Hour 1: Number Envy

Summary

The Paul Finebaum Show – Hour 1: Number Envy

Date: August 13, 2026
Host: Paul Finebaum (ESPN)
Main Theme:
A deep dive into the controversy surrounding former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, his public dispute with LSU over his jersey number and the school's Heisman Trophy copy, plus updates on SEC football with a focus later on Texas and the Longhorns’ season outlook.

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Episode Overview

Purpose:
Paul Finebaum provides sharp, candid analysis of the latest SEC and college football news. Hour 1 revolves around the unfolding “Number Envy” controversy at LSU, Jayden Daniels’ legacy, and college football’s intense culture of symbolism and respect. Insights into Texas football’s potential and challenges round out a packed hour of content.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

Opening – Setting the Stage

• Headlines from Baton Rouge:
  • Jayden Daniels, former LSU quarterback and Heisman winner, has issued a cease and desist regarding his old #5 jersey being assigned to incoming standout D.J. Pickett.
  • The situation has snowballed into public drama involving Daniels, current LSU staff, and fans.

[00:42-06:14] The Jayden Daniels Number Saga

The Controversy Explained

• Daniels feels disrespected by LSU’s willingness to re-issue his jersey number (#5) to a new recruit (D.J. Pickett).
• A cease and desist letter reportedly sent from Daniels’ camp adds legal heat and public attention.
• Brian Kelly, former LSU coach, had apparently promised Pickett the #5 during recruiting but held off re-issuing it due to Daniels’ objections. The staff changes complicate the pledge.
• Notable context: Daniels’ agent/representation includes active involvement from his mother, who’s been vocal since his transfer from Arizona State.

Fan and Host Reactions

• Many feel Daniels’ actions jeopardize his goodwill with LSU fans and potentially tarnish his legacy.
• Paul Finebaum's candid take:
  • “Who really cares what Jayden Daniels thinks about anything, quite frankly? He came after Joe Burrow, who I would imagine if he walked down Main Street in Baton Rouge, the Steeds would still part, wouldn't they?” (06:14)
• Comparison of Daniels and Burrow: Burrow is etched in LSU lore for a national title; Daniels, despite similar numbers, is seen as more individually focused.
• Michael Cobble (guest/reporter):
  • “He lifted up that terrible team at some time, and he was the bright spot ... now he's just basically tarnished his image by what seems like such a silly insistence on his part.” (03:23)

[10:43-13:15] Returning to the Daniels Controversy

• Finebaum lambasts the public handling of the dispute, calling Daniels' cease and desist:
  • “One of the singular stupidest things I have ever heard.” (12:09)
  • Suggests that such pettiness undermines Daniels’ status as a leader and a role model, especially now that he plays professionally.
• Paul reiterates: “You throw it all away over something as petty as a jersey number. How could you be that stupid?” (12:38)

Heisman Trophy Drama

• Reported that Daniels' camp wants LSU to return its copy of the Heisman Trophy. LSU refuses.
• Finebaum sees this as another sign of Daniels’ “petulance,” and argues it only further alienates him from the LSU community.

[16:59-21:18] Fan and Legal Expert Call-ins

• Darrell from Baton Rouge explains Brian Kelly originally promised Pickett #5; faults Kelly for not consulting Daniels but criticizes Daniels’ overreaction:
  • “I feel like Jaden's making too much out of it. You know, I don't think he should have sent a letter, but it's up to him.” (17:52)
• Travis from Alabama and Jessica echo the pettiness point and challenge whether Daniels’ number ever merited retirement.
• William, a lawyer:
  • Advises that just because something is legally possible doesn’t mean it’s wise:
    • “The best lawyer, the best advisor, the best agent is the one that tells his or her client, you can do this, but don't.” (19:41)
    • “It has repercussions well beyond what you think might be the repercussions.” (20:47)

[23:06-32:29] Shift: Texas Football Preview with Tyler Horka

Guest: Tyler Horka, Longhorns reporter

Texas’ New Look in the SEC

• Horka observes Texas now possesses the SEC-level size, depth, and physicality on the offensive and defensive lines.
• Fall camp is emphasizing “physicality.” Offensive line depth and performance is the primary question mark.
• Notable transfers bolster the running back and receiver rooms; standout is Cam Coleman (ex-Auburn), who’s expected to transform Texas’ offense.

Key Texas Player Insights

• Cam Coleman:
  • “I think you’re looking at a true wide receiver, number one. ... He’s expected to be the guy every single time.” (28:09)
• Emergence of talent at skill positions should help both Arch Manning and Ryan Wingo, though offensive line remains under the microscope.

