The Mike Meltser Podcast on Sports and Law

On March 11, 2022, a Harris County grand jury declined to indict former Houston Texans Quarterback Deshaun Watson. The prosecution's case was presented by a sex crimes prosecutor from the Harris County District Attorney's Office, which is led by the District Attorney.    Mike's guest is Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg. In this conversation, Ogg addresses a number of questions related to the grand jury process and the Watson matter: What is the purpose of the grand jury process? What is the role of the prosecutor in the grand jury process?  How did the District Attorney's office handle the investigation of Deshaun Watson?  Ogg addresses two aspects of a recent New York Times story about Watson, including (1) the number of communications between the HCDAO and Watson's attorney, Rusty Hardin, and (2) how often grand jury packets are used for criminal defendants in Harris County  The HCDAO's position on a recent Yahoo! Sports story about a police detective who investigated the Watson matter and felt a crime was committed Has the NFL, or the Browns, reached out to the Harris County District Attorney's Office to discuss Watson? How can the citizens of Harris County be assured that justice was done in the Deshaun Watson matter? Music Credit: Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod   Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about the 22 lawsuits (filed so far) against Texans QB Deshaun Watson in the last month in civil court in Houston, alleging assault, sexual assault, and inappropriate behavior.  Mike's guest is Steph Stradley, a Houston-based sportswriter and lawyer at the Stradley Law Firm. She often does legal explainers for fans regarding sports discipline issues, contracts, investigations, and practical aspects of the law. She has a detailed FAQ post about the Watson lawsuits that can be found here. (0:54) Mike provides the background on the lawsuits that have been filed against Watson. (3:43) What exactly do we know so far? (7:12) The plaintiff's lawyer, Tony Buzbee, held a news conference on Tuesday in which two of Watson's accusers revealed their names and gave their stories. Mike and Steph discuss the impact of this news conference and how it has altered the course of this story. (10:55) Will we learn anything once Watson formally responds to the lawsuits in court? (12:50) Is it possible to maintain a wait-and-see approach with this story, with more information entering the public sphere every day? (18:01) Mike and Steph discuss Rusty Hardin (Watson's lawyer)'s response to Buzbee's Tuesday news conference.  (27:35) How difficult is it for the defense to "prove a negative" in these types of cases? (31:35) Are some of the lawsuits more concerning than others? Can we tell that at this point? (34:10) A complainant has come forward to the Houston Police Department, who are now investigating Deshaun Watson. How does this type of investigation work? (39:41) What is the NFL's Commissioner's Exempt List, and why does it matter in this case? (45:16) Some have suggested that Watson needs to settle these claims as soon as possible. Is that possible? How quickly could a settlement be reached? (50:35) Mike and Steph took a variety of Twitter Q and As, including the following topics: Hardin's current quality as an attorney, why Watson couldn't stop the news conference, the projected legal paths forward, Watson possibly staying with the Texans, and whether or not the Mann Act applies to this situation.          (1:09:32) Mike's concluding thoughts on what will happen moving forward with the Watson lawsuits.  ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit: Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about a major sports law case in front of the Supreme Court this week, NCAA v. Alston. The case centers around the application of antitrust law to the NCAA, and the Court faces this question: are the NCAA's eligibility rules regarding compensation of student-athletes a violation of federal antitrust laws?  Mike's guest is Chris Sagers, a Professor of Law at Cleveland State University at the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. His bio can be found here.  (3:21) What is this case all about?  (5:13) Why the Supreme Court taking this case concerns some antitrust experts. (6:15) Why is the NCAA subject to the federal antitrust laws?  (6:50) What's the background on this case? What's been happening before the case reached the Supreme Court?  (8:25) What did the plaintiffs really want initially, and what did they get from the courts at the lower level?  (9:30) How will the composition of the Supreme Court, with the addition of new Justice Amy Coney Barrett, affect the ruling in NCAA v. Alston?  ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit: Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about former Astros GM Jeff Luhnow's recent lawsuit against the team for breach of contract. Luhnow claims that the team unlawfully fired him for cause in January 2020 and he is seeking more than $22 million in damages. Mike's guest is Steph Stradley, a Houston-based sportswriter and lawyer at the Stradley Law Firm. She often does legal explainers for fans regarding sports discipline issues, contracts, investigations, and practical aspects of the law.  (1:35) Mike provides the background on Luhnow's lawsuit against the Astros (4:47) Why was this the right time for Luhnow to file suit? (5:45) Shouldn't this have been resolved in January, when Astros owner Jim Crane fired Luhnow? (9:40) Does Luhnow actually want to take his case to trial? (11:19) Arbitration will be a significant factor in this litigation. Why is arbitration generally considered to be a negative for plaintiffs? Does the arbitration clause in Luhnow's contract apply, given Major League Baseball's role in suspending Luhnow for the Astros' sign-stealing scandal? Why did Luhnow's lawyers write that the Court should appoint a neutral arbitrator to resolve this dispute?      (17:46) Why did Luhnow's lawyers attack MLB's sign-stealing investigation? (22:50) Luhnow was suspended by MLB for a whole season for his role in the Astros' sign-stealing scandal. Mike and Steph discuss whether this suspension was enough for the Astros to fire Luhnow "for cause." (27:45) Where did this idea come from that MLB commissioner Rob Manfred and Jim Crane negotiated Luhnow's suspension? (33:40) Mike's concluding thoughts on the Luhnow lawsuit, including Luhnow's possible future in MLB and evaluating the arguments made in the lawsuit.        ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mike provides his thoughts, for an hour, on Texans owner Cal McNair's decision to fire head coach Bill O'Brien  (2:30) Mike's initial reaction to the firing after a Week 4 loss (6:13) JJ Watt perfectly encapsulted the feeling in Houston after O'Brien's firing  (14:08) Mike's reaction to the report that Watt had a verbal altercation with O'Brien a few weeks ago   (24:13) Why Mike fears that Cal McNair will screw up the GM and HC search   (34:01) Looking back at O'Brien's tenure in Houston. When was the right time to fire him? (38:15) Mike has never gotten over O'Brien's lack of a plan at QB from 2014-2015  (45:05) What is BOB's future? Mike explains why he has the ability to be a successful head coach in the future   (1:00:27) Some quick thoughts on future GM and HC candidates for the Texans   ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mike gives his thoughts on the Texans falling to the Steelers 28-21, after a promising first half but very poor second half in Pittsburgh.  (2:00) Houston's 1st and 10 plays in the second half were an absolute disaster.  (7:06) How do the Texans figure out their impotent rushing attack? (14:05) A big picture look at the Texans scheme, comparing Bill O'Brien's coaching to hires to those of Sean McVay and Matt Rhule (19:13) Mike analyzes two defensive breakdowns on Pittsburgh's final offensive possession of the game  (22:20) The run defense continues to be a major problem for Houston (26:21) Mike explains why the playoff picture in the AFC is simpler than you may think, even though we're only three weeks into the offseason  (31:19) Why Texans fans shouldn't fear the concept of Cal McNair refusing to fire O'Brien; the fear is actually something else (36:41) Mike finishes with some positives, including Deshaun Watson's accuracy and the team's clock management   ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mike gives his main takeaways after another unsatisfactory Texans performance, falling to the Ravens 33-16 at NRG Stadium in Week 2 of the NFL Season.  (2:00) The big picture problem is that the Texans haven't even been competitive against the Chiefs and the Ravens (10:40) Mike weighs in on whether this feels different from the slow starts to the 2015 and 2018 regular seasons  (13:50) The Texans went for it on 4th and 1 on their own 34 yard line in the first half. Was it the right move?  (18:55) Keke Coutee killed the Texans, again (21:17) Mike evaluates the play of the defense  (26:21) Mike's thoughts on Deshaun Watson through the first two games of the season    (33:10) Mike lists the positives from the loss to the Ravens and looks ahead to next week's matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The NFL season is back! Mike gives his thoughts on a disappointing 34-20 loss for the Texans at the hands of the Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs. (1:52) Why this was basically a "non-performance" by Houston (5:16) Why Mike believes the schedule is a major problem for this Texans team (10:04) The Texans matched up terribly with the Chiefs (11:29) Breaking down some of the key sequences in the game, particularly in the first half (18:50) The biggest issue for Houston was in the trenches (23:15) Why couldn't the Texans hit big plays offensively? (29:20) Mike lists the few positives coming out of this Week 1 loss ​The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This is a 2-part episode of the Mike Meltser podcast, which explores the insurance aspect of the massive losses the sports industry has sustained due to COVID-19 and the Ravens attempting to terminate Earl Thomas's contract for "conduct detrimental to the team." Mike's guest is Vince Morgan, who is one of the nation's most prominent corporate policyholder litigators and a partner at Bracewell LLP in Houston. You can find out more information about Vince here. (2:53 ) Why are the Houston Rockets suing their insurance company? (4:25) What language determines whether business-interruption insurance policies cover COVID-19 losses? (6:32) Why Wimbledon and the NCAA were able to collect money from their insurance companies after the cancellations of Wimbledon and the NCAA Tournament, respectively. (8:40) Where does "civil authority" come in?  (10:00 ) Vince's thoughts on the future of COVID-19 related litigation in the sports context (10:52) Mike explains the fight that is in store after the Baltimore Ravens released safety Earl Thomas on Sunday for "conduct detrimental to the team." Will the Ravens be able to terminate his contract and avoid paying Thomas the $10 million he is owed in guaranteed money for 2020? Mike explains the process in store and analyzes the likely arguments from the Ravens and from the NFLPA (on Thomas's behalf). The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is a preview of Texans training camp, which is underway in Houston in advance of the 2020 season opener on September against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mike's guest is his former co-worker Cody Stoots, who has worked as a sports radio host at SportsRadio 610 in Houston and SB Nation Radio.  Follow Cody on Twitter. (4:07) Reflecting on the DeAndre Hopkins deal  (5:45) What has to happen for the Hopkins deal to look a little better in the future? (10:38) Can the skillset of the WRs bring out the best in Deshaun Watson? (14:30) How exactly will the Texans run the ball this year? (20:03) Which players are hurt most by a lack of preseason games? (24:30) Mike and Cody discuss the key position battles in training camp (29:30) What needs to happen for the Texans defense to be effective in 2020? (36:57) How much of a problem is the opening four games of the season? (43:51) Cody's 3 selling points on the 2020 Texans (45:31) Cody's hot take on Texans RB Duke Johnson (47:46:) Who are the key players to watch in training camp?      The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about Washington's NFL team, which recently announced that it is retiring its long-time nickname. Reports indicate that the announcement of a new name will not be announced because of trademark issues. This episode explores the trademark issues Washington is facing right now.  