Sports Day Tampa Bay

The Lightning's season opener went about as sideways as a game can go: a 5-1 loss at Madison Square Garden capped by Igor Shesterkin becoming the first goaltender in Rangers history to score a goal, while Tampa Bay finished 0-for-7 on the power play. Rick and Steve dig into why it wasn't as alarming as it looked — Victor Hedman's comfortably accepted a smaller role (and dropped weight going gluten-free to stay fast at 18 seasons in), John Carlson is still adjusting from running Alex Ovechkin's power play in Washington to feeding Nikita Kucherov in Tampa, and hockey's a "flow sport" that's brutally hard to simulate in the preseason. The Lightning still own the NHL's third-best season-opening winning percentage all time, and they get a schedule edge Saturday against a Capitals team playing the second half of a back-to-back.From there, it's a deep look at Jalen Daniels' first career start — the first rookie quarterback to play anywhere in the league this season, despite going undrafted. Rick traces how the Bucs got here (Teddy Bridgewater's disastrous relief outing last year, Jake Browning's poor camp this summer) and argues Daniels doesn't need to be great against a genuinely bad Packers team that can't run or stop the run; the defense and Chase McLaughlin's perfect kicking can carry him. A mailbag question floats Daniels as a potential Marty St. Louis-style undrafted success story, and the guys note the historical case for not rushing rookie quarterbacks, with nine of the ten passers drafted this year still holding a clipboard. The back half previews a jam-packed Tampa Bay weekend — Rays-Yankees ALDS Game 1 at the Trop, the Lightning's home opener, USF hosting Temple for a shot at a first-ever conference title, and Florida traveling to Missouri — plus a quick look at Cleveland's Deshaun Watson turnaround under Todd Monken.Timestamps:0:08 – Lightning season-opener recap: 5-1 loss at the Rangers, a historic goalie goal, 0-for-7 power play3:22 – Victor Hedman's accepted role change, revamped diet, and his 18th season5:39 – Lightning's historic season-opening record; Saturday's schedule edge over Washington6:46 – Power play struggles: John Carlson adjusting from Ovechkin's power play to feeding Kucherov9:00 – Why "flow sports" like hockey are harder to simulate in the preseason11:50 – Sponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza13:16 – How the Bucs got here: Teddy Bridgewater's rough relief stint and Jake Browning's camp struggles16:13 – Jalen Daniels: the first rookie QB to start anywhere in the NFL this year, despite going undrafted18:16 – Context: the last team to start 0-4 and make the playoffs was the 1992 Chargers19:51 – Why Daniels doesn't need to be great — Green Bay's offense and run defense are a mess22:32 – Chase McLaughlin's perfect season and the "just be you" message for Daniels25:36 – Mailbag: Could Daniels become the next Marty St. Louis-style undrafted success story?26:03 – Why most of this year's ten drafted rookie QBs are sitting behind veterans30:37 – What a Daniels win (or two) would really mean once Baker Mayfield returns31:38 – MLB's wild-card format gripe: Rays drawn into a best-of-three with the Yankees34:44 – A loaded Tampa Bay weekend: Rays, Lightning, USF and the Rowdies all home Saturday39:09 – Cleveland's Deshaun Watson turnaround under Tom Monken42:09 – College football weekend: Florida at Missouri, USF hosts Temple for a shot at a first conference title Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud can't stop repeating a line Jalon Daniels dropped in his first press conference as the Bucs' starting quarterback: "You can't be the thermometer, you have to be the thermostat" — set the temperature in the room instead of just reading it. It's a fitting mantra for a guy about to become the first rookie quarterback to start an NFL game this season (yes, ahead of the Raiders' Heisman winner), and the only backup Tampa Bay has turned to since 'Fitzmagic' in 2018. Rick is clear-eyed about the degree of difficulty: Evan Closky's blocking cut-ups from last week were "some of the worst tape I've seen," Daniels knows far less than Baker Mayfield about getting out of bad plays, and Green Bay will blitz him mercilessly the way Minnesota did. But the Packers are deeply flawed too — patched together on the offensive line, unable to stop the run, playing in front of a fan base that's reportedly booing at Lambeau — and Rick and Steve talk through how Todd Bowles might manage Daniels' workload if the game gets away from them, plus the gut-punch injury report (six players missed Wednesday practice, including Rueben Bain Jr., Yaya Diaby, and Chris Godwin) that makes the 0-3 start look even worse in hindsight.From there, three mailbag questions: what the Bucs should do with the number one overall pick if the season ended today (take a quarterback, grab Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith, or trade down for a haul), how to separate rooting for people at One Buc Place from grading Todd Bowles' performance, and whether anything short of winning can fix the "away game atmosphere" at Raymond James Stadium. Rick also vents about MLB's wild-card seeding dropping the Rays into Yankee Stadium's short porch for the ALDS, previews Drew Rasmussen's Game 1 start, and the guys close with a full NHL season-opening night: the Lightning play at the Rangers, sitting on the second-best season-opening record in NHL history, with Nikita Kucherov chasing a record fourth straight opener with multiple goals.Segments:Jalon Daniels' "thermostat, not thermometer" mentality ahead of his first NFL startThe degree of difficulty: brutal offensive line tape, a first-ever rookie starter league-wide, and how Bowles might manage his workloadInjury report fallout: six players out Wednesday, Baker Mayfield's timelineMailbag: What should the Bucs do with the number one pick — quarterback, Jeremiah Smith, or trade down?Mailbag: Separating rooting for the people at One Buc Place from grading Todd BowlesMailbag: Can anything fix the "away game" atmosphere at Raymond James?MLB wild-card fallout: Rays drawn into the Yankees' short porch for the ALDS; Rasmussen gets the Game 1 ballNHL opening night: Lightning at the Rangers, chasing franchise and Kucherov recordsSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International PlazaTimestamps:0:06 – Jalon Daniels' "thermostat, not thermometer" quote from his first presser as starter2:51 – First rookie QB to start a game anywhere in the NFL this season5:57 – The offensive line tape: "some of the worst I've seen"8:16 – How Bowles might manage Daniels if the game gets away from the Bucs13:06 – Injury report: six players miss Wednesday practice14:13 – Baker Mayfield's thumb, timeline, and the 0-3 start in context15:47 – Sponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza17:05 – MLB wild-card seeding sends the Rays into Yankee Stadium's short porch21:35 – Mailbag: Number one pick — quarterback, Jeremiah Smith, or trade down?25:31 – Mailbag: Separating the man from the job grading Todd Bowles35:26 – Mailbag: Fixing the "away game" atmosphere at Raymond James37:21 – NHL opening night: Lightning at the Rangers, Kucherov's scoring streak39:13 – Yankees beat Red Sox 9-2; Rasmussen named Rays' Game 1 starter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Joe Flacco, Jameis Winston, and Jimmy Garoppolo all off the table, the Bucs' plan B for replacing Baker Mayfield is Brett Rypien — signed to the practice squad, not the active roster — while undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels makes his first career start Sunday against Green Bay. Rick Stroud lays out a sobering stat: since 2024, rookie quarterbacks are a combined 56-89, and the backup quarterbacks who've actually won games around the league this season (Case Keenum, Mac Jones, Carson Wentz, Drew Locke) all share one thing Daniels doesn't have — real NFL experience. Rick and Steve debate, half-seriously, whether a Bucs fan should even want a win right now given a stacked, quarterback-heavy draft class, before agreeing there's too much season left and too bad a division to consider punting on it. They also dig into where the blame really lies for Tampa Bay's offensive collapse — Baker's tendency to extend plays into sacks and holding penalties, Zach Robinson's predictable play-calling, an offensive line that isn't as bad as it looks — and note the one thing working: Chase McLaughlin hasn't missed a field goal all year. A mailbag question revisits why Mike Evans really left for San Francisco, and Rick makes the case that Evans saw a closer path to a Super Bowl elsewhere as his own mortality became real after his first-ever injury-shortened season.The back half looks ahead to a jam-packed week: MLB's wild-card round (Yankees leading Boston, Padres and Braves both winning thrillers), the NHL's opening night, and the Lightning's regular-season opener Thursday at the Rangers, plus a scheduling headache with the Rays' ALDS Game 1 and the Lightning's home opener both landing Saturday night. Rick and Steve also mark the sixth anniversary of Tampa Bay's first boat parade and pitch (not entirely jokingly) a stadium renovation tribute to Tom Brady's Super Bowl trophy toss.Segments:Jalon Daniels named starter; what backup-quarterback history says about his chances against Green BayIs the offensive line really the problem, or is it Baker Mayfield and