Crucial Early Test: Ohio State in Week 2

• Raheem Biles, transfer and Columbus native, openly circling the game.
• Horka on the importance:
  • “You have to win that game if you’re Steve Sarkisian. ... The margin of error is so much smaller and slimmer and you can’t afford to lose two more games. Nine and three ... Texas didn’t get into the College Football Playoff last year.” (29:59)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Paul Finebaum on Jayden Daniels’ demand:
  • “You throw it all away over something as petty as a jersey number. How could you be that stupid?” (12:38)
• Michael Cobble, LSU Analyst:
  • “He lifted up that terrible team ... now he's just basically tarnished his image by what seems like such a silly insistence.” (03:23)
• On legacy:
  • “Joe embodies that 2019 team where Jayden's accomplishments were much more individualistic in nature.” – Michael Cobble (06:33)
• William, legal caller:
  • “The best lawyer ... tells their client, you can do this, but don’t. Legally you can do it, but it has repercussions well beyond what you think.” (19:41)
• Horka on Cam Coleman:
  • “I think this offense is going to be different because of him.” (28:09)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:42 – 06:14: Daniels jersey controversy overview, LSU fans’ reactions, legacy discussion
• 06:14 – 08:46: Daniels vs. Burrow legacy, mishandling of the situation, public fallout
• 10:43 – 13:15: Finebaum’s strong words on Daniels’ cease & desist, Heisman Trophy subplot
• 16:59 – 21:18: Callers discuss responsibility (Daniels, Brian Kelly), legal and legacy implications
• 23:06 – 32:29: Texas football preview with Tyler Horka: line play, key transfers, major early-season games

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Tone and Takeaways

• Paul Finebaum's tone: Blunt, irreverent, dismissive of athlete pettiness, sympathetic to fans and tradition.
• Key Takeaway:
  • Jayden Daniels’ actions are broadly viewed as rash, unnecessary, and damaging to his otherwise bright LSU legacy.
  • The role of symbolism, tradition, and personal legacy in SEC football is as intense as ever.
• Texas Segment: The Longhorns appear loaded with upgrades and expectation in the SEC, but must answer questions in the trenches and in marquee matchups to fulfill lofty 2026 hopes.

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For college football fans, this episode is an essential listen for understanding not only the mechanics of a high-profile controversy but also the way traditions and legacies weigh heavily in SEC culture. Plus, fans of Texas football get an inside look at the promise and pitfalls of their 2026 campaign.

Transcript

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[Paul Finebaum]

The pride, passion and pageantry of college football lives here. This is the Paul Feinbaum show, our 1 podcast.

This might be college football. And good afternoon. Welcome in on a Thursday. We are here for only four hours in case you were planning to do something else. Let's get you to some headlines and there's a big one coming out of Baton Rouge and it has nothing to do with Lane Kiffin. Remember Jaden Daniels? Well, kind of hard to really remember him since he played for Brian Kelly. He's not happy. He's had a cease and desist about his number. And Brian Kelly explains how the Jaden Daniels conversation kept him from giving D.J. pickett number five. Now, I'm con. I'm very confused here. What about Lane Kiffin? Is he involved in this caper?

[Michael Cobble]

Just want to give you the opportunity

[Paul Finebaum]

to comment on the Gene Daniel situation. I'd be disappointed if that wasn't the

first question

[Caller/Guest]

I commented a week ago on that.

[Paul Finebaum]

And so that's the comment that I had and we're moving forward.

[Michael Cobble]

If someone were to ask for number

[Paul Finebaum]

nine, would that be on the table for you?

[Michael Cobble]

How would you handle that situation if a player asks for that?

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah, I'm not going to get into that. There's, there's a lot to numbers and whether they're retired, whether they're not, and different versions. And so I don't have an answer. Wow, that was, that was pretty telling from Lane Kiffin, wasn't it? Okay, let's get some reaction from around the world to this major caper. Matt Moscone. The LSU Jayden Daniel saga takes another strange turn. Sources confirmed Daniel's LSU to return its copy of the Heisman Trophy, something LSU has no intention of doing. Daniel's contacted LSU leadership before camp. Kiffin has personally spoken to Daniels. Meanwhile, this is on Instagram. I have been locked in on training camp and that's been my number one focus. I have a lot of gratitude for my time at lsu and who really cares what he said there? You can read it for yourself. Michael Cobble has had this to say. I Think most LSU fans felt bad for Jaden that he had to play on such a lopsided team with a terrible defense. That drug. That drugs. Oh, drug. Not drug, drug, but drug. Drug them all down. He was a bright light. I wonder what something like this does to erode any of that goodwill. Okay, well, why don't we ask the person who just wrote that? Michael Cobble. Michael, good to see you again. We saw you a couple weeks ago in Tampa and. And never dreamed that we would be talking to you about something other than Lane Kiffin. So what about it?

