Purple Tie

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/30/202255 minutes, 38 seconds
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Metaphorical Field Goal; Lost Composure; All Steak and No Sizzle; The Daddy of Transition Teams

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/28/202259 minutes, 4 seconds
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Week 13 Picks; Hawaiian Thanksgiving; Regression to the Mean Game; Apple Cup Slices

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/24/20221 hour, 16 seconds
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Winner Taking Most; Run Pass Boat Moat; Unpredictable Auburn Factor

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/23/20221 hour, 3 minutes, 48 seconds
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Georgia Frailties; All For Pot Stirring; Catastrophic Mistakes; Evolving Organisms

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/21/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 17 seconds
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Week 12 Picks; World Cup Comps; Pulling the Tarps; Floyd of Rosedale

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/18/202250 minutes, 40 seconds
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“I Don’t Really Care;” New Long Johns; Meat Grinder Process; Orange Bowl Accomplishment

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/17/202251 minutes, 43 seconds
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Tragedy at Virginia; Won A Different Way; Game of the Year Candidate; Local Hunk of Meat

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/14/202257 minutes, 2 seconds
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Week 11 Picks; Only Wrong Predictions; Never Change Big Ten West; Quarterback Crush

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/11/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 49 seconds
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Winter Hats; New No. 1; TCU in Danger?; LSU Handling Success

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/9/20221 hour, 2 minutes, 55 seconds
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College Football’s Standard Bearer; Dude’s Good; Brian Kelly Officially Adopted; Addressing Staleness

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/7/202258 minutes, 35 seconds
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Week 10 Picks; Baller Position; Giant Number in Death Valley; Teams After Playing Perfect

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/4/202245 minutes, 48 seconds
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Tennessee Arrives at No. 1; Vibrant Available Field; MACtion Over the World Series; Future of the West

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
11/2/202259 minutes
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TRICK OR TREAT: Auburn Fires Bryan Harsin

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/31/202229 minutes, 32 seconds
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Pivotal Moments in the Regime; Battle in the Trenches; Beauty of College Football

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/31/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 16 seconds
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Week 9 Picks; All Glory to Hypnotoad; Down to the Cuticles

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/28/202251 minutes, 26 seconds
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Deion Curious; Soul Searching and Change; A Beautiful Muddle

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/26/202259 minutes, 11 seconds
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The Rece Davis Principle; Reestablishing The Basement; Boom Box Classic

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/24/20221 hour, 12 minutes, 16 seconds
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Week 8 Picks; Ain’t Played Nobody-itis; Vegas Juice

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/21/202245 minutes, 15 seconds
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Major Expansion Problem; Orange on Orange; Toga with a Pocket Square

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/19/202256 minutes, 49 seconds
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Tennessee Breaks Through; A Great Escape; Role Reversal; DLMTSW

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/17/202250 minutes, 25 seconds
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Week 7 Picks; Apology Meter; Haymakers Flying

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/14/20221 hour, 6 minutes, 34 seconds
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Betting Favorite Ohio State; Bold Predictions; Brutal Attempt at Creativity

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/12/202257 minutes, 5 seconds
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Spin the Magic Bean; Recipe for Disaster; Pandemonium Reigns

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/10/20221 hour, 4 minutes, 25 seconds
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Week 6 Picks; For The Investors; Best Brisket in Lawrence

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/7/202256 minutes, 24 seconds
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Caveman Ethos; A Lot of Booties; Generationally Juiced

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/5/20221 hour, 2 minutes
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Paul Chryst Run at Wisconsin; Lance Lazarus; Dumb Ways to Die

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
10/3/20221 hour, 2 minutes, 55 seconds
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Plot Twists; Channeling Bush Push; Dancing with the Devil

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/30/202258 minutes, 6 seconds
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Bring Your Own Gut; Back in the Game; Chute Dogging

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/28/202255 minutes, 46 seconds
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Dumb Loses; Talkative and Undisciplined; Wake Me Up When September Ends

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/26/202249 minutes, 4 seconds
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Week 4 Picks; Poor Group Think; Kansas Has to Earn It; Bandit Link

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/23/202254 minutes, 7 seconds
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Broken Bandwagons; Pucker Power; Sincerest Apologies

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/21/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 12 seconds
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“Big Ben” in Boone; CFB Grim Reaper; Pac-12 Vibrancy; Bumpy Bandwagons

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/19/20221 hour, 8 minutes, 55 seconds
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Week 3 Picks; Mississippi State Stability; Donovan Smith Time; Functional Big 12 Program

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/16/202254 minutes, 58 seconds
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Human Feeling of Failure; Woj For Vols; Plant the Flag; Paul Pierce Didn’t Know

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/14/20221 hour, 7 minutes, 52 seconds
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Scott Frost Fired; Consulting Grammy; Fun Belt Giant Slaying; App State Steals GameDay

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/12/20221 hour, 15 minutes, 32 seconds
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Week 2 Picks; Weekly Heisman; Towed Porsche; Pass the Rake

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/9/20221 hour, 12 minutes, 59 seconds
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Pollack's Tape Review; Self-Induced Quarterback Controversy; 0-1 Teams; Rece’s Saturday Adventure

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/7/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 53 seconds
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“The Try;” I-wa; Bennett’s Batmobile; The Real Columbus MVP

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/5/20221 hour, 9 minutes, 28 seconds
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Week 1 Picks; Late TV Windows; Nugget Platters; Coaching to Cover

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
9/2/20221 hour, 3 minutes, 49 seconds
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Liquor and Iced Tea; Bennett Bandwagon; Biblical Decisions; Players Named Smoke

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/31/202258 minutes, 59 seconds
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Husking; Backyard Brawl Returns; Harbaugh’s Chemistry Class

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/29/202258 minutes, 35 seconds
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Week 0 Picks; Stakes for Steaks; Oh No Vandy; Fitzgerald in Ireland

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/26/202259 minutes, 16 seconds
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Bama Extends Saban; Dissecting Rece’s Top-25; Spicing Up Week 0

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/24/202257 minutes, 28 seconds
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Introducing 'ESPN College GameDay'

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 megaphone.fm/adchoices
8/18/20228 minutes, 46 seconds