730 The Game ESPN Charlotte

What does a lifetime in football teach you beyond X's and O's? On this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and James Saxon sit down with veteran football coach Kennedy Polamalu whose journey stretches from his Samoan roots and Southern California to USC, college football and decades in the NFL. He reflects on his Polynesian heritage, the transition from player to coach, and why impacting young men as people has always mattered more than accolades.The conversation goes deep inside the life of an assistant coach, building trust with players, managing different personalities, navigating social media, and understanding that the relationships formed in the meeting room can last long after football ends. The coaches also get into the details of the running back position, the lost art of the fullback, preparing players for Sundays, and lessons learned from working with players and coaches throughout a long career in the game.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

It's time to make the picks on Throw Up Tackle as THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ run through the NFL Week 2 slate. The crew breaks down Bills-Lions, Panthers-Falcons, Bears-Vikings, Baker Mayfield's shot at his former team, whether C.J. Stroud can be trusted again, and whether the Browns or Dolphins are headed toward the worst record in football.Plus, the guys debate the Cowboys, Patrick Mahomes continuing to own prime time, Giants-Rams, and which teams are already raising red flags. Then Mike Tomlin's new television gig takes the conversation completely off the rails as the crew notices just how happy the former Steelers coach looks in his new life.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Former Carolina Panther and 10-year NFL veteran Al Wallace and THE! Mario Washington break down a wild Panthers opener after Carolina's defense was torched for 59 points and 552 yards by Chicago. They dig into what went wrong defensively, the pressure on Ejiro Evero, and the much brighter story on the other side of the ball as Bryce Young and the Panthers offense put up 37 points.Plus, the guys look ahead to Panthers-Falcons, react to Charlotte showing major improvement against Ole Miss, and hit the biggest college football storylines including Texas' comeback against Ohio State, Oregon's upset loss and LSU-Ole Miss.Check out The Lituation Room on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Dustin Caldwell recaps another big week of South Carolina high school football, highlighted by Rock Hill's defense taking over against South Pointe. The Bearcats shut down the Stallions' running game and delivered two pick-sixes, adding to what has been a dominant stretch for their secondary. Plus, Dustin runs through big wins from Dutch Fork, Dorman, Fort Mill, Irmo, Byrnes and more from around the state.

Week 1 of the NFL season delivered absolute chaos, and Throw Up Tackle is breaking it all down. THE! Mario Washington and The Dok start with the Panthers and Bears combining for 96 points as Bryce Young puts up big numbers, but Carolina's defense gets shredded. From there, they hit the biggest stories around the league, including quarterback drama in Atlanta, Minnesota's situation under center, and a brutal opening weekend for injuries.Then it's over to college football, where Texas storms back against Ohio State, Oregon and Oklahoma suffer upset losses, and the early national championship picture gets shaken up. The guys also revisit their NFL picks to see where they got it right, where they got it very wrong, and what Week 1 actually taught us about the season ahead.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The Panthers' 2026 season opener was absolute madness. Carolina fell 59-37 to the Chicago Bears in a record-setting shootout, but Gerrell Wheeler came away encouraged by an offense that finally looked dangerous. Bryce Young played with confidence, Jalen Coker exploded for 138 yards and two touchdowns, and Carolina piled up 478 yards of offense.Unfortunately, the defense had a completely different day. Gerrell breaks down how the Panthers surrendered a franchise-record 59 points, 552 total yards and 291 rushing yards, and why the pressure is already on Ejiro Evero to get things fixed. The offense looks ready to compete. Now Carolina needs a defense that can give it a chance.Check out Carolina Confidential on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Christopher Bell finally breaks through, snapping a 33-race winless streak at Darlington and jumping into the heart of the NASCAR championship battle. Collins Janus recaps Bell's big Southern 500 victory, Toyota's dominant showing, Josh Berry's impressive run and future move, plus the post-race confrontation between Brad Keselowski and Carson Hocevar. Then, Collins looks ahead to Race 2 of the Chase at World Wide Technology Raceway, where Denny Hamlin tries to protect his shrinking points lead and Ford contenders Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano could be drivers to watch.For more racing coverage from Collins Janus, subscribe to MoonLight Media Works on YouTube.

