Podcast Summary: See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack
Episode: Big Ten PREDICTIONS for 2025 | FSU vs. Alabama Smack Talk
Release Date: June 24, 2025

Introduction and NBA Highlights

The episode kicks off with David Pollack and Brent Rollins sharing their thoughts on recent NBA Finals results. Pollack expresses his disdain for injuries in sports, specifically highlighting Tyrese Halliburton's Achilles injury:

“Nothing I hate worse than seeing injuries. Injuries are the worst part of sports, period.” [00:40]

They discuss the dynamic shifts in the NBA, comparing the current star-driven league to past eras dominated by trios and deeper team competitiveness. Brent commends Coach Don Son Todd of the Oklahoma City Thunder, celebrating their strategic moves and resilience despite injuries:

“They've done it the right way. Big congrats to coach Don son Todd, who's a massive OKC Thunder fan.” [01:20]

Pollack praises TJ McConnell's work ethic and versatility, noting his significant impact despite not fitting the traditional NBA mold:

“TJ McConnell is the definition of everything that's great about sports.” [02:30]

FSU vs. Alabama Smack Talk

Transitioning to college football, the hosts delve into the heated rivalry between Florida State University (FSU) and Alabama. They focus on FSU's new quarterback, Thomas Castellanos, whose confident remarks have stirred the pot:

“He's ready to play against Alabama because, quote, they don't have Nick Saban to save them.” [04:33]

Pollack analyzes the potential impact of Castellanos on FSU's performance, balancing his swagger and athletic prowess with concerns about team dynamics:

“I don't think Bama's like, we need this guy to get ready. But I do think Florida State coming off such a bad year...” [05:34]

Brent echoes similar sentiments, discussing the pressures Castellanos faces and whether his bold statements will serve as motivation or become a liability:

“It's cool to see that part of it, but putting this target really on his own back...” [07:54]

Big Ten Team-by-Team Analysis

The core of the episode provides an in-depth analysis of the Big Ten Conference teams, highlighting key players and potential breakout stars for the 2025 season.

Illinois

• Highlight: Transfer wide receiver Hudson Clement from West Virginia.

  “He's a stud. He never wows you, but in the big moments, he's always there.” [15:04]

Indiana

• Highlight: Cornerback D'Angelo Ponce from James Madison.

  “He's a good cornerback and looking to have another elite season.” [17:11]

Iowa

• Highlight: Defensive standout Aaron Graves.

  “He can impact the game with sacks and fumbles. He’s like a wrestler with good hands.” [19:00]

Maryland

• Highlight: Starting quarterback Malik Washington, a five-star recruit.

  “He's the guy that could play on a lot of rosters.” [20:19]

Michigan

• Highlight: Defensive tackle Rayshawn Benny.

  “He's the next in the lineage to dominate games from the inside out.” [20:57]

Michigan State

• Highlight: Freshman Nick Marsh, an athletic running back.

  “He’s going to need to make fewer mistakes, but he’s got the talent.” [22:15]

Minnesota

• Highlight: Running back Darius Taylor, known for his tackle-breaking ability.

  “He's consistent and the primary option in a roughback system.” [23:54]

Nebraska

• Highlight: Offensive lineman Braden Joyner, a transfer from Auburn.

  “They need to improve their offensive line to protect the QB better.” [31:55]

Northwestern

• Highlight: Quarterback Preston Stone from SMU.

  “Can he scramble and make plays to lead the team to success?” [26:16]

Ohio State

• Highlight: Offensive tackles Philip Daniels and Ethan O’Neal.

  “Protecting the quarterback is crucial with their new offensive weapons.” [27:13]

Oregon

• Highlight: Tight end Kenyan Sadiq, a versatile playmaker.

  “He has insane speed and can take over the offense.” [28:53]

Penn State

• Highlight: Transfer receiver Devonte Ross from Syracuse.

  “He can be a big play maker and address their receiver deficiencies.” [30:02]

Purdue

• Highlight: Offensive lineman Braden Joyner from Auburn.

  “Their offensive line needs significant improvement to support the QB.” [31:55]

Rutgers

• Highlight: Quarterback Manus (corrected to "Manus" from "Kim Alanus").

  “He’s good and returning to lead the team more effectively.” [33:43]

UCLA

• Highlight: Quarterback Nico (last name unspecified).

  “He's shown potential but faces challenges with a new system.” [34:10]

Washington

• Highlight: Running back Denzel Boston and running back Jonah Coleman.

  “Boston is set for a significant year with excellent receiving capabilities.” [37:18]

Wisconsin

• Highlight: Transfer quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. from Maryland.

  “He can provide balance to their offense and improve their passing game.” [38:27]

Predictions and Conference Outlook

Pollack and Brent Rollins offer their predictions on team performances and potential upsets within the Big Ten:

• USC's Leap Forward: Pollack believes USC will make the most significant improvement this season, citing elite recruiting and Lincoln Riley's offensive strategies.

  “I think they're the team that makes the biggest leap this year.” [41:53]

• Minnesota's Consistency: Brent anticipates Minnesota to remain a solid, albeit sometimes inconsistent, contender due to their tough, disciplined play.

  “They’re going to be in just about every game.” [45:34]

• Big Upsets:

  • Rutgers vs. Oregon: Predicting Rutgers to pull off a surprising win against Oregon on October 18th.
  • Iowa vs. Penn State/Oregon: Brent sees Iowa capitalizing on home advantage to upset a higher-ranked team.
  • Ohio State vs. Washington: Expecting Ohio State to overcome a challenging schedule with a key game against Washington.

  “Rutgers at home against Oregon on October 18th is a prime upset candidate.” [46:10]

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Pollack and Brent expressing enthusiasm for upcoming discussions and guest appearances, particularly highlighting an upcoming interview with coach Brett Bielma. They also celebrate their podcast's growth, achieving a top-five spot on Apple Podcasts.

“We appreciate you guys listening. And we will see you Wednesday with Brett Biel.” [49:29]

Notable Quotes:

• “Nothing I hate worse than seeing injuries. Injuries are the worst part of sports, period.” — David Pollack [00:40]
• “TJ McConnell is the definition of everything that's great about sports.” — David Pollack [02:30]
• “He’s a stud. He never wows you, but in the big moments, he's always there.” — David Pollack [15:04]
• “I think USC will make the biggest leap this year.” — David Pollack [41:53]

This episode provides comprehensive insights into the Big Ten's upcoming season, spotlighting key players and strategic shifts within teams. Additionally, the engaging analysis of the FSU vs. Alabama rivalry adds depth to the discussions, making it a valuable listen for college football enthusiasts.