Podcasts about next round

The Next Round is LIVE with a loaded college football show as we get you ready for another huge weekend across the SEC!

Former Alabama national championship quarterback Jake Coker joins Mick Gillespie to break down one of the biggest games of the college football weekend: No. 7 Alabama vs. No. 16 Mississippi State in Starkville — a matchup featuring two of the fastest-rising quarterbacks in the country and major implications for the 2026 Heisman Trophy race. Can Keelon Russell keep Alabama's undefeated start rolling, or will Mississippi State star Kamario Taylor deliver another statement performance in front of the cowbells at Davis Wade Stadium? Coker explains why Alabama-Mississippi State has the potential to become a defining Heisman moment, comparing the spotlight surrounding Russell and Taylor to Alabama's famous 2015 showdown with LSU, when Derrick Henry's dominant performance against Leonard Fournette dramatically changed the national award conversation. The guys also break down Russell's rapid development in Ryan Grubb's Alabama offense after the Crimson Tide quarterback erupted against South Carolina for 365 passing yards and four touchdowns. Coker dives into what separates Russell inside the pocket, including his anticipation, ball placement, protection checks and ability to process defensive pressure — traits that remind Coker of former Alabama stars Tua Tagovailoa and Bryce Young. On the other side, the biggest challenge for Kane Wommack's Alabama defense may be containing the explosive Kamario Taylor. Coker discusses Alabama linebackers Luke Metz and Caleb Woodson, the challenge of defending a quarterback with Taylor's size and athleticism, and why disguised pressures and simulated blitzes can be especially difficult for young quarterbacks. Plus, Coker breaks down: • Why Mississippi State could be a dangerous “trap” environment for Alabama • The latest Heisman conversation surrounding Jeremiah Smith, Darian Mensah, Kamario Taylor and Keelon Russell • Why Russell's pocket presence stands out • Josh Ford's emergence as a blocker and receiving threat • Ryan Coleman-Williams' ability to create game-changing plays • Ryan Grubb's play-calling and Russell's growth in Year 2 of the system • How elite defensive coordinators disguise pressure against young quarterbacks • Why Coker believes Alabama has the pieces to compete for a national championship If you're an Alabama football, Mississippi State football, SEC football or college football fan, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

Should Kamario Taylor leave Mississippi State? CBS Sports' Brandon Marcello isn't buying it. He joins The Next Round to break down the Bulldogs' phenom quarterback, college football's best teams, and the biggest storylines across the SEC and Big Ten. From Shane Beamer's situation at South Carolina to questions surrounding Texas' offense and Lincoln Riley's future at USC, we're talking college football rankings, transfer portal speculation, coaching pressure, and potential upsets.

Auburn and NBA legend Charles Barkley joins The Next Round for a candid conversation about Auburn football, the Alabama rivalry, the future of college sports, his golf game, and whether retirement from broadcasting is coming soon! Are Auburn fans too concerned with what's happening at Alabama? Barkley shares his take on the Auburn–Alabama rivalry and where he believes Tigers fans should focus their attention. We also discuss the Protect College Sports Act, his thoughts on the future of college athletics, and the issues shaping today's college sports landscape. Plus, Charles has been playing A LOT of golf lately—how's his game coming along? And with questions swirling about his broadcasting future, Barkley answers whether he's on the verge of retiring. Don't miss the stories, laughs, and opinions from one of sports' most recognizable personalities. Topics include:

Can Mississippi State slow down Keelon Russell? Is Florida's defense championship-ready? Coach Geoff Collins joins The Next Round to break down Alabama football, Florida's explosive offense, Georgia's dominance and the biggest questions around the SEC! Collins takes us back to his time with Nick Saban during the early days of Alabama's dynasty and shares his perspective on working alongside Curt Cignetti in Tuscaloosa. Could he see Cignetti's future coaching success coming? Then we dive into Alabama vs. Mississippi State and this weekend's ranked showdown in Starkville. What stands out about Keelon Russell and the Crimson Tide offense, and how will the Bulldogs try to defend Alabama's rising quarterback? Plus, Collins brings a coach's perspective to some of college football's biggest storylines:

Brock Huard joins The Next Round to break down the biggest NFL and college football storylines, from Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs to Keelon Russell, Alabama football and Lincoln Riley's latest big-game loss at USC! Is it time to panic for the Los Angeles Rams? Have Mahomes and the Chiefs found the fountain of youth? Brock discusses Case Keenum's remarkable night leading the Chicago Bears past the Philadelphia Eagles in his first start in more than 1,000 days, plus Bo Nix engineering another Denver Broncos comeback victory. Then we turn to college football: What does another big-game loss mean for Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans? Brock weighs in on the big hit that knocked Oregon quarterback Dante Moore out of the game and why USC hasn't taken greater advantage of the transfer portal era. Plus, Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell is gaining confidence as the Crimson Tide prepares to face Mississippi State in Starkville. What should fans expect in his second road start? And as defenses gather more film throughout the season, whose offense will hold up longer: Ryan Grubb's Alabama offense or Buster Faulkner's Florida Gators offense?

Is Keelon Russell vs. Kamario Taylor the BEST quarterback matchup in college football this week? We're LIVE on The Next Round with a loaded SEC football show as No. 7 Alabama heads to Starkville for a massive showdown with No. 16 Mississippi State — and two of the hottest young quarterbacks in the country will be at the center of it all.

FOX Sports' Joel Klatt joins The Next Round to break down Alabama QB Keelon Russell, Florida's rise in the SEC, Texas' place among the conference's contenders and the biggest questions in the College Football Playoff race! Klatt is impressed with Alabama's offense with Keelon Russell pulling the trigger. What stands out about the Crimson Tide's young quarterback, and what could his development mean for Alabama moving forward? Plus, is Mississippi State more than just a September story, and can the Bulldogs keep proving themselves as the SEC schedule heats up? Florida's win over Ole Miss raises a HUGE question: Could the Gators be the best team in the SEC? Klatt shares his thoughts on Florida's statement victory and whether Ole Miss' defense gives Rebels fans real cause for concern. We also discuss a bold possibility: Could FIVE SEC teams be better than Texas by the end of the season? We get Klatt's perspective on the USC hit that knocked Oregon quarterback Dante Moore out of the game and the disturbing celebration that followed. That leads to a broader conversation about over-the-top celebrations in college football and other sports. Whatever happened to simply celebrating with your teammates? Also in this college football conversation:

Josh Pate joins The Next Round to break down Texas' win over Tennessee in Knoxville, Alabama vs. Mississippi State, Florida's rise in the SEC, Oklahoma's struggles and why he's officially jumping off the Lincoln Riley train after USC's loss to Oregon! What did the Texas Longhorns prove against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium? Josh shares his takeaways from one of the biggest SEC matchups of the weekend and what it means for the conference race. Plus, how surprising is Oklahoma's poor play, and how close are the Florida Gators to being the BEST team in the SEC? We discuss two programs generating very different reactions and where they fit in the college football landscape. We also look ahead to Saturday's Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs matchup, featuring Mississippi State phenom quarterback Kamario Taylor and Alabama's Keelon Russell. What makes Taylor such a compelling player to watch, and what kind of challenge does he present for Alabama? Josh tackles one of college football's biggest problems: scheduling imbalance. His solution? Take scheduling out of the schools' hands. We discuss his argument and why uneven schedules remain such a major issue in the SEC and across college football. And after USC's loss to the Oregon Ducks, Josh has reached his breaking point with Lincoln Riley. Why is he officially off the Riley train, and what does that say about the direction of USC football? From SEC contenders and breakout quarterbacks to coaching criticism and the future of college football scheduling, this conversation is packed with Josh Pate's perspective on the sport's biggest debates.

College football delivered another massive Saturday, and we're breaking down everything from a loaded weekend across the SEC and the national landscape LIVE on The Next Round!

College football delivered another massive Saturday, and we're breaking down everything from a loaded weekend across the SEC and the national landscape LIVE on The Next Round!

Texas survives Tennessee. Florida DESTROYS Ole Miss. Alabama keeps rolling. And another chaotic college football weekend gives Jim Dunaway and ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill plenty to break down on Monday Morning Live!

College football's biggest weekend of the young season is here, and The Next Round is LIVE breaking down a loaded SEC slate, major College Football Playoff implications, the battle between Mississippi's top quarterbacks, our latest NFL Power Rankings and the greatest NFL players to never win a Super Bowl.