Former Carolina Panther and 10-year NFL veteran Al Wallace, THE! Mario Washington and Bobby Rosinski get you ready for Week 1 of the NFL season as the Carolina Panthers welcome Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears to Charlotte. Can Bryce Young and the Panthers protect home field, or will Chicago live up to the preseason hype?Plus, the crew reacts to the NBA dropping a massive punishment on the LA Clippers before breaking down the entire NFC South Week 1 slate and making their picks for the Panthers, Falcons, Buccaneers and Saints.Check out The Lituation Room on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

What does it take to survive 29 years on one NFL coaching staff? On this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and James Saxon are joined by longtime Cincinnati Bengals running backs coach Jim Anderson for a conversation about nearly three decades of coaching, teaching and building trust with NFL players. Anderson explains why consistency, attention to detail and understanding different personalities mattered just as much as X's and O's throughout his career.Then the running back coaches really get into the football. Anderson and Saxon break down the lost art of the fullback, why running the football still matters, pass protection, what separates good running backs from great ones, and the finer details of running the zone scheme. Anderson also shares memories of coaching players such as James Brooks, Ickey Woods and Cedric Benson, making this a football conversation packed with stories and knowledge from inside NFL meeting rooms.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Dustin Caldwell previews a huge week of South Carolina high school football, headlined by a cross-town showdown between South Pointe and Rock Hill. Dustin breaks down the key players and storylines surrounding the rivalry, while also looking at Dorman vs. Gaffney, Fort Mill vs. York, Summerville vs. Berkeley and other notable games from around the state.

Collins Janus recaps Hough's statement win over Providence Day before turning the page to another loaded week of North Carolina high school football. Chambers puts its unbeaten record on the line against Palisades, West Charlotte looks to stay hot, Mallard Creek tries to bounce back against Myers Park, and undefeated Crest and Weddington collide in one of the state's biggest matchups. Plus, Collins runs through the other Charlotte-area and statewide games to watch as schedule changes and extreme heat impact the week.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ dive into the Kawhi Leonard and Clippers scandal and the massive punishment that could leave Los Angeles without a first-round pick for years. The crew debates Kawhi's role, Steve Ballmer getting caught in the middle, Uncle Dennis always finding a way to get paid, and whether the Clippers can recover from a situation that never even produced a championship.Then it's football season, but watching the NFL is getting more expensive and complicated than ever. The guys break down the league spreading games across ESPN, Amazon, Peacock, Netflix and Sunday Ticket before making their Week 1 picks, including Panthers-Bears, Giants-Cowboys, Chiefs-Broncos and plenty more.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

THE! Mario Washington, Bobby Rosinski and former Carolina Panther Al Wallace break down a wild opening weekend of college football. Charlotte suffers a stunning triple-overtime loss to The Citadel, raising some early questions about the 49ers heading into a brutal stretch of the schedule.Plus, after Clemson gets embarrassed 51-10 by LSU, is the Dabo Swinney era nearing its end? The crew also debates Michigan's controversial Hail Mary finish against Western Michigan and runs through the biggest takeaways, and overreactions from Week 1.Check out The Lituation Room on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Week 1 is here, and Throw Up Tackle is putting the picks on the record. THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ run through the opening NFL slate, including Seahawks-Patriots, 49ers-Rams in Australia, Bears-Panthers, Giants-Cowboys and Chiefs-Broncos. The guys also debate whether the Rams really are the NFL's best team, whether the Dolphins could be historically bad, and which teams might surprise everybody this season.Join our pick em group on Yahoo!https://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/pickem/register/joingroupGroup ID#:26105Group Password12345Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The 2026 season is finally here, and it feels like everybody is counting the Carolina Panthers out. On this episode of Carolina Confidential, Gerrell Wheeler pushes back on the low expectations surrounding Carolina and explains why he's optimistic that this team can surprise some people.With the Chicago Bears coming to Bank of America Stadium for Week 1, Gerrell looks at the injuries forcing Rasheed Walker, rookie Monroe Freeling and rookie Lee Hunter into major roles in the trenches, what Carolina needs to do to protect Bryce Young, and why an improved defense could be better than the national media expects. Forget the predictions. It's time for the Panthers to prove it on the field.Check out Carolina Confidential on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