[Michael Cobble]

I mean, it's Baton Rouge. How can we bet against it at this point? Right. So, no, it's last night. You know, seeing that kind of break across the social media platforms is just incredible. And you just think about it. You really do. You think about the love and admiration that Jayden Daniels had as an LSU Tiger from the fan base here, not only the city, but, of course, this entire state. He lifted up that. That team, that terrible team at some time, and he was the bright spot on it. And now he's just basically tarnished his image by what seems like such a silly insistence on his part. I can understand feeling disrespected if you feel like Joe Burrow has, you know, some kind of lofty admiration on one hand and you're not getting that same kind of respect, but again, to do this publicly and to do this at the start of the football season, it just feels like a huge misstep on his part.

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[Paul Finebaum]

And can you give us some backstory? Because, you know, Kiffin said that he'd already addressed it, but I'm sorry I missed that. But has this been something that people were murmuring about until last night?

[Michael Cobble]

No, it. So D.J. pickett obviously wore number three last season. Highly touted freshman recruit lived up to the billing. And so when he was wearing number five at the first practice, we went to, you know, jersey swap numbers. Those things always gather people's attention. Who's ever a yellow jersey that gathers people's attention? So we asked Lane about it. Was there anything to it? Lane kind of brushed it off, saying that, you know, it was something that had been promised to him in the recruiting races and that, you know, it was something that he felt like he needed to live up to. Given the fact that that coaching staff is no longer here, he takes it over, basically respecting DJ Pickett's wishes to wear number five. Now, come to find out that there were conversations going on over the course of the last couple of weeks about this and you know, Jaden feeling one way about it, DJs camp feeling another way about it, and Lane trying to stay very Switzerland in the whole thing and just, you know, play to this year's team and what he knows. So that is the extent of it until last night and we find out that there is a cease and desist letter from Jaden's camp. And you. You showed that Instagram post from Jaden. Jaden's camp means a lot of different things, but to us here locally, it means his mother, who has been very involved since he transferred from Arizona State to Baton Rouge. And the way that his image, his likeness, his personage, you know, is utilized not only here in Baton Rouge, but of course, nationally. And so I guess it comes as no surprise that this is kind of unfolding the way it is, given some of the things that they had focused on when they were here. It just is really unfortunate, Paul, because I think it takes away a lot of that respect that people had for what he did for that team and this city in this state.

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah, listen, I'll be less charitable than you. I mean, I mean, who really cares what Jayden Daniels thinks about anything, quite frankly? I mean, he came after Joe Burrow, who I would imagine if he walked down Main street in Baton Rouge, the Steeds would still part, wouldn't they?

[Michael Cobble]

It would be on water if he walked down Main Street. So, no, I mean, there is that reality. Right. And both of them were incredible in their time. Jaden's numbers are right up there with Joe. I think we're having this conversation today. I feel that there is a difference in the way that they're perceived, though. And I feel like Joe embodies that 2019 team where Jaden's accomplishments were much more individualistic in nature. You know, both of them are great. And until today, I'll say that, you know, I don't think there was a disparaging word about either one. And that, again, is the misstep that just, you know, absolutely stepped in it for Jayden and his camp as they decided to pursue this thing publicly. A lot of LSU's, you know, flaws over the years, unfortunately, have been played out in the public eye when I feel like they could have very easily been handled behind closed doors with phone calls, with face to face meetings. And, you know, it sounds like Jaden did reach out personally to talk to LSU administration. Lane Kiffin, as Matt Moscone reported, spoke to Jayden Daniels as well. So there are some of those communications. It may be too little, too late. Though, as this thing has now gone public once again.

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah, listen, I know you've answered it, but. But help me out here. Is there any way we can blame all of this on Lane Kiffin? Just regardless of the truth, just say it's your fault, you screwed it up. Okay?

[Caller/Guest]

I mean, it never.

[Michael Cobble]

Hey, it never would have happened if he would have just stayed in Oxford. Right? That's the easiest answer for all of us or anything for the rest of this season, just from the top down. Just stay in Oxford where they love you and you can go 7 and 5 and keep your job.

[Caller]

Right?

[Paul Finebaum]

And considering his the Kiffin vs. Brian Kelly popularity approval ratings right now, where is Brian Kelly in all of this?

[Michael Cobble]

The fact that he has a job and is talking about LSU's record, you know, last week was just. Was really popular around Baton Rouge, as you can imagine. So it's exciting. And you know, what is. It is fun for me, though, having worked with them both now to a degree, seeing Brian and Lane together last year or the last couple of years, it felt like there was an emerging, like, buddy comedy getting ready to happen with those two. So I can't wait to ask Lane off camera his perception of Brian and how that works. And, and I'm. I don't think Brian will be back in Baton Rouge anytime soon now that

[Paul Finebaum]

maybe the best bet of the season right now is taking the under on Brian Kelly appearances at Tiger Stadium. Wow. I didn't. Didn't see this one coming. I'm so glad that we could delve into this. Michael, thank you for your time. And please, if anything happens, just call us. Call. I mean, even if you're in the middle of a newscast tonight, let us know. Michael Cobble, what is going on? Thank you very much for the time. That's how we begin a Thursday right smack in the middle of August. There's a lot to talk about. Tyler Horker joins us covering Texas. Brett Ciancia has got one of the best publications out. And you know, it's football season. If Chef Elizabeth drops by. Last time we talked to her, she promised to run through Main Street. Well, I can't even talk about that anymore because nobody wants to hear it because Lane Kiffin left town. We will be right back.

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[Paul Finebaum]

You're listening to the Paul Finebaum show podcast.

So this is what we're doing today. We'll talk to Tyler Horka, we'll talk to Brad about his new magazine, Pick Six Previews and Chef Elizabeth. We'll also give you an update on the Alabama scrimmage, which is apparently now over. And the big headline out of the Alabama scrimmage comes from Kayewin deboer, who said that he does not feel closer to naming a starting quarterback after today's scrimmage. So that is not a surprise. That is exactly what you expected, a couple of injuries that he mentioned. E.J. crowell, who is expected to be the star running back, did not scrimmage. He'll be out for a few practices. No big deal, according to the coach. So let's get back to this whole Jayden Daniels situation because I don't know how I don't know Jayden Daniels that well. I think we interviewed him a few times. I remember his uncle used to call in here a lot. So I'm sure he's got plenty of advisors. Remember, he had that amazing rookie season and I think they played in the, I think they played in the NFC Championship game. And then last year it all fell apart. But you're a popular guy. You win the Heisman, you are beloved because of that by LSU fans. You take your team to the championship game and then who in your, who in their right mind tells him to do what he has just done? It is one of the singular stupidest things I have ever heard. To send a cease and desist to your former school that wasn't even your original school. You started in Arizona at Arizona State. You go there and do well. You have a big win in overtime over Alabama. You go to the championship game, you win the Heisman Trophy, you will be beloved and remembered forever. And you throw it all away over something as petty as a Jersey number. How could you be that stupid? How could you be that foolish? Who told you to do this? Because I hope it wasn't your own decision. Because if Jayden Daniels made that decision, it would be the dumbest thing he's ever done. I mean, why would you do that? How petty can you be? You're making. How much is this guy making? 30, 40, $50 million a year? I mean, let's.

[Caller]

Let's.

[Paul Finebaum]

This is. You know, this felt like cleanup on Olive, too. I've been locked in on training camp, and that's been my number one focus. I have a lot of gratitude for my time at lsu, and I'm proud of what my teammates and I accomplished there. Obviously, there are issues to be worked out between my team and lsu, and my hope is that it will get done privately. My sole personal focus is on the commanders. I realize the business of football is unique, and I trust this can all be resolved. No, it's not going to be resolved, Jaden. You have already dumped on your legacy at LSU and bk, who's got the credibility of a snail darter down there in Baton Rouge. And he explained how Jaden Daniels conversation kept him from giving. Dj. First of all, bk, nobody really cares what you think about anything. They. They didn't care when you gave your opinion last week that LSU will go to the playoffs under Wayne Kiffin. You're not liked by anybody in Baton Rouge. Brian. Give it up, okay? Quit trying to weasel your way back into the good graces of a fan base that has turned on you. But back to Jayden Daniels for a second. I mean, how can you. I mean, what. In a world where you're trying to be a leader, you're the leader of a professional football team, one of 32 young kids look up to you in Washington as well as Baton Rouge, and you do something this petty, this petulant. You embody what everyone hates about spoiled elite, overpriced, highly paid athletes. You want to embrace these people. Can you imagine Joe Burrow doing something this stupid? No, because he wouldn't put himself in this. I mean, under no circumstances. And now you're not. You're asking for your Heisman back. That's the school's Heisman, buddy. You want it, move on. You got your own. It's truly baffling, but I'm sure there's some sleazebag agent in the back corner, some friend of a friend who felt like he had been disrespected again. This is From Moscona sources confirmed Daniels camp wants LSU to return its copy of the Heisman Trophy, something LSU has no intention of doing. I mean, the only good news is that you really can't put much of this blame on Lane Kiffin, although I'm sure somebody will. The season is three weeks from this Saturday when Clemson comes to town, but we'll get some reaction to this as we work our way through the program. But it is truly remarkable. I mean, I feel badly for somebody who. Somebody said this. I mean, first of all, who really is paying attention to this other than those who cover LSU football? Somebody told Jayden Daniels and he decided to get disrespected. I guess he saw Baker Mayfield the other day, you know, all upset because what did. What did Tampa Bay offer him, like $40 million instead of $50 million? And I'm not a hater. I don't hate athletes because they make a lot of money. They work hard for it. They have a very narrow window, and good for them. But the idea that you would. I can't even use the word I wanted to use because it's a family show. We don't curse on the show. What he did in just completely throwing it all away, it's sad, really. Darryl's up next in Baton Rouge. Hey, Darrell.