play-calling?Mailbag: Why did Mike Evans really leave for San Francisco?MLB wild card round recap: Yankees-Red Sox, Padres-Cubs, Braves walk-off winNHL season opens; Lightning open Thursday at the Rangers, home opener collides with Rays ALDS Game 1Sixth anniversary of Tampa Bay's first championship boat paradeSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International PlazaTimestamps:0:09 – Bucs' backup QB plan revealed: Brett Rypien to the practice squad, Jalen Daniels named starter2:27 – Why experienced backups matter: Case Keenum's big Monday night4:15 – Rookie QBs are 56-89 since 2024; should a Bucs fan want a loss right now?7:00 – Is the offensive line really the problem, or is it Baker Mayfield and play-calling?16:23 – What Daniels has going for him: 50+ college starts, calm demeanor17:36 – Backup QBs went nearly undefeated this weekend; the risk the Bucs took at QB222:46 – Sponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza24:13 – Sixth anniversary of Tampa Bay's first championship boat parade28:33 – Mailbag: Why did Mike Evans really leave for San Francisco?33:22 – Mailbag: Where does the blame fall for the Bucs' offensive struggles?39:12 – MLB wild-card recap: Yankees-Red Sox, Padres-Cubs, Braves walk-off win40:10 – NHL season opens; Lightning-Rangers Thursday, Saturday scheduling conflict with Rays ALDS Game 1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baker Mayfield's thumb injury turns out to be the good news/bad news scenario Rick Stroud feared: no torn ligaments, no broken bones, but a minimum three-week absence that wipes out Green Bay, Dallas, and Pittsburgh. That hands the offense to undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels, whose only real NFL snaps have come against players no longer on rosters. Rick shares Todd Bowles' old blitz-every-down philosophy against rookie quarterbacks and previews exactly what Green Bay's defense (and a stadium full of Packers fans) is about to do to a first-time starter, while making the case that Daniels' calm demeanor, strong arm, and accuracy give him a real shot to at least not lose the game outright. They also note the Bucs haven't had a backup quarterback start a game since 2018 — a remarkable run now over — and flag that Jalen McMillan is now out 6-8 weeks with a knee injury, thinning an already M.I.A. receiving corps even further. A Bruce Arians radio appearance imagining what he'd have done coaching Baker provides some comic relief, along with speculation (only half-joking) about Mike Tomlin as a future Bucs coaching target.On the brighter side, MLB's wild-card round tips off with the Yankees and Red Sox squaring off in a series the Rays will watch closely — whoever survives comes to Tampa Bay for the ALDS. Rick and Steve make the case that the Rays, as the AL's best regular-season team, should be favored against anyone left standing, and note a fun crowded slate on Saturday: the Lightning's home opener, the Rays' first playoff game, and Rick's daughter at her high school homecoming, all on the same night. They close with the Lightning's season opening in New York on Thursday and a rundown of their final regular-season roster moves.Segments:Baker Mayfield out a minimum three weeks; Jalon Daniels becomes the first undrafted rookie in decades to start for the BucsWhat Green Bay's blitz-heavy, hostile-crowd environment means for a first-time starterJalen McMillan's knee injury deepens the receiver shortage; the case for a Ted Hurst breakoutBruce Arians weighs in on Baker Mayfield's style of play; lighthearted coaching-search chatterMLB wild card begins: Yankees-Red Sox preview and the case for the Rays as AL favoritesBusy Saturday ahead: Lightning home opener, Rays' first playoff game, and Homecoming weekendSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud doesn't mince words: the Bucs' 0-3 loss to Minnesota is the doomsday scenario come to life. Baker Mayfield left with a bloodied, dislocated thumb on his throwing hand after holding the ball too long on a desperate fourth-down conversion attempt, and now undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels — who struggled even in preseason snaps against real competition — is set to become QB1 for a stretch that includes Green Bay and a short week in Dallas. Rick and Steve dissect just how ugly the game itself was on both sides (both offenses managed roughly 25 total yards in the second half), question why Zach Robinson's offense keeps ignoring receivers like Ted Hurst after a 40-yard touchdown catch, and openly wonder how much the Bucs are missing Mike Evans' size and catch radius. They also debate whether the Glazers would ever consider an in-season coaching change (Mike Tomlin's name comes up, mostly hypothetically), and note the silver lining: the Bucs haven't played a single divisional game yet and remain just one game out of first in a wide-open, mediocre NFC South.The mood brightens considerably from there. The Rays wrapped a historic 162-game season with Junior Caminero playing all 162 games and hitting 40-plus homers in each of his first two full seasons, and Rick and Steve preview the layoff before the ALDS, including bullpen and rotation questions that hinge on whether they draw the Yankees or Red Sox. They also look ahead to a jam-packed weekend: the Lightning's regular-season opener at the Rangers, Saturday's home opener against Washington coinciding with the Rays' first playoff game, and a loaded college football slate topped by Florida's statement win over Ole Miss and USF's 4-0 start under Brian Hartline.Segments:Bucs fall to 0-3; Baker Mayfield's hand injury and the shift to undrafted rookie Jalen DanielsBreaking down two dreadful offenses and the special-teams punt-return touchdown that decided the gameIs this a Todd Bowles problem or a talent problem? Coaching-change speculation and the "mini-bye" scenarioRays close a historic regular season — Caminero's 162-game, 40-homer year — and preview ALDS rotation questionsWeekend preview: Lightning open at the Rangers, Saturday's dual home openers, Florida's big win over Ole Miss, USF at 4-0Sponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud lays out why Sunday's game against Minnesota is as close to a must-win as it gets for the 0-2 Buccaneers: lose, and they're 0-3 with Green Bay at home and a short-week trip to Dallas still to come in an 11-day stretch that could bury the season. He breaks down a genuinely tricky Vikings matchup — Kyler Murray making his first real start of the year after a concussion, Justin Jefferson and a loaded receiving corps, and Brian Flores' defense, which blitzes even more than Todd Bowles' — while making the case that the Bucs are fully capable of winning if Zach Robinson can finally get Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka involved early instead of leaving them without a target until the second half. Rick's message throughout: one win changes everything psychologically, and a 3-2 stretch through five games would leave this team just fine in a wide-open NFC South.The back half is a mailbag-heavy wrap-up of the week: whether Todd Bowles has lost the locker room, patience for Rueben Bain Jr. as he continues to search for his first real production, whether Alex Anzalone's rocky start threatens his job, and whether Bowles' defense needs to simplify to fix its coverage busts. Rick and Steve also flag the news that Giants rookie Jaxson Dart is out for the year, likely handing the reins to Jameis Winston, and close with a look at the loaded weekend ahead: Ole Miss at Florida, Texas-Tennessee, the Rays wrapping their regular season in Philadelphia, and the Lightning's final preseason tune-up before next week's opener.Segments:Why Sunday against Minnesota is a "stop the bleeding" moment for the Bucs' seasonBreaking down the Vikings matchup: Kyler Murray's return, Justin Jefferson, and Brian Flores' blitz-heavy defenseZach Robinson's play-calling problem: getting the ball to outside receivers earlyMailbag: Has Bowles lost the team? Patience for Rueben Bain Jr., Anzalone's job security, and simplifying the defenseJaxson Dart's season-ending injury and the Jameis Winston watch in New YorkWeekend preview: Ole Miss at Florida, Rays close out the regular season in Philadelphia, Lightning's final preseason gameSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud borrows his own Tampa Bay Times line to open the show: rookie edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. now has a groin strain to go with his shoulder issue, and after two games he still hasn't recorded a stat that matters. Rick and Steve debate how much grace a struggling rookie deserves — pointing to Hall of Famers like Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp, and John Lynch, who all had underwhelming first seasons — while also flagging that Josiah Trotter (shoulder) and Anthony Nelson both missed practice too, suddenly thinning out a group that looked deep on paper. They dig into the Bucs' league-worst pass rush (three sacks in two games), debate whether Todd Bowles will finally bench a struggling Alex Anzalone or Antoine Winfield Jr., and note a telling business signal: the Bucs are already selling discounted season tickets mid-season. A listener mailbag question on GM Jason Licht's job security prompts Rick to lay out the case for and against, with a looming three-game, 11-day stretch (Vikings, Packers, at Cowboys) framed as the real