College football is officially back, and Throw Up Tackle has plenty to talk about. THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ break down LSU's 51-10 destruction of Clemson, Miami's explosive opening performance, and Michigan escaping Western Michigan on a controversial last-second Hail Mary. But the big question is in Clemson: has Dabo Swinney's refusal to fully adapt to the new era of college football finally caught up with him, or has he earned the right to fix it?Then the conversation shifts from the field to one of sports and pop culture's strangest stories. The guys revisit O.J. Simpson and the unaired prank show Juiced, debate why O.J. remains such a fascinating figure decades later, and try to make sense of the fact that somebody once thought O.J. jumping out and telling unsuspecting people they'd been “juiced” was a good idea.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

THE! Mario Washington, Bobby Rosinski and former Carolina Panther Al Wallace are back in The Lituation Room as football season gets ready to kick into high gear. The crew breaks down the NFC South, where the Panthers really stack up against Tampa Bay, New Orleans and Atlanta, and whether Carolina has what it takes to challenge for the division.Plus, did Druski go too far with his controversial CTE skit? The guys debate comedy, football and where the line should be drawn before turning to college football and whether Miami is finally ready to take control of the ACC.Check out The Lituation Room on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Can a dominant NFL legend walk away for two years and come back as the same player? On this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and former NFL player and coach James Saxon discuss Aaron Donald's return from retirement and the physical reality of trying to play at an elite level again at 35. Saxon draws on his own experience to explain why aging, recovery and the constant punishment of playing in the trenches make a comeback much harder than simply getting back into shape.The conversation also turns to teams carrying four quarterbacks on a 53-man roster, how that decision impacts depth and special teams, what NFL coaches are doing in the final days before Week 1, and the challenges of preparing for life after football. Plus, Juan and James touch on the bizarre story of a man accused of posing as an NFL player to scam victims out of more than $1 million.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Collins Janus previews a loaded Friday night of North Carolina high school football, headlined by an undefeated showdown between Providence Day and Hough with major Charlotte bragging rights on the line. He also breaks down Mallard Creek's huge test against Georgia powerhouse Buford, Providence vs. Myers Park, and other key matchups featuring Chambers, Grimsley, Weddington, West Charlotte, Lake Norman, Independence and Butler.

Football is back, and Throw Up Tackle is making some bold predictions. THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ reveal their NFL Final Four and Super Bowl picks, with the Rams getting plenty of love while the Dallas Cowboys somehow find their way into the conversation. The crew also predicts this season's MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year and top rookies, with names like Matthew Stafford, Joe Burrow, Myles Garrett, Will Anderson and Carson Beck all entering the debate.Then the conversation takes a serious turn as the guys debate Druski's controversial football skit depicting the effects of repeated head trauma. Was it simply comedy pushing boundaries, or did the CTE subject matter cross a line that shouldn't be played for laughs?Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The NASCAR regular season is in the books, and the Chase for the Championship is officially underway. On this episode of The Race Week Report, Collins Janus breaks down the 16-driver championship field, Denny Hamlin's position as the favorite, Toyota's dominant season, the contenders who could challenge him, and the underdogs capable of shaking up the title race.Then it's on to Darlington, where the Southern 500 kicks off the Chase and Chase Briscoe looks to continue his recent dominance at one of NASCAR's toughest tracks.For more racing coverage from Collins Janus and MoonLight Media Works, subscribe and watch on YouTube: MoonLight Media Works on YouTube

THE! Mario Washington, Bobby Rosinski and former Carolina Panther and 10-year NFL veteran Al Wallace kick off the inaugural edition of The Lituation Room with football season officially here. The crew breaks down what to expect from the Carolina Panthers, whether Bryce Young has already shown enough to earn his next contract, the biggest concerns on the roster and just how many games Carolina can realistically win.Then the conversation turns to college football as Bill Belichick and North Carolina open the season with a win over TCU. Is UNC actually turning the corner, or are we getting way ahead of ourselves after one game? Football is back and so is the debate.Check out The Lituation Room on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Dustin Caldwell recaps a huge weekend for Rock Hill-area high school football as South Pointe, Rock Hill and Northwestern all hang 50-plus points on their opponents. He also runs through the biggest results from around South Carolina, including Dorman's win over Byrnes, Gaffney staying hot, Fort Mill handling Catawba Ridge, and a look at national standout Amir Sears' monster performance against Bishop Gorman.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ get into one of the wildest scams in sports. A man allegedly posed as a San Francisco 49ers player, complete with team gear, workout videos and the lifestyle to match, while authorities say he and an accomplice scammed 26 victims out of roughly $1.3 million. The guys have plenty of questions, starting with the most obvious one: how did nobody check the roster?Then it's time for the official Panthers outlook after Carolina finishes the preseason 3-1. Can Bryce Young lead the Panthers to the NFC South title, or could another disappointing season put Carolina back in the quarterback market? Plus, the crew breaks down the NFL's new rookie quarterbacks, including Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, Carson Beck and Drew Allar, and debates who will have the best rookie season and ultimately the best career.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The preseason is over, the roster is taking shape, and now it's time for the games to count. On this episode of Carolina Confidential, Gerrell Wheeler turns his attention toward the Panthers' final roster decisions and what Carolina has shown heading into the 2026 regular season.Gerrell breaks down where the Panthers stand after an up-and-down preseason, the players and position groups he's watching, and why it's time to find out whether the progress Carolina has been building toward will finally translate when the real season begins.Check out Carolina Confidential on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

The quarterback conversation in Cleveland is heating up. On this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and former NFL player and coach James Saxon discuss the Browns' quarterback situation, including the debate surrounding Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, what coaches consider when choosing a starter, and whether sitting and learning really helps a young quarterback develop. Saxon explains why performing when the pass rush arrives is completely different from looking great in practice and why the ability to function in chaos separates NFL quarterbacks.The conversation also turns to nepotism in professional sports and whether having a famous father really matters once it's time to perform. From the Sanders family to LeBron and Bronny James and Ken Griffey Sr. and Jr., Juan and James discuss the difference between getting an opportunity because of your name and proving you deserve to stay once the door opens.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

It's the Best of Throw Up Tackle from this week, with THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ revisiting some of the week's biggest arguments. The crew gets into Deshaun Watson getting booed in Cleveland, his response to Browns fans, and whether the disastrous deal to bring him to Cleveland deserves to be called the worst trade in NFL history. Then the debate shifts to the NBA as Klay Thompson heads to Miami and The Dok makes it clear he thinks the future Hall of Famer is officially washed.Plus, are the Carolina Panthers being overlooked in the NFC South? The guys debate Bryce Young, the pressure on Xavier Legette and Carolina's chances of winning the division before Toss Up brings even more chaos with an NFL player returning to college, Ohio State versus the field for the national championship, Tua versus Michael Penix Jr. in Atlanta, and a debate over whether Luka Doncic is even a top-five player in the NBA.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

College football is changing fast, but could the next step actually be former NFL players returning to campus?Juan Singleton and former NFL player and coach James Saxon dive into the possibility of players with college eligibility remaining returning to the college game after getting a taste of the NFL. They discuss NIL money, the increasingly blurry line between amateur and professional football, conference resistance to returning pros, and how this could reshape recruiting and player development. Saxon also takes listeners inside NFL roster cutdown day, explaining the difficult decisions coaches make and recalling what it felt like when he was cut from an NFL roster himself.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ start at home with the Carolina Panthers after a much better preseason showing against Jacksonville. Is Bryce Young and the offense finally starting to click, and can Carolina take advantage of a wide-open NFC South? The guys also put the spotlight on Xavier Legette and debate whether it's time for the former first-round pick to start showing more.The conversation gets deeper with a debate about media ethics after Josh Allen criticized how personal news involving teammate Ed Oliver's family was reported. Plus, the crew looks back at Nick Chubb's career, discusses why NFL running backs need to get paid while they can, and plays Toss Up with the strange new world of college football eligibility, Ohio State's brutal schedule, Atlanta's Tua Tagovailoa versus Michael Penix Jr. quarterback battle, and the Pacers versus Jazz.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Dustin Caldwell recaps a big opening week of South Carolina high school football, including Hough's defensive showdown with Northwestern and standout performances from Joshua Dobson and Northwestern sophomore Dash Holley. Plus, Rock Hill makes a statement with its road win over Irmo, weather creates havoc across the schedule, and Dustin runs through other notable results from around the state while looking ahead to another week of Carolina high school football.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ dig into Deshaun Watson's deteriorating relationship with Cleveland after getting booed by Browns fans and firing back at the fan base. The crew debates whether Watson has earned any sympathy, whether Shedeur Sanders should eventually take over, and whether Cleveland's decision to trade for Watson belongs among the worst moves in NFL history.Then things get heated over Klay Thompson joining Miami and DeMar DeRozan heading to Denver, with The Dok declaring Klay officially washed. Plus, the guys hit the headlines, discuss the strange state of college football, and debate what it means when a player can sign with an NFL team and still find his way back onto a college roster.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Now THAT looked more like it. After an ugly performance against Buffalo raised plenty of concerns, the Carolina Panthers responded with a 34-17 preseason win over Jacksonville and finally gave fans something positive to build on.On this episode of Carolina Confidential, Gerrell Wheeler reacts to the Panthers' bounce-back performance, the improvement from the offense, the players making their case as roster decisions approach, and what Carolina still needs to show before the games start counting. One good preseason night doesn't answer every question, but it certainly feels better than what Panthers fans saw a week ago.Check out Carolina Confidential on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

It's the Best of Throw Up Tackle from this week, bringing together some of the biggest debates and funniest moments from THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ.The crew starts with LeBron James and the new-look Philadelphia 76ers. With Philly landing 34 nationally televised games and a favorable early schedule, the guys debate whether the NBA is rolling out the red carpet for LeBron, why the league continues to revolve around its biggest stars, and whether keeping Joel Embiid healthy might actually be the Sixers' biggest concern.Then things get weird in the boxing world as Ray J and Orlando Brown step into the ring, leading to a conversation about celebrity boxing and where the line should be drawn between entertainment and the real sport. The guys also give Claressa Shields her respect after another dominant performance.The Lakers ownership situation takes center stage as Jeanie Buss fights to maintain control of the family franchise amid another potential ownership shakeup. The crew discusses what the changing economics of professional sports could mean for teams traditionally associated with family ownership.Finally, Russell Westbrook's retirement sparks a debate about his legacy among the greatest point guards ever. Somehow that turns into an even bigger argument when LJ declares John Stockton the second-greatest point guard of all time and ranks him ahead of Steph Curry. From there, all bets are off.Catch up on the conversations you missed with the Best of Throw Up Tackle, where sports and pop culture collide.

NFL preseason isn't just about getting ready for Week 1. For players fighting for a roster spot, every snap can determine whether their NFL dream continues.On this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and former NFL player and coach James Saxon go inside training camp and break down what coaches are really watching during the preseason. Saxon explains why consistency matters, how coaches evaluate young players when the game speeds up, and the difficult decisions teams face when choosing between a promising young prospect and a proven veteran. He also explains why high draft picks often get more opportunities to prove themselves while undrafted players may have only a handful of reps to make an impression.Saxon also shares a great story about watching Hall of Fame offensive tackle Willie Roaf and realizing that appearances can be deceiving when evaluating NFL talent. The conversation explores joint practices, training-camp fights, and why practicing against another team can provide a valuable test before the regular season begins.Then the roles reverse as Saxon starts asking the questions. Juan offers his perspective from the media side as they discuss the relationship between players, coaches and journalists, the growing influence of sports-media personalities, and the controversy surrounding Stephen A. Smith and the National Association of Black Journalists.It's another look at the NFL from perspectives you don't always hear: the coach, the player and the journalist.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

Things get heated quickly on this episode of Throw Up Tackle as THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ dive into the strange situation surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers and their rapidly changing ownership picture. With the franchise reportedly valued at $12.5 billion, the guys discuss Jeanie Buss fighting to maintain control, the changing nature of professional sports ownership, and whether family-run franchises are becoming a thing of the past.Then the crew gives Russell Westbrook his flowers following his retirement. Where does the former MVP, nine-time All-Star, and triple-double machine rank among the greatest point guards ever? That question somehow turns into a full-blown battle after LJ declares John Stockton the second-greatest point guard of all time, even ranking him ahead of Steph Curry. Yes, it gets exactly as heated as you would expect.Finally, it's time for True or False. Should winning the Heisman automatically protect your college jersey number? Was a three-homer performance the greatest MLB debut ever? Could Tua Tagovailoa have his best season in Atlanta? And can the Chicago Bears still call themselves Chicago's team if they move across state lines to Indiana?Lakers drama, NBA history, ridiculous debates, and plenty of laughs. It's another episode of Throw Up Tackle, where sports and pop culture collide.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Dustin Caldwell gets you ready for the opening week of South Carolina high school football with a look at the biggest games, top players, and storylines to watch. From Northwestern's showdown with North Carolina powerhouse Hough to Rock Hill taking on Irmo and defending state champion South Pointe beginning its new campaign, Dustin breaks down a loaded opening-week schedule. Plus, get familiar with some of the area's top college prospects and other must-watch matchups from around the state.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ are back together to tackle a wild week where sports and entertainment continue to collide.The NBA schedule is out, and LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers are getting the superstar treatment. With 34 nationally televised games, fewer back-to-backs, and a favorable early schedule, the guys debate whether the league is setting Philly up for success and why a 41-year-old LeBron remains the center of the NBA universe. They also discuss what the Sixers need to do to keep both LeBron and Joel Embiid healthy when the games really matter.Then it's on to the NFL preseason. The Carolina Panthers get a reality check against Buffalo, while the Cleveland quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders starts to take shape. Is Watson clearly the Week 1 starter, or will Sanders eventually get his opportunity?Finally, what happened to boxing? Ray J and Orlando Brown stepping into the ring leads to a hilarious conversation about the rise of celebrity boxing and whether having followers is apparently all it takes to become a professional fighter. The crew also gives Claressa Shields her respect after another dominant performance and asks who is actually left for her to fight.It's NBA controversy, NFL overreactions, questionable boxing, and plenty of laughs on another episode of Throw Up Tackle.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

