The Bench with John and Lance

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The biggest sports talk duo to ever hit Houston airwaves is still going strong after 2 decades in the market. John Granato and Lance Zierlein mix insightful sports analysis with irreverent humor and quick wit. You never know what you're going to hear, but it'll be like nothing else you ever have. Listen weekdays 7-11am live on ESPN 97.5 & 92.5 FM or anytime on demand at http://espn975.com.

ESPN Houston


    • Jun 25, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 47m AVG DURATION
    • 4,694 EPISODES

    4.9 from 168 ratings Listeners of The Bench with John and Lance that love the show mention: h town, moved away, del, excuse, houston, sports talk, best show, radio, awesome, funny, great, john and lance.


    Ivy Insights

    The Bench with John and Lance podcast is an absolute delight for sports enthusiasts in Houston and beyond. With their witty banter, insightful analysis, and genuine chemistry, John Granato and Lance Zierlein have truly set the platinum standard for sports radio. This dynamic duo knows how to keep their audience engaged with a perfect blend of humor and well-informed discussions. Whether it's Blue Mountains Johnny and Rappin' Dad crushing it or Dale keeping them honest, this show offers the best entertainment on the entire dial.

    One of the best aspects of The Bench podcast is the seamless combination of humor and knowledge that John and Lance bring to the table. Their funny yet informed discussions ensure that listeners are both entertained and educated about the latest happenings in sports. They don't carry anyone's water, meaning they provide unbiased opinions without pandering to any particular team or player. This authenticity is refreshing and keeps fans coming back for more.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is the chemistry between John and Lance. Their camaraderie shines through as they bounce off each other's jokes, insights, and observations. It feels like you're listening to two friends having a casual conversation about sports, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners. This dynamic duo keeps you hooked from start to finish with their engaging rapport.

    However, no podcast is without its flaws, and one potential drawback of The Bench is the presence of Del as the supposed third wheel. Some listeners find his contributions less valuable compared to John and Lance, causing a slight disruption in the otherwise smooth flow of the show. While he may not be everyone's cup of tea, it's important to remember that different perspectives can add depth to discussions. Nonetheless, some fans do find Del's involvement slightly underwhelming.

    In conclusion, The Bench with John and Lance podcast is an outstanding way to stay up-to-date on H-Town sports even if you've moved away from Houston. With their smart and funny commentary, John and Lance provide an enjoyable listening experience that keeps fans hooked. Despite the minor setback of Del's presence, this show remains the go-to for sports talk radio with its blend of humor, knowledge, and engaging chemistry.



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    Latest episodes from The Bench with John and Lance

    6/25 Hour 1 - Are the Astros Back in Business?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 48:30


    Astros Hot Streak Continue USA vs Bosnia Confirmed Rockets New Draft Pick USA World Cup Game Preview

    6/25 Hour 2 - Glenn Davis Joins The Show To Preview USA vs. Turkey

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 53:06


    USA vs. Turkey Preview Tonights World Cup Matchups Lamelo Ball to the Timberwolves CJ Stroud Contract Extension

    6/25 Hour 3 - Rockets NBA Draft Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 50:24


    New Rockets Draft Pick Jaylen Brown Trade Locations Pride Hat and Bible Verse MLB Issue News of the Weird

    6/24 Hour 1 - Who will be the best player in the NBA draft?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 49:26


    Astros vs Blue Jays Tuesday recap World Cup talk What first round picks in the NBA draft standout?

    6/24 Hour 2 - Should Becky Hammon apologize?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 54:57


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis Was England's loss meaningful? Should they stop doing golf events in Long Island? How scrappy are the Astros?

    6/24 Hour 3 - What will happen to Brendan Sorsby?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 44:51


    Kingston Fleming's fit with the Hawks Who is a college football breakout team? Who are the favorites in the World Cup? News of the weird

    6/23 Hour 1 - Can the Heat win the East with Giannis?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 51:29


    Astros Monday recap Who's playing in the World Cup today? Should the Rockets give Amen Thompson the max? How can Alperen Sengun become a better player?

    6/23 Hour 2- Will the Rockets make a major move?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 46:33


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis How does the Giannis trade compare to other major NBA trades?  Are we worried about Darryn Peterson?

    6/23 Hour 3 - Can Cj Stroud lead the Texans to a Superbowl?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2026 49:41


    Mount Rushmore of swimmers What's going on with Brandon Aiyuk? Astros vs Blue Jays Tuesday preview News of the weird

    6/22 Hour 1 - What's going on in the World Cup so far?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 47:31


    Can the Astros get over the hump? What's the latest with the Astros? Will this World Cup bring in more US soccer fans? What did you learn this weekend?

    6/22 Hour 2- Can the Astros win their fourth straight series?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 56:46


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis How will the Texans offensive line look this season? Will Keylan Rutledge be the starting center? What's next for the USMNT?

    6/22 Hour 3- What should the Rockets do this offseason?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 46:51


    Where will Giannis end up? What's next for the Astros? Dallas Mavericks hire Dusty May News of the weird

    06/19 Hour 1 - USA vs. Australia Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 45:03


    USA vs. Australia Preview MLB Making Changes to Signing Bonuses and the MLB Draft

    6/19 Hour 2 - Glenn Davis Joins the Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 41:29


    Is Christian Pulisic going to Start? USA vs. Australia Preview Astros vs. Guardians Upcoming Series

    6/19 Hour 3 - Talking Football With Trevor Sikkema

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2026 57:03


    Looksmaxxing with Clavicular Houston Texans and the NFL USA vs. Australia Matchup

    6/18 Hour 1 - Rockets Talk with Will Fortune

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 47:58


    - World Cup Recap from Yesterday- Astros Struggles Continue- Rockets Talk

    06/18 Hour 2 - Talking The World Cup With Glenn Davis

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 47:07


    World Cup Talk With Glenn Davis Possible Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rockets Roster Improvements Rafael Stone & Ime Udoka's Future

    6/18 Hour 3 - Texans Talk with Garret Williams

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2026 52:19


    Texans Discussions Astros Talk World Cup Continuation

    6/17 Hour 1 - How is the US Americanizing the World Cup?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 49:37


    What style of soccer does the USMNT want to play? Would Europe ever consider adding American teams to their seasons? Astros respond to Monday loss How has Demeco Ryans changed the culture of the offensive line room?

    6/17 Hour 2 - How has America treated hosting international fans of the world cup?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 54:51


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis Who you got in the US open? Why did the Rockets do nothing about the VanVleet injury?

    6/17 Hour 3 - Who is the GOAT of soccer?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 43:55


    Was this the best possible outcome for the NBA finals? Jonathan Cooper and Floyd Mayweather facing charges Was the UFC White house event targeted by terrorists? What did we miss? News of the weird

    6/16 Hour 1- Where will Brendan Sorsby get picked in the supplemental draft?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 48:06


    Astros Monday Recap How will Sorsby leaving affect Texas Tech? Is Wemby a dirty player?

    6/16 Hour 2- What does the US need to do in game 2?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 54:24


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis What personnel will the Texans offense run? How will Nick Caley utilize Tank Dell? How will Hunter Brown look in his return? What's wrong with the Astros?

    6/16 Hour 3- Should the Rockets make a major move or run it back?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2026 44:33


    Monday World Cup recap What did we miss? Will the Rockets play KD fewer minutes next season? News of the weird

    6/15 Hour 1- How far can Us get in the World Cup?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 51:21


    Were the Spurs the better team in the Finals? Is Jalen Brunson  a franchise player? What did you learn this weekend in one sentence?

    6/15 Hour 2- What stood out at the World Cup this weekend?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 49:03


    The world of soccer with Glenn Davis Stanley Cup  Did Mitch Johnson get out coached? How can Wemby improve after the Finals? Will Framber Valdez get a tribute video?

    6/15 Hour 3- How the Knicks built their team

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2026 48:06


    Do NBA teams bail on players too early? World Cup games today  What did we miss? Big 12 suing Texas Tech News of the weird

    06/12 Hour 1 - The World Cup Is Here

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 44:53


    World Cup Is Here USA vs. Paraguay Preview Houston Texans Tight End Depth The World Cup Fan Fest Experience in EADO Phil Mickelson off course issues

    06/12 Hour 2 - Glenn Davis Reviews Day One of the World Cup

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 51:51


    All Upcoming Matchups in all Groups Glenn Davis Confident in US Win Today Stanley Cup Finals Mike Brown and Coaching Talk

    06/12 Hour 3 - The Brendan Sorsby Betting Scandal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 54:15


    - Spurs vs. Knicks Game 5- World Cup Matchups- Talking About the USA World Cup Roster- Will Tiger & Phil Compete in a Major Again?- What Did You Learn This Week?- Brendan Sorsby Gambling Scandal- News of the Weird

    6/11 Hour 1 - Was That the Greatest NBA Finals Comeback Ever?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 39:57


    NBA Finals Comeback of the Century Astros Loss World Cup Starts Today Brendan Sorsby and Texas Tech Conflict More World Cup Talk

    6/11 Hour 2 - Glenn Davis Joins the Show To Discuss Day 1 of the World Cup

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 49:19


    - World Cup Is Finally Here.- Can Ronaldo Finally Bring It Home?- USA vs. Paraguay Preview - Who Are The Toughest Opponents In The World Cup?- CJ Stroud Offseason

    6/11 Hour 3 - Is the Spurs Collapse the Worst in Sports History?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 58:43


    - Spurs All-Time Collapse- Hunter Brown is Back- Astros Struggles Continue- Charlie Woods now a Caddie- News of the Weird

    6/10 hour 1 - Will Brendan Sorsby play next year?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 49:08


    Women's world cup Can the Astros win the series after a tough night? Exciting return for the Astros

    6/10 Hour 2 - What do the Knicks need to do to win game 4?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 58:04


    Checking in on former Astros What do the guys think about the new Michael Jackson documentary Pat Mcafee doing live commentary? Mike Brown's coaching style Do offenses catch up to the Texans defense this season?

    6/10 Hour 3 - What is the Texans best personnel for this season?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 42:25


    What does the Texans offensive line need to do to improve? Marcel Reed and Messi picture Serena Williams return What did we miss? News of the weird

    6/09 Hour 1- How does the Brendan Sorsby ruling affect college sports?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 50:57


    Astros Monday recap Can the Spurs come back from 2-0? Why have the Texans not re-signed Derek Barnett? Aftermath of the Sorsby ruling

    6/09 Hour 2- Will NIL ruin college sports

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 43:34


    Is Wemby starting to get a reputation? Who is Robin on the Spurs? Why is Jalen Brunson struggling in the Finals so far? Jose Altuve baserunning

    6/09 Hour 3- Are Knicks fans making them unlikeable?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 52:05


    Is there any athlete that gets more scrutiny than SGA? World Cup talk Why does Demeco Ryans not bench a QB after 3 quarters? News of the weird

    6/08 Hour 1 - Are the Knicks going to sweep the NBA finals?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 57:52


    Can the Astros win the AL west Will Yordan Alvarez win the triple crown? Can Wemby bounce back? What can we expect from Texans minicamps? What did you learn?

    6/08 Hour 2 - Is the United States favorites to win their group?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 35:30


    What happened to Jannick Sinner? Is Tatsuya Iami on the rise? How will Hunter Brown look in his return? What is going on with Caitlin Clark? News of the weird

    6/08 Hour 3 - What are the effects of college players gambling?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 55:04


    Why is Chicago not a hosting city for the World Cup? What have we learned about the Knicks in the NBA Finals? What will the effect of Jalen Brunson be? Who on the Rockets has deep run experience?  Are ex Astros struggling?

    6/05 Hour 1: Are You Letting Frank Ross Cut Your Hair?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 51:54


    - Astros Drop Another Series.- Darren Sproles Coaching in Houston.- How Many Texans Players Would Actually Let Frank Ross Cut Their Hair?- Alex Bregman Used to Coach Spencer Arighetti.

    6/05 Hour 2: Discussing a Hypothetical Jaylen Brown Trade

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 48:34


    - Jeremy Pena's Eventual Contract Extension.- Dua Lipa is Getting Married.- Older Athletes in Collegiate Football.- Astros Sign Lamont Wade Jr.- Jaylen Brown Trade

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