Hour 3: Phil Steele, CFB Insider - The Paul Finebaum Show

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[00:01]
Commercial Announcer
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[00:28]
Paul Feinbaum
the pride, passion and pageantry of college football lives here. This is the Paul Feinbaum Show. Our three podcasts this might be College football
[00:45]
is live. It has been a busy one and we are going to talk to Phil Steele, get his take on the upcoming season coming up. You have not heard enough predictions. You will hear more today. Augie is up next.
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Augie
Paul, when you tell somebody after they call and it's a boring call, you go, thank you for that contribution to our show. It comes off as a bit sarcastic.
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Tony
Is it meant that way?
[01:12]
Augie
It is.
[01:13]
Tony
It's meant.
[01:13]
Paul Feinbaum
No, no, absolutely not. Okay, just checking. Give me one second here to speak to the public, to speak to America. This is a privilege, Augie. And every person that calls in honors me and our staff and the United States of America by playing a role in this great show. Thank you very much and I'll. Please vote for me on November 9th.
[01:39]
Caller
Hey.
[01:40]
Augie
Well, that was, you know, at least that was honest. But I also want to get your take on what do you think about all the old men who call in touting their former athletic prowess as a youngster, you know, anywhere between the ages of 12 and 25.
[01:57]
Tony
What's your take on that?
[02:00]
Paul Feinbaum
Listen, you, you know that. And I run into athletes. I run into athletes of all ages every day of the week. And if you think about it, if you played high school football or college football, it was most likely the greatest moment of your career, your life. I mean, I know everybody gets married and has children and all that, and I think even high school might be more important than college because it's more singular. So I appreciate it. I mean, I attempted to play sports. I was never great. So I appreciated even more that I was never an all American athlete. I ended up covering all American athletes, though.
[02:47]
Augie
Okay, well, I was just wondering if you, if you were reading something into that, like a little insecurity and maybe
[02:52]
Tony
a little inadequacy, but nevertheless, come on.
[02:55]
Caller
Okay.
[02:57]
Paul Feinbaum
Former athletes being insecure about themselves as they get older. I mean, what are you talking about here?
[03:06]
Augie
Well, Paul, you know, Paul, you're easy when you deny Something it's easy to know you're absolutely not telling the truth because you're as transparent as a plain, beautiful piece of crystal glass. But Paul, who has the most to lose this year in the sec if you pick Texas to win it all? And after what happened last year, would you not say if they don't win
[03:34]
Tony
the SEC and go deep into the
[03:36]
Augie
playoffs, they really have the most to lose?
[03:39]
Paul Feinbaum
I think so, yeah. I think Texas is the team that in many, many ways the expectations are. The high, are at an all time high because. And some of it is Arch Manning. Whenever you have. Let me go back to Tennessee for a moment. Thirty years ago, Peyton Manning is the greatest player in Tennessee history. You know what happened the year after Peyton Manning left?
[04:03]
Augie
They won national championship.
[04:04]
Paul Feinbaum
They won the national championship. I mean, how does that happen? He never beat Florida. And then here, here comes someone else and leads them to a national championship. So I think Arch Manning has a lot of pressure on him and that program because of what is around him as well.
[04:27]
Augie
Well, I agree with you there because, you know, if Texas is back, you know, Texas is always back and they're
[04:32]
Tony
more back than they've been in the past.
[04:34]
Augie
But this got to be their year, Paul, because if they don't win it
[04:37]
Tony
this year,
[04:40]
Augie
as you say, you never know. But boy, it will be a huge letdown of the Texas fans. Anyway, Paul, I want to see you in your Friday night football attire. You need to post that picture on the website. Thanks, Paul.
[04:52]
Paul Feinbaum
Can't wait. It will be done. Let's continue with Bash coming to us live from somewhere.
[05:03]
Bash
You already know it, Paul, and thank you for letting me fall that recycled piece of trash paralegal who had to ask you the most recycled question I've heard on this show by one of your other piece of trash call a squirrel. How many times a squirrel come on the show, Paul, and asked you, Paul, what do you think of these old callers talking to you about their athletic career? It's like, how haven't we heard you talk about that 100 times over the years of this program? And since that other piece of trash rodent from Mississippi wants to come on the show and make fun of Alabama fans for their criticism of Camden Boar and say, well, where's your guys's idea for a head coach if you do
[05:45]
Caller
get rid of him?
[05:45]
Bash
Can, can I use this opportunity, Paul, to give an idea that I think could be realistic down the road? Is that okay?
[05:51]
Paul Feinbaum
I wish you would.
[05:53]
Bash
Thank you. So let me ask you a question, Paul. How confident are you like, you talk to some NFL people like Kevin Clark, Damian Woody, Buddy McFarlane. What do they think about Todd Monkins, you know, longevity in the NFL being the head coach for the Cleveland Browns?
[06:11]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, first of all, I think any, any person that goes to Cleveland is destined to fail.
[06:19]
Bash
Right.
[06:20]
Paul Feinbaum
Including Todd Monken. So if you're asking me, can he be the one. Yeah. And you know what, Stefanski, he almost got it done there. I mean he had a little bit of success, but nobody, nobody's ever going to win with that franchise.
[06:33]
Bash
Exactly. Especially when you have an in state franchise that's having more success and has their franchise quarterback already tied down and just have to protect him. Hopefully he doesn't end up like Andrew Luck did five, six years ago. And that's the same trajectory. But yeah, that's another thing holding Cleveland back. So what do you think? Is that a realistic. Since Squirrel wants to criticize us Alvin fans who hate what Kaylin Devore has done as of recent, since the last game he has on record is the blowout to Indiana. You know, is it a realistic possibility that Todd Monkin could find himself back in the SEC but as a head coach this time?
[07:10]
Paul Feinbaum
Listen, I have no idea what his trajectory is going to be. Some of it will depend on how good or bad he does. But remember one thing. Lane Kiffin was a complete disaster with the Oakland Raiders. And how many jobs has he had since then?
[07:28]
Bash
The Volunteers, the Rebels, the OC for Alabama, Florida, Atlanta, usc. Yep, can't forget about them. And now the LSU Tigers. So yes, Paul, great comparison. And it's like the Raiders are yet in a very same like similar position with the Browns are. So let me just say that if seven, like I think in two years from now we'll have our answer in the four year tenure of Caleb Naboor. If he's going to work out long term or if we need to work out on our exit strategy. Is that for the realistic album fans? Is that an actual like, like thought out like plan, would you say Paul? Or is that like a pipe dream in my words?
[08:11]
Paul Feinbaum
No, no. And I think this season is the most critical because absolutely there are a lot of people who are trying to decide they're Alabama fans so they would literally support any person. And Bash, you're too young. But I've seen it all. I've seen Alabama fans support a couple of the biggest losers in college football history at Alabama. So they'll support an elite coach. And Caleb d' Amore is an elite coach. In my opinion. His, his future will be determined this year. People are looking for a reason to jump firmly on that bandwagon or wash their hands. So I'm not saying he's going to be gone at the end of the season if it's not successful, but opinions are being made starting first weekend in September.
[09:01]
John
I agree.
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Bash
And for the Alabama fans like myself, Paul, who you know are still not settled from how it ended with Kirby Smart going back to his former university, building a championship dynasty in his program. But how like how ironic would it be, Paul if the universe that won two championships with the offensive coordinator, he then leaves, goes to the NFL and then comes back to the SEC to be a head coach against his former mentor?
[09:31]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, it sounds familiar, doesn't it?
[09:33]
Bash
Oh, absolutely. And it would sound just the same. Just like all things turn, the tides will turn back in our favor and we'll have the coach that was on a great run with the Ravens with Jackson and Derrick Henry until we saw how that ended. But now he is the head coach for the Browns. He does have Quinn, Sean Junkins of running back you know very well and Dylan Sampson from Tennessee. Like that may be if I'm him and I'm going to employ like an SEC type of offense in that system, it may be temporarily successful. But we got to remember Paul, it's Deshaun Watson in quarterback.
[10:08]
Paul Feinbaum
Yeah, that is a problem. Hey, thanks for the call. Appreciate it. Bash Bash joining us from a curtains part unknown. Let's take a break. Busy show. Phil Steele a little bit later. We had Reese Davis on last hour. Mandel joined us earlier as well. We are coming right back.
[10:32]
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[12:13]
Paul Feinbaum
You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum Show Podcast.
[12:18]
We are back, and we appreciate you joining us. And let's check in with John in Oxford next. Good afternoon.
[12:27]
Caller
Hey.
[12:27]
John
Hey, Paul. Look, I turn it on the SEC and I see people still interviewing Kiffin. I mean, we got to get over them. I mean, he's never won anything. Every time he's under a little pressure, he bolts. So, I mean, can you tell the rest of the. I mean, you've been over him, and I appreciate that, but can you tell the rest of the other shows? We worried about this year, not what he done last year. We know what he done last year. But anyway, I just thought, I want to throw that out there. And one more thing. The less rooms we got with nil, the more you gonna see interest in colleges like Ole Miss, Indiana. We all got a chance when they put rules in the big colleges. Don't follow me. Anyway, look, how many times you saw Alabama on probation, Ohio State. Every time Ole Miss got up there, wham, we got whacked. So the less rules we got, the better off we are. Anyway, thank you, Paul, for your show.
[13:36]
Paul Feinbaum
Thank you very much, John. Appreciate that. And I agree on Kiffin. I mean, I know because of the circumstances, a lot of fake outrage will happen the week of the 19th, but I think most people are really fatigued with the story. Until something new comes out, what left is there to say? I found myself defending him a few minutes ago because I do think he's a really good coach. Whatever you think of him personally is irrelevant to the fact that we have a football season coming up and he has a team that's capable of. Of doing a great deal. Let me check in with Tony next in Huntsville, Alabama.
[14:16]
Tony
Good day, sir. Did I just hear White Trash Bash call Augie and Squirrel Trash? That is the pot calling the kettle black. If ever I have heard it, you know, and I call Bash white trash Bash because what could be more white trash than when Little Bash was 19 and he was in an apartment in Montgomery and guess what?
[14:43]
Phil Steele
He was busted for drugs.
[14:45]
Tony
And so what did he do? He decided he was going to move out of Alabama and try to find the closest drug friendly state, which of course happened to be Colorado. Rocky Mountain High, they don't call it that for. Just because of the mountains. And so that's where he has been. Now I would, I wonder though, since he's visiting mommy and daddy in Prattville. I know that Bash, since he's a drug addict, could not have come here without a stash. So do you think Bash has a hidden stash in his suitcase now, Tony,
[15:21]
Paul Feinbaum
I can't imagine a guy like that would travel with contraband. I mean, no way.