After showing some promise to open the preseason, the Carolina Panthers came crashing back to earth against the Buffalo Bills. On this episode of Carolina Confidential, Gerrell Wheeler gives his unfiltered reaction to a frustrating performance that looked a little too much like the Panthers teams fans thought they had left behind.Gerrell breaks down an offense that struggled to move the football, concerns surrounding Bryce Young and an injury-riddled offensive line, and a defense that looked overwhelmed and out of position. With Dave Canales admitting the starting offense didn't earn another drive, Gerrell asks how concerned Panthers fans should be despite it only being the preseason.Plus, the Panthers bring in veteran tight end Darren Waller in hopes of adding another weapon to the offense. Can Waller still make an impact? And with Jacksonville and Houston remaining on the preseason schedule, Gerrell explains why he doesn't necessarily need to see wins, but he does need to see consistency and signs that this team is actually moving forward.It's only preseason, but after what Carolina just put on the field, Gerrell has one simple message: play better.

LJ is out this week, so Mario Washington and The Dok hold it down on Throw Up Tackle with a mix of sports, culture, serious conversation, and plenty of foolishness.The guys start with the latest controversy surrounding the WNBA and push back on the attention being given to transgender athletes in women's sports. That leads to a bigger conversation about politics, social media outrage, the growth of women's basketball, and whether we're currently watching the greatest women's basketball player ever in A'ja Wilson.Then it's time for Toss Up, as Mario and The Dok debate the Rams versus the field to win the Super Bowl, Shedeur Sanders versus Deshaun Watson in Cleveland, Anthony Richardson's future, and whether Kyle Shanahan's Tesla was really on autopilot.Finally, the guys introduce The Worst, a new segment looking at some of the most questionable crossovers in sports history. Who was the worst athlete to make music? The worst athlete turned actor? The worst former player to step into the broadcast booth? Mario and The Dok have some names, some memories, and plenty of jokes.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Best of Throw Up Tackle: NFL Holdouts, QB Rankings and Sports Media Shakeups Missed this week's episodes of Throw Up Tackle? We've got you covered with the Best Of edition, featuring the biggest debates, hottest takes, and funniest moments from the week.Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ break down the NFL's biggest contract stories, including whether Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson deserve record-setting deals and how teams should value today's quarterbacks. The crew also reveals their Top 4 NFL quarterbacks, leading to one of the week's most spirited debates over Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Caleb Williams.The conversation continues with the NFL's growing injury problem during training camp, Bryce Young's future with the Panthers, and the pressure facing several quarterbacks heading into the season. Plus, the guys discuss the changing landscape of sports media, whether fans are losing access to their favorite teams, and how NIL and the transfer portal could reshape college football forever.If you enjoy passionate sports debates, bold predictions, and plenty of laughs along the way, this Best of Throw Up Tackle delivers the highlights from another entertaining week.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

In this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and former NFL running back and coach James Saxon kick things off with a lighthearted conversation about South Carolina's famous bull grapes before diving headfirst into the business of football. The two discuss why elite running backs like Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Saquon Barkley deserve their massive contracts, how the position has evolved over the years, and what coaches really look for when evaluating NFL talent.Saxon also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his NFL coaching career, explains the lost art of the fullback position, offers his philosophy on developing players, and reflects on the importance of relationships between coaches and athletes. The conversation wraps with thoughts on the Pro Football Hall of Fame, honoring unsung contributors like assistant coaches and equipment managers, and a look back at football roots in Beaufort, South Carolina. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just love hearing stories from inside the game, this episode delivers insight, humor, and decades of NFL experience.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ tackle one of the biggest stories of the NFL preseason as injuries continue to pile up across training camps. The crew debates whether the league's current offseason approach is contributing to the growing injury problem, what changes could help protect players, and how these early setbacks could reshape the upcoming season.The conversation shifts to the changing business of sports, with a look at the decline of regional sports networks, the future of sports broadcasting, and whether fans are slowly losing access to their favorite teams. The guys also discuss the growing divide between franchise values and the fan experience.Later, it's time for another round of Fill in the Blank, featuring Bryce Young's future in Carolina, Jadeveon Clowney's NFL legacy, the quarterbacks under the most pressure this season, and where NIL, the transfer portal, and college football are headed over the next five years.As always, expect strong opinions, spirited debates, and plenty of laughs on another can't-miss episode of Throw Up Tackle.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The 2026 Carolina Panthers season is finally here, but before the excitement of kickoff can fully set in, the injury bug has already struck. Gerrell Wheeler breaks down the latest injuries impacting the Panthers, what they could mean for the team's outlook, and why it's not time to hit the panic button just yet.Gerrell also takes a closer look at the players and coaches with the most to prove in 2026, including Bryce Young's pivotal contract year, the continued development of Jalen Coker and Tetairoa McMillan, Chuba Hubbard's battle to remain the featured back, Dave Canales' offensive evolution, and Xavier Legette's fight to live up to expectations. Plus, with the Hall of Fame Game kicking off the preseason, Gerrell explains why this season could be the turning point Panthers fans have been waiting for.Check out Carolina Confidential on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt and wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, Juan Singleton and former NFL running back and coach James Saxon kick off the series by sharing the friendship that inspired the podcast and the unique perspective that comes from more than three decades inside professional football.The conversation dives into what really happens behind the scenes as NFL training camps begin, from the mental and physical preparation players face to the enormous leap from college football to the professional level. James offers firsthand insight into coaching, roster battles, player development, overcoming injuries, and what separates the athletes who make it from those who don't.The episode also touches on the realities of NFL careers, the ongoing discussion surrounding playing surfaces, and closes with heartfelt thoughts and prayers for former Titans star Chris Johnson following his ALS diagnosis.Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply enjoy hearing life lessons from someone who's lived the game at its highest level, this episode offers honest conversation, behind-the-scenes stories, and the kind of perspective you won't find on the highlight reels.Check out Up Close, Too Far Away on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportsclt

On this episode of Throw Up Tackle, Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ cover everything from NFL contract holdouts to the hottest debates heading into football season. The crew discusses whether stars like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson deserve record-setting deals, what Baker Mayfield's next contract should look like, and why running backs have to cash in while they can.Then it's time for one of the show's liveliest debates as everyone reveals their Top 4 NFL quarterbacks entering the season. Expect plenty of disagreement over Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and one surprising pick that sparks a spirited argument.The guys close out the show by tackling the latest headlines, including Caitlin Clark's response to off-the-court questions, the Dodgers' latest blockbuster trade and whether Major League Baseball is headed toward a salary cap, Donovan Mitchell's marriage to Coco Jones, and the latest on Shedeur Sanders' future with the Browns.As always, expect bold opinions, plenty of laughs, and the kind of sports conversation you only get on Throw Up Tackle.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