[Caller]

Good afternoon, Paul. Thanks for taking my call.

[Paul Finebaum]

Thank you.

[Caller]

I heard that Lane Kiffin's press conference about the Jane Daniels jersey, and what he said was Brian Kelly had promised him the jersey and he was going to live up to what Brian Kelly had promised the kid because it was important to him when he came here. He wanted that number. And Lang says, I plan to honor the promises that were made to him. So that's what's going on with that. And so.

[Paul Finebaum]

So, so. So it's really Brian Kelly's fault? Is that what you're telling me?

Yeah.

Okay.

[Caller]

That's what. That's. That's what I'm telling you, that Brian is the one who committed to getting picket that he could have the number.

[Paul Finebaum]

Okay.

[Caller]

And that. That. That's the shortened song of it, to tell you the truth. And I feel like Jaden's making too much out of it. You know, I don't think he should have sent a letter, but it's up to him. So it's not a controversy in that mood.

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah. Hey, thanks, Darrell. Thanks for the heads up there. We appreciate it. Travis is up next in Alabama. Hello, Travis.

Yes, Paul? Jayden Daniels.

[Caller]

This whole Jane Daniels, he's being very petty, like. Like you said, Paul. Correct. Me if I'm wrong. He does.

[Paul Finebaum]

Jane Daniels doesn't own the number.

[Caller]

LSU has every right to give it out to whoever they wanted to. Right. Because the numbers not being retired. Right?

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah, but here's the deal. I mean, Joe Burrows, number nine, has not been used since he played there. Now, I, I don't know all these things that in terms of retiring numbers, sometimes it's pretty difficult to do. But, I mean, you know, it. I mean, Brian Kelly, if I'm reading this correctly, said he believed number five was promised to picket during his recruitment, but chose not to issue it to him because Daniels wasn't on board. I mean, I don't. Like. What difference does any of this make? I mean, right.

[Caller Jessica]

Yeah.

[Paul Finebaum]

I mean, what did you. I mean, I don't want to diminish Jaden Daniels, but what did he do that his number had to be retired?

[Caller]

Well, he didn't.

[Paul Finebaum]

He won an individual trophy. That's it. That's all he did. Let me. Hey, thanks for the call. Let me. Let me run this by William in Maryville. William, would you have written this letter?

Paul, you know and I know. I guess I lead the way for boring calls. But the best lawyer, the best advisor, the best agent is the one that tells his or her client, you can do this, but don't. Don't do it. It's dumb to do. Legally you can do it, but it has repercussions well beyond what you think might be the repercussions. And somebody needs to sit some of these athletes down, business people, too, and say, you can do this, but don't do it. Just don't do it. And there's too few people out there that will tell their client who's paying them, don't be stupid. Do not do what you want to do. So, you know, my answer, Paul, is that, you know, too many advisors, too many cousins, too many uninformed people that are acting out of emotion, who do not analyze the overall issue.

No, I mean, the great lawyers, William, as you know, because you, you, you have been a great lawyer for a long time, are those who talk their clients out of filing lawsuits.

[Caller]

Right?

[Paul Finebaum]

And just because you can do something legally doesn't mean you should do it, Paul. And, and, and that, to me, is very frustrating because you see so many cases where clients, young people, do things that they really shouldn't do, even though technically they can do.

Thank you for the call, William. We'll continue this. We're up against the break. We have a guest waiting. We are off and running on quite an afternoon here. Thanks William from Maryville for joining us. We are back with Tyler Horka right after this.

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[Paul Finebaum]

You're listening to the Paul Fine Bomb show podcast.

We are back and you hear the term players jumping into the transfer portal all the time. That goes for media as well. Tyler Horker joins us. We first met him in Starkville, then talked to him in Notre Dame and man, Tyler, apparently that Sarkeesian money must have really paid off. You're now covering the Longhorns. How are you?