SEC Network's Ron Slay joins The Next Round to talk Alabama basketball, SEC NCAA Tournament predictions, and Tennessee football's showdown with the No. 1 Texas Longhorns! After attending Alabama basketball practice, Slay shares his firsthand observations of Nate Oats' squad and what fans should expect from the Crimson Tide this season. What stood out, and what could it mean for Alabama's chances in a loaded SEC basketball race? Plus, how many SEC teams will make the NCAA Tournament? Slay explains why he believes other conferences won't want the smoke this season as we discuss SEC basketball's depth, March Madness expectations, and the conference's national outlook. Then, we switch to college football as Slay weighs in on his beloved Tennessee Volunteers facing No. 1 Texas on Saturday. Can the Vols pull off the upset? Hear his thoughts on a huge SEC football matchup. Drop your predictions in the comments: How far will Alabama basketball go, how many SEC teams will go dancing, and who wins Tennessee vs. Texas?

Former Alabama Crimson Tide and Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Mike Johnson joins The Next Round to talk Alabama football, Ryan Grubb's comments about fans, Georgia vs. Oklahoma, Lane Kiffin and the Falcons' quarterback mess! Mike shares his memories of getting booed during his playing days in Tuscaloosa as the debate over Ryan Grubb's shot at Alabama fans heats up. He also breaks down Alabama's offensive line and running game: What looks different, and are the Crimson Tide's early improvements built to last? Plus, how much do we really know about Georgia football? Mike gives his impressions of the largely untested Bulldogs ahead of their SEC showdown with the Oklahoma Sooners. We also discuss Kirby Smart running drills DURING A TIMEOUT while blowing out Arkansas—a scene Mike says he has never seen before! The conversation continues with a big question about Lane Kiffin: Will he EVER become a great head coach? Then we turn to the NFL, the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback situation and whether a quarterback currently playing college football could become Atlanta's long-term answer. Among the topics:

Brock Huard joins The Next Round to break down the biggest stories in the NFL and college football. How are the Los Angeles Chargers already 0-2? What does the early wave of quarterback injuries mean for the NFL season? And which start is more likely to change first: the Las Vegas Raiders at 2-0 or the Houston Texans at 0-2? On the college football side, Brock previews Saturday's Oregon vs. USC showdown and evaluates Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss' NFL prospects. He also shares his thoughts on Mississippi State phenom Kamario Taylor, the unbelievable ending to Vanderbilt's win over NC State, and Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb's comments about Crimson Tide fans. Was Brock surprised by Grubb's shot? If you enjoy Brock Huard's football analysis, hit like, tell us your take in the comments, and subscribe to The Next Round for more NFL and college football conversations. #NFL #CollegeFootball #OregonFootball #USCFootball #AlabamaFootball #SEC #SECfootball #BigTen #RollTide #GoDucks #Seahawks #Buccaneers #Chargers #alabama #oregon #usc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SEC Network analyst and Florida Gators legend Chris Doering joins The Next Round for a wide-ranging conversation about the biggest storylines in SEC football and college football. Doering breaks down the concerns surrounding LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt and explains whether Ole Miss defensive coordinator Pete Golding deserves more credit for the Rebels' success. He also dives into Buster Faulkner's Florida offense, what makes the Gators so difficult to defend and whether Florida is a legitimate College Football Playoff contender. Plus, we preview Saturday's massive Ole Miss–Florida showdown in The Swamp and discuss: • What is wrong with Oklahoma's offense? • Can Florida strengthen its CFP résumé against Ole Miss? • Why does Arch Manning have to stop playing scared until Texas has its back against the wall? • Can the Longhorns survive their major road test at Tennessee? • Is Doering more impressed by Kentucky or more concerned about Texas A&M? • Who is Mississippi's best quarterback: Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor or Ole Miss star Trinidad Chambliss? • Which SEC quarterbacks and playmakers have the brightest NFL futures? Don't miss Chris Doering's analysis of Florida, Ole Miss, LSU, Oklahoma, Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas A&M, Mississippi State and the rapidly changing College Football Playoff race.

LSU vs. Ole Miss, Alabama vs. Florida State, Florida vs. Auburn and Texas A&M vs. Kentