Hour 3: Michael Casagrande, AL.com

Summary

The Paul Finebaum Show — Hour 3: Michael Casagrande, AL.com

Date: July 28, 2026
Host: Paul Finebaum
Main Guest: Michael Casagrande (AL.com)
Theme: SEC dominance, Big Ten weaknesses, and the evolving landscape of college football

---

Episode Overview

This hour of The Paul Finebaum Show zeroes in on the unfolding drama between the SEC and Big Ten during media days, examining scheduling controversies, perceived conference strengths and weaknesses, and how new leadership and old rivalries shape the narrative ahead of a new college football season. Featuring Michael Casagrande from AL.com, Paul delves into questions of competitive validity, coaching personalities, and the shifting pressure points at powerhouses like Alabama. Classic caller banter brings both levity and poignant moments, especially with longtime participants weighing in.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Big Ten Scheduling and Playoff Positioning

Timestamps: 00:48 – 04:35

• Big Ten’s Scheduling Weakness:

  • Casagrande highlights the Big Ten's nine-game conference schedule and lack of required power-five, non-conference opponents as a major structural weakness, giving teams like Penn State a softer path to playoff contention.
  • Quote (Casagrande at 01:27):

    “Penn State...they avoid all the best teams, they play all the worst teams. It’s an easy schedule...they could make the playoffs during this schedule strength the way they set it up.”

• SEC Comparison:

  • Finebaum contrasts this with the SEC's more demanding scheduling philosophy, where programs face at least one major non-conference opponent.
  • Quote (Finebaum at 02:34):

    “One thing in the SEC, you’ve got to play a major team in your opening game...obviously Georgia plays Georgia Tech.”

• Big Ten Commissioner Response:

  • Tony Petitti, Big Ten Commissioner, dodged calls for a tougher non-conference requirement, pushing the decision until after playoff expansion talks settle.
  • Quote (Casagrande at 03:43):

    “He pretty much kicked the can, said we’ll figure things out once the playoff is resolved. Pretty weak if you ask me.”

---

2. Bret Bielema Takes Shots at the SEC

Timestamps: 04:35 – 06:09

• Bielema’s Annual Jabs:
  • Discussion surrounds Illinois coach Bret Bielema’s yearly tendency to criticize the SEC, this time inaccurately referencing 2005, a year in which a Big 12 (now SEC) team won the title.
  • Quote (Finebaum at 04:35):

    “He took a shot at the SEC’s A game schedule…my math shows 13 national championships since then from the SEC.”

  • Quote (Casagrande at 05:16):

    “He’s kind of a clown in a sense—he loves to get attention and he got the headlines that he wanted.”

---

3. The Changing Perception of Alabama Football Under Kalen DeBoer

Timestamps: 06:09 – 12:16

• The End of “Rat Poison” Era:

  • Casagrande’s column notes the diminished national intimidation factor for Alabama. DeBoer’s uninspiring presence and the lack of a “fear factor” around the program are discussed.
  • Quote (Casagrande at 06:54):

    “In the days of 'We want Bama', it’s long since gone. The fear of the program...there’s just not much aura...it starts with DeBoer. It doesn’t have that same inspirational feel.”

  • Finebaum adds that DeBoer’s media appearances are “robotic, almost AI-generated.”

• Program Uncertainty:

  • Questions abound about Alabama’s quarterback situation, offensive line fragility, and general lack of preseason hype. Casagrande underscores the team’s sixth-place SEC preseason ranking, a historic low.
  • Quote (Casagrande at 10:24):

    “It’s a great mystery. You don’t know who the quarterback’s going to be...there’s just a lot of question marks.”

• DeBoer’s Job Security:

  • Finebaum and Casagrande agree DeBoer’s position isn’t threatened for now, but external pressure could test his tolerance for the Alabama job’s demands.
  • Quote (Casagrande at 12:16):

    “It’s more of how much pain would he be willing to tolerate for pressure from the outside...how much would he be wanting to deal with to keep that buyout intact?”

---

4. SEC vs. Big Ten Media Days: Attention and National Narrative

Timestamps: 18:10 – 20:17

• Caller Chris Asks:
  • Is invoking the SEC the only way Big Ten coaches get national air time?
  • Finebaum suggests only lesser-known coaches need the SEC to get attention, not programs like Ohio State or Oregon.
  • Quote (Finebaum at 19:16):

    “If you’re a bottom of the garbage can dweller like Bret Bielema at Illinois, yes, that’s the only way.”

---

5. Alabama's QB Room Compared to LSU's

Timestamps: 21:51 – 22:34

• Caller Bash Questions Depth:
  • Wonders whether Alabama now has the best quarterback depth in light of LSU’s injury history.
  • Finebaum responds positively, highlighting Alabama’s options:

    “I think it is a very good room because there are two options and they’re different. So I like that.”

---

6. Community, Banter, and Callers’ Camaraderie

Timestamps: 24:02 – 40:41

• Classic Banter:

  • Stories about show moments (Finebaum dancing with Lainey Wilson at 15:44) and the culture around the “Black Hats” and “Regulators” — informal groups among the callers.
  • Squirrel, a self-proclaimed Black Hat “vice president,” explains the lore and antics behind the group, emphasizing its purpose is mostly to “piss off the haters.”
  • Quote (Squirrel at 27:39):

    “It’s just basically a loose-knit organization put together to piss off the haters.”