[15:32]
Tony
And you know the thing, there are these flock cameras everywhere that are their license plate readers and they track all of us. We're living in a surveillance state. And wouldn't it just be delightful if the Prattville and or Montgomery police joined forces to track little Dash and they decide, hey, we remember him from when he was 19 years old and we busted him last and told him never to come back to our state again. And if he got busted again, that would just be hilarious, don't you think?
[16:02]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I would hate to. I would hate to lose him as a caller.
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Tony
Hey, they allow a call from jail.
[16:10]
Paul Feinbaum
But. Yeah, but, but I mean, have we ever had a former inmate calling the show? I don't think so. So he would be the first, wouldn't he?
[16:20]
Tony
Well now, Paul, you may not have had a former. Now wait a minute, I do recall way back because we go back a quarter of a century and I do recall a guy calling you from jail. It's probably been 15 years ago.
[16:33]
Paul Feinbaum
Don't you remember that did happen. Yeah. And I don't remember the circumstances but. And not to get into this whole conversation, but we have a. I've talked to a number of inmates who. Former inmates who tell me that they do listen. And it's easier to listen to the show in jail than to watch it, but it's consumed both ways.
[16:56]
Rusty
Yeah.
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Tony
In fact, some of the former jail inmates, of which you have quite a few who are regular callers, by the way. They have said that there are fights in jails and prisons when it comes time to your showtime and if anybody wants to watch something else on tv, there's a fight. They've talked about that on your show. I'm sure you recall that Yeah, I do.
[17:18]
Paul Feinbaum
And, Tony, I have offered. I actually was with the governor the other day, and I probably should have.
[17:24]
John
I was.
[17:24]
Paul Feinbaum
I was. I was on a stage, so I didn't get a chance to personally go through this, but I mentioned it. I would like to take the show to. To prisons. I think we would. It would be a great public service. I think we could take. Maybe do it live one day. I mean, I have no fear at all. I'm sure the Alabama prison system would welcome us, don't you? And we just take the whole show, bring the callers, make new friends, and try to try to work on their behalf. Maybe when Tubberville becomes governor, we can do that.
[17:59]
Tony
You know, this is like the Folsom Prison Blues when Johnny Cash went to Folsom Prison for a couple. Yeah, you could do it. Now, you said you have no fear, but of course, the only reason you have no fear, you would have your security details surrounding you.
[18:12]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, first of all, I don't have a security detail, nor would I.
[18:15]
Tony
You would have one if you go to prison, buddy. I know you would.
[18:18]
Paul Feinbaum
I'm telling you right now, it wouldn't. I have been in prisons before, back in my earlier days as a reporter, and the security people said we. I said, I don't want. I said, I don't need you here. I want to interview this person. And it did not concern me. No, nobody in jail is going to do damage to somebody visiting. It's really not a smart move.
[18:42]
Tony
Well, but look, they wouldn't be in jail if they were smart, would they?
[18:46]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I would argue, Tony, that there's a lot of unfortunate events that occur that create the. The overblown. Overblown in prison system. But I'm not a civil liberties attorney. I'm just a lowly talk show host.
[19:01]
Tony
Yeah, well, there are always a lot of circumstances, aren't there? There are a lot of excuses for ending up in the slammer. And I've always found it humorous when you have said multiple times on your show that you've had many of your friends who have ended up in prison.
[19:17]
John
True.
[19:18]
Tony
And it makes me wonder, you know, you need to be more discerning in your selection of friends, Paul.
[19:25]
Paul Feinbaum
I mean, I can't help it, Tony, that I end up becoming friends with people that. That get abused by the system.
[19:34]
Tony
Well, anyway, I tell you what, when. If Bash does get arrested and temporarily, you know, incarcerated in Prattville or Montgomery's jail, you need to go and do a live broadcast, because that would just be fantastic.
[19:46]
Paul Feinbaum
I will. I will Take the entire show, I mean. And I hope he picks a jail a little closer to our main operation. Tony, thank you. Appreciate it. Great to hear from you. Why don't we take a break here because we have a guest coming up and you'll want to hear from Phil Steele from of course, Phil Steele's magazine.
[20:14]
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[21:57]
Paul Feinbaum
You're listening to the Paul Finebaum Show.
[22:01]
We are back and you know the football season is here when we say hello to Phil Steele. Of course, the Phil Steele magazine is out everywhere and it's always great to say hello. Phil, good afternoon.
[22:14]
Phil Steele
Hey, how you doing today, Paul?
[22:16]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, we're doing great. What about you? Let's talk about the complexities of doing this magazine in 2026.
[22:24]
Phil Steele
It got a lot better this year, Paul, because There was no second spring portal window in the past three years. I had to rewrite 138 teams, all in the month of May while trying to talk to as many coaches as I could. This year it was more like back to normal. The spring roster is a roster we're going to take into the season and you know, talking to the coaches this Paul, the majority of them had the thing that they felt like they had more of a team this spring because the team they were taking in the spring is the one they were going to take into the fall. They could coach them harder, they can list them third string. Nobody was going to leave. Players could bond together without their friends leaving and nobody was going to get replaced by the second portal. So I think we're going to have a better brand of football this year.
[23:05]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, that's fantastic. Let's look first at the national scene because we spent a lot of time here talking sec, but it has not gone well for the SEC the last couple of years. So as you look at the entire landscape, what do you see?
[23:21]
Phil Steele
Well, I think we first of all, when you get the 12 team playoff, a lot of it depends who makes it because as we saw last year with Miami, they just made the playoff and then very nearly won the national title. Also I also look at the fact that you've got the bye week. Geez.
[23:39]
Tony
Oh man.
[23:42]
Phil Steele
The bye week has been a tough, a tough thing for opponents are a tough team for the teams that are get the bye week because they're one and seven in the playoffs with three or four weeks off and then their opponent just played last week. But as far as the overall landscape goes, I've got Notre Dame number one this year. I love the defense. Last year they had an outstanding defense, held opponents to 95 yards per game below their average. And this year they got nine starters back. They have my number one rated offensive line. They got C.J. carr and they face my number 66 rated schedule. Top teams out of the SEC, naturally I've got Georgia and Texas most like everybody else. And then in the Big Ten you've got Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon are the Big three. You got Miami, Florida and the acc and of course Texas Tech. And one thing people ask me with the magazine, Paul, is the Brendan Sorsby situation. When I wrote the magazine, I was 90% sure that Sorsby was not going to play this year. So nothing changed with the Sorsby situation. I didn't think he was going to play anyway.
[24:44]
Paul Feinbaum
So Phil, as we drill down on the sec, it seems to be a debate between Georgia and Texas. How do you settle that conversation in your head?
[24:57]
Phil Steele
It might just be settled in the SEC title game, but I gave the slightest edges to Georgia. You've got Kirby Smart as the head coach. Been there, done that, won the big games and they're really A loaded team this year. They've got my number two rated defense in the country and they're a homegrown team, meaning that the majority of their team is recruited as freshmen, sophomores, juniors. They actually go from last year being number 102 on my experience chart up to number 12 on the experience chart. They have a number two defense and I've got Gunner Stockton as a dark horse Heisman candidate this year. He's 20 to 1. I like how he does in big games. He's got a 16.2 ratio and he also does great on fourth down the fourth quarter. Strong run game, strong offensive line with Texas. I expect more out of Arch Manning this year. Remember last year he only had one returning starter on the offensive line and this year he's got a veteran unit. Last year's top running back had 597 yards. They had a couple thousand yard rushers and Hollywood Smothers and Malik Brown. You look at the receiving core, they bring back Ryan Wingo, add in a Cam Cameron and I thought Arch got better as the season went on last year. They're going to have a dynamic offense plus a top 10 defense. So I think the two teams are both legitimate title contenders. I guess if I had to put something there between the two, it'd be Kirby Smart as the head coach.
[26:14]
Paul Feinbaum
And Phil, this is where it gets complicated for just fans that call in this program like who is next? Everybody thinks they know, but I don't have any idea because there's a big. There's a big group of schools. How do you differentiate and where do you land?
[26:30]
Phil Steele
Yeah, it is pretty tough with the next group. I went with a surprise team here, Paul, and it's a team that was picked six by the SEC media and that's Alabama. And I know Alabama looked poor in the playoff last year, blown out by Indiana. Couldn't run the football in the postseason. Lose their quarterback in Ty Simpson. So not a lot to like, but I like the fact that Kaylin DeBoer is in his third year as the head coach. I think he's got two capable quarterbacks. Keelan, Russell, Austin, Mac. Whichever guy wins a job, I think is going to have a big year. Much like Ty Simpson did last year in his first year as a starter. They have the running backs with Daniel Hill, E.J. kroll, Kevin Riley, A.K. deer. I think the offensive line will be improved in the run game this year. I look for better production from Ryan Coleman Wins, who had like 11 drops last year. Defensively they're bigger up front. They've got an excellent secondary and when I look at the schedule there's I've got them favored in nine games. There's three games I got as a toss up Georgia at home. Remember they beat Georgia on the road last year. They also play LSU and Tennessee on the road. I have those as toss up games. Nobody's really talking about Alabama making a playoff. I got them making a playoff this year and coming in third. But really that next tier, as you mentioned, Paul, you've got Oklahoma, you've got Ole Miss, you got Texas A and M are all in that, that tier of teams that are contending for the playoff spot.
[27:46]
Paul Feinbaum
And in trying to determine that from a distance, to me, and I agree with you on Alabama in one respect, their schedule feels manageable, especially with the toughest game at home and they don't have to see Texas or Oklahoma. They do get A and M at home though. LSU and Tennessee on the road. What, what do you, where do you go next in trying to break this log jam? Because there are. You mentioned Oklahoma there, there's LSU which I want to get your thoughts on. There's A and M. There's just a pretty big group of schools there.
[28:19]
Phil Steele