[Caller/Guest]

Well, I wish I had that Sarkeesian money, but I am good. It's good to be back down in Austin, Texas, my home state of Texas. As you know, it's good to be back in the sec. Man, I was watching that commercial break there and listening to everything that you guys had to say about this conference. I'm fired up to cover another season of SEC football for sure.

[Paul Finebaum]

Well, that's great. Tyler, let's talk a little bit just about what you've observed so far, because Sarkeesian has put together an amazing team on paper. That's not how you win championships. That's how you try to win them in the off season. So what do you make out of what you have seen now, having covered this team for a while?

[Caller/Guest]

Well, what I would tell you is these Texas football players are not made out of paper because you step onto the field with them and they look big, they look physical, they look tough. I think I've told a few people, you remember when Alabama was running this conference and when Kirby Smart in Georgia was running this conference, you could just see the defensive lineman, the offensive lineman, the trench guys, and you're like, yeah, that makes sense. These are the type of football players that are going to win a national championship. And I'm not saying Texas is going to do that this year, but to your point, they have the type of players that you can do that with. Now it's all about molding them into championship kind of players kind of people. And Steve Sarkeesian talked a little bit about that. It's. It's what you do in August, man. Like, this is setting the tone for what happens in September. We all know there's a massive matchup coming Week two against Ohio State. That'll tell us a lot more about whether or not this Texas team can actually win at all. We found out last year at Ohio State, I mean, there were big holes in this team and this team was never going to win at all. The way that they played against the Buckeyes, the way that they played against the Georgia Bulldogs even later in the year. So they're trying to set a tone now. The theme of the fall camp has been physicality, and I think we've seen that. We've definitely heard it at Inside Texas. Our sources are telling us that the offensive line looks like lot better than it did last year. And that's just a start because that's where everything starts. And Texas couldn't run the ball, couldn't protect Arch Manning this year. It sounds like they're really taking it to themselves and trying to be better in those areas. And that is a good start because that needs to happen for this Texas team to reach its full potential.

[Paul Finebaum]

So as you try to absorb all these new players and listen to the hype, which is pretty loud, you know, where would anyone be concerned, knowing the. The enormous talent, knowing what Sarkeesian has put together, how could this possibly Go wrong?

[Caller/Guest]

Yeah, I think you do. Look at the fact that there's a hole at left guard and there should not be a hole anywhere on a team as talented as Texas, a team that has aspirations that Texas has. You want to look across the line and see five guys that can line up and and move anybody in the country. Create rushing lanes for the running backs, which, by the way, the hole is not there. Hollywood Smothers, Relik, Brown, two of the best transfers in the transfer portal this year at the running back position. Texas gets them both. Texas has a freshman and Derek Cooper who they feel very strongly about. We've seen the way that Texas has gone about that position, putting players into the league, been very good at the running back spot. Last year was a down year, but I think Texas is back up on that front. I think Texas is back up on the wide receiver front with Cam Coleman. Ryan Wingo is going to be a benefit, like he's going to benefit from Cam Coleman playing alongside of him. And I think he's going to be a better football player. But if you're looking at where Texas has those deficiencies, it's okay. You want the offensive line to be better. You want them to do the things that they couldn't do in 2025, and that was the reason that you lost three games. But is that actually going to happen? Because if it doesn't, then guess what? Smothers and Brown can be as good as they are, but the running game is still going to suffer. Arch Manning, as talented as he is, he's not going to get it to Coleman and Wingo if the offensive line isn't protecting him the way that it should be. So to answer your question, if you're looking at one spot, Texas still has to prove it along the offensive lines because it's a lot of the same guys from last year, which is a little bit worrisome if you haven't bought all the way in on some of them. The Brandon Bakers, the Connor Robertsons. You know, Trevor Goosby is really good, but then you have a transfer and Lawrence Seymour, who's supposed to start at left guard. It could even be Cole Hudson who's coming back with the five for five rule. He was up and down in 2025. So if you're not strong five across the line up front on offense, then everything deteriorates after that. So a lot of the fall camp chatter has centered there.

[Paul Finebaum]

You can't help but mention Cam Coleman. Everybody is going gaga. This should not be a surprise. He had moments of absolute brilliance at Auburn. But describe just this aura around the transfer.

[Caller/Guest]

Yeah, I think you're looking at a true wide receiver, number one. And last year with Ryan Wingo as highly touted of a recruit as he was, you never really got all the way there with him where you're like, yeah, he's going to show up in the same way against anybody, no matter who the opponent is. It was an up and down year for Ryan Wingo with Cam Coleman. What we've seen, what we've heard, he's expected to be the guy every single time. He's going to go against other team's best cornerbacks, but that doesn't matter. He's going to line up and do his thing and that trickles down to Ryan Wingo. I said it earlier, I think Ryan Wingo is going to be a better football player. Not just because he's in year three and he's more experienced and he took his lumps and he's going to be better for them, but also because the defenses are going to be so keyed in on Cam Coleman. That Ryan Wingo, by the way, he's beefed up, he's fast, he looks as good as he has ever at Texas. I think he's going to have his best year. I think Emmett Mosley, who was at Texas last year for the first year, is going to be better because Cam Coleman is on this roster. Like, it's not just, oh, yeah, Texas got Cam Coleman and that's the offense. Arch Manning to Cam Coleman. No, it's going to be a lot of Arch Manning to Ryan Wingo because Cam Coleman is on the roster. Arch Manning to Emmett Mosley because Cam Coleman is on the roster. And then you get any Texas fan started on the way that Texas has recruited the receiver position. Guys like Khalik Lockett, Dalen McCutcheon, freshmen like Cohen Brown and Jermaine Bishop. There are big time talents all over the field for Texas. And it obviously starts with Coleman, though. I think this offense is going to be different because of him.

[Paul Finebaum]

So you mentioned the Ohio State game last year. It felt like the end of the world. How would you describe that second week and what that game means? I mean, we know the importance of it. But Texas has been through this drill before. How are they preparing for it now?

[Caller/Guest]

Well, I know you were preparing for your show, so you probably didn't see the quote. It just happened a couple hours ago. But pit transfer Raheem Biles, who's one of the best linebackers in the country, is actually A Columbus native and he was asked about playing Ohio State in week two. He says he has it circled on the calendar. That's a good guy to have in your locker room if you're Texas, because he's going to let everybody know. He actually described Ohio State as cold today. And I don't know if you're up on your lingo, Paul, but that means good. That means pretty stout and solid in the kids lingo today in the vernacular and whatnot. So we're already talking about it. That you know, Texas State, you see it the season opener. I expect Texas to have no problem, maybe a slow start, but Texas is going to win that football game and then all eyes are going to be on Darrell K. Royal, Texas Memorial Stadium and week two. And I think the fact that we are talking about it As a Week 2 game, Paul, is huge for Texas because last year Texas was preseason number one. Texas had Arch Manning and he was being hyped like the greatest thing since sliced bread. And then it all came crashing down with only seven points scored in a 147 loss. And that kind of set a negative tone for the year. This year you get to see one go through the hoop, beat Texas State, kind of figure out what you have, what you don't have. Try to do everything you can to get better in that week before Ohio State. And then it's game time. Like you have to win that game if you're Steve Sarkeesian. You have to win that game if you're Arch Manning, because it still is so early that it does set the tone for the rest of your year. And you showed the schedule a little bit earlier. The rest of your year is not easy if you're Texas. Like, it's not like you can start letting your guard down just because you played Ohio State. No, you've got to go to Tennessee. Two weeks later you get a bye week. But then you got to play your rival Oklahoma, who hasn't beaten you in a minute and really wants to up and down, down the line like Florida got you last year. You can't let your guard down or else Florida will get you again. And the second half of the schedule isn't much easier with another rival at the end. Ole Miss is really good. Going to Missouri and two LSU in back to back weeks like that is a really tough schedule and you want to be able to go into that SEC Conference play having beaten Ohio State because once you lose to Ohio State like you did last year, the margin of error is so much smaller and slimmer and you can't afford to lose two more games. Nine and three. You saw Texas didn't get into the College Football Playoff last year. So Ohio State game is massive. Not just because of the opponent, but because of the magnitude and the way that it sets up the rest of the year.

[Paul Finebaum]

Tyler Horker, great to see you again. Thanks so much. Appreciate. We'll see you soon. I can't wait to converse on what happens after that big game second week of the season. Let's take a short break now. More on Daniels, more on the Alabama scrimmage. Plenty of time for you to get in at 855-242-7285. It's a busy Thursday

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[Paul Finebaum]

You're listening to the Paul Fine Bomb Show Podcast.

So the Ring of Honor. Always a special event in the summertime. We we have the people on the right. I man Larry Legend Phyllis Ray from Irondale Ray is from this year's class, so that means also Bobby and a number of others. There are three spots remaining, and Ray was the first. We're doing this, you know, over the next. Over the next few weeks. So we have remaining Chris from Mount Brook, Elmo, Andre Squirrel, Jerome, Chris in Gulf Shores, and Darrell from Columbus. So one of those will be selected tomorrow, and then we'll finish it off over the next few weeks. Let's move on and talk to Jessica in Louisiana.