• Heartfelt Farewell:

  • “Rumor Control,” a longtime caller, emotionally announces his terminal illness and thanks Finebaum for decades of community and entertainment.
  • Quote (Rumor Control at 31:11):

    “My only connection to your show...is to have called various iterations for five decades, and I’m glad to have done it.”

  • Finebaum responds with heartfelt thanks and reminiscences about the show's early days.
  • Quote (Finebaum at 32:31):

    “You were literally one of the first callers to our show...I just want to tell you that I will certainly be thinking of you and your family.”

• Callers Discuss the Impact of Loss:

  • J.D. expresses how Rumor Control’s call put things in perspective, breaking caller tradition by earnestly urging him to keep fighting:

    “Just don’t give up. You’re not going anywhere till the man upstairs says you’re going.”

---

7. Hot Seat Watch: Josh Heupel at Tennessee

Timestamps: 35:38 – 37:28

• Caller Corey Asks:
  • Is this a “hot seat” season for Tennessee’s coach Josh Heupel?
  • Finebaum dismisses the notion, citing Heupel’s successes and the program’s upward momentum despite some adversity.
  • Quote (Finebaum at 36:02):

    “Under normal Tennessee standards, maybe. But Josh Heupel has done some extraordinary things...short of the complete bottom falling out, I think he’ll be fine.”

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote / Moment | |-----------|---------|----------------| | 01:27 | Michael Casagrande | “The fact that they can almost look like a playoff team...they don’t play anybody better than 9–4 from last year.” | | 05:16 | Michael Casagrande | “He’s kind of a clown in a sense—he loves to get the attention and he got the headlines that he wanted.” (on Bret Bielema) | | 06:54 | Michael Casagrande | “There’s just not much aura...it starts with DeBoer. It doesn’t have that same inspirational feel.” | | 08:07 | Paul Finebaum | “It’s very robotic, it’s almost AI generated...he shows up...and it just seems like he underwhelms.” (on DeBoer) | | 10:24 | Michael Casagrande | “It’s a great mystery. You don’t know who the quarterback’s going to be...there’s just a lot of question marks.” | | 18:10 | Caller Chris | “It just serves as a reason to make other people mad...it’s a very entertaining aspect to it for me.” (on Black Hatters) | | 31:11 | Rumor Control | “My only connection to your show...is to have called various iterations for five decades, and I’m glad to have done it.” | | 32:31 | Paul Finebaum | “You were literally one of the first callers to our show...I just want to tell you that I will certainly be thinking of you and your family.” | | 36:02 | Paul Finebaum | “Under normal Tennessee standards, maybe. But Josh Heupel has done some extraordinary things...I think he’ll be fine.” |

---

Segment Summary (with Timestamps)

• 00:48–13:07: Finebaum and Casagrande dive deep into Big Ten scheduling weaknesses, SEC versus Big Ten debates, and the rhetorical antics of Bret Bielema.
• 13:18–20:17: Classic caller discussions on community, the culture of inside groups, SEC/Big Ten media coverage, and more jabs at Bret Bielema.
• 20:42–22:34: Quarterback depth at Alabama compared to LSU, with Finebaum calling the Crimson Tide QB room “very good.”
• 24:02–40:41: Show culture, humorous asides about Finebaum's TV antics, the legacy of long-standing callers (notably, a moving farewell from “Rumor Control”), and reflections on what the show means to listeners.
• 35:38–37:28: Tennessee coach Heupel’s job security discussed; caller love for college football traditions and family memories.
• 37:43–40:41: More critique of Bret Bielema, quirky show lore, and serious reflection by J.D. after Rumor Control’s news.

---

Summary Assessment

This episode highlights why The Paul Finebaum Show is more than just college football talk—it’s a vibrant SEC clubhouse, a home for nostalgia, insider jabs, and deeply personal moments. The Casagrande interview provides sharp analysis on the Big Ten’s structural flaws and Alabama’s waning mystique, while the community of callers offers both comic relief and poignant reminders of the show’s enduring personal impact.

---

For listeners who missed it:
You’ll take away why the SEC still sets the national pace, how media narratives are shaped by coaches’ egos (and occasional blunders), and how sports radio creates real community far beyond scores and statistics.

Transcript

[Commercial Announcer]

You know, when you're locked in, focused and fearless. Welcome to the wnba. Your vision narrows. You can't look away. Every assist, every stop, every logo, three from beyond the logo, every. Did you see that moment, you big. What records are going to be broken this season? All of it right here. Lock in. It's the WNBA on ESPN all season long. Pride, passion and pageantry of college football lives here. This is the Paul Feinbaum Show. Our three podcasts.

[Caller 1]

This might be college football.

[Paul Feinbaum]

The show is live. Big Ten media days underway today, tomorrow, and of course on Thursday. A lot of shots being fired back and forth. Michael Casagrande chiming in with this piece about the Big Ten's weakness exposed. I need to listen to this. I'm always looking for some good ammo on the Big Ten. Michael, always great to see you. Many topics to discuss, including some from last week. But let's talk about this for a second. Dig deep into your reporting and commentary and please give us some good news about what's wrong with the Big Ten.

[Michael Casagrande]

Well, I think it goes back to some of the scheduling and their scheduling philosophies that they have. Their, obviously their nine game schedules that are, that are, they are what they are. They don't require any non conference teams, power conference teams. That's a weakness, I think to me. But I think the biggest weakness is the size of their conference, the ability for our team like Penn State to go to have a schedule the way they have. They avoid all the best teams, they play all the worst teams. It's, it's an easy schedule. That the fact that they can almost look like a playoff team, have like an inside track to the playoff without coming off a losing, where they fire their head coach. But they don't play anybody better than nine and four from last year. So it's, it's, it's a weakness that is honestly like a strength for them in a sense because they can get through. They could make the playoffs, the playoff during this schedule. Strength the way they said they were.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Hey, hey, Michael, let me, let me, Michael, let me jump in, let me jump in for a second because we are, we are having some difficulty with your zoom. So we're going to reconnect so we can make sure we hear exactly what you're talking about because it's too important to let go. Michael Casagrande joining us from AL.com and he makes a really good point. One thing in the sec, you've got to play a major team in your opening game. Doesn't have to be Ohio State. Like Texas is playing or Michigan, like Oklahoma is playing. I mean, I mean I'm, I would argue that East Carolina, Alabama's opening game is better than Florida State. Tennessee's playing at Georgia Tech. Obvious. Obviously Georgia plays Georgia Tech. But Michael, going back to that point, I want to make sure everybody heard you because you know the SEC in addition to the nine conference games and you can get a whopper of the schedule as we found out last week with all the coaches at media days. But is your, is your, is your biggest argument that they, you know, like Penn State, I mean they play nobody, Indiana, nobody in the preseason?

[Michael Casagrande]

Yeah, I mean that's, that's part of it. I think that's part of the fact that Tony Fititi was asked about that today, that the Big Ten commissioner if they would consider to have a nine game, have a required power team outside of the nine game conference schedule. And he pretty much kicked the can, said that we'll figure things out once the playoff is resolved. Pretty weak if you ask me. Or he's showing a position of strength in the negotiations with the SEC as it feels like they're trying to starve out the SEC and make them go through the pain of a nine game season this year with the requirements or conference non conference opponent and see how they handle it. They're trying to get him to go to that 20 team playoff and that might be the only option after a season like this where there's going to be some, some carnage with. You see.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Michael, I want you to explain something. We, we showed the, the bielema quote today. I mean Belema was 10 and 29 at Arkansas and he took this, I mean he does this every year. Two years ago he took a shot at the SEC's A game schedule. Today I don't even know. I'm still not even sure I understood what the shot was that the SEC wants to, wants to live like it's 2005 and my math shows 13 national championships since then from the SEC including about six in a row. I hate to ask you to interpret. Biel must speak, but do you have any idea what he's talking about?

[Michael Casagrande]

Yeah. No. Especially since 2005 there was a Big 12 team that won the championship. So it wasn't even a season that the SEC, I mean that Big 12 team is now an SEC team in Texas. But it wasn't like, yeah, one of the better. They could have picked any number of years and he even got that wrong because he picked a year that they didn't even win a championship. So one of the few in that era, it feels like, but good try, Brett. I mean, he's kind of a. A clown in a sense where he loves to get the attention and he got the headlines that he wanted. He's done very little since his time at Wisconsin. Had some good seasons there, but kind of underperforming everywhere else. He's been. So way to get some attention is to say something, you know, silly. So he did it. He achieved that. People are talking about him again today and not about the underachievement of his program. So good for him. You did it.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Yeah, I mean, you're right. It's his one moment every year when they're certainly not going to be featured because he's. Because he beats anyone. Because he doesn't. I mean, Illinois is a nice little program that's, you know, beating a couple SEC teams in off Broadway bowl games. Michael Casagrande with us. Michael, let me flip the switch back to last week. So many different things happened at media days and we didn't get a chance to visit with you before we all left town. Let me start with deboer. You made a really interesting point the other day in your column that rat poison is a thing of the past at Alabama. Alabama is lucky now if anybody outside of Alabama pays attention to them. Explain.

[Michael Casagrande]

Yeah, I mean, in the days of, you know, we want Bama, it's long since gone. The fear of the program had struck into people for so long has. And there's just not much aura, as the young, the folks would say about the program. There's not a whole lot of energy around it. And it starts with the bore. It doesn't have that same inspirational feel. And I think it stood out even more when you have newcomers like Will Stein at Kentucky, Pete Golding at Ole Miss, the guys who can really grab your attention and make you feel what they're saying and feel what they're selling. And I didn't know what the boar was selling because he wasn't selling anything. And it's just kind of been kind of. The problem is when you pair that with. With performance that hasn't kept up with what people would expect, you're going to lose the benefit of the doubt. So people aren't scared of them. People aren't talking about them. They're, you know, they're flying under the radar, as Nick Saban said. And that's. That's insane to think about an Alabama program, the radar at SEC media days because that just they're always the main attract

[Paul Feinbaum]

is it Is it the fact that things have changed or is it Debord just reminding everybody for, I don't know, about the 190th time that he knew what he was signing up for. He understands all that. It's very robotic, it's almost AI generated. But he says it was such a little passion that even though we know what his record is and that's how he got the job and we know he's got the extension, we know he's got the $70 million buyout, but he just, he shows up on one of the bigger stages of the year other than maybe later on at a significant playoff game, and it just seems like he underwhelms.

[Michael Casagrande]

Yeah, no, I think it's true. Both things are true that it's has changed with the state of college football and where Alabama stands within it. But yeah, I mean, it's almost like paddle prod and jolt them before he stands up there just to give, give something, give anything. Fake it if you have to because it just feels, it just, it just washes over you. His words just wash over you, really. He gets asked very pointed questions, questions that are almost set on a tee for him to say something inspiring or get people fired up. Just, he doesn't seem, you know, and it's not malicious. He just, that's just who he is. He's just kind of a guy who's not going to there and rally a room full of writers and broadcasters. I'm sure he's much better in front of the team when he's talking in the locker room. It just part of the job. A big part of that job is selling the program and there's not a whole lot of that going on right now. It's just very bland, very vanilla.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Talking to Michael Casa Grande Michael, I know we've hashed all this out in the past with the expectations and with the contract, all that is old news. But listening to him, which is not exactly an indicator of anything other than what he says. But do you have any better or best guess on what Alabama is going to do this year? Because depending on your answer, it triggers a lot of things that may or may not be important.

[Michael Casagrande]

I mean, it's a great mystery. You don't know who the quarterback's going to be. You don't know what's going to happen. Offensive line, not a whole lot coming back at running, but you have a five star running back who's joining the mix but was hurt in the Spurs. A lot of mystery around the program. You know, which Ryan is going to show up the five star superstar freshman or the disappointing. So there's just a lot, a lot of question marks. It's a good solid defense that returns a lot of stars in the secondary, but there's just a lot of a lot of mystery around it and why you could see a variety in preseason picks. I pointed out that they're pick six SEC that is by far the worst since at least 22 where you can trace back preseason picks. They were third last year, finished second, first or second in a regular season, but they're picked six. So there's not a whole lot of enthusiasm or belief that this team is going to take a step forward, but in fact take a step back.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Michael there's no magic number for Alabama, especially when you're when you're sitting on a 70 make buyout. But we know 10 and 2 gets you in the playoffs. We know 9 and 3 put you waiting for that phone call. We know 8 and 4 means absolutely nothing in terms of your postseason other than you're not going to anything important where I mean, I don't think either one of us think Caitlin DeBoer is going anywhere. But what does Kaylen DeBoer need to be concerned about in terms of this record before we quit saying he's the most secure coach around?

[Michael Casagrande]

Well, I think it's more of how much pain would he be willing to tolerate for pressure from the outside where he would pull the report himself and think that maybe there'd be a more comfortable place to coach. Because I personally I haven't been around. I first got here in 2009 covering Alabama, so I haven't been around the mob mentality when things go poorly. But I feel like it can be pretty uncomfortable as you can see that the number of people who left this Alabama job for at least less pressured pastures. So I think the question is how much would he be wanting to deal with to keep that buyout intact if things go forward. So that's my best answer for that.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Michael Castagrande, appreciate your time as always. Michael Costagrande joining us from AL.com busy show with a number of guests. We'll continue with your phone calls right after this.

[Commercial Announcer]

As you know, managing maintenance, repair and operations is never easy. But for the ones who always rise to the challenge, Grainger has your back. From professional grade products you can count on to fast, dependable delivery, they're there to help you keep things running smoothly. Plus their technical product specialists are here to help answer your toughest questions. And because Grainger knows Safety is always a priority. They're committed to being your partner in protecting both your people and your facilities. Call 1-800-GRAINGER Click grainger.com or just stop by Goldbelly's. Asking, what's the one food you'd fly across the country for? Maine's famous lobster roll? Maybe Chicago's iconic deep dish? Or Texas legendary barbecue? Well, you can skip the flight. Gold Belly ships America's most iconic foods straight to your door nationwide. And here's the best part. Right now, they're celebrating national restaurant month with fifty dollars off your first order. That's fifty bucks. It won't last forever. Order now on goldbelly.com. you're listening to the Paul Fine Bomb show podcast.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Welcome back. Chris is up next. From Mountain Brook, the latest member of the BH Club.

[Caller 2]

Yes, sir. Paul, I was pretty excited to hear about that. Such an honor, you know, and I appreciate the committee put me in. I certainly would have called in yesterday, but I was out celebrating my father's 86th birthday yesterday. Paul, I know you've met my dad on numerous occasions. So it was, it was a great day. Had my sister in from New York, had the whole family here. So that was all rich. I couldn't get everybody.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Yeah, I've known your dad probably 35 years. And not only was he. I mean, he was a great leader in Birmingham. Did so many great things for not only the business community, but for charities. I'm, I wish him well. That is an amazing. And the last time I saw him, which wasn't all that long ago, he seemed like he was doing pretty well.

[Caller 3]

He is.

[Caller 2]

He's doing good. My mom's had some struggles, but he hasn't played as much golf. But he still goes up to the course and hits balls every day. So I hope to have the same ability when I'm 86 years old. I think we all will.

[Paul Feinbaum]

I hope, I tell you what, I hope to have the same ability, like in six weeks.

[Caller 2]

That's the truth. Paul, as far as the black hats go. Now, I like the hat you were wearing when you were dancing with Lainey Wilson. That's a good look. Was that a Stetson? Did you order that? Do you have that size?

[Paul Feinbaum]

I believe, I believe it was. I was, I was so charged up not to, not to. You see that? Every, every, every day. On the beginning of the show, I had about three minutes to put on a pair of about size 30, 29, 30 pants that I literally couldn't breathe in. The hat was the hat. It was 98 degrees in Baton Rouge. And I have no idea how I got up on the stage, but, I mean, I was like. I was, like, shot out of a rocket ship. And it was. It was so much fun, and we certainly lived off of that.

[Caller 2]

Well, I do. What. What? I had the pleasure of talking to your wife out at Greystone for the Regis tournament this year. Her and I were laughing about that, and I said. I said, that is the absolute fastest I've ever seen Paul move. And I mean, like, ever. And she said, no, now that I. That's correct.

[Caller 3]

Yeah.

[Commercial Announcer]

I don't.

[Paul Feinbaum]

I don't know how I. Yeah, I really don't know. I mean, suddenly. And I think it was the fact that, I mean, we were in there and they were, you know, they were saying, okay, we got about 20 seconds, because it was a surprise. I was going to show up in this. In this outfit, and we couldn't. We couldn't button the pants. And, you know, I mean, I've done some dumb things before, but I did not want to walk out in front of a lot of people, thousands of people there and who knows how many on TV and literally have my pants fall down.

[Caller 2]

Well, it's. It's a great thing for the show, Paul, and I'm glad I get to see it every day. But. So I'm either thinking of the cowboy hat, Paul, or I put in a request with the university and Nike for an Auburn black, like, baseball cap. Would that. Would that count?

[Paul Feinbaum]

Yeah. Okay, so tell me this. What. What do you do now that you're a Black Hatter?

[Caller 2]

I thought a lot about that, Paul, and I can tell you one thing I know for sure it does is it just serves as a reason to make other people mad. I mean, that's. If you've seen on social media the people that called in yesterday. Now, of course, they were all mentioning Dylan and not mentioning me, but, you know, it just infuriates people to act like that doesn't mean nothing, that doesn't care, and they all want to be a part of that group. But a lot of times, you know, as y' all said, people ask to do it, and when you ask, it's like being a member at Augusta. You don't ever ask. You just get to do it. Somebody will ask you. And that's why it was such an honor. Honor for me. But, yeah, for that. It's just. It's a very entertaining aspect to it for me. Paul. Paul, I did have one question about the big team media days that's going on do they? I mean, outside of their footprint of their schools, is the only way for them to get any kind of national recognition or picked up on ESPN or anything is for them to invoke the sec, invoke Greg Sankey, to invoke other coaches, to invoke schedules or things. Is that the only way they can get national attention right now, even though they're three times?

[Paul Feinbaum]

Well, certainly Ohio State and Oregon Indiana don't need to. But if you're, if you're a bottom of the garbage can dweller like Brett Bielema at Illinois. Yes, that's, that's the only way. I mean, first of all, I can't imagine sitting in Brett Bielema's assembly and have to hear him talk about the Illinois Fighting Illini. So, I mean, he, he does this every year. I mean, listen, we all remember Brett Biela. I mean, he got run out of the sec with a 10 and 29sec record. Nobody really wants to hear him give an, give an opinion. You're, you're, thank goodness you got a job at Illinois. I'm happy for you, but you're just not. Yeah, I mean, you're one of the, you know, top 50 or 60 coaches in America. Congratulations.

[Caller 2]

And does it get mentioned as much as it should, other than your show that he couldn't hack it in the sec?

[Paul Feinbaum]

No, because I think most people have probably forgotten. And I mean, he was an okay guy. We did a couple of shows together. You may remember some of those film shows. He's a funny guy. If I could tell you. I mean, I can't repeat my favorite Brett Bielema stories because they're all off color, but that's who he is. Hey, thank you, Chris. Congratulations again. Let me check in with Bash in Boulder. Hey, Bash.

[Caller 3]

Paul, I don't know what you came down with yesterday, but you somehow passed it over to your Bash brother over a thousand miles away. So my throat, my voice is kind of. Exactly. I'm going through it just the same like you, Paul. But I'm still here going to ask you a college football question. Yesterday you said when a LSU fan asked you, because you have connections, you know people on the inside. What's the status with Sam Levitt and his injury, you know, history going this year. And you told him, Paul, according to your sources, that he's fine. But let me ask you a question. Isn't that the exact same thing that was asked last year about Garrett Nussmeier? And that was the exact same answer. And it turned out that that answer was a lie

[Paul Feinbaum]

100%.

[Caller 3]

So in this case, Paul, when you gave that LSU fin, the, the inside knowledge that you have that you got from the people that cover the team, what's to make us believe this time when it's is it a different training staff, is it the same athletic team that was there last year? Or has that changed?

[Paul Feinbaum]

I don't know that, but I'm assuming a lot of things have changed under Lane Kiffin, but I'll double check on that.

[Caller 3]

This is a curious thought, but I will say, you know, as much as us Alabama fans are kind of going through the, the quarterback controversy between Mack and Keelan Russell, I gotta ask you, Paul, with, with that kind of argument I'm making about the LSU quarterback situation, do you think in a sense Alabama might be the best quarterback room going forward? Because if one quarterback does have an injury problem and going for the rest of the season, are we the best team that has two quarterbacks that are capable of winning games this year?

[Paul Feinbaum]

I think it is a very good room because there are two options and they're different. So I like that. Hey, thank you, Bash. Hope you feel better up against the break. More to come 90 minutes remaining on a late summer day. It's July and we are here.

[Commercial Announcer]

Walden University is where working professionals like you get the W. With Walden's Tempo Learning, which is available in select programs, you earn your degree at your own pace. No set weekly deadlines, no rigid schedules, Gain practical skills through real world scenarios, learn from faculty with real world experience and count on support from your very first class all the way to your career. Walden University, set a course for change. Ready to start? Visit waldenu. Edu today. Certified to operate by Chev this episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. You think you know a browser, but Gemini and Chrome, that's new. It can help you with practically anything on the web, like restoring a vintage motorcycle from a 50 page restoration block. Or finally, break down that long article you've had open for weeks. Gemini and Chrome is here for it, ready to make anything online make sense. There's no place like Chrome. Check responses set up required compatibility and availability various 18 plus. You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum show podcast.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Welcome back. Handsome Joe is up next.

[Caller 1]

Hi brother. It's good to talk to you again. It is. Man, I've missed you. I missed you big time. I didn't get to see the show Friday. Didn't. Didn't get to see most of it live, unfortunately. But I did watch it all and man, it's just Good to see you back, Paul. I'm glad they didn't nobody, you know, keep you down in Tampa, because you know what? We need you. And happy birthday, by the way. I. You know, I could have sent you a text, Sonny, and told you that, but it just. I'll be honest, I forget my own birthday sometimes, so. But anyway, I hope you have a good birthday and many more. Many more to come, Paul. And you know what? Bash? Bash ain't really sick, Paul. That's just that Rocky Mountain High, that's all that is. That's Rocky Mountain High. But he does sound a little bit stuffy, so. He does sound like he's got a little bit of head code there or something other. But, Paul, I want to say this right here, you know, you know, regulators in the house, and Sarge, you know, I talked to him last night for hour or two, and that's while he was driving home. And Paul, he is just as polite and nice, you know, away from TV or radio, as, you know, in person as he is. You know, that's just him. I mean, he's. He's an outstanding guy. And, you know, if nothing else, you know, you know, sometimes other people try to, you know, snatch the ones we get. Besides, he's. He's. You can see why, you know, we like him. I mean, I think everybody likes him. He is. He is one of a kind. He's a true American patriot, you know, above all else, he's a true American patriot. He's a good guy, owns his own drone business and, you know, he's ex military and he just, you know, he's one of a kind, outstanding guy, that I can tell you, and I look forward to talking to him any chance I get to. But Paul, this Brett, you know, believe me, whatever. Whatever his damn name is, Paul, I'm gonna call him Fred Flintstone. You know, that's the only way he can be relative. You know, it's just pick on the SEC, he's gonna mention something from like, you know, 15, 16 years ago. Who cares about them? You know, nobody cares about that. He came in the SEC and he got his ass handed to him. And you know what? There ain't a toilet big enough to give him a swirl. You're going to take him out to the outhouse, you know, and just dump him head first in there and just, you know, kind of just twist it, you know, toward him, around like a top in there. That's. That's only. That's the only understanding he's got, Paul, because I won't ever forget when they played Alabama and he did that flippity floppity thing, tried to get his player to lay down like he was hurt. But he's running to the side, sideline to stop the clock. You know, he's dirty, Paul. He's a dirty player. Nobody cares anything that comes out of his mouth because when anytime he speaks, I had to hold my nose just cause the stench of the smell, that's all it is. And Alabama, you know, I'm glad, you know, we're not picked no higher than that. And I'll be honest, I wouldn't pick us no higher than that either because they're going to have to show me something. But I would rather fly, you know, like Roman Harper said, I'd rather fly under the radar than be number one. When they had Alabama number one for, you know, for a lot of years there, I would rather been number two or three or four, you know, not number one. Because when you're up there, nobody, you know, they're gunning for you. But you know, so Georgia, they're get there. They are the new Alabama. Kirby Smart is the, is the best coach in college football, you know, bar none. He is the best coach and he's doing it his way, he's doing it the old fashioned way. Just line up and whoop their ass. That's, that's what Kirby's doing. So you know, my hats off to them. But Paul, anyway, I'm just glad to see you back, brother, because I promise you we miss you bad. And if something ever happens like you know, you retire or something, oh, we're just going to chip in and buy the house next door to you. You ain't get rid of us that easy. But anyway, I love you, Paul, man, I'm glad to see you back. And hey, let's rock and roll. Tight road, man. Hey, Regulators out. Regulators, mount up, brother. Road tie roll, Paul.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Thank you very much.

[Caller 2]

Squirrel.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Is that right?

[Caller 4]

Yeah.

[Caller 5]

Taking my call in, Ed. Thank you for taking my call and as always, such an honor to follow a regulator for sure. But you know, I heard you and a lady talking earlier in the show heard you and a lady talking earlier in the show about how vicious, you know, the callers have kind of been to each other this summer and kind of may seem that way on the radio but you know, kind of off the air we're more compassionate. And a prime example is yesterday I was just scrolling through Twitter and I saw Chris on the beach and South Carolina and I tweeted to him, hey, man, don't get too close to the water. I don't want your fat ass to get harpooned. So I showed the dude a little compassion where you would think, you know, hearing us on there, we don't really like each other. And congrats to the, to the two new Black Hatters. And the reason Chris is a Black Hatter is because he nailed it. He's one of the few people to literally nail it. What the Black Hatter organization is, it's just basically a loose knit organization put together to piss off the haters. I mean, he nailed it. Just dead on. So congrats to Chris, to that. And speaking of haters and getting back to the Black Hatters, one more thing I wanted to say, and a lot of people are confused on Black Hatters. And as vice president, if you'll notice, Paul, I very rarely ever comment on black hat business or anything of that nature. I just do what vice presidents do, which mainly just vote. I don't do anything but vote. And I've had to turn down several nominees lately, as you know, and I'm not, I don't hesitate to do it when the time has come. But probably 50% of your listening audience, I would qualify as black hatters. And 50% wouldn't be 50%, you know, you've got maybe 50% of your group who listeners who would qualify as leaders. And you got 50% followers. Of course, the Black Hats would be in the leader category. Your regulators and pony leaguers and things like that would be in your followers category. And you know, just things of that nature. And also it was amusing to me yesterday and it always is this time of year to see the cockroaches start slinking back in. Did you notice that? You noticed the number one cockroach that came back yesterday,

[Paul Feinbaum]

Johnny B. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. How could I miss?

[Caller 3]

Yeah.

[Caller 5]

And like I said, it was just so funny for him months ago to he thinks he's so important he had to declare his exit and go on Twitter and just bash you and bash everybody who's still affiliated with your show. And then, you know, a few months later, here he comes slinking back in kissing your ass. So that was so amusing. I hope he does it again today. And I'm also just puzzled by Jim's, your buddy Jim page 54's affiliation with Johnny Pervert. Because if you look on Jim's Twitter, he's promoting children that have disabilities and things of that nature that need prayers. If you look on Johnny Perv's Twitter, he's got naked old women on there that he's photographing in his trailer. I don't know if they're unconscious or I don't know what the deal is going on, but if anybody's missing any grandmothers up in North Alabama, they may want to contact the sheriff's department and have them look up underneath the trailer. Thanks for taking my call.

[Michael Casagrande]

Aloha.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Thank you, Squirrel. Rumor. Rumor Control is up next.

[Caller 2]

Hi Paul.

[Caller 4]

Rumor Control is just reporting to say goodbye. I found her without this month that in the middle of the month. But I've probably got a few weeks, maybe months to live. And my only connection to your show and anything I could be acclaimed for is to have called various iterations for five decades for and I'm glad to have done it. I only met you once. I was leaving Joy Young and you pulled up at the corner of the newspaper building there on the southwest corner and I roll down your under your car and I said hello, but I wanted to just let you know when you came to I came to Birmingham in 75 from, you know, Skip Bayless and Randy Galloway tearing up Dallas and Fort Worth. And here comes this young whippersnapper in the early 80s and he suddenly starts stirring up all these homers around here. And I was just so glad to see a young Skip Bayless come. And I've enjoyed watching you take what, you know, went behind the years career and really make a fantastic success. And I wanted to thank you for all the days that you've been able to give me. I appreciate it.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Rc. RC before you go, I want to don't hang up yet. I want to say something to you because this guy here was literally one of the first callers to our show. He used to call in every day with the Rumor Control Center. It was such an important part of those early days. And I just want to tell you that I will certainly be thinking of you and your family. And I know you're in a tough spot, but it means a great deal that you would call in and share those memories. And when you said, Joy Young, we're going back a few years, that place hasn't been there in 45 years. But what great days we used to have on this show. And I hope we have a few, you know, we still can do that. But I want you to know what you've meant to me personally and to so many people. I'm sure I'll hear from Lockamy and I'm sure I'll hear from some other people who heard this call. But you be well. And thanks so much for taking the time to do this.

[Caller 4]

I'll sign off the way I used to do. I'll keep my ear to the ground this time. It's probably going to be literally. So take care. Paul, I love you a bunch.

[Paul Feinbaum]

All the best. Thank you. Thank you, rc. What an incredible call and what a gentleman there. We will take a break. More to come right after this.

[Commercial Announcer]

1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4. Give me a break, give me a break Break me off a piece of that Kit Kat bar Give me a break, give me a break Break me off a piece of that Kit Kat bar that chocolate crispy taste gonna make your day and wherever you go you'll hear Give me a break, give me a break Break me off a piece of that Kit Kat bar have a break, have a Kit Kat.

[Paul Feinbaum]

In a sunny Californian suburb, one family's

[Commercial Announcer]

home is unusually quiet. When detectives walked into that house, they said that it was like time just stood still.

[Paul Feinbaum]

It's 2010 and the McStay family is nowhere to be found inside the home.

[Commercial Announcer]

No clear answer where the family could have gone.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Husband, wife and two children, all gone.

[Commercial Announcer]

Like poof.

[Michael Casagrande]

Disappeared.

[Paul Feinbaum]

The search for the McStays quickly captures the nation. But for years, the search for answers only brings more questions.