referendum on the season.On a happier note, the Rays are settling in after their AL East-clinching celebration in New York, resting regulars and mapping out their ALDS pitching plan (Rasmussen, Martinez, and Peralta as the likely top three, with Shane McClanahan probably limited to relief work if he's back at all). Rick and Steve also preview tonight's Lightning-Panthers preseason rematch, with both sides looking to avoid a repeat of last year's line-brawl classic, and count down to next week's regular-season opener in New York.Segments:Rueben Bain Jr.'s groin strain and shoulder issue, and the case for patience with struggling rookiesBucs' NFL-worst pass rush and whether lineup changes (Anzalone, Winfield Jr.) are comingMailbag: Is GM Jason Licht's job safe if the season craters? Plus, discounted season tickets as a warning signRays resting regulars post-clinch, mapping ALDS rotation plans around Rasmussen, Martinez, and PeraltaLightning host the Panthers in preseason rematch; season opener a week awaySponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There was no venue Rick Stroud would have rather seen it happen in: the Tampa Bay Rays clinched the AL East at Yankee Stadium, capped by a dominant Drew Rasmussen start — 11 strikeouts and a no-hitter into the seventh before finishing off the win. It's the Rays' fifth division title ever and third since 2020, more than any other team in that span, and Rick and Steve marvel at how it happened: a $100 million payroll outspent 3-to-1 by the Yankees, contact-first hitting, aggressive baserunning, and a deep, versatile pitching staff that got there despite losing Shane McClanahan for stretches and never getting a single pitch out of Ryan Pepiot. They run down the almost unbelievable stat that Drew Rasmussen is 12-0 in starts since the All-Star break — a level no AL pitcher has ever matched — and dig into trade-deadline additions like Peralta, Hicks, and Wells who slotted in seamlessly. They also start plotting rotation order and playoff logistics (division series against the Yankees or Red Sox looms), debate the merits of the extra-round wild-card format, and — of course — start planning the boat parade route.Then it's back to earth for the Bucs, 0-2 and set to host Kyler Murray's Minnesota Vikings this Sunday in what Rick frames as close to a must-win. He points to specific, expensive stars underperforming — Antoine Winfield Jr.'s sharp statistical decline since signing his $84 million extension, Vita Vea's quiet impact, and Rueben Bain Jr.'s continued lack of production — and breaks down the coverage bust on Cleveland's game-winning touchdown. They preview a loaded college football weekend, including a huge Ole Miss-at-Florida matchup in the Swamp.Segments:Rays clinch the AL East at Yankee Stadium behind a dominant Drew Rasmussen startThe stats behind an improbable division title: payroll gap, bullpen reinvention, and a historic pitcher win streakTrade deadline additions and Kevin Cash's case for a return to postseason contentionBucs' must-win mentality vs. Minnesota; Winfield Jr.'s decline and Reuben Bain Jr.'s continued no-showWeekend college football preview: Ole Miss at Florida, Texas-Tennessee, and a loaded Top 25 slateSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud goes deep on just how bad things have gotten for the Bucs, framing the 0-2 start in stark historical terms: this is a team that has now lost 10 of its last 13 games, keeping company with the league's true bottom-feeders — the Titans, Commanders, and Cardinals. With only 12 of the last 84 teams to start 0-2 making the playoffs, and a brutal stretch looming (Vikings and Packers at home, then a short week at Dallas), Rick calls this a season that could be effectively over within 12 days. He puts Todd Bowles squarely on the hottest seat in football, walks through the Glazers' history with coaching changes, and even floats some outside-the-box replacement names — Lane Kiffin among them — while stressing he doesn't expect an in-season firing.Rick and Steve also dig into the actual football problems: an offensive line that was supposed to be top-five and isn't, Baker Mayfield's four turnovers in two games, Reuben Bain Jr.'s continued invisibility on defense, and a play-calling approach that isn't getting the ball to Emeka Egbuka and the outside receivers early enough. They credit Todd Monken's Browns for playing the better, more disciplined game and note Deshaun Watson may have saved his job with the win.Then the mood flips: the Rays are in New York for a doubleheader, needing just one win to clinch the AL East in Yankee Stadium — the kind of poetic justice Rick's been dreaming about all year. They break down the excellent starting pitching matchups, gush over the new road-grey uniforms with "Tampa Bay" back on the chest for the first time in 20 years, and make the case for why this Rays team's contact-heavy, low-strikeout, everybody-contributes approach gives them real World Series upside. They close with a Lightning preseason update and news that Giants QB Jaxson Dart suffered a significant knee injury on Monday Night Football.Segments:Bucs fall to 0-2, and why this is bigger than two games: 10 losses in the last 13Todd Bowles on the hottest seat in the NFL; coaching-change scenarios and dark-horse namesOffensive line disappointment, Baker Mayfield's turnovers, and Reuben Bain Jr.'s no-showWhy the next 12 days (Vikings, Packers, at Cowboys) could define the seasonRays one win away from clinching the AL East in Yankee Stadium; new throwback road uniformsThe case for this Rays team's World Series chances: low strikeouts, deep pitching, and Caminero as the "secret sauce"Lightning's second preseason game; Jaxson Dart's knee injury on Monday Night FootballSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud doesn't sugarcoat it: losing at home to Deshaun Watson and a Cleveland Browns team most didn't think could compete is a genuine crisis. Rick and Steve break down exactly how it happened — settling for four field goals, another Baker Mayfield turnover, missed tackles, blown coverage, and a shaky offensive line that was supposed to be top-five in the league. Watson, written off after Cleveland's Week 1 blowout, outplayed Mayfield by a wide margin (24-of-30, 238 yards, two touchdowns, no picks), and a two-hour-plus lightning delay did the Bucs no favors on their final drive. Rick singles out the pass rush's continued no-show — including a near-invisible outing from rookie Rueben Bain Jr. — and doesn't hold back on Baker, questioning whether a $165 million quarterback is playing like one just weeks after signing his extension.They also get into the fallout: a tense, near-empty locker room after the game, a new (and controversial) media policy shielding players from reporters on their way off the field, and why Rick doesn't expect a midseason coaching change yet — but says everything could be on the table if 0-2 turns into 0-5, starting with two brutal home games against Minnesota and Green Bay before a short week in Dallas.On a much brighter note, the Rays keep rolling — a walk-off from Palacios and another Yankees loss have the magic number down to two, meaning one win in New York will clinch the AL East. The Lightning opened their preseason with a win over Nashville, with an eye-catching, visibly slimmed-down Victor Hedman. They close with a look back at the weekend's college football, including Florida's statement win at Auburn and a wild LSU-Ole Miss shootout that ended in an emotional loss for Lane Kiffin.Segments:Bucs fall to 0-2 with a home loss to Cleveland: turnovers, a stagnant offense, and a defense that can't get off the fieldDeshaun Watson outplays Baker Mayfield; questions mount about Mayfield's $165M extensionReuben Bain Jr.'s vanishing act and the Bucs' pass-rush strugglesLocker room mood, new media restrictions, and whether a coaching change is realisticWhat's ahead: brutal upcoming schedule (Vikings, Packers, Cowboys)Good news: Rays' magic number down to two after a walk-off win; Lightning's preseason openerWeekend college football recap: Florida upsets Auburn, LSU-Ole Miss thrillerSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick preview Sunday's Bucs home opener against Cleveland, and Rick doesn't hold back: this is a game the Buccaneers should win comfortably against a young, still-finding-itself Browns team under first-year head coach Todd Monken. They dig into Monken's history with Baker Mayfield in Cleveland, why last week's four fumbles (not interceptions) have to be cleaned up, and how a broken communicator in Baker's helmet contributed to the Week 1 mess. Rick's bottom line: turnovers are the only thing that beats the Bucs in this one.Then it's all Rays, and there's a lot to celebrate. Tampa Bay swept the Sacramento A's to push their winning streak to six, trimming the magic number over the Yankees to single digits with a five-game division lead and just ten to play. Drew Rasmussen picked up his 15th win a day after Nick Martinez got his — both with ERAs under three, an eye-popping stat line for one rotation. The Chandler Simpson-versus-Jordan Alvarez batting title race is a game-to-game swing, Taylor Walls is back and delivering in clutch spots, and the guys openly wonder whether a 100-win, historically great Rays regular season could still hit a wall against better postseason pitching. They close with a look at the weekend's college