Yeah, there definitely is. You know and I like the talent Oklahoma has, especially if John Mateer returns to form like he had at the start of the year before he injured his hand. I think they will have a better run game with Tory Blaylock and Xavier Robinson. The offensive line last year, remember had three freshmen playing at times. They'll be improved. The defense, one of the best in the country. Question mark would be the schedule they have to play. Georgia on the road, Florida in the Swamp at Michigan and of course Texas in Dallas with Ole Miss. You know, I think of the new head coaches, Pete Golding finishes the best. You got to like the fact that Transat Chambers, who is a magician in the playoffs is back. They've got an all American running back and Kewan Lacy and last year their defensive front seven was not the same as it was two years ago. Remember they allowed about a touchdown more per game last year. I think the defensive front seven is going to be closer to the 2024 group. So it's very now the problem I have with Ole Miss is this. They're all psyched up for the big game against LSU very next week. They have to travel and face Florida in the Swamp. That would be a letdown situation potentially in a tough game there. They also have to play Texas and Oklahoma on the road. Texas A and M. My question mark There would be offensive line. Last year was great. This year it's good. And also the consistency of Marcel Reid at quarterback. Overall though, the defense looks solid, the running game looks solid. They have to play Bama on the road, Oklahoma on the road, South Carolina, which I think is going to be a much improved team on the road, and LSU on the road as well. So I think all three of those teams have a bit of a tougher schedule than does Alabama.
[29:55]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, still with us? Phil, a lot of schools you have not mentioned yet and I'm sure you're not intentionally sliding them. There's just so many schools that are in contention. Let me throw one or two at you. Especially lsu. You mentioned them in terms of schedule. What about this year?
[30:11]
Phil Steele
Very talented team. Love the portal class that they brought in. And if you look at last year, Paul, you look at the top portal classes, Texas Tech had one of the top portal classes and look what they did. They absolutely dominated the Big 12. However, they threw that top portal class in on top of the number five most experienced team in the country and they were just playing in the Big 12. LSU throws that portal class on top of the 93 most of the experienced team in the country.
[30:36]
Tony
I'm a little concerned.
[30:37]
Phil Steele
Sam leave it missed the spring. I know he's back here in the fall. We'll see how he does as long as he stays healthy. They should be. I mean the talent is there, but they do have to play Ole Miss on the road. Auburn, Tennessee and then those home games I think are huge against A and M and Alabama. So I mean LSU is a contender. I just a little concerned about the big transition here. They have 59 new players this year.
[31:04]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, you mentioned Alabama maybe moving up from the log jam. Who are you most concerned about in the sec?
[31:14]
Phil Steele
A lot of it has to do with the schedule. I guess most of all, you know, you take a team like Missouri that's been playing one of the better schedules in the sec the last two years and has gotten to a total of 29 wins the last three years. Now they're taking on a much tougher schedule. So. So we'll see how Missouri plays. Plus, the trouble I have with Missouri this year is probably the experience level on the defense. Last year they had nine starters back on defense. This year they have just three. They did just recently get back Sterling Webb at defensive tackle, but they have 54 new players. How quickly the defense comes together is going to be a key.
[31:49]
Paul Feinbaum
What about Tennessee? A traditional power that nobody is talking about right now.
[31:55]
Phil Steele
Yeah, I'VE got Tennessee in the middle of the pack and they could surprise if they get the quarterback play. And Josh Hypo, whenever he has a first year starting quarterback, which is almost every year, usually has a pretty potent offense and look at the pieces he's got around him. They've got my number seven set of receivers in the country led by Staley and Matthews. You go to running back, they got desean Bishop back and then the offensive line, I rate number four in the country. So they're going to have a very strong offense this year even with the new quarterback. I think the new quarterback is going to surprise it. And remember last year we had quarterbacks like C.J. carr, Julian saying first year starters and they were all up there at the end of the year for the Heisman. So just because you have a first year starting quarterback doesn't mean you're going to struggle defensively. My big concern there is with Jim Knowles as the new defensive coordinator. It seems like his defenses take two years to really set in. How quickly will this defense adapt to Jim Knowles Defense could be the question mark with Tennessee. Now I've got him a slight underdog at home against Texas, at Texas A and M and at South Carolina. I've got the Alabama game at pick them. Other than that, I got them favored in eight games. So I think Tennessee could fare better, especially if the quarterback with the great surrounding cast gets solid play.
[33:06]
Paul Feinbaum
Finally, Phil, a lot of buzz about a program that hasn't had a winning record in six years. That is Alex gorgeous Auburn team. What do you think?
[33:15]
Phil Steele
And I think Alex Golish gets them to their first winning record since 2020. I love the addition of Byron Brown at quarterback. And you know, when I talked to Coach Gollish his first year at South Florida, he pretty much laid out his plan. He was taking over a team that had like one win the previous two years and then he gets him to three bowl games and they were contending for the American title. So I'm, I'm an Alex Golish fan as far as head coach goes. I like the fact he brings over Byron Brown. You add that to the talent Auburn already had. I thought they underachieved. If you followed Auburn. I thought they could play with anybody in the country last year, Paul. But they could also play down to anybody in the country last year. I think Galush will correct that. You look at the overall talent that they have at the receiver spot and running back and especially on the defense. I rate their defense in the top 25 as well. I've got them favored in seven and possibly eight games this year. So they did make my most improved list. Most improved list always takes a team that has a losing record last year that I think will get to a bottom bowl game this year and I think Auburn does get to a bowl and probably seven or eight wins this year.
[34:18]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil Steele from Phil Steele's College Football Preview. Many thanks Phil. Always great to catch up as we begin another football season. We're up against the break here. More of your phone calls straight ahead. We're coming right back.
[34:34]
Commercial Announcer
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[35:26]
Paul Feinbaum
Auto Parts gets you back to savings. Buy 5 quarts of Syntek full synthetic motor oil and get a free Microguard select oil filter limit supply. Save 20% on a microguard or Microguard select engine air filter when purchased with this Syntek special. You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum show podcast.
[35:54]
We're back and it's great to have all of you here. Let's check in with Elliot up next.
[36:01]
Caller
Paul Feinbaum, you had me at Phil Steel. That's why I love your program. The con is important. The content is amazing. Hey, I looked at ESPN strength to schedule top 30 and I compared it to Phil's toughest schedules. And here's the trends. I found ESPN ranked the Big Ten teams 5.7 spots lower than Phil Steele's ranking. They ranked ACC teams 8.3 spots lower than Phil's. They ranked Big 12 team sports three spots lower than Phil's. But here's the deal. SEC teams and ESPN strength of schedule 6.9 spots higher than Phil's. I think the staff speak for themselves that there might be, and you could argue there are Two different measures, but the trends should all be the same and not different in the SEC's favor.
[36:55]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, Elliot, by the way, Elliot, are you okay? We haven't heard from you in a very long time. We were all concerned.
[37:03]
Caller
I'm doing great, brother. Thanks for asking. I'm part of the 1% club. Because, you know, I think Chris. I haven't heard from him in a while, and I think I need to support him. You know, he left AJ show for a reason, and I think that's commendable what he did, and I think he should call back in as well.
[37:22]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I'll make sure he gets a message. Elliot, thank you for. Welcome back. Great to have you ready for the season. Let me check in with Rusty in
[37:30]
Rusty
Gulf Shores, Alabama, man, listen, Mr. Fine Bomb. So last night we got a dagum geography lesson from freaking AJ and then tonight I feel like I'm back in college because tonight I get a dagum history lesson from Swamp Dog, you know, And I. You know, like, I guess he doesn't understand that, like, past performance is not indicative or past results are not indicative of future performances.
[38:05]
Phil Steele
Right.
[38:05]
John
Right.
[38:06]
Rusty
It's crazy, but the hypocrisy of this is.
[38:10]
Caller
This.
[38:11]
Rusty
Is that this dude. And, yeah, like, I don't know, his past or whatever. Everybody's trying to bet on, like, what he did or what he. What he didn't do or whatever. I'm sure this dude's getting his life together, and I'm sure that he doesn't want to be judged on his past. I don't know. I'm not one to say that. Right. It's freaking crazy. It's freaking crazy that that dude is gonna call and, like, oh, well, George this. And it's like, Texas and, like, I don't care. I don't care, dude. Like, it's a new year. It's a daggum new year, and I don't care what Georgia did. Like, Georgia can't beat Alabama much. Very much, or whatever. And then you get Augie that, like, sociology. It's freaking mind blowing. A freaking blow my mind thing is still. Still this dude. I think this dude has been wrong on so many predictions of, like, who's gonna win the Natty or who's gonna win whatever. He's respected. I know he's analytical. He probably gambles, but, like, whatever, dude. Man. Paul, love you to death. You've got an awesome show. I disagree with probably 90% or. Well, I wouldn't say 90%, like, 50% of what you say, but it, like, it's become a crap show. It's become a crap show. Like, callers need to call in and say, hey, you know what? My team's great because of this. And then Cat. Oh, Cash, Cash. Like, I love him. But, like, here's the deal. Squirrel had a great point. Like, who's Alabama gonna get a new coach? They're not gonna get anybody. It's a different freaking thing. And then your other caller from freaking Austin. Oh, we just don't need to be changing things. But, yeah, because Austin's got more freaking money than Alabama. You know, people need to, like, actually look at college football as for what college football is, you know, and right now, college football is whoever has the most money is going to win a natty is going to win a natty, you know. Anyway, Paul, thanks for taking my call. Love you. Have a good evening. Roll down, Tide.
[40:32]
Paul Feinbaum
Thank you very much. John is up next in St. Louis.
[40:40]
Phil Steele
Hey, John, you there? How are you doing today?
[40:42]
Paul Feinbaum
I'm okay, John.
[40:43]
Tony
Paul, how you doing, Paul? Anyway, a serious call today.
[40:49]
Phil Steele
I. I recently read a very good biography about Danny.
[40:55]
Tony
Go Facts and When I Was a Young Man, Paul, Sandy.
[41:01]
Phil Steele
It was number one.
[41:03]
Tony
And I don't know if. If you ever read the biographies of Sandy.
[41:10]
Paul Feinbaum
I've read the Jane Levy bio. Is that the one you're talking about?
[41:13]
Phil Steele
Yes, that's the one I read.
[41:14]
Paul Feinbaum
Yeah, I read it.
[41:15]
Tony
Excellent.
[41:15]
Paul Feinbaum
She's a great writer.
[41:18]
Tony
Great writer.
[41:19]
Paul Feinbaum
She wrote an equally good book on Mickey Mantle.
[41:24]
Tony
I don't want to talk about Mickey Mantle, Paul. I want to talk about Steve.
[41:28]
Phil Steele
About.
[41:28]
Paul Feinbaum
I just simply mentioned that her book on Mickey Mantle was one of the best sports books I've ever read. And that was one of the greatest calls in the history of the show. We'll be back after this.
[41:43]
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 to watch on the ESPN app.
[42:02]
Commercial Announcer
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Summary7 min read

The Paul Finebaum Show (Hour 3): Phil Steele, CFB Insider

Date: August 11, 2026
Host: Paul Finebaum (ESPN)
Guest: Phil Steele (College Football Insider, Annual Preview Magazine Author)

Episode Overview

In this lively episode of The Paul Finebaum Show, Paul is joined by renowned college football insider Phil Steele for an in-depth look at the landscape for the 2026 season. The hour features spirited caller debates on SEC traditions, changing expectations at powerhouse programs like Texas and Alabama, and a detailed preview of the national and SEC football scenes with expert analysis from Steele. The episode balances humor, classic Finebaum banter, and expert-level football discussion, making it a perfect kickoff to the new football season.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Caller Banter & Show Culture

Sarcasm on Air:
- Augie challenges Paul about being sarcastic to callers (01:00).
- Paul downplays the notion, humorously thanks callers, and jokes about running for office:
“This is a privilege, Augie. And every person that calls in honors me and our staff and the United States of America by playing a role in this great show. … Please vote for me on November 9th.” – Paul Feinbaum (01:16)
Former Athlete Nostalgia:
- Augie and Tony prod Paul about older callers reliving their athletic youth.
- Paul empathizes:
“If you played high school football or college football, it was most likely the greatest moment of your career, your life. … I attempted to play sports. I was never great. So I appreciated even more that I was never an all American athlete. I ended up covering all American athletes, though.” – Paul Feinbaum (01:59)
Texas Expectations & Pressure:
- Augie argues Texas has the “most to lose” in 2026, especially with hype around Arch Manning (03:34–04:37).
- Paul agrees, linking expectation to the Peyton Manning-era at Tennessee:
“Arch Manning has a lot of pressure on him and that program because of what is around him as well.” – Paul Feinbaum (04:03)

2. Coaching Carousel Speculation & Alabama’s Future

Todd Monken and Alabama:
- Bash floats the idea of Todd Monken returning from the NFL to be a head coach at Alabama (05:52–07:09).
- Paul doubts Monken’s long-term NFL success and notes Lane Kiffin’s journey as precedent:
“Lane Kiffin was a complete disaster with the Oakland Raiders. And how many jobs has he had since then?” – Paul Feinbaum (07:09)
Kaylen DeBoer’s Tenure at Alabama:
- Paul frames 2026 as a pivotal year for Alabama’s coach:
“This season is the most critical because absolutely there are a lot of people … looking for a reason to jump firmly on that bandwagon or wash their hands. … Opinions are being made starting first weekend in September.” – Paul Feinbaum (08:10)
Alabama Fan Loyalties:
- Paul reflects on Alabama fans’ tolerance:
“I’ve seen Alabama fans support a couple of the biggest losers in college football history at Alabama. So they’ll support an elite coach. … His future will be determined this year.” – Paul Feinbaum (08:10)

3. Phil Steele Joins: 2026 CFB Preview & SEC Forecast

[Start: 22:00]

a. National Landscape & Impact of 12-Team Playoff

Less Transfer Portal Chaos:

“There was no second spring portal window… talking to the coaches … they felt like they had more of a team this spring. … We’re going to have a better brand of football this year.” – Phil Steele (22:23)
Notre Dame as National Title Favorite:

“I’ve got Notre Dame number one this year. … My number one rated offensive line. They got C.J. Carr and face my number 66 rated schedule.” – Phil Steele (23:43)
SEC Powerhouses:

“Naturally I’ve got Georgia and Texas … and then in the Big Ten you’ve got Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon … Miami, Florida in the ACC and of course Texas Tech.” – Phil Steele (23:56)
Expanded Playoff Strategy:
- Noting that bye weeks have hindered top seeds:
“The bye week has been a tough thing for [top] teams … one and seven in the playoffs.” – Phil Steele (23:42)

b. Georgia vs. Texas (SEC Title Contenders)

“I gave the slightest edge to Georgia. Kirby Smart as head coach … they’ve got my number two defense in the country, a homegrown team … I’ve got Gunner Stockton as a dark horse Heisman candidate. … With Texas, I expect more out of Arch Manning this year...They’re going to have a dynamic offense plus a top 10 defense.” – Phil Steele (24:56)

c. The “Next Tier”: Alabama, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas A&M

“I went with a surprise team here, Paul… that’s Alabama. … I think the offensive line will be improved in the run game this year...Defensively, they’re bigger up front. They’ve got an excellent secondary … I have them favored in nine games.” – Phil Steele (26:29) “The next tier … Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas A&M are all in that tier of teams contending for the playoff spot.” – Phil Steele (27:46)

d. Tough Schedules & Other Contenders

Oklahoma:

“Question mark would be the schedule—they have to play Georgia on the road, Florida in the Swamp, at Michigan, and of course Texas in Dallas.” – Phil Steele (28:19)
Ole Miss:

“Their defensive front seven … is going to be closer to the 2024 group … They’re all psyched up for LSU, but the very next week have to travel to Florida in the Swamp.” – Phil Steele (28:19)
Texas A&M:

“Question mark would be offensive line … and also the consistency of Marcel Reed at quarterback. … They have to play Bama, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and LSU all on the road.” – Phil Steele (28:46)

e. Dark Horses and Programs to Watch

LSU:

“Love the portal class … but they throw that on top of the 93rd most experienced team in the country … 59 new players this year, so a little concerned about the big transition here.” – Phil Steele (30:11)
Missouri:

“Experience level on defense—last year nine starters back, this year just three … and 54 new players.” – Phil Steele (31:13)
Tennessee:

“If they get the quarterback play…they’re going to have a very strong offense this year even with a new quarterback…my big concern is with Jim Knowles as the new defensive coordinator.” – Phil Steele (31:54)
Auburn:

“I think Alex Golish gets them to their first winning record since 2020. … I like the fact he brings over Byron Brown … I’ve got them favored in seven and possibly eight games.” – Phil Steele (33:14)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Changing College Football Culture:

“Right now, college football is whoever has the most money is going to win a natty.” – Rusty (39:52)
On Prisoner Call-Ins:

“I have offered… I would like to take the show to prisons. ...Maybe when Tubberville becomes governor, we can do that.” – Paul Feinbaum (17:17)
On Alabama Fan Dedication:

“They would literally support any person. … Opinions are being made starting first weekend in September.” – Paul Feinbaum (08:10)
Phil Steele on Playoff Dynamics:

“The bye week has been a tough thing … one and seven in the playoffs.” – Phil Steele (23:42)
Phil Steele on Georgia:

“They’re a homegrown team … I’ve got Gunner Stockton as a dark horse Heisman candidate this year.” (24:56)

Segment Timestamps

Show Open / Banter with Callers:

Sarcasm accusation, ex-athlete nostalgia: 00:45–04:51
Texas “most to lose”: 03:06–04:39

Coaching Carousel / Alabama Debate:

Todd Monken & Alabama: 05:52–08:10
Bash & Paul discuss Alabama’s future: 08:10–09:30

Phil Steele Interview:

Spring Transfer Portal relief: 22:23
National playoff favorites: 23:20–24:44
SEC Preview—Georgia, Texas, Alabama: 24:56–27:46
Next tier of contenders (Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas A&M): 28:19–29:55
LSU, Missouri, Tennessee, Auburn: 30:11–34:17

Caller Highlights / Final Thoughts:

Scheduling analytics: 36:01–37:03 (Elliot)
College football’s money era: 37:29–40:32 (Rusty)
End-of-show literary detour: 40:40–41:42 (John, Paul, Tony)

Summary Takeaways

Texas and Georgia are the consensus favorites in the SEC, but Alabama could surprise despite a transitional year and skepticism.
The 2026 season will benefit from roster stability due to less transfer portal turnover.
Expanded playoff brings strategic wrinkles—bye weeks have proven dangerous for high seeds.
Roster experience and schedule strength will play pivotal roles, with teams like LSU and Missouri facing steep challenges from major turnover.
The show remains a mix of serious football discussion, humorous asides, and colorful fan culture.

For Listeners Who Missed the Episode

This hour delivers a full tour of pre-season expectations, roster changes, hot seat speculation, and classic SEC fan drama—with Phil Steele’s expert lens guiding the way. A must-listen for fans eager to get an edge on 2026 college football predictions and debate.

Loading summary

Transcript139 lines

[00:01]
Commercial Announcer
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[00:28]
Paul Feinbaum
the pride, passion and pageantry of college football lives here. This is the Paul Feinbaum Show. Our three podcasts this might be College football
[00:45]
is live. It has been a busy one and we are going to talk to Phil Steele, get his take on the upcoming season coming up. You have not heard enough predictions. You will hear more today. Augie is up next.
[00:59]
Augie
Paul, when you tell somebody after they call and it's a boring call, you go, thank you for that contribution to our show. It comes off as a bit sarcastic.
[01:09]
Tony
Is it meant that way?
[01:12]
Augie
It is.
[01:13]
Tony
It's meant.
[01:13]
Paul Feinbaum
No, no, absolutely not. Okay, just checking. Give me one second here to speak to the public, to speak to America. This is a privilege, Augie. And every person that calls in honors me and our staff and the United States of America by playing a role in this great show. Thank you very much and I'll. Please vote for me on November 9th.
[01:39]
Caller
Hey.
[01:40]
Augie
Well, that was, you know, at least that was honest. But I also want to get your take on what do you think about all the old men who call in touting their former athletic prowess as a youngster, you know, anywhere between the ages of 12 and 25.
[01:57]
Tony
What's your take on that?
[02:00]
Paul Feinbaum
Listen, you, you know that. And I run into athletes. I run into athletes of all ages every day of the week. And if you think about it, if you played high school football or college football, it was most likely the greatest moment of your career, your life. I mean, I know everybody gets married and has children and all that, and I think even high school might be more important than college because it's more singular. So I appreciate it. I mean, I attempted to play sports. I was never great. So I appreciated even more that I was never an all American athlete. I ended up covering all American athletes, though.
[02:47]
Augie
Okay, well, I was just wondering if you, if you were reading something into that, like a little insecurity and maybe
[02:52]
Tony
a little inadequacy, but nevertheless, come on.
[02:55]
Caller
Okay.
[02:57]
Paul Feinbaum
Former athletes being insecure about themselves as they get older. I mean, what are you talking about here?
[03:06]
Augie
Well, Paul, you know, Paul, you're easy when you deny Something it's easy to know you're absolutely not telling the truth because you're as transparent as a plain, beautiful piece of crystal glass. But Paul, who has the most to lose this year in the sec if you pick Texas to win it all? And after what happened last year, would you not say if they don't win
[03:34]
Tony
the SEC and go deep into the
[03:36]
Augie
playoffs, they really have the most to lose?
[03:39]
Paul Feinbaum
I think so, yeah. I think Texas is the team that in many, many ways the expectations are. The high, are at an all time high because. And some of it is Arch Manning. Whenever you have. Let me go back to Tennessee for a moment. Thirty years ago, Peyton Manning is the greatest player in Tennessee history. You know what happened the year after Peyton Manning left?
[04:03]
Augie
They won national championship.
[04:04]
Paul Feinbaum
They won the national championship. I mean, how does that happen? He never beat Florida. And then here, here comes someone else and leads them to a national championship. So I think Arch Manning has a lot of pressure on him and that program because of what is around him as well.
[04:27]
Augie
Well, I agree with you there because, you know, if Texas is back, you know, Texas is always back and they're
[04:32]
Tony
more back than they've been in the past.
[04:34]
Augie
But this got to be their year, Paul, because if they don't win it
[04:37]
Tony
this year,
[04:40]
Augie
as you say, you never know. But boy, it will be a huge letdown of the Texas fans. Anyway, Paul, I want to see you in your Friday night football attire. You need to post that picture on the website. Thanks, Paul.
[04:52]
Paul Feinbaum
Can't wait. It will be done. Let's continue with Bash coming to us live from somewhere.
[05:03]
Bash
You already know it, Paul, and thank you for letting me fall that recycled piece of trash paralegal who had to ask you the most recycled question I've heard on this show by one of your other piece of trash call a squirrel. How many times a squirrel come on the show, Paul, and asked you, Paul, what do you think of these old callers talking to you about their athletic career? It's like, how haven't we heard you talk about that 100 times over the years of this program? And since that other piece of trash rodent from Mississippi wants to come on the show and make fun of Alabama fans for their criticism of Camden Boar and say, well, where's your guys's idea for a head coach if you do
[05:45]
Caller
get rid of him?
[05:45]
Bash
Can, can I use this opportunity, Paul, to give an idea that I think could be realistic down the road? Is that okay?
[05:51]
Paul Feinbaum
I wish you would.
[05:53]
Bash
Thank you. So let me ask you a question, Paul. How confident are you like, you talk to some NFL people like Kevin Clark, Damian Woody, Buddy McFarlane. What do they think about Todd Monkins, you know, longevity in the NFL being the head coach for the Cleveland Browns?
[06:11]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, first of all, I think any, any person that goes to Cleveland is destined to fail.
[06:19]
Bash
Right.
[06:20]
Paul Feinbaum
Including Todd Monken. So if you're asking me, can he be the one. Yeah. And you know what, Stefanski, he almost got it done there. I mean he had a little bit of success, but nobody, nobody's ever going to win with that franchise.
[06:33]
Bash
Exactly. Especially when you have an in state franchise that's having more success and has their franchise quarterback already tied down and just have to protect him. Hopefully he doesn't end up like Andrew Luck did five, six years ago. And that's the same trajectory. But yeah, that's another thing holding Cleveland back. So what do you think? Is that a realistic. Since Squirrel wants to criticize us Alvin fans who hate what Kaylin Devore has done as of recent, since the last game he has on record is the blowout to Indiana. You know, is it a realistic possibility that Todd Monkin could find himself back in the SEC but as a head coach this time?
[07:10]
Paul Feinbaum
Listen, I have no idea what his trajectory is going to be. Some of it will depend on how good or bad he does. But remember one thing. Lane Kiffin was a complete disaster with the Oakland Raiders. And how many jobs has he had since then?
[07:28]
Bash
The Volunteers, the Rebels, the OC for Alabama, Florida, Atlanta, usc. Yep, can't forget about them. And now the LSU Tigers. So yes, Paul, great comparison. And it's like the Raiders are yet in a very same like similar position with the Browns are. So let me just say that if seven, like I think in two years from now we'll have our answer in the four year tenure of Caleb Naboor. If he's going to work out long term or if we need to work out on our exit strategy. Is that for the realistic album fans? Is that an actual like, like thought out like plan, would you say Paul? Or is that like a pipe dream in my words?
[08:11]
Paul Feinbaum
No, no. And I think this season is the most critical because absolutely there are a lot of people who are trying to decide they're Alabama fans so they would literally support any person. And Bash, you're too young. But I've seen it all. I've seen Alabama fans support a couple of the biggest losers in college football history at Alabama. So they'll support an elite coach. And Caleb d' Amore is an elite coach. In my opinion. His, his future will be determined this year. People are looking for a reason to jump firmly on that bandwagon or wash their hands. So I'm not saying he's going to be gone at the end of the season if it's not successful, but opinions are being made starting first weekend in September.
[09:01]
John
I agree.
[09:01]
Bash
And for the Alabama fans like myself, Paul, who you know are still not settled from how it ended with Kirby Smart going back to his former university, building a championship dynasty in his program. But how like how ironic would it be, Paul if the universe that won two championships with the offensive coordinator, he then leaves, goes to the NFL and then comes back to the SEC to be a head coach against his former mentor?
[09:31]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, it sounds familiar, doesn't it?
[09:33]
Bash
Oh, absolutely. And it would sound just the same. Just like all things turn, the tides will turn back in our favor and we'll have the coach that was on a great run with the Ravens with Jackson and Derrick Henry until we saw how that ended. But now he is the head coach for the Browns. He does have Quinn, Sean Junkins of running back you know very well and Dylan Sampson from Tennessee. Like that may be if I'm him and I'm going to employ like an SEC type of offense in that system, it may be temporarily successful. But we got to remember Paul, it's Deshaun Watson in quarterback.
[10:08]
Paul Feinbaum
Yeah, that is a problem. Hey, thanks for the call. Appreciate it. Bash Bash joining us from a curtains part unknown. Let's take a break. Busy show. Phil Steele a little bit later. We had Reese Davis on last hour. Mandel joined us earlier as well. We are coming right back.
[10:32]
Commercial Announcer
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[12:13]
Paul Feinbaum
You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum Show Podcast.
[12:18]
We are back, and we appreciate you joining us. And let's check in with John in Oxford next. Good afternoon.
[12:27]
Caller
Hey.
[12:27]
John
Hey, Paul. Look, I turn it on the SEC and I see people still interviewing Kiffin. I mean, we got to get over them. I mean, he's never won anything. Every time he's under a little pressure, he bolts. So, I mean, can you tell the rest of the. I mean, you've been over him, and I appreciate that, but can you tell the rest of the other shows? We worried about this year, not what he done last year. We know what he done last year. But anyway, I just thought, I want to throw that out there. And one more thing. The less rooms we got with nil, the more you gonna see interest in colleges like Ole Miss, Indiana. We all got a chance when they put rules in the big colleges. Don't follow me. Anyway, look, how many times you saw Alabama on probation, Ohio State. Every time Ole Miss got up there, wham, we got whacked. So the less rules we got, the better off we are. Anyway, thank you, Paul, for your show.
[13:36]
Paul Feinbaum
Thank you very much, John. Appreciate that. And I agree on Kiffin. I mean, I know because of the circumstances, a lot of fake outrage will happen the week of the 19th, but I think most people are really fatigued with the story. Until something new comes out, what left is there to say? I found myself defending him a few minutes ago because I do think he's a really good coach. Whatever you think of him personally is irrelevant to the fact that we have a football season coming up and he has a team that's capable of. Of doing a great deal. Let me check in with Tony next in Huntsville, Alabama.
[14:16]
Tony
Good day, sir. Did I just hear White Trash Bash call Augie and Squirrel Trash? That is the pot calling the kettle black. If ever I have heard it, you know, and I call Bash white trash Bash because what could be more white trash than when Little Bash was 19 and he was in an apartment in Montgomery and guess what?
[14:43]
Phil Steele
He was busted for drugs.
[14:45]
Tony
And so what did he do? He decided he was going to move out of Alabama and try to find the closest drug friendly state, which of course happened to be Colorado. Rocky Mountain High, they don't call it that for. Just because of the mountains. And so that's where he has been. Now I would, I wonder though, since he's visiting mommy and daddy in Prattville. I know that Bash, since he's a drug addict, could not have come here without a stash. So do you think Bash has a hidden stash in his suitcase now, Tony,
[15:21]
Paul Feinbaum
I can't imagine a guy like that would travel with contraband. I mean, no way.
[15:32]
Tony
And you know the thing, there are these flock cameras everywhere that are their license plate readers and they track all of us. We're living in a surveillance state. And wouldn't it just be delightful if the Prattville and or Montgomery police joined forces to track little Dash and they decide, hey, we remember him from when he was 19 years old and we busted him last and told him never to come back to our state again. And if he got busted again, that would just be hilarious, don't you think?
[16:02]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I would hate to. I would hate to lose him as a caller.
[16:07]
Tony
Hey, they allow a call from jail.
[16:10]
Paul Feinbaum
But. Yeah, but, but I mean, have we ever had a former inmate calling the show? I don't think so. So he would be the first, wouldn't he?
[16:20]
Tony
Well now, Paul, you may not have had a former. Now wait a minute, I do recall way back because we go back a quarter of a century and I do recall a guy calling you from jail. It's probably been 15 years ago.
[16:33]
Paul Feinbaum
Don't you remember that did happen. Yeah. And I don't remember the circumstances but. And not to get into this whole conversation, but we have a. I've talked to a number of inmates who. Former inmates who tell me that they do listen. And it's easier to listen to the show in jail than to watch it, but it's consumed both ways.
[16:56]
Rusty
Yeah.
[16:56]
Tony
In fact, some of the former jail inmates, of which you have quite a few who are regular callers, by the way. They have said that there are fights in jails and prisons when it comes time to your showtime and if anybody wants to watch something else on tv, there's a fight. They've talked about that on your show. I'm sure you recall that Yeah, I do.
[17:18]
Paul Feinbaum
And, Tony, I have offered. I actually was with the governor the other day, and I probably should have.
[17:24]
John
I was.
[17:24]
Paul Feinbaum
I was. I was on a stage, so I didn't get a chance to personally go through this, but I mentioned it. I would like to take the show to. To prisons. I think we would. It would be a great public service. I think we could take. Maybe do it live one day. I mean, I have no fear at all. I'm sure the Alabama prison system would welcome us, don't you? And we just take the whole show, bring the callers, make new friends, and try to try to work on their behalf. Maybe when Tubberville becomes governor, we can do that.
[17:59]
Tony
You know, this is like the Folsom Prison Blues when Johnny Cash went to Folsom Prison for a couple. Yeah, you could do it. Now, you said you have no fear, but of course, the only reason you have no fear, you would have your security details surrounding you.
[18:12]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, first of all, I don't have a security detail, nor would I.
[18:15]
Tony
You would have one if you go to prison, buddy. I know you would.
[18:18]
Paul Feinbaum
I'm telling you right now, it wouldn't. I have been in prisons before, back in my earlier days as a reporter, and the security people said we. I said, I don't want. I said, I don't need you here. I want to interview this person. And it did not concern me. No, nobody in jail is going to do damage to somebody visiting. It's really not a smart move.
[18:42]
Tony
Well, but look, they wouldn't be in jail if they were smart, would they?
[18:46]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I would argue, Tony, that there's a lot of unfortunate events that occur that create the. The overblown. Overblown in prison system. But I'm not a civil liberties attorney. I'm just a lowly talk show host.
[19:01]
Tony
Yeah, well, there are always a lot of circumstances, aren't there? There are a lot of excuses for ending up in the slammer. And I've always found it humorous when you have said multiple times on your show that you've had many of your friends who have ended up in prison.
[19:17]
John
True.
[19:18]
Tony
And it makes me wonder, you know, you need to be more discerning in your selection of friends, Paul.
[19:25]
Paul Feinbaum
I mean, I can't help it, Tony, that I end up becoming friends with people that. That get abused by the system.
[19:34]
Tony
Well, anyway, I tell you what, when. If Bash does get arrested and temporarily, you know, incarcerated in Prattville or Montgomery's jail, you need to go and do a live broadcast, because that would just be fantastic.
[19:46]
Paul Feinbaum
I will. I will Take the entire show, I mean. And I hope he picks a jail a little closer to our main operation. Tony, thank you. Appreciate it. Great to hear from you. Why don't we take a break here because we have a guest coming up and you'll want to hear from Phil Steele from of course, Phil Steele's magazine.
[20:14]
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[21:57]
Paul Feinbaum
You're listening to the Paul Finebaum Show.
[22:01]
We are back and you know the football season is here when we say hello to Phil Steele. Of course, the Phil Steele magazine is out everywhere and it's always great to say hello. Phil, good afternoon.
[22:14]
Phil Steele
Hey, how you doing today, Paul?
[22:16]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, we're doing great. What about you? Let's talk about the complexities of doing this magazine in 2026.
[22:24]
Phil Steele
It got a lot better this year, Paul, because There was no second spring portal window in the past three years. I had to rewrite 138 teams, all in the month of May while trying to talk to as many coaches as I could. This year it was more like back to normal. The spring roster is a roster we're going to take into the season and you know, talking to the coaches this Paul, the majority of them had the thing that they felt like they had more of a team this spring because the team they were taking in the spring is the one they were going to take into the fall. They could coach them harder, they can list them third string. Nobody was going to leave. Players could bond together without their friends leaving and nobody was going to get replaced by the second portal. So I think we're going to have a better brand of football this year.
[23:05]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, that's fantastic. Let's look first at the national scene because we spent a lot of time here talking sec, but it has not gone well for the SEC the last couple of years. So as you look at the entire landscape, what do you see?
[23:21]
Phil Steele
Well, I think we first of all, when you get the 12 team playoff, a lot of it depends who makes it because as we saw last year with Miami, they just made the playoff and then very nearly won the national title. Also I also look at the fact that you've got the bye week. Geez.
[23:39]
Tony
Oh man.
[23:42]
Phil Steele
The bye week has been a tough, a tough thing for opponents are a tough team for the teams that are get the bye week because they're one and seven in the playoffs with three or four weeks off and then their opponent just played last week. But as far as the overall landscape goes, I've got Notre Dame number one this year. I love the defense. Last year they had an outstanding defense, held opponents to 95 yards per game below their average. And this year they got nine starters back. They have my number one rated offensive line. They got C.J. carr and they face my number 66 rated schedule. Top teams out of the SEC, naturally I've got Georgia and Texas most like everybody else. And then in the Big Ten you've got Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon are the Big three. You got Miami, Florida and the acc and of course Texas Tech. And one thing people ask me with the magazine, Paul, is the Brendan Sorsby situation. When I wrote the magazine, I was 90% sure that Sorsby was not going to play this year. So nothing changed with the Sorsby situation. I didn't think he was going to play anyway.
[24:44]
Paul Feinbaum
So Phil, as we drill down on the sec, it seems to be a debate between Georgia and Texas. How do you settle that conversation in your head?
[24:57]
Phil Steele
It might just be settled in the SEC title game, but I gave the slightest edges to Georgia. You've got Kirby Smart as the head coach. Been there, done that, won the big games and they're really A loaded team this year. They've got my number two rated defense in the country and they're a homegrown team, meaning that the majority of their team is recruited as freshmen, sophomores, juniors. They actually go from last year being number 102 on my experience chart up to number 12 on the experience chart. They have a number two defense and I've got Gunner Stockton as a dark horse Heisman candidate this year. He's 20 to 1. I like how he does in big games. He's got a 16.2 ratio and he also does great on fourth down the fourth quarter. Strong run game, strong offensive line with Texas. I expect more out of Arch Manning this year. Remember last year he only had one returning starter on the offensive line and this year he's got a veteran unit. Last year's top running back had 597 yards. They had a couple thousand yard rushers and Hollywood Smothers and Malik Brown. You look at the receiving core, they bring back Ryan Wingo, add in a Cam Cameron and I thought Arch got better as the season went on last year. They're going to have a dynamic offense plus a top 10 defense. So I think the two teams are both legitimate title contenders. I guess if I had to put something there between the two, it'd be Kirby Smart as the head coach.
[26:14]
Paul Feinbaum
And Phil, this is where it gets complicated for just fans that call in this program like who is next? Everybody thinks they know, but I don't have any idea because there's a big. There's a big group of schools. How do you differentiate and where do you land?
[26:30]
Phil Steele
Yeah, it is pretty tough with the next group. I went with a surprise team here, Paul, and it's a team that was picked six by the SEC media and that's Alabama. And I know Alabama looked poor in the playoff last year, blown out by Indiana. Couldn't run the football in the postseason. Lose their quarterback in Ty Simpson. So not a lot to like, but I like the fact that Kaylin DeBoer is in his third year as the head coach. I think he's got two capable quarterbacks. Keelan, Russell, Austin, Mac. Whichever guy wins a job, I think is going to have a big year. Much like Ty Simpson did last year in his first year as a starter. They have the running backs with Daniel Hill, E.J. kroll, Kevin Riley, A.K. deer. I think the offensive line will be improved in the run game this year. I look for better production from Ryan Coleman Wins, who had like 11 drops last year. Defensively they're bigger up front. They've got an excellent secondary and when I look at the schedule there's I've got them favored in nine games. There's three games I got as a toss up Georgia at home. Remember they beat Georgia on the road last year. They also play LSU and Tennessee on the road. I have those as toss up games. Nobody's really talking about Alabama making a playoff. I got them making a playoff this year and coming in third. But really that next tier, as you mentioned, Paul, you've got Oklahoma, you've got Ole Miss, you got Texas A and M are all in that, that tier of teams that are contending for the playoff spot.
[27:46]
Paul Feinbaum
And in trying to determine that from a distance, to me, and I agree with you on Alabama in one respect, their schedule feels manageable, especially with the toughest game at home and they don't have to see Texas or Oklahoma. They do get A and M at home though. LSU and Tennessee on the road. What, what do you, where do you go next in trying to break this log jam? Because there are. You mentioned Oklahoma there, there's LSU which I want to get your thoughts on. There's A and M. There's just a pretty big group of schools there.
[28:19]
Phil Steele