[Commercial Announcer]

Who's ever heard of an entire family going missing? A family of four doesn't just drop off the face of the earth with no contact.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Is this a family on the run or is the truth far more sinister? From ABC Audio in 2020, this is what happened to the mixed days coming August 11th, wherever you get your podcast or subscribe to 2020 True Crime plus on Apple Podcasts for ad, free episodes, early access to new episodes, and so much more.

[Commercial Announcer]

You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum show

[Paul Feinbaum]

podcast and welcome back. Corey is up next from North Carolina. Hello, Corey.

[Caller 2]

Hey, Paul.

[Caller 3]

How you doing, buddy?

[Paul Feinbaum]

Great, thank you.

[Caller 2]

Hey, man.

[Caller 3]

Yeah, this is.

[Caller 2]

My name is Corey. I actually live in North Georgia by way of North Carolina. Lifetime Tennessee Volunteer fan. I just had one question for you. I'm wondering if this year is a hot seat year for Coach Hypo.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Corey, my best guess is no. And I'll tell you why. Under normal Tennessee standards, maybe. But Josh Hypo has done some extraordinary things. He took over a moribund program. He brought it back to some really significant historical heights, beating Alabama a couple of times, a Florida win last year down there. Other significant moments, and I think circumstances made it more difficult for him, starting with Nico losing Aguilar. I think as long as he can avoid a total wipeout. The program people, the fans feel like there's some momentum going. Jim Knowles was a wise ad as D.C. so I think, I think short of the complete bottom falling out, I think he'll be fine.

[Caller 2]

Yeah, I agree. I like to, I like what they're doing on the defensive side of the ball as well. Yeah, man, that's all I got. I did want to give a shout out to my uncle Marvin Taylor. He lives over in a nursing home over in Murphy, North Carolina. Originally from Hiwassee Dam. He's the reason I'm a balls fan. Going out turning the antenna to watch Tennessee balls game with him, you know, since I was a kid. So want to give, you know, ask you to give him a shout out. Marvin Taylor.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Well, thank you, Uncle Marvin. Corey, thanks for your call and hope Uncle Marvin can hear about this. Nothing wrong with being a Tennessee fan. I've been one a long time. Thank you very, very much for the call. Brian is up next in Tulsa. Hello, Brian.

[Caller 2]

Hello, Paul. Thank you for the vine. I know you're doing good today. Let me say about this whole Brett Bielema situation, this guy is nothing but a clown, nothing but an SEC reject. I mean, this guy was dumb enough to live in a. To move from a great situation in Wisconsin where he was very Alvarez's puppet forever to come to Arkansas and just to choke it up. And I remember that stupid show, Paul, if you remember, I called him Brett Bielema. It should have been called not being Brett Bilima. So dude, I know you're in Illinois. Once you do a favor. Why don't you just shut up. Try to be Indiana, try to be Ohio State. Find a way to win that stupid conference and just keep the SEC out of your mouth. Number two, Paul. I can't believe it. Scotty Perler came back on the show yesterday. Oh my gosh. Now if you remember, Paul, Candace from Nashville, she's looking for a boyfriend. I've got the perfect person for him for her, Paul. And that's Johnny Pervert. And by the way, Paul, you're doing a great job. You sound a lot better than you did yesterday. Just continue heal up my friend. I'll talk to you tomorrow.

[Caller 4]

Regulator here.

[Caller 2]

Boomer sooner I am out.

[Paul Feinbaum]

Thank you very much, Brian. Let me check in with J.D. who is up next. Hey J.D. go right ahead.

[Caller 2]

Hey Paul, thank you for taking my call. Usually most of us call in here and we're act stupid and horses asses to each other and everything, but you know, you hear something like what Rumor Control is going through and all that. And you know it takes you to a serious level. I know it did me, I couldn't quit thinking about it. I haven't quit thinking about it since he, since he called. And it sounds like he, he's meant a lot to the show and, and that you've meant a lot to him and you know that that's, that's a good thing. And I didn't know he was a long time caller. That's first I'd heard of him. But if I could say one thing to him is don't give up. Don't ever give up because you're not going anywhere till the man upstairs says you're going. I don't care what any doctor says, until he says you're going, you're, you're not going anywhere. And just keep the faith, put it, give it to him. And you know, in spaces we've had the opportunity to talk to people that's going through similar stuff. And just after that I didn't feel like being silly and stupid and getting into it with somebody. I just wanted him to know that. And I, I thank you,

[Paul Feinbaum]

J.D. thank you. Appreciate the kind comments. And we're all thinking of Rumor. Why don't we take a break here? It's been a busy show. A lot of great guests, but Top Meyer, Casa Grande, Dan Wetzel. We'll recap everything that's going on. Still waiting for signals out of D.C. big Ten media days going on. Talk of the CFP. And we are coming back with one more hour.

[Commercial Announcer]

Thank you for listening to the Best of the Paul Feinbaum show podcast. Watch the Paul Feinbaum show weekdays from 3 to 7 Eastern on the SEC Network. Plus you can listen and watch on the ESPN app. Starting a business can seem like a daunting task unless you have a partner like Shopify. They have the tools you need to start and grow your business. From designing a website to marketing to selling and beyond, Shopify can help with everything you need. There's a reason millions of companies like Mattel, Heinz and Allbirds continue to trust and use them. With Shopify on your side, turn your big business idea into sign up for your $1 per month [e-mail] specialoffer.