[Caller Jessica]

Well, hello, Paul. I listen a lot. I just never called. But I want to tell you I agree with everything you said about Jayden Daniels. What petulant child wants to throw a fit and say, don't give him my number? And what's wrong with Brian Kelly? Why did he even think of telling DJ Pickett, hey, I'm gonna give you that number? Without even consulting with Jaden Daniels, it all leads back to Brian Kelly. And you're right, Baton Rouge doesn't like him. We're glad he's gone. Like, this is all just a nightmare. Did I read right that he wants LSU to give up their copy of the Heisman Trophy as well?

[Paul Finebaum]

That is correct.

[Caller Jessica]

I mean, have you ever seen any kind of behavior of this? And William, when you called earlier, spot on every word. I agreed with you. Who would have advised anyone from his camp to say, hey, it's okay to do this. Just go ahead, just blow your whole.

[Paul Finebaum]

You know, Jessica, I don't mean this to come off harsh, but it's going to. I don't really. I. He was a great quarterback one season, and he won the Heisman Trophy. It's an individual award, but in the. In the pantheon of LSU football, I would be hard pressed to come up with Jaden Daniel's name very quickly. If you're asking me, like, who are the iconic players? Certainly, depending on your age, if you're older, you're going to say Billy Cannon. If you're younger, you're going to say Joe Burrow. And there are so many others to include. But because he was a transfer. And so was. So was Burrow. But he won a national title. I don't. And you tell me you live in the state. I'm just a passerby. But I.

[Caller/Guest]

It just.

[Paul Finebaum]

He's just. This is just the wrong time for a guy who. Who came in there for a cup of coffee and did his job and won an award to pitch a fit.

[Caller Jessica]

You're. You're exactly right. And I don't always say that in my head or to myself about what you talk about on your show, but you're exactly right. And half the people in Louisiana weren't a big fan of him at the beginning of the season because he was more of a running quarterback than a throwing quarterback. So, I don't know, I just think this was probably definitely the wrong move. And I think people are really going to have a sour taste in their mouth for it, for sure.

[Caller]

Yeah.

[Paul Finebaum]

And I'm not saying he isn't important because, I mean, when you. The Heisman is going to always. Is going to always get you ahead of the crowd. But, I mean, I think of Tommy Casanova, I think countless other other people. Kevin Falk, I mean, there's an endless. Glenn Dorsey, Charles Alexander from Charlie McClendon's tenure. I mean, there's just a lot of great players. Dalton, Hilliard, I mean, there's an endless group. Peterson, Patrick Peterson, Malag Naver. I mean, just. And I. Yeah, because it's recent, you think of him. But when you look at the entire body of work of LSU football and I've seen. I covered lsu, my first job, so I saw some of those guys I just mentioned. I just don't really think of Jaden Daniels very much at all because he never really won a title. And that, to me, defines who you are. Hey, thank you for the call. Really appreciate it. But I guarantee you he's not getting in a ring of honor before. Some of the guys I just mentioned, especially people like Billy Cannon, I mean, come on. I mean, he won the Heisman, what, 58, 59 sometime. Then let me check in with. With Alex next in Lansing, Michigan. Hey, Alex.

[Caller]

Hey, Paul. How are you doing, bud?

[Paul Finebaum]

We are doing great.

[Caller]

Hey, my. My mom's got brain cancer. And I was thinking that guys, all you guys could pray for me and for my mom and pray for everybody else in the world that doesn't have any idea who their parents are, are.

[Paul Finebaum]

Alex, what's your mom's name?

[Caller]

Lisa, sir.

[Paul Finebaum]

Lisa. Well, I am incredibly sorry to hear that news, but I appreciate you sharing it with us. And where is she? Up in Lansing with you, or is she somewhere else?

[Caller]

She lives in Lansing, sir.

[Paul Finebaum]

Okay. Well, how long ago, Alex, did she get this diagnosis?

[Caller]

I got noticed this past month.

[Paul Finebaum]

Yeah,

[Caller]

I got noticed from my mom this past month. It was terrible.

[Paul Finebaum]

Right. Do you have other family members up there?

[Caller]

Yeah, I do. I have a little brother that's a paramedic and all my cousins, all my family and all my friends are supporting me.

[Paul Finebaum]

Well, Alex, number one, we all will be thinking of your mom, Lisa, and you and your many family members. And we deeply appreciate you sharing that with us and are hoping for a little bit of comfort as you work your way through this ordeal.

[Caller]

Thanks, Paul. Appreciate you.

[Paul Finebaum]

Thank you very much. And the best to your mom. Thanks so much for that. That's a terrible thing to have to deal with for anyone. We all think every day about, well, what happened, what's wrong, what's going on, we didn't accomplish what we did. You get a call like that and it makes everything else seem a little less important. We will take a break. We're one hour into the program. Busy show so far. Number of guests will be dropping by and your phone calls.

You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum show by Podcast.

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