football, headlined by LSU-Ole Miss, Florida at Auburn, and USF hosting Delaware State.Segments:Bucs-Browns preview: why Tampa Bay should win big, turnovers as the only threat, Monken's Baker Mayfield historyRays sweep the A's, six-game win streak, shrinking magic number over the YankeesRasmussen and Martinez both notch win No. 15; the case for AL Cy Young supportSimpson vs. Alvarez batting race and whether the Rays' offense holds up in OctoberTaylor Walls back and contributing; lineup depth beyond CamineroCollege football weekend preview: LSU-Ole Miss, Florida-Auburn, USF-Delaware StateSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick open with the Rays' magic number dropping to seven to clinch the AL East over the Yankees, then dig into Baker Mayfield's much-hyped return to Cleveland — the viral moment of Baker walking into his press conference in Michigan gear (repping Troy Bowles after Oklahoma's loss) and the tangled history between Baker, the Browns, and new Bucs OC Todd Monken. They also revisit Alex Anzalone's rough Week 1 and Josiah Trotter's historic NFL debut before turning to the Rays' 4-3 win over the A's, Nick Martinez's under-the-radar Cy Young-caliber season, and the never-ending Caminero-vs-Alvarez AL MVP debate, with Chandler Simpson now leading the league in batting average.The back half is a deep-dive interview with Tampa Bay Times Lightning writer Eduardo Encina on media day: the uneasy state of Nikita Kucherov's contract talks (and why the new CBA's seven-year max complicates things), Victor Hedman's dramatic offseason transformation after a brutal, injury-and-anxiety-plagued year, injury news on Yanni Gourde and Dominic James, Brandon Hagel's case as a future captain, and what really derailed Braden Point's production last season — plus his summer skill-building sessions with Kucherov. They close with a look at the weekend ahead: Bucs prep for Cleveland, and a loaded college football slate led by LSU-Ole Miss, Florida-Auburn, and USF hosting Delaware State.Segments:Rays' magic number at 7; Nick Martinez's quiet ace-caliber seasonBaker Mayfield's emotional return to Cleveland, Bucs' Week 1 fallout (Anzalone, Trotter)Chandler Simpson's batting title chase and the Caminero/Alvarez MVP debateEduardo Encina interview: Kucherov contract standoff, Victor Hedman's comeback, Gourde/James injuries, Brandon Hagel's leadership, Braden Point's bounce-back planWeekend preview: Bucs vs. Browns, LSU-Ole Miss, Florida-Auburn, USF footballSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Junior Caminero does it again. Rick and Steve open with last night's walk-off thriller — Caminero's second walk-off homer in four games, this one a 100-mph fastball flicked out to right field to beat the A's. That kicks off a full-throated MVP case for Caminero over Houston's Jordan Alvarez, and a look at how the surging Rays stack up historically, including a shot at 100 wins and the payoff of finishing first in the AL East rather than fighting through the wild-card round.From there, the guys turn to Chandler Simpson's breakout season — the speed-and-contact game that separates him from burner busts like Billy Hamilton — before shifting to football. The Bucs' loss to the Bengals gets a second look through a fan mailbag: listener Bob's blistering critique of rookie edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.'s rough debut prompts a discussion of tough NFL matchups, Todd Bowles' rare public criticism, and why nobody should be written off after one game (see: Ronde Barber, Warren Sapp).The back half previews Lightning training camp, kicking off today with media day. Steve and Rick preview what to watch for — Nikita Kucherov entering the final year of his deal, Brayden Point's bounce-back summer, and the open questions on the blue line and power-play personnel ahead of the October 1st season opener.Segments:Junior Caminero's walk-off heroics and the case for AL MVPRays' playoff math, magic number, and why winning the division mattersChandler Simpson's unexpected All-Star-caliber yearMailbag: fallout from the Bucs' loss to Cincinnati, Reuben Bain Jr.'s debutLightning training camp preview: Kucherov's contract, Point's reset, D-pairing questionsSponsor: Breitling Boutique, International Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The stat that should worry Bucs fans: Baker Mayfield has fumbled the ball 35 times since 2023 — more than any quarterback in football.A day after Tampa Bay's turnover-plagued loss to Cincinnati, Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick dig deeper into what went wrong and why it's not just a one-week problem. Todd Bowles blitzed on more than 40% of snaps — the third-highest rate in the league — and still generated almost no pressure on Joe Burrow outside of rookie Josiah Trotter's historic sack-and-pick-six. Rick breaks down a bizarre blown defensive alignment late in the first half that left the entire middle of the field open and let Burrow scramble 12 yards untouched, and explains why Alex Anzalone's rough debut — slow, out of position, exploited over the middle by Cincinnati's tight end — has him wondering if Detroit knew something by letting him walk. They also weigh whether Baker's competitiveness and refusal to "play boring" is now a real liability worth $165 million, and look at how much of Sunday's 33-27 result actually came down to two backbreaking fumbles worth a 14-point swing.Then it's on to a wide-open NFC South and NFL Week 1 chaos around the league, before previewing Sunday's home opener against Cleveland — where Deshaun Watson, not Shedeur Sanders, looks likely to start against a Bucs team Todd Monken knows well. Plus a Rays mailbag: their magic number is down to 10 with six home games left, and Rick and Steve debate why national experts still see the Yankees, not Tampa Bay, as the AL's team to beat.In this episode:Baker Mayfield's fumble problem, by the numbers: 35 since 2023The blown coverage that let Joe Burrow scramble 12 yards untouchedWhy Alex Anzalone's rough debut has Rick asking hard questionsTodd Bowles' blitz rate vs. the Bucs' near-zero pass rushBucs-Browns preview: why Deshaun Watson is expected to start for ClevelandRays mailbag: magic number at 10, and the case for Tampa Bay over the YankeesSend your mailbag questions to @SportsDayTB on X or email rstroud@tampabay.com. And get on down to Breitling Boutique at International Plaza — mention Sports Day Tampa Bay when you go.#TampaBayBucs #BakerMayfield #TampaBayRays #NFL #MLB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Four turnovers, three by Baker Mayfield, and the Bucs handed Cincinnati a game they had no business winning.Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down a brutal season-opening 33-27 loss in which Baker Mayfield lost three fumbles for the first time in his career — including one stripped into the end zone for a touchback and another where he held the ball nearly five seconds before getting sacked and stripped, despite left tackle Tristan Wirfs blocking his man 11 yards deep in the backfield. Add in a lost fumble from Bucky Irving, and Tampa Bay finished with four turnovers in a game Joe Burrow himself admitted should have been a blowout. Rick explains why this fits an uncomfortable pattern in Baker's career, contrasts it with Tom Brady's turnover-averse style, and breaks down why the defense — outside of rookie linebacker Josiah Trotter's historic debut (10 tackles, a sack, and a 34-yard pick-six, the first player ever to record a sack and a pick-six in his first NFL game) — couldn't get off the field when it mattered, with Alex Anzalone struggling badly and the pass rush managing just two combined tackles from Rueben Bain Jr. and Yaya Diaby.Rick and Steve also point to real bright spots — Chris Godwin's fresh legs, Emeka Egbuka's early looks before Cincinnati adjusted, and Ted Hurst's late-game flashes — and explain why "week one is a liar" before looking ahead to a desperate Browns team on Sunday. Then some much better news: the Rays clinched a playoff spot behind Junior Caminero's walk-off 40th home run, becoming the first team in MLB to punch its postseason ticket. Plus USF's wild last-second win over Army and the Ohio State-Texas classic.In this episode:Baker Mayfield's three fumbles and the Bucs' four total turnovers in the 33-27 lossThe Tristan Wirfs sack that shouldn't have happened, explainedJosiah Trotter's historic debut: a sack and a pick-six in his first NFL gameWhy Alex Anzalone and the Bucs' pass rush struggled to make an impact"Week one is a liar": what to actually take from the lossLooking ahead to Sunday's game against the BrownsRays clinch a playoff spot on Junior Caminero's walk-off 40th homerUSF's last-second win over Army and the Ohio State-Texas thrillerSend your mailbag questions to @SportsDayTB on X or email rstroud@tampabay.com. And get on down to Breitling Boutique at International Plaza — mention Sports Day Tampa Bay when you go.#TampaBayBucs #BakerMayfield #Bengals #TampaBayRays #NFL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud breaks down every angle of Sunday's opener in Cincinnati — and whether Tampa Bay's overhauled defense is ready for one of the NFL's most explosive passing attacks.Rick and Steve Versnick dig into the Bucs' offseason defensive makeover — A'Shawn Robinson, Al-Quadin Muhammad, rookie Reuben Bain Jr. and first-year starter Josiah Trotter — and weigh it against a Bengals offense built around Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, a trio that's been playing pitch-and-catch since their LSU days. The verdict: the Bucs' interior run defense with Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey should hold up, but a thin cornerback room behind Zyon McCollum and Jacob Parrish is the matchup to watch if the pass rush doesn't get home. They also revisit the "week one is a liar" theory — last year's Bucs started 6-2 before collapsing down the stretch — before Rick offers a bold score prediction for Sunday's 1 p.m. kickoff.Before that, they break down Mike Evans' electric Niners debut in Australia (a highlight-reel fade-route touchdown) in a lopsided win over the Rams, and what it means for a loaded NFC West. Then it's over to the Rays, who open a home series against Houston with a chance to clinch a playoff berth — potentially the first team in MLB to do so this year, and their first postseason trip in three years. Plus a look ahead to Saturday night's Ohio State-Texas showdown, and a special tribute to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11.In this episode:Bucs-Bengals Week 1 preview: can Tampa Bay's new-look defense contain Burrow, Chase and Higgins?Why the Bucs' cornerback depth is the matchup to watchRick's score prediction for Sunday's opener in CincinnatiMike Evans' big 49ers debut in Australia, and the loaded NFC WestRays open a homestand with a chance to clinch a playoff spot — first in MLB this yearKevin Cash's case for AL Manager of the YearOhio State at Texas: Saturday night's marquee college football matchupRemembering 9/11, twenty-five years laterSend your mailbag questions to @SportsDayTB on X or email rstroud@tampabay.com. And get on down to Breitling Boutique at International Plaza — mention Sports Day Tampa Bay when you go.#TampaBayBucs #BengalsBucs #JoeBurrow #TampaBayRays #NFL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baker Mayfield's new deal came together in about 48 hours — and he found out while he was at the movies with his kids.Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick go behind the scenes of how the Bucs and Baker Mayfield actually got the extension done: a Monday-night dinner text, a Tuesday call during a family trip to see Cars, and a deal that landed him in a three-way tie for third among NFL quarterbacks in average annual salary. They explain why there was never real animosity between Baker and GM Jason Light despite the "disrespectful" comments, why the Bucs' patience (the same approach that got Vita Vea signed) paid off, and why Baker's entire starting offensive line showed up to his press conference (Ben Bredesen's verdict: "phenomenal leader, phenomenal teammate"). They also use the NFL's chaotic opening night — Sam Darnold going down early for Seattle — to explain exactly what's riding on Tampa Bay's quarterback depth chart if Baker ever goes down behind him.Then it's over to the Rays, winners again in Atlanta (7-2) behind a dominant Griffin Jax outing, holding their four-game lead over the Yankees with the magic number down to 14. Rick and Steve break down why the Rays' remaining schedule is brutal compared to New York's, then dig into a mailbag question on why Chandler Simpson — hitting .300-plus with 41 steals against just 46 strikeouts, on a homecoming week in his native Atlanta — isn't getting more MVP buzz next to teammate Junior Caminero. Plus: the NFL's wild Wednesday-night opener (Drake Maye's three picks, Drew Lock's relief heroics), remembering former Lightning coach Barry Melrose, and why you should circle October 8th on your calendar for a potential four-sport Tampa Bay night.In this episode:How Baker Mayfield's $165M extension actually came together — in 48 hours, at a movie theaterWhy the entire Bucs offensive line showed up to his press conferenceThe QB depth chart: Jalen Daniels vs. Easton Stick if Baker goes downRays win again in Atlanta: Griffin Jax dazzles, magic number drops to 14Chandler Simpson's historic season and the Rays' MVP debate (mailbag)NFL opening night chaos: Sam Darnold's injury and Drake Maye's rough debutRemembering former Lightning coach Barry MelroseWhy October 8th could be a four-sport night in Tampa BaySend your mailbag questions to @SportsDayTB on X or email rstroud@tampabay.com. And get on down to Breitling Boutique at International Plaza — mention Sports Day Tampa Bay when you go.#TampaBayBucs #BakerMayfield #TampaBayRays #MLB #NFL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baker Mayfield just got paid — Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down every angle of his stunning new deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.Five days before kickoff in Cincinnati, the quarterback who swore he was done negotiating got a call from the Bucs' front office and agreed to a three-year, $165 million extension through 2029 that lands him right in the Stafford-Lawrence-Allen tier of starting quarterbacks. Rick and Steve unpack how the deal is structured, why cooler heads prevailed after Baker's training-camp "disrespectful offer" comments, and why the real pressure starts now — Baker has just one playoff win as a Buc, and it's time for the wins to start piling up if he wants to be remembered for more than the paycheck.Then it's over to the Rays, who took game one in Atlanta 7-1 behind a strong start from Freddy Peralta and a monster night from the lineup: Junior Caminero's AL-leading 39th home run (in his literal hometown), Chandler Simpson's 40th stolen base, and homers from Yandy Diaz, Richie Palacios and Liam Hicks. Tampa Bay's magic number is down to 15 with an 18-games to play with a four-game lead over the Yankees, even as Taylor Walls heads to the IL. Plus: the NFL season finally kicks off tonight with a rematch of last year's Super Bowl, LSU's wild standoff with the SEC over roster rules, and Jameis Winston's new (and very self-aware) commercial.In this episode:Baker Mayfield's 3-year, $165M extension — deal structure, market comparisons, and what it means going forwardWhy Rick says the winning has to start now for BakerRays 7-1 win over the Braves: Caminero's homecoming homer, Simpson's 40-steal milestone, Peralta's hot streakTampa Bay's magic number, AL East lead, and where the Rays rank across MLBTaylor Walls to the IL, and how the Jorge Mateo pickup is paying offNFL Kickoff Night: Patriots-Seahawks previewLSU vs. the SEC: fallout from a wild roster showdownJameis Winston's DoorDash ad and his broadcasting future#TampaBayBucs #BakerMayfield #TampaBayRays #NFL #MLB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's finally NFL Week 1. Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick preview Sunday's Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Cincinnati Bengals showdown, breaking down the injury news on Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan, why new captain Alex Anzalone and the retooled Buccaneers defense face their toughest test yet against Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, and what rookie corner Jacob Parrish said about drawing one of the NFL's best receiver duos in his first career start. Plus, full breakdown of the Buccaneers' NFC South odds and why Rick still has Tampa Bay as the team to beat over New Orleans, Atlanta, and Carolina.Also in this episode: the wild controversy behind Michigan's disputed clock-management win over Western Michigan, Lane Kiffin's leaked halftime rant in LSU's blowout of Clemson, season-opening wins for Florida and USF under new coach Brian Hartline, and the Tampa Bay Rays end their 10-game losing streak in Texas plus Aaron Judge returns to the Yankees lineup down the stretch.Subscribe for daily Tampa Bay Buccaneers news, Rays coverage, and NFL and college football analysis from Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times and Steve Versnick.Topics covered in this episode:Buccaneers vs Bengals Week 1 preview and predictionEmeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan injury updateJacob Parrish and Yaya Diaby interviews from One Buc PlaceJoe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins scouting reportAlex Anzalone named team captainTampa Bay Buccaneers NFC South odds and predictionsMichigan vs Western Michigan controversial finishLane Kiffin, LSU rout Clemson, leaked halftime speechFlorida football and USF Week 1 recapsTampa Bay Rays update: Texas Rangers series, Aaron Judge returns for Yankees, 4-game lead with 19 to play#Buccaneers #TampaBayBuccaneers #Bengals #JoeBurrow #NFL #TampaBayRays #CollegeFootball #SportsDayTampaBay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baker Mayfield opens up to Rick Stroud about why he shut down contract talks during Training Camp, and more importantly, why he believes this Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster finally has the "killer instinct" that's been missing. Rick and Steve break down how veteran additions like A'Shawn Robinson and Rakeem Nunez-Roches have reset the locker room's attitude, why Baker — the ultimate underdog — is feeding off a roster full of players with chips on their shoulders, and whether that edge can actually fix a team that blew too many fourth-quarter leads a year ago.The guys also preview a wide-open NFC South, break down why the Cincinnati Bengals are a brutal Week 1 test for a suspect Bucs secondary, and look ahead to next week's can't-miss interviews with Mayfield and Todd Bowles. Plus: Greg Schiano's stunning loss to UMass at Rutgers, Alex Golesh catching heat for trashing USF on his way out the door to Auburn, a loaded college football weekend, and the Rays' rough start to a road trip in Texas as the AL East race tightens down the stretch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Todd Bowles dropped a surprise answer this week when asked what the deepest position on the Buccaneers roster is — and it wasn't the offensive line, the edge rush, or a wide receiver room that's six or seven deep. Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick dig into why Bowles named inside linebacker, break down the additions of Josiah Trotter, Alex Anzalone and a recovering Christian Roseboom, and debate whether that's really the strength Bowles says it is or just coach-speak aimed at the locker room.From there, the guys take a hard look at the receiver room in the wake of Mike Evans' departure — is Emeka Egbuka ready to be a true No. 1, what does a banged-up Egbuka and Jalen McMillan mean for Week 1 in Cincinnati, and why rookie Tez Johnson and Georgia State product Ted Hurst could be the X-factors who decide how explosive this passing game really is. Plus: the case for why the Bucs' defense — not the offense — might be the most improved unit on the team heading into the opener.Rick and Steve also touch on the wild logistics of the 49ers-Rams game in Australia, recap the Rays' rough series loss to the Mets and where the rotation stands heading into the stretch run, and look ahead to a loaded weekend of college football with LSU-Clemson headlining the return of GameDay. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick recap today's media avail with Bucs GM Jason Light, who revealed the call to make Jalen Daniels the number two quarterback was essentially made before he ever took a preseason snap — how quickly he absorbed the offense in practice sealed it, and his comeback wins over the Jets and Chiefs only confirmed it. Rick and Steve dig into just how rare, and risky, this is: undrafted rookie quarterbacks have started only 0.5% of possible games over the last decade, going a combined 10-19, and the move says as much about how unimpressed the Bucs were with the still-unsigned Jake Browning as it does about their faith in Daniels. They also cover the day's brutal roster churn — undrafted linebacker Caden Fordham made the 53, then was released hours later to open a spot for cornerback Kevin Knowles (claimed off waivers from the Chiefs), while pass rusher Jack Pyron, who'd racked up two sacks in the preseason finale alone and looked like their best defensive standout in camp, got scooped up by Kansas City. Plus, Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan sat out a bonus practice (nothing to worry about, per the team), and Rick previews a potential shootout at Cincinnati against Joe Burrow, teasing — again — the "weaker than you'd think" position group he'll finally reveal tomorrow.Then the Rays cruised past the Mets behind a strong start from Freddy Peralta, who shook off a leadoff homer to his old team's Francisco Lindor and settled in from there, allowing just two more hits. Tampa Bay's offense keeps rolling — Yandy Diaz, Chandler Simpson, Junior Caminero and Jonathan Aranda all sit among the AL's top nine hitters, and the Rays' team batting average leads all of baseball, four points better than the Dodgers and 11 points better than the next-closest AL club. Their magic number is down to 11 for a playoff spot and 20 to clinch the AL East, with the Yankees lead sitting around four and a half to five and a half games depending on how New York's late West Coast game with the newly-sold Angels shakes out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down the newly finalized Buccaneers practice squad, headlined by two familiar-feeling additions. Veteran quarterback Easton Stick — turning 31 on September 15 — joins as Jalon Daniels' new mentor and emergency QB3, reuniting him with offensive coordinator Zach Robinson, who worked him out as a pre-draft coach back when Stick was piling up a 49-3 record and four national championships at North Dakota State. Rick explains why the Bucs wanted a steady veteran voice in the quarterback room over another developmental arm, and why Stick — who's barely played in six NFL seasons behind Justin Herbert and later with Robinson in Atlanta — won out over re-signing Connor Bazelak. They also welcome back cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting, a key piece of the 2020 Super Bowl run (three postseason interceptions, including a momentum-swinging one in Green Bay), who brings much-needed experience to a young, thin secondary. Rick runs down the rest of the practice squad additions before previewing the two-week runway to the opener at Cincinnati, teasing — but not yet revealing — an area he thinks the Bucs could unexpectedly struggle.Then it's over to the Rays, whose wild week came back to earth with a 3-2 loss to the Mets Monday night, stranding the tying and go-ahead runs late. Rick and Steve also revisit the controversial catch-that-wasn't-quite-a-catch from the Padres series over the weekend, still unable to find a rule that explains how a ball secured in the glove for two steps became a home run when it popped out at the wall. Tampa Bay's lead over the Yankees is down to four games with 25 left to play, and they set up tonight's rematch with Freddy Peralta getting a shot at revenge against the Mets team that drafted and developed him. Plus, Aaron Donald's stunning $20 million comeback with the Rams, and an early look at the Lightning's revamped roster ahead of training camp. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick dig into one of the more improbable quarterback stories in franchise history: undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels beating out Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak to become Baker Mayfield's backup. Rick traces just how rare this is — the last rookie the Bucs handed the QB2 job to was Mike Glennon back in 2013 — and walks through how a three-star recruit out of Kansas who went undrafted turned heads in joint practices against the Jets and Chiefs, then got an extended (and rocky) look against Jacksonville's twos and threes before locking down the job anyway. They debate what the call says about Browning, whether the coaching staff may have stumbled onto Baker Mayfield's eventual successor given how similar their games are, and run through the rest of the roster cuts — including Chris Braswell's release and moves along both lines — before previewing the two-week runway to the season opener at Cincinnati.Then it's over to the Rays, who somehow won two of the strangest games of their season against the Padres — a shortstop's non-contact knee injury on an errant throw home that flipped one game, and a bizarre would-be series-ending catch-and-drop in left field that got ruled a home run and reignited the "what actually is a catch" debate — before pulling out the extra-innings finale on a Liam Hicks throw that nailed a runner at third. The sweep pushes Tampa Bay to 82-54, four and a half games up on the Yankees. Rick and Steve also dig into the latest on the Rays' "forever home": with Tampa City Council and Hillsborough County's approval in hand, the next steps are bond filings (30 to 90 days) and prepping Hillsborough Community College for portable classrooms, plus why this ownership group's commitment to staying in Tampa feels different than the Stu Sternberg era ever did. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Rays' new stadium deal cleared its first hurdle as Tampa City Council approved the agreement 4-3, with Bill Carlson's swing vote sealing it after he used his leverage back in May to force a better deal for the city. Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down what changed, why the sales tax funding got scrapped in favor of an $80 million city loan, and why today's Hillsborough County Commission vote is the real one that could put shovels in the ground within a month. They also marvel at the season the Rays are having — four games up on the Yankees, six up on Boston, with a playoff rotation of McClanahan, Martinez and Rasmussen taking shape — as new ownership tries to close the deal on a new ballpark in the same year they might win the AL East.On the Bucs, Rick previews tonight's preseason finale in Jacksonville with the QB2 competition still very much unresolved — Jalon Daniels got the bulk of the ones-and-twos work again this week, and Rick makes the case for why the rookie should start the game and get every rep he can. They also run through position battles heating up ahead of Monday's roster cutdown, including outside linebacker, offensive line depth, and the cornerback picture, and answer mailbag questions on Chris Braswell's disappointing camp and the early scouting buzz that first tipped Rick off to Jalon Daniels. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reporting from Jacksonville, Rick Stroud relays the scary moment nobody around the Bucs wanted to see — Rueben Bain Jr. missing practice with a sprained AC joint, though Rick notes the lack of any real treatment on the field is a good sign he'll be ready for Cincinnati. Rick and Steve also dig into an eyebrow-raising development at quarterback: with Baker Mayfield and Trevor Lawrence getting the bulk of the joint-practice reps, it was Jalon Daniels — not veteran Jake Browning — taking the number two snaps, and Rick walks back some of his own skepticism about whether the undrafted rookie has already locked down the backup job. Plus, Tristan Wirfs is back in pads and looking like himself, which both hosts agree makes him the best player on the roster.They also break down the massive stadium news on deck — Tampa's city council voting today and Hillsborough County following Friday on the Rays' new ballpark — along with a tour of Jacksonville's chaotic, crane-filled Everbank Stadium construction site ahead of the season opener there. On the field, Freddy Peralta was brilliant in a two-hit shutout as the Rays took two of three from Detroit, and Rick and Steve close with reaction to the Jed York police bodycam video. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud reports live from Jacksonville after a joint practice the Bucs would rather forget — Baker Mayfield admitted afterward that "if this was a full game, I don't think we would have come out on the winning side," and Chris Godwin, in his tenth year, called out the team for getting out-physicaled by Liam Cohen's Jaguars. Rick and Steve break down what went wrong, why a wake-up call now beats one in Cincinnati, and the real bright spots buried in a rough day: Tristan Wirfs back in full pads and moving well, Rueben Bain Jr. continuing to wreck practice reps, and Benjamin Morrison finally getting through a complete practice for the first time in ages. They also preview Friday's preseason finale against the Jaguars and the roster crunch coming this weekend as the Bucs cut from 90 to 53.On the Rays, Tampa Bay's AL East remains at 3.5 games after a 4-1 loss to Detroit, with Rick and Steve digging into the tiebreaker math that still favors the Rays down the stretch, a remarkable stat line from an opposing starter who didn't get a single swing-and-miss in over 80 pitches against Tampa Bay's contact-heavy lineup, and what the Rays need from their rotation to hold on. They close with a tribute to Dolly Parton, who died at 80. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reporting live from Jacksonville ahead of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' joint practices with the Jaguars, Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick recap the shaky tackle depth behind Baker Mayfield in the preseason opener and preview what to watch as the Bucs get real practice reps against Liam Cohen's similarly-schemed offense. They dig back into the Jalon Daniels debate — why his string of strong preseason relief outings still shouldn't make him QB2 over veteran Jake Browning — and break down the wild news out of Cleveland, where Todd Monken named Deshaun Watson the Week 1 starter over Shedeur Sanders, setting up a loaded Week 2 matchup when the Browns visit Tampa Bay and Baker Mayfield faces the quarterback who effectively pushed him out of Cleveland. Rick also weighs in on the arrest of 49ers owner Jed York and what it means for accountability at the ownership level.On the Rays, Drew Rasmussen and Nick Martinez keep building Cy Young cases with back-to-back dominant starts, and closer Bryan Baker pushed his save total to 38 as Tampa Bay knocked off Detroit behind some old-school, back-to-back bunt small ball. At 78-53, the Rays have already topped last year's win total with 31 games still to play. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down the Bucs' 16-15 preseason win over Kansas City, where Baker Mayfield's night was cut short behind a patchwork offensive line missing three of its top four tackles, but the starting defense — even without Vita Vea — flashed real teeth, with Rueben Bain Jr. terrorizing the pocket and Anthony Nelson turning in a monster first half. Once again it was Jalon Daniels rallying the offense late, and Rick and Steve debate whether the rookie has already played his way onto the 53-man roster and turned the Bucs into an unlikely three-quarterback team. They also dig into the wave of players testing a new court ruling that allows a return to college eligibility — Jack Pyburn's situation, plus the wild story of the Browns releasing tight ends who got calls from Lane Kiffin — and preview this week's joint practices with Liam Cohen's Jaguars in Jacksonville.On the Rays, Nick Martinez was brilliant — six innings, one hit — in a 3-1 win over Baltimore that snapped a three-game skid and avoided a fourth straight series loss to the Orioles. Rick and Steve talk about what's behind the second-half stumble in the pitching staff, and why holding onto the AL East lead down the stretch matters as much for the bye it could buy as anything else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down Vita Vea's first comments since signing his new two-year, $48 million deal, where he insisted he never wanted to leave Tampa Bay, called himself a "Buc for life," and went out of his way to defend Todd Bowles from criticism — saying he'll retire the day Bowles does. Rick explains why the tape backed that up all along: Vea was smiling, coaching up teammates, and never acted like a guy trying to get out of town. They also preview Saturday's home preseason game against Kansas City, where the Bucs starters are finally expected to play meaningful snaps, with word on Baker Mayfield, the offensive operation under new play-caller Zach Robinson, and a standout practice from Ted Hurst.On the Rays, Rick and Steve dig into a rough homestand that's seen Tampa Bay go 2-5 since its franchise-best nine-game road winning streak, with the pitching staff hitting a wall and giving up too many two-strike hits. They also answer a listener mailbag question on Chandler Simpson, whose under-the-radar breakout season — second in the AL in batting average, elite bat-to-ball skills, and dramatically improved defense — has both hosts admitting they didn't see coming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down the Vita Vea saga finally reaching a resolution — a reworked deal that tacks on $30 million in new money, bumping this year to $24 million and adding a 2027 season at the same number, for $48 million total over two years. They dig into why this was always the likely outcome despite the trade rumblings, what it means for a front seven that could now be one of the league's best, and the obvious next question: does this open the door for a Baker Mayfield extension? Rick shares new detail from his conversation with Mayfield on why the QB set his own negotiation deadline, and breaks down where the Bucs and Baker's camp are still apart on years and guarantees. Plus, an odd wrinkle in training camp: undrafted rookie Jack Pryburn, who had two sacks in the preseason opener, now has the option to return to college for another year of eligibility under a new court ruling — Rick and Steve weigh whether an NFL practice squad spot beats a shot at boosting his draft stock back in school.On the Rays, Tampa Bay held off a late Toronto push for a 7-6 win, with Yandy Diaz going deep again and Bryan Baker working through his own hot streak in the ninth — even as the pitching staff keeps taking its lumps in the late-August grind. And with hockey on the mind, Steve notes the Lightning's first preseason game is exactly a month away, kicking off a discussion of roster questions up and down the lineup heading into training camp. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud shares highlights from his sit-down with Baker Mayfield, where the quarterback opened up about healing — physically, after a brutal string of injuries that battered his body last season, and personally, after reconnecting with his father and brother following a painful family financial dispute that had fractured their relationship for years. Baker also explains why he set his own contract negotiation deadline, insisting it was never about him but about freeing his teammates from having to answer questions about his future all season. Rick and Steve also break down a jaw-dropping solo workout from rookie Rueben Bain Jr., caught on video pounding a tackling sled by himself for the better part of an hour after practice — a glimpse at the work ethic that has the Bucs believing they found a steal. Plus, a preview of Saturday's game against Kansas City, where the Bucs starters are expected to see the field for the first time this preseason, with word on snap counts, who's likely to play, and who's still working back from injury.Then it's over to the Rays, who put together an odd stat line in a loss to the Blue Jays — 13 hits, and every single one of them a single, in a game with zero extra-base knocks. Rick and Steve dig into the power outage, a rough week for the pitching staff, and what it'll take to get the homestand back on track. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down a wild 7-6 win over the Orioles that snapped the Rays' three-game skid and avoided a home sweep — a slugfest that saw Coby Mayo crush one of the longest home runs in Tropicana Field Statcast history off a returning Shane McClanahan, who battled back on a strict pitch count in his first start off the IL. The Rays answered with home runs of their own, including Jorge Mateo's first as a Ray and one from Yandy Diaz, and closer Bryan Baker logged a rare five-out save to lock it down. With the win, Tampa Bay pushes its AL East lead to six games at 75-49 as the Blue Jays roll into the Trop for a three-game series.On the Bucs side, Rick and Steve recap a scorching first day back at practice, with Emeka Egbuka still walking around in a boot on his injured toe and Jalen McMillan nursing a knee issue — leaving a thin receiver room ahead of Saturday's home preseason game against Kansas City, the Bucs' only preseason game at Raymond James Stadium. They discuss how much action Baker Mayfield and the starters might actually see, the ongoing Jalon Daniels quarterback battle and roster math at backup QB, and where things stand with Vita Vea's holdout as the Bucs look ahead to Cincinnati in the season opener. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down the Tampa Bay Buccaneers preseason opener in New York, where Tampa Bay held out its starters and let backup QB Jaylen Daniels take over in the 2nd half — and he delivered, going 10-for-15 for 111 yards with a rushing touchdown while engineering a pair of comeback scoring drives. The guys explain why Todd Bowles kept Baker Mayfield and the first team out of the game (joint practices with the Jets did most of the work, and that brutal MetLife Stadium turf didn't help), then spotlight the standouts: rookie safety Ayden Garnes' pick-six, corner Damarion Williams' 11-tackle night, and Elijah Roberts flashing as a run-stopper. They also flag a rocky special teams debut for new coordinator Danny Smith, give an update on Emeka Egbuka's turf toe, and preview Saturday's home game against Kansas City — the one preseason tilt with no joint practices, meaning the real starters should finally see the field. Plus, Rick and Steve dig into where things stand on a Vita Vea extension and Baker Mayfield's new contract.Then it's over to the Rays, who followed a nine-game road winning streak by dropping three straight to the Orioles at home, blowing bullpen leads in excruciating fashion all weekend. Shane McClanahan is activated tonight as Tampa Bay looks to salvage the finale and avoid the sweep before a road trip back to Baltimore. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick preview the Buccaneers' preseason opener against the Jets at MetLife Stadium, breaking down who's likely to play and who's held out. Expect several key veterans to sit (Baker Mayfield, Chris Godwin, and Tristan Wirfs among them), while rookies and young players trying to make a mark get extended run — first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr., backup QB Jalon Daniels, undrafted corner Ayden Garnes, edge rusher David Walker returning from a torn ACL, and running back Josh Williams. Rick shares what it meant to Garnes and Daniels to finally take the field in the NFL.Then it's mailbag time. Rick and Steve field listener questions on how long teammates will stay patient with Vita Vea's contract holdout, the Bucs' biggest weakness heading into the season (hint: it's cornerback depth), Rick's most memorable preseason game after decades on the beat (a trip to Tokyo for the 2002 American Bowl), whether the Rays are a lock to win the AL East, whether a title run helps secure stadium funding, and which Tampa Bay team — Bucs, Bolts, or Rays — is most likely to bring home the next championship.Plus a look ahead: the Rays return home from a 9-0 road trip to host the Orioles in a four-game series this weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick break down a strong finish for the Buccaneers in their second joint practice against the Jets, highlighted by an efficient Baker Mayfield, a two-minute drill touchdown to Cade Otten, and a defense that shut the door when it mattered. Rookies Ted Hurst and cornerback Ayden Garnes flash in big moments, while the guys also discuss the scary injury scare to Emeka Egbuka's toe and what it could mean for Tampa Bay's receiving corps heading into preseason play. They also preview Friday's preseason opener against the Jets and who's likely to sit.Then it's over to baseball, where the red-hot Rays just completed a historic 9-0 West Coast road trip — one of only two times in MLB history an East Coast team has swept a nine-game West Coast trip. Rick and Steve dig into Tampa Bay's spot atop the American League, Junior Caminero's chase for the home run title, new addition Jorge Mateo, Nick Martinez's complete-game gem, and why this Rays squad might be one of the most fun — and best — in franchise history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bucs-Jets Joint Practice Turns ChaoticRick Stroud recaps a joint practice between the Buccaneers and Jets that devolved into roughly six bench-clearing fights. The flashpoint: linebacker Luke Goedeke, who had been jawing with Jets rookie first-rounder David Bailey, appeared to take a cheap shot from another player and responded by ripping a helmet off an opponent's head and hurling it 15-20 yards downfield — an act Stroud says would draw an ejection and 15-yard penalty in a real game. Stroud expresses frustration that officials on hand didn't remove him, and that head coach Todd Bowles said he didn't personally witness the incident. Stroud draws a contrast to the Tony Dungy era, recalling how Dungy once sent Hardy Nickerson off the practice field for fighting. Despite the chaos, both hosts agree the underlying competitiveness was a positive sign, and note that team leaders eventually stepped in to calm things down. They expect calmer emotions at the next joint session, with coaches likely warning players against retaliatory penalties.Offensive Line Concerns Without WirfsWith All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs still out, Stroud says the drop-off is stark. He references last season's five-game stretch without Wirfs as evidence of how much the offense suffers. Elsewhere, the offense looked mixed — Bucky Irving ran well, Baker Mayfield mixed strong and shaky throws — while the defense dominated, generating multiple takeaways including a pick-six from Anzalone. Rookie Josiah Trotter continues to impress Stroud, who calls him a future star and pairs him with Rueben Bain Jr., as a young defensive foundation. Geno Smith struggled throughout for the Jets.Backup QB Injury ConcernsJake Browning, penciled in to start the preseason opener with Mayfield sitting out, tweaked his back late in practice and may not play, thrusting Connor Bazelak and Jalen Daniels into bigger preseason roles. Stroud is intrigued by Daniels' "quick-twitch" playmaking ability.Rays Riding Hot StreakShifting to baseball, the hosts marvel at the Rays' dominant road trip (up 12-2 in a game against Oakland as they record), including a Taylor Walls two-homer game and Junior Caminero's continued MVP-caliber season (tied for MLB home run lead). They discuss Caminero's uncertain contract timeline given the pending stadium situation, ownership change, and new CBA negotiations (including a possible five-year max-contract rule), and praise trade-deadline pickups Victor Mesa Jr. and improved outfield defense. Both hosts declare themselves believers in a Rays World Series run given their commanding AL lead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on the Buccaneers preparing to hold joint practices with the New York Jets today and tomorrow. Vita Vea is with the team, who will play this Friday night in the first preseason game and what to expect from the workouts. Plus we answer your mailbag questions on Vita Vea's holdout, how the Glazer's conduct business and Baker's contract. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on the Tampa Bay Rays as they've won 6 straight games after beating the Mariners 4-1 on Sunday. They have a 5.5 game lead on Yankees with 45 games to play. Plus the Bucs are heading to New York today to hold joint practices with the Jets this week before their preseason game on Friday night. Plus the NFL Hall of Fame inductions were this weekend and Rick was there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Jason Licht's comments that he has no plans to trade Vita Vea as he continues to hold-in while asking for a trade as he enters the final year of his contract. Plus the Rays road trip continues tonight in Seattle while they hold a 4.5 game lead over the Yankees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick with the latest on Vita Vea's hold-in with the Buccaneers as he wants a new contract. Plus the Rays sweep the Rockies as Junior Caminero goes deep again and new reliever Tyler Wells strikes out 4 batters in his Rays debut. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers night practice that was without Vita Vea. His people say a trade is most likely as negotiations aren't going well. Plus the Rays new catcher Liam Hicks hits a grand slam in his 2nd at bat with the team but Freddy Peralta struggles in Colorado. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick on the Rays Trade Deadline moves as they acquire SP Freddy Peralta, C Liam Hicks, RP Tyler Wells and trade Hunter Feduccia. Plus the Bucs move Monday's practice indoors after heavy rains come through for their first practice in pads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Stroud and Steve Versnick with the latest on the Buccaneers Training Camp including ownerships feelings about Baker Mayfield's contract comments last week, Vita Vea's hold-in and standout players so far. Plus the Rays goes 6-3 on the home stand despite scoring less than 3 runs a game. Plus they added a starting pitcher as they trade for Freddy Peralta from the Mets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.