Mike's guest is Yocel Alonso, who practices entertainment law at Alonso PLLC. He is an adjunct professor of law at the University of Houston Law Center and has litigated trademark issues over the course of his career. Yocel's firm can be located here.  (4:10) What is a trademark? (4:52) What kind of benefits do you have when you own a trademark?  (6:03) How does a trademark owner protect the use of the mark?  (7:46) How does somebody get a trademark? (12:21) There are two parties who are claiming an interest in the trademark "Washington Red Tails." Yocel explains which party has the upper hand.  (15:15) How does a possible owner of a trademark show that he has been "using" the trademark?  (17:07) If Washington wants to get the nickname "Red Tails," what should they do?  The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about former XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck's lawsuit against WWE CEO and Chairman Vince McMahon.  Mike's guest is Jason Cruz, an attorney who practices in Seattle, writes for MMA Payout, and has written about the Luck v. McMahon lawsuit. Jason's firm can be located here. (2:55) Background on McMahon's decision to hire Luck as the commissioner of the rebranded XFL. (5:15) Why the XFL fired Luck "for cause" immediately before filing for bankruptcy. (6:06) Why Luck is suing McMahon personally, and not the XFL (Alpha Entertainment) as a business entity. (9:03) Why is this a fight that McMahon wants?  (9:49) Jason explains what a personal guarantee is.  (11:28) Mike and Jason discuss the four arguments that McMahon has made in claiming that Luck was properly terminated "for cause." (19:53) What exactly is an "indispensable party" to a lawsuit, and is Alpha Entertainment an indispensable party here? (22:25) Jason explains how Alpha Entertainment's bankruptcy affects the Luck v. McMahon lawsuit. (24:32) How much is Luck's case hurt by the federal judge staying his case as Alpha Entertainment's bankruptcy plays out first?  (26:21) What is Jason's prediction for the resolution of this case?  The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD. Website: Alamo Remedy CBD Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode takes a look back at the negotiation between Major League Baseball (the owners) and the Major League Baseball Player's Association (the players) to start the 2020 season. Mike's guest is Eugene Freedman, special counsel to the President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and experienced labor lawyer. You can read Freedman's analysis about the MLB labor negotiation at FanGraphs.  (4:11) Why was there a massive fight over the players receiving fully prorated salaries? (5:23) What did the March Agreement say about prorated pay for the players?    (8:55) Why the failure of this negotiation could lead the MLBPA to file a grievance. (9:47) What is a grievance? (11:26) MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred made a few strange comments on The Dan Patrick Show about the 60-game schedule. (12:25) Does Freedman believe Manfred gave the MLBPA more ammunition in a possible grievance? (15:31) What Manfred did to help the owners defend a grievance. (18:15) How much is a grievance worth for the MLBPA?       The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD.  Website: http://www.alamoremedy.com/ Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is unlike any so far on The Mike Meltser Podcast. Mike focuses on the doctrine of qualified immunity for police officers, which has become a major topic over the last month in the United States.  Mike's guest is Erika McDonald, recent University of Houston Law Center graduate and Law Clerk at the Kallinen Law Firm.  (5:35) What does qualified immunity for police officers actually mean?  (6:50) Why juries aren't hearing many of these types of cases. (11:40) Why has the interpretation of the original intent of the law implicating qualified immunity changed so much?  (16:30) Erika explains why the burden on plaintiffs has been made so difficulty in modern times. (26:00) Why wouldn't plaintiffs just sue police departments and cities, as opposed to individual police officers? (28:13) Is it easier or harder to successfully sue a police department?  (30:40) What would happen in qualified immunity for police officers was simply abolished?  (38:08) What is an ideal solution to fix this area of the law?  The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD.  Website: http://www.alamoremedy.com/ Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about the impact of employment laws on the NBA's decisions about older head coaches if (and when) the league resumes play in Orlando. There has been some discussion over the last few weeks about the NBA possibly banning coaches like Mike D'Antonio and Gregg Popovich from the bench, based on the way COVID-19 has impacted older populations. Mike discusses the two main employment laws the NBA needs to think about: the ADEA (age discrimination), and the ADA (disability discrimination).  The guest for this episode is Philip Berkowitz, a Shareholder at Littler Mendelson, a national employment defense firm.  (3:20) Berkowitz explains why the NBA can look back to an international battery company for guidance (4:39) What would Berkowitz do if he was the NBA's General Counsel? (5:30) Is it a good idea for the NBA to make older head coaches wear masks? (6:33) Mike explains why recent EEOC guidance makes it extremely difficult for the NBA to exclude any individual employee. (9:35) Why shouldn't the NBA just make every worker sign a waiver? The Mike Meltser Podcast is brought to you by Alamo Remedy CBD.  Website: http://www.alamoremedy.com/ Promo code: MIKEM Music Credit:  Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This episode is about how professional and college sports in America will return in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mike's guest is Zachary Binney, an epidemiologist at the Oxford College at Emory University in Atlanta. (3:45) Why is everyone worried about a "second wave" of COVID-19? (5:39) Does Zach like the NBA's "bubble" plan in Orlando? (7:31) How critical is daily testing for COVID-19? (13:16) How many positive tests would force the need for a shutdown? (21:56) Zach's early impressions on the NFL's health and safety protocols for 2020. (25:42) Why Zach doesn't think fans in stands makes any sense right now. (29:30) What's the latest update on a possible vaccine for COVID-19? Music Credit: Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

This episode of the podcast is about the litigation involving NBA star Zion Williamson. Is Zion facing any liability to his former marketing agent, Gina Ford?  (0:50) How Zion's legal troubles with Ford began. (3:11) Where does the North Carolina Uniform Athlete Agents Act come in? (5:18) How Ford's attorneys brought up salacious allegations against Zion in the discovery process.  (7:13) Mike explains the goals of Gina Ford's lawyers.  (9:29) Why the latest developments in this litigation could make Zion liable to pay Ford millions of dollars. (11:56) Could Coach K factor into the lawsuit?  (12:45) What Zion's biggest concern should be.   Music Credit: Slow Burn by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4372-slow-burn License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

This episode of the podcast focuses on the NCAA's announcement last week that the Board of Governors has adopted guidelines for college athletes to make money off of their name, image, and likeness. Soon, these athletes will be able to do endorsement deals and earn possibly significant revenue from third party companies.  Mike's guest for this episode is John Long, Of Counsel at Jackson Lewis and an expert in NCAA infractions.  (1:18) Mike gives the background on how we got here, and how different states ultimately forced the NCAA's hand. (9:54) How exactly will college athletes be able to make money from their name, image, and likeness? (12:17) How will compliance work once these new rules are adopted? (20:08) Why does the NCAA want Congress to step in? (23:29) Why is the NCAA desperate to get an antitrust exemption? (28:46) Is the NCAA Football game ever coming back?!? (32:03) When will the new rules be implemented? 

In this episode, Mike explores the recent ruling against the US Women's National Soccer Team in their lawsuit against US Soccer. The USWNT, among other claims, has argued that they are paid less than the USMNT, in violation of the law.  Mike's guest to explain the surprising ruling is Steven Bank, Professor of Business Law at UCLA. Professor Bank is also a frequent commentator on soccer law issues.  (1:35) Why did the USWNT lose a key ruling on summary judgment on their claim of equal pay? (3:41) How does it make sense that the federal judge concluded that the women actually were paid more than the men?  (6:23) Professor Bank has a theory for why the USWNT's case may have gotten weaker over time. (8:01) What about the fact that US Soccer has actually made arguments that men's soccer players deserve to get paid more than women's soccer players?   (10:14) What happens now? Will the USWNT appeal? How likely is a settlement, and how does Friday's ruling affect a possible settlement? 

This is a two part episode, with Mike discussing the Houston Texans 2020 Draft and MLB's report into the Red Sox sign-stealing scandal. (1:00) Mike gives his grade on the Texans Draft (3:03) Analyzing the Ross Blacklock selection (11:00) What actually happened right before the Jonathan Greenard pick?  (13:24) Mike's least favorite pick (17:05) Should the Texans have traded 57 for Brandin Cooks, knowing the players who ended up being available? (25:28) Analyzing Laremy Tunsil's new deal (40:31) Why Mike liked MLB's investigation of the Astros more than MLB's investigation of the Red Sox  (41:30) Mike lists his major issues with the Red Sox report (49:45) There is no conspiracy against the Houston Astros

This is a 2-part episode where Mike discusses the Texans trading for Brandin Cooks and explains why Lamar Jackson is suing Amazon. (1:28) Why Mike would have stood pat with the 2nd round picks instead of trading for Cooks, (7:28) taking a look at the upside of this trade offensively, (9:35) discussing the national opinions on the Cooks trade, (16:20) this trade disproves the idea that DeAndre Hopkins was dealt because of money, and (22:39) Mike's fear about the long-term plan in Houston.  (27:31) Why is Lamar Jackson suing Amazon? Darren Heitner, sports attorney in Florida and owner of Heitner Legal, joins Mike to explain (28:36) What a right of publicity? (29:29) Why the lawsuit was filed in Florida. (30:32) Heitner believes Jackson could lose this case. (31:00) The most important issue in this lawsuit. (33:44) Heitner predicts the ultimate result in this case. Check out sports attorney Darren Heitner at https://heitnerlegal.com/. Follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarrenHeitner.    

In this episode, Mike focuses on the biggest story in sports: when will sports actually return from the COVID-19-imposed absence? Mike's guest is sports attorney Dan Lust, who works at the law firm Goldberg Segalla.  (6:30) Is MLB's "Arizona Plan" realistic? (11:06) Why all sports must be prepared for an athlete testing positive for coronavirus.  (12:37) Why is May 10th a huge day for the NBA? (15:50) Mike's idea for a unique way to finish the NBA season in Las Vegas. (18:12) What will happen with the NFL? (19:50) The challenge of mass testing from a PR standpoint. (25:28) Why college football is in the most challenging situation of all sports. (31:12) Mike gives his thoughts on the following topics: why targeting any return dates is a useless exercise right now, MLB's Arizona Plan, unique ways to finish the NBA season, what he expects the NFL and CFB to do, and why we need to watch what  state governors and health officials do. 

This is a three-part episode of the Mike Meltser Podcast The first part of the podcast (2:01) is Mike's discussion about the ESPN.com report that if no MLB season is played, the suspensions of AJ Hinch and Jeff Luhnow will be deemed to be fulfilled. Mike explains why this is absolutely right call by MLB. The second part of the podcast (9:57) is an update on the Mike Bolsinger lawsuit against the Astros, which was the focus of episodes 39 and 40. Mike catches up with Bolsinger's attorney Ben Meiselas, and they discuss the Astros' latest filings in the case.  The third part of the podcast (24:14) is about an interesting NFL story that has been in the news this week. Meiselas is the attorney for current NFL free agent safety Eric Reid. A few weeks ago, the NFLPA voted to approve a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that will last for the next ten years. Meiselas wrote a letter to the NFLPA claiming that the union changed the language of the CBA that the players voted on, and the NFLPA responded with a strongly-worded letter. He discusses how he discovered the alleged discrepancy in language, what it means for current and former and NFL players, and gives his take on the new CBA as a whole.

The topic of the 44th episode of the Mike Meltser Podcast is about the new NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The biggest headline from the new CBA is that the NFL regular season will soon be moving from 16 games to 17 games.  Mike's guest on the podcast is Dan Kaplan, senior writer of sports business for The Athletic. The episode covers a number of topics: (3:30) What grade would Kaplan give the NFLPA for this deal? (4:45) How did we reach the stage where 17 games became seemingly non-negotiable for the owners? (5:55) Did the coronavirus pandemic create enough worry to cause players to vote "yes" over the final week of voting? (8:05) Why was the vote to pass the new CBA so close? (9:09) What was the best part of the deal for the players? (11:40) What needs to happen for the revenue split to go to 48.5% and 48.8% for the players? (17:28) What are the positive and negative aspects of the new CBA for former NFL players? (22:53) Mike recaps the interview and gives a grade to the NFLPA for the new deal and explains why he's concerned that the union has opened up Pandora's Box in the future.

Mike discusses the legal impact of the coronavirus on the sports world. The episode focuses on the question of how contracts in sports will consider a pandemic like COVID-19. Among the topics covered in this episode: Do teams and leagues account for a pandemic when they sign contracts? (1:12) Legally, how do we know a pandemic has actually happened? (3:06)  Do the leagues still have to pay the players? What will the impact of losing the NCAA Tournament have on the NCAA's revenues? (7:24) The guest on episode 43 is Joe Anderson, a senior entertainment attorney at Manatt, Phelps, & Phillips in Los Angeles. 

Mike reacts to a stunning Monday, where the Texans somehow traded DeAndre Hopkins for essentially a 2nd round pick and RB David Johnson. (0:53) why the idea of Houston trading Hopkins didn't actually shock Mike, (2:27) why the compensation is so terrible as to be essentially inexplicable, (7:02) the first two questions that need to be asked to Bill O'Brien once he eventually discusses the deal. (17:32) Mike explores three possible ways the Hopkins deal can end up looking decent and (22:41) Mike reacts to Colin Cowherd's perspective on the deal. 

In episode 41, Mike tries to answer a lingering NFL offseason question: will Steelers QB Mason Rudolph sue Browns defensive end Myles Garrett for defamation? Garrett has accused Rudolph of using a racial slur during an on-field altercation in November, moments before Garrett used Rudolph's helmet to slam him in the head.  (4:19) Mike is joined by Justen Barks, adjunct professor of entertainment law at the University of Houston Law Center and partner at Beard and Barks PLLC. This episode explores the definition of defamation, whether Garrett's statements are actually defamatory, the actual malice standard for public figures, and the challenge that Rudolph would have in showing damages.  (12:21) Mike gives his opinion on whether or not a lawsuit will actually be filed.

This episode is a follow up to episode 39, which discussed former Blue Jays pitcher Mike Bolsinger's lawsuit against the Astros. Bolsinger's lawyer is well-known sports attorney Ben Meiselas, an advocate for player's rights who is a partner at the Los Angeles firm Geragos and Geragos.  (3:05) Ben joined Mike Meltser to discuss the lawsuit. Among the topics discussed: Why was the lawsuit filed? Why does Ben feel that many of us can relate to Mike Bolsinger?  How can Ben prove that one relief appearance at Minute Maid Park cost Mike Bolsinger his MLB career? Why did he pick LA as the place to file the lawsuit?  Why does Mike Bolsinger have any claim to the $31 million in bonuses that the Astros won during the 2017 playoffs?  What are the next steps for this lawsuit?  (24:54) Mike finishes the episode by explaining that the biggest part of this lawsuit is the possibility of discovery, and why the Astros must avoid it at all costs. Mike also reacts to many of the arguments that Ben Meiselas made during the interview.

Mike discusses former Blue Jays pitcher Mike Bolsinger's lawsuit against the Astros that was filed in Los Angeles. Bolsinger was a victim of the sign-stealing scandal, and allowed 4 earned runs in 1/3 of an inning on August 4, 2017. That day was Bolsinger's last game in Major League Baseball. The goal of this podcast is to answer a lot of your questions about the lawsuit: how can Bolsinger claim the Astros ruined his career, when he had a flimsy professional career and poor ERA in 2017? Why was the lawsuit filed in Los Angeles? How worried should the Astros be about this lawsuit? What will their defenses be? Personal injury attorney Noah Goodman joins me (5:10) to answer those questions, and plenty more. Noah has researched the evolution and decline of free agency in MLB, and he also writes about collective bargaining issues in professional sports.  (26:15) Mike gives his biggest takeaways from Noah's interview, including the way the Astros will try to get rid of this lawsuit. 

Mike discusses the news that Pete Rose has asked MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred for reinstatement. Rose's attorneys sent both Manfred and The National Baseball Hall of Fame a petition arguing that Rose's punishment for gambling on baseball games is disproportionate to the smaller punishments given in the electronic sign-stealing scandal, steroid scandal, and more. (4:02) Sports attorney Dan Lust joins the podcast to discuss the best argument made in the petition, what he might have added to the petition, Rose's ultimate chances, and more. (23:58) Mike explains the flaws in Rose's petition and ultimate chances of getting reinstated. Mike believes that MLB would much prefer scandals that involve electronic sign-stealing and steroids over a scandal that touches on baseball's third rail, gambling. 

Mike reacts to Major League Baseball's massive punishments of the Astros for the sign-stealing scandal. (2:32) A simple explanation of the rules that the Astros were found to have broken, (7:28) why Mike thinks the suspensions for Jeff Luhnow and AJ Hinch were fair, (9:10) the idea that the punishments were too lenient is bizarre, (16:51) why vacating the World Series was completely unrealistic, and (20:55) Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo had a harsh, but valid critique of the Astros players.  (28:32) Houston-based sportswriter and sports discipline expert Steph Stradley joins Mike to discuss whether punishment was fair, her thoughts on MLB's investigative report, Jim Crane's decision to fire Luhnow and Hinch, and how Astros fans should think about the last few years moving forward.

Mike reacts to a crushing loss for the Texans in the AFC playoffs, 51-31 to Kansas City. (0:41) why Mike had no big problem with the fake punt that Houston ran, (7:38) analyzing the decision to settle for a FG on a 4th and 1 up 21-0, (11:00) Bill O'Brien's most ridiculous decision/process throughout this game, and (15:17) discussing the two worst plays in this game. (19:45) Mike analyzes the defense's complete inability to stop the Chiefs, and finishes (25:54) with a monologue on what Cal McNair should be thinking about O'Brien's future, the structural problem with the Texans organization, the offseason, the Titans, and more. 

This episode is about the victory that former "Bachelor" contestant Jade Roper Tolbert had in the DraftKings Millionaire Maker contest during Wild Card Weekend of the NFL playoffs. The win is under investigation because of Roper Tolbert's alleged collusion with her husband, Tanner Tolbert. (0:55) Mike explains why there is suspected collusion, (4:05) John Holden, Assistant Professor at Oklahoma State University and author of more than 30 academic articles on sports gambling, joined the podcast to explain the Millionaire Maker contest, how DraftKings will go about investigating the Tolberts' activities, what DraftKings is likely to do, whether the resolution of this controversy will set a precedent in daily fantasy sports, and more. (21:34) Mike brainstorms possible solutions to the investigation, gives his assessment of what happened, and wonders how the daily fantasy companies can avoid these controversies from popping up in the future. 

Mike gives his reaction to a thrilling, come-from-behind Texans win against the Bills in the playoffs. (2:30) Deshaun Watson's magic won the game for Houston, (12:51) Duke Johnson started the game-winning drive, (15:25) JJ Watt's sack provided the turning point, (22:48) Bill O'Brien made the right decision to go for it on 4th and 1 late in regulation, and (29:38) the 5 most underrated plays in the 16 point comeback. Finally, (37:57) notes on the terrifying play to start the 2nd half of the game, Josh Allen, the usage of DeAndre Hopkins, Bradley Roby, and (46:25) a preview of the Chiefs next weekend at Arrowhead Stadium.

Mike gives his thoughts on a meaningless Texans 35-14 loss to the Titans. (3:31) Bill O'Brien had an interesting exchanging with Brian T. Smith right after the game, (8:34) game takeaways on AJ McCarron, Duke Johnson, and Jordan Akins, (14:21) Mike isn't a fan of the Whitney Mercilus extension, (23:39) what should we expect from JJ Watt's return, (26:22) a look-ahead to the Bills in the Wild Card Round, and (36:18) news and notes on the Patriots losing, the 49ers securing a bye, the firing of Freddie Kitchens, and the end of the season for the Colts and the Jaguars.

Mike gives his take on the Texans winning the AFC South again, this time thanks to a 23-20 nailbiter against the Bucs. (1:44) Mike is baffled by Houston's decision not to kneel the ball late in the game, (6:53) a big picture discussion on Bill O'Brien as a head coach, (22:09) the defensive turnovers won the game, (28:03) Deshaun didn't play well, plus (33:57) notes on BOB not going for a 4th down late, Johnathan Joseph's lack of snaps, special teams, Keke Coutee, and the plan for next week vs. the Titans.

This podcast is about the US Government's recent indictments of 10 former NFL players for health care fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy. The former players, including Clinton Portis, are accused of submitting phony claims that led to $3.4 million in tax-free reimbursements. (1:23) Mike outlines the accusations and the scheme. (6:03) Ron Chapman of the Chapman Law Group has practiced health care fraud for 33 years and explains what the health care plan was, what the defenses of the players might be, how the punishment works, and his initial prediction of whether some of the former players will actually see prison time. (22:58) Mike provides his closing thoughts and predictions on this story.

Mike gives his thoughts on a huge 24-21 Texans win in Tennessee. (1:19) Whitney Mercilus's INT was the difference, (8:10) where Houston made a few mistakes in trying to seal the game, (13:12) DeAndre Hopkins delivered when it mattered most, (15:13) evaluating Deshaun Watson's play, (23:58) the Texans have a new best player on defense, and (30:08) notes on the blocked FG, Lonnie Johnson's PBU on the fake, punt, AJ Brown, and looking ahead to the Buccaneers.

Mike and Houston-based sportswriter and NFL discipline expert Steph Stradley discuss the Patriots videotaping incident at Browns-Bengals this past weekend. (7:45)Should the Patriots have informed the Bengals and the NFL about their media department's filming? (10:38) Does it matter that the employees in question were not in New England's football operations department? (23:15) Steph predicts possible punishments for the Patriots, and (26:03) Mike gives his final thoughts on how big of a deal this story actually is, the reporting so far, and makes a prediction on the ultimate punishment.

Mike discusses a stunning result at NRG Stadium, with the Broncos walloping the Texans 38-24. (3:50)Mike doesn't care about "coming out ready to play, (6:21) analyzing how awful Keke Coutee's early fumble was, (17:30) what happened to the defense? (25:38) Mike has a major issue with the Texans play calls late in the first half, (29:41) addressing why this team isn't consistent, and (37:57) bullet points on Laremy Tunsil's penalties, Will Fuller being inactive, the Houston allowing Kareem Jackson to walk away in the offseason.