Catch the biggest conversations from this week's Throw Up Tackle in one action-packed Best Of edition. THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ break down LeBron James' blockbuster move to the Philadelphia 76ers and debate whether it is a championship-caliber decision or just another chapter in his controversial legacy. The crew also dives into the changing world of college athletics, discussing NIL, the transfer portal, and whether smaller schools can still compete in today's pay-for-play era.The guys make their bold NFL predictions by revealing their favorites, sleepers, and dark horses to reach the Super Bowl. They wrap things up with another entertaining round of Toss Up, featuring rapid-fire debates on aging superstars, championship contenders, and the biggest stories across the sports landscape.If you missed this week's episodes, or just want the highlights, this Best of Throw Up Tackle brings together the hottest takes, biggest laughs, and can't-miss sports conversations in one episode.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The sports world never slows down, and neither does Throw Up Tackle. THE! Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ break down the biggest headlines across football, basketball, and beyond, starting with the changing landscape of sports media and what recent industry layoffs mean for fans and coverage. Then it's time for bold predictions as the crew picks their NFL conference champions, debates whether the Chiefs' reign is finally coming to an end, and identifies this season's sleepers and surprise contenders.The conversation shifts to college football as the guys react to the ACC's new tiebreaker system, revisit last year's playoff controversy, and discuss whether analytics should decide conference championship participants. They also dive into the latest coaching drama, the transfer portal, and NIL before wrapping things up with another hilarious edition of Toss Up, featuring debates on Deshaun Watson, LeBron James, Aaron Rodgers, the Knicks, Tyler Herro, and even whether the FIFA World Cup or the World Series is the better sporting spectacle.If you like sharp analysis, strong opinions, and plenty of laughs, this episode delivers all three.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

The full crew is finally back together, and there's no shortage of opinions. Mario Washington, The Dok, and LJ dive headfirst into the sports world's biggest headlines, starting with LeBron James' stunning move to Philadelphia. Is it a championship-caliber decision or another chapter in LeBron's legacy of controversial career moves? The guys debate the impact on the 76ers, what it means for the Eastern Conference, and whether LeBron is still capable of leading a title run.Plus, the crew tackles another round of True or False, discussing everything from Tony Romo's viral mugshot and Bronny James' NBA future to Steph Curry's loyalty, Caitlin Clark's impact on the WNBA, and the changing landscape of college athletics. They wrap up with an honest conversation about NIL, the transfer portal, and whether smaller schools can still compete in the new era of college sports.It's another episode full of laughs, bold predictions, and the unfiltered sports conversations that make Throw Up Tackle a must-listen.Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastsportscltCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.fourcastsports.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

After a brief hiatus, Throw Up Tackle is back! Mario Washington and The Dok return for an abbreviated episode packed with laughs, bold opinions, and plenty of sports debate while LJ sits this one out. The guys dive into the NBA's blockbuster offseason, including the Giannis trade, LeBron's free agency saga, the impact of the league's new salary cap rules, and what it all means for teams like the Hornets and Thunder. They also discuss Ryan Clark's ESPN departure, whether college football's power conferences should break away from the NCAA, the World Cup's impact on soccer in America, Conor McGregor's future, and wrap things up with a rapid-fire round of True or False covering everything from Tom Brady wrestling to Bud Crawford and more. It's the return of Throw Up Tackle, with the hot takes, humor, and sports conversations you've been waiting for. Check out Throw Up Tackle on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@fourcastmediaCheck out Throw Up Tackle on our website at http://www.pushplaypods.com/throwuptackleBe sure to like and subscribe! You don't want to miss this edition of Throw Up Tackle!

In this episode of Carolina Confidential, host Gerrel Wheeler breaks down the Carolina Panthers' 2026 draft picks. With excitement and insight, he discusses each selection, highlighting standout players like Monroe Freeling, Lee Hunter, and Chris Brazzelle II. Gerrel evaluates the impact of these new additions on the team's roster and future competition. Tune in for an engaging analysis of how this draft class could shape the Panthers' season ahead! 

In this episode of Up Close, Too Far Away, host Juan Singleton sits down with former NFL player and coach James Saxon for an in-depth conversation that blends football insight with real-life perspective.The discussion kicks off with a breakdown of the growing buzz around flag football—from exhibition matchups with NFL players to the debate over its Olympic future—and why it's a completely different game than traditional football. From there, Saxon shares expert insight on the NFL Draft, evaluating talent, and what truly separates good players from great ones at the professional level.The conversation goes deeper into the realities of the game—playing through injuries, understanding when a player becomes a liability, and the importance of communication between athletes, coaches, and training staff. Saxon also gives a rare look inside the mindset of coaching, explaining how to develop players with different skill sets, why football IQ matters, and how preparation and adaptability shape success on the field.Beyond X's and O's, this episode explores generational differences in athletes, the evolution of the game, and Saxon's core philosophy: great players always want to be coached.Whether you're a football fan, coach, or someone who appreciates leadership and development at the highest level, this episode delivers insight, experience, and perspective you won't hear anywhere else.