Yeah, there definitely is. You know and I like the talent Oklahoma has, especially if John Mateer returns to form like he had at the start of the year before he injured his hand. I think they will have a better run game with Tory Blaylock and Xavier Robinson. The offensive line last year, remember had three freshmen playing at times. They'll be improved. The defense, one of the best in the country. Question mark would be the schedule they have to play. Georgia on the road, Florida in the Swamp at Michigan and of course Texas in Dallas with Ole Miss. You know, I think of the new head coaches, Pete Golding finishes the best. You got to like the fact that Transat Chambers, who is a magician in the playoffs is back. They've got an all American running back and Kewan Lacy and last year their defensive front seven was not the same as it was two years ago. Remember they allowed about a touchdown more per game last year. I think the defensive front seven is going to be closer to the 2024 group. So it's very now the problem I have with Ole Miss is this. They're all psyched up for the big game against LSU very next week. They have to travel and face Florida in the Swamp. That would be a letdown situation potentially in a tough game there. They also have to play Texas and Oklahoma on the road. Texas A and M. My question mark There would be offensive line. Last year was great. This year it's good. And also the consistency of Marcel Reid at quarterback. Overall though, the defense looks solid, the running game looks solid. They have to play Bama on the road, Oklahoma on the road, South Carolina, which I think is going to be a much improved team on the road, and LSU on the road as well. So I think all three of those teams have a bit of a tougher schedule than does Alabama.
[29:55]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, still with us? Phil, a lot of schools you have not mentioned yet and I'm sure you're not intentionally sliding them. There's just so many schools that are in contention. Let me throw one or two at you. Especially lsu. You mentioned them in terms of schedule. What about this year?
[30:11]
Phil Steele
Very talented team. Love the portal class that they brought in. And if you look at last year, Paul, you look at the top portal classes, Texas Tech had one of the top portal classes and look what they did. They absolutely dominated the Big 12. However, they threw that top portal class in on top of the number five most experienced team in the country and they were just playing in the Big 12. LSU throws that portal class on top of the 93 most of the experienced team in the country.
[30:36]
Tony
I'm a little concerned.
[30:37]
Phil Steele
Sam leave it missed the spring. I know he's back here in the fall. We'll see how he does as long as he stays healthy. They should be. I mean the talent is there, but they do have to play Ole Miss on the road. Auburn, Tennessee and then those home games I think are huge against A and M and Alabama. So I mean LSU is a contender. I just a little concerned about the big transition here. They have 59 new players this year.
[31:04]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil, you mentioned Alabama maybe moving up from the log jam. Who are you most concerned about in the sec?
[31:14]
Phil Steele
A lot of it has to do with the schedule. I guess most of all, you know, you take a team like Missouri that's been playing one of the better schedules in the sec the last two years and has gotten to a total of 29 wins the last three years. Now they're taking on a much tougher schedule. So. So we'll see how Missouri plays. Plus, the trouble I have with Missouri this year is probably the experience level on the defense. Last year they had nine starters back on defense. This year they have just three. They did just recently get back Sterling Webb at defensive tackle, but they have 54 new players. How quickly the defense comes together is going to be a key.
[31:49]
Paul Feinbaum
What about Tennessee? A traditional power that nobody is talking about right now.
[31:55]
Phil Steele
Yeah, I'VE got Tennessee in the middle of the pack and they could surprise if they get the quarterback play. And Josh Hypo, whenever he has a first year starting quarterback, which is almost every year, usually has a pretty potent offense and look at the pieces he's got around him. They've got my number seven set of receivers in the country led by Staley and Matthews. You go to running back, they got desean Bishop back and then the offensive line, I rate number four in the country. So they're going to have a very strong offense this year even with the new quarterback. I think the new quarterback is going to surprise it. And remember last year we had quarterbacks like C.J. carr, Julian saying first year starters and they were all up there at the end of the year for the Heisman. So just because you have a first year starting quarterback doesn't mean you're going to struggle defensively. My big concern there is with Jim Knowles as the new defensive coordinator. It seems like his defenses take two years to really set in. How quickly will this defense adapt to Jim Knowles Defense could be the question mark with Tennessee. Now I've got him a slight underdog at home against Texas, at Texas A and M and at South Carolina. I've got the Alabama game at pick them. Other than that, I got them favored in eight games. So I think Tennessee could fare better, especially if the quarterback with the great surrounding cast gets solid play.
[33:06]
Paul Feinbaum
Finally, Phil, a lot of buzz about a program that hasn't had a winning record in six years. That is Alex gorgeous Auburn team. What do you think?
[33:15]
Phil Steele
And I think Alex Golish gets them to their first winning record since 2020. I love the addition of Byron Brown at quarterback. And you know, when I talked to Coach Gollish his first year at South Florida, he pretty much laid out his plan. He was taking over a team that had like one win the previous two years and then he gets him to three bowl games and they were contending for the American title. So I'm, I'm an Alex Golish fan as far as head coach goes. I like the fact he brings over Byron Brown. You add that to the talent Auburn already had. I thought they underachieved. If you followed Auburn. I thought they could play with anybody in the country last year, Paul. But they could also play down to anybody in the country last year. I think Galush will correct that. You look at the overall talent that they have at the receiver spot and running back and especially on the defense. I rate their defense in the top 25 as well. I've got them favored in seven and possibly eight games this year. So they did make my most improved list. Most improved list always takes a team that has a losing record last year that I think will get to a bottom bowl game this year and I think Auburn does get to a bowl and probably seven or eight wins this year.
[34:18]
Paul Feinbaum
Phil Steele from Phil Steele's College Football Preview. Many thanks Phil. Always great to catch up as we begin another football season. We're up against the break here. More of your phone calls straight ahead. We're coming right back.
[34:34]
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[35:26]
Paul Feinbaum
Auto Parts gets you back to savings. Buy 5 quarts of Syntek full synthetic motor oil and get a free Microguard select oil filter limit supply. Save 20% on a microguard or Microguard select engine air filter when purchased with this Syntek special. You're listening to the Paul Feinbaum show podcast.
[35:54]
We're back and it's great to have all of you here. Let's check in with Elliot up next.
[36:01]
Caller
Paul Feinbaum, you had me at Phil Steel. That's why I love your program. The con is important. The content is amazing. Hey, I looked at ESPN strength to schedule top 30 and I compared it to Phil's toughest schedules. And here's the trends. I found ESPN ranked the Big Ten teams 5.7 spots lower than Phil Steele's ranking. They ranked ACC teams 8.3 spots lower than Phil's. They ranked Big 12 team sports three spots lower than Phil's. But here's the deal. SEC teams and ESPN strength of schedule 6.9 spots higher than Phil's. I think the staff speak for themselves that there might be, and you could argue there are Two different measures, but the trends should all be the same and not different in the SEC's favor.
[36:55]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, Elliot, by the way, Elliot, are you okay? We haven't heard from you in a very long time. We were all concerned.
[37:03]
Caller
I'm doing great, brother. Thanks for asking. I'm part of the 1% club. Because, you know, I think Chris. I haven't heard from him in a while, and I think I need to support him. You know, he left AJ show for a reason, and I think that's commendable what he did, and I think he should call back in as well.
[37:22]
Paul Feinbaum
Well, I'll make sure he gets a message. Elliot, thank you for. Welcome back. Great to have you ready for the season. Let me check in with Rusty in
[37:30]
Rusty
Gulf Shores, Alabama, man, listen, Mr. Fine Bomb. So last night we got a dagum geography lesson from freaking AJ and then tonight I feel like I'm back in college because tonight I get a dagum history lesson from Swamp Dog, you know, And I. You know, like, I guess he doesn't understand that, like, past performance is not indicative or past results are not indicative of future performances.
[38:05]
Phil Steele
Right.
[38:05]
John
Right.
[38:06]
Rusty
It's crazy, but the hypocrisy of this is.
[38:10]
Caller
This.
[38:11]
Rusty
Is that this dude. And, yeah, like, I don't know, his past or whatever. Everybody's trying to bet on, like, what he did or what he. What he didn't do or whatever. I'm sure this dude's getting his life together, and I'm sure that he doesn't want to be judged on his past. I don't know. I'm not one to say that. Right. It's freaking crazy. It's freaking crazy that that dude is gonna call and, like, oh, well, George this. And it's like, Texas and, like, I don't care. I don't care, dude. Like, it's a new year. It's a daggum new year, and I don't care what Georgia did. Like, Georgia can't beat Alabama much. Very much, or whatever. And then you get Augie that, like, sociology. It's freaking mind blowing. A freaking blow my mind thing is still. Still this dude. I think this dude has been wrong on so many predictions of, like, who's gonna win the Natty or who's gonna win whatever. He's respected. I know he's analytical. He probably gambles, but, like, whatever, dude. Man. Paul, love you to death. You've got an awesome show. I disagree with probably 90% or. Well, I wouldn't say 90%, like, 50% of what you say, but it, like, it's become a crap show. It's become a crap show. Like, callers need to call in and say, hey, you know what? My team's great because of this. And then Cat. Oh, Cash, Cash. Like, I love him. But, like, here's the deal. Squirrel had a great point. Like, who's Alabama gonna get a new coach? They're not gonna get anybody. It's a different freaking thing. And then your other caller from freaking Austin. Oh, we just don't need to be changing things. But, yeah, because Austin's got more freaking money than Alabama. You know, people need to, like, actually look at college football as for what college football is, you know, and right now, college football is whoever has the most money is going to win a natty is going to win a natty, you know. Anyway, Paul, thanks for taking my call. Love you. Have a good evening. Roll down, Tide.
[40:32]
Paul Feinbaum
Thank you very much. John is up next in St. Louis.
[40:40]
Phil Steele
Hey, John, you there? How are you doing today?
[40:42]
Paul Feinbaum
I'm okay, John.
[40:43]
Tony
Paul, how you doing, Paul? Anyway, a serious call today.
[40:49]
Phil Steele
I. I recently read a very good biography about Danny.
[40:55]
Tony
Go Facts and When I Was a Young Man, Paul, Sandy.
[41:01]
Phil Steele
It was number one.
[41:03]
Tony
And I don't know if. If you ever read the biographies of Sandy.
[41:10]
Paul Feinbaum
I've read the Jane Levy bio. Is that the one you're talking about?
[41:13]
Phil Steele
Yes, that's the one I read.
[41:14]
Paul Feinbaum
Yeah, I read it.
[41:15]
Tony
Excellent.
[41:15]
Paul Feinbaum
She's a great writer.
[41:18]
Tony
Great writer.
[41:19]
Paul Feinbaum
She wrote an equally good book on Mickey Mantle.
[41:24]
Tony
I don't want to talk about Mickey Mantle, Paul. I want to talk about Steve.
[41:28]
Phil Steele
About.
[41:28]
Paul Feinbaum
I just simply mentioned that her book on Mickey Mantle was one of the best sports books I've ever read. And that was one of the greatest calls in the history of the show. We'll be back after this.
[41:43]
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 to watch on the ESPN app.
[42:02]
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-granger. Click granger.com or just stop by.