Mike gives his thoughts on the NBA's options after the referees failed to award the Rockets 2 points on a made dunk by James Harden, in a game the Spurs won in double overtime. (5:19) Mike opens the NBA rule book to determine what a made basket is,(6:30) delves into the disagreement between crew chief James Capers and Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni on Houston challenging the dunk, (10:00)and explains why this is not a judgment call. (17:06) Mike goes into the possible remedies here, and predicts what he thinks the NBA will do.

Mike discusses a massive Texans win against the Patriots on Sunday Night Football. Mike gives his thoughts on how big of a win it was, Deshaun Watson having the best passing performance of any QB against New England this season, Bradley Roby's massive night, and news and notes about Bill O'Brien's mentality, Chris Clark playing RT, JJ Watt's possible return, and the buzz in Houston about this Texans team.

Mike recaps the Texans holding off the Colts in basically a must-win Thursday night game, 20-17. (1:49) Putting the win into perspective for the rest of the season, (12:40) TY Hilton killed Indianapolis in 2 critical situations, (15:45) the tremendous return of Will Fuller, (24:58) quick hitters on Carlos Hyde, Vernon Hargreaves, Jordan Thomas, Ka'imi Fairbairn, and Jacob Martin.

Mike discusses the controversy coming out of Colin Kaepernick's workout this past weekend, specifically the inability of Kaepernick and the NFL to agree on a waiver for the league's sanctioned workout. (3:12) NFL agent and attorney Adelqui Boué joins Mike to explain what waivers are, his thoughts on the NFL's proposed waiver to Kaepernick, what he would have advised Kaepernick to do, and more. (26:45) Mike gives his concluding thoughts on how this entire process should have played out.

This is a two-part podcast, (0:48) Mike discusses the allegations from The Athletic about the Houston Astros allegedly using electronics to steal signs, (4:38) Jake Kaplan joins Mike to discuss MLB's rules, whether any evidence exists so far, the timeline of MLB's investigations, and the range of punishment. (37:47) Mike discusses the Angels potential legal liability for the death of Tyler Skaggs, (40:12) sports law professor Marc Edelman joins Mike to discuss why the DEA is involved in the story, how the Skaggs family would think about a wrongful death lawsuit, and where MLB moves forward on the issue of opioids.

Mike recaps a horrible Texans showing in Baltimore. (3:07) this was not one of the worst Texans losses ever, (5:38) Houston had 3 critical mistakes in the first half, (12:41) the offense was a massive disappointment, (21:44) every loss brings me back to the compensation given up for Laremy Tunsil, (31:12) concluding thoughts on the Ravens, and what the Texans must do moving forward.

In an emergency edition of the podcast, Mike discusses the huge news Friday in both college basketball and college football.(2:11)Memphis freshman star James Wiseman was ruled ineligible by the NCAA, yet played on Friday night. Why did the NCAA rule him ineligible? Why is Memphis taking the risk in playing him now? How will this story come to a resolution? (16:32) Ohio State superstar Chase Young is missing at least one game for a potential violation of NCAA rules. How quickly can Young get back on the field? Plus, Mike discusses his frustrations with both stories, and why he thinks the Wiseman issue will linger for most of the college basketball season.

Mike recaps a strong performance by the Texans in London, cruising by the Jaguars 26-3. (1:28) Mike starts with a nice effort by the defense without JJ Watt, (12:05) the Texans did get the benefit of 2 big calls early in the 2nd half, (15:06) Deshaun Watson was yet again the best player on the field, (24:01) notes on Keke Coutee, Duke Johnson, Carlos Hyde, and Houston heading into the bye week at 6-3.

Mike explores this week's news that the NCAA has "allowed" athletes to make money off of their name, image, and likeness. What exactly did the NCAA announcement mean? (4:06) NCAA expert John Long joins Mike to break down the NCAA's statement, how the NIL process will work now, the concerns with recruiting, and more. (27:58) Mike gives his thoughts on what he's looking for with NIL rules moving forward.

Mike recaps an important 27-24 Texans win against Indianapolis. (2:29) Deshaun Watson was the reason the Texans won this game, (10:30) Mike reflects on the loss of JJ Watt, what it means for this season, overall, and the big picture of Watt's career. (22:21) Mike gave his notes on Carlos Hyde, Bill O'Brien's 4th down calls, lack of 2-pt conversion, Keke Coutee, Roderick Johnson, Jordan Akins, Josh Jacobs, and more.

This emergency episode of The Mike Meltser Podcast is all about the Astros firing Assistant GM Brandon Taubman. Houston lawyer and writer Stephanie Stradley joins Mike to discuss their reactions to the firing, the way the Astros have mismanaged this story from a PR standpoint, whether Taubman has a wrongful termination claim, and more. (38:42) Mike concludes the podcast by giving his thoughts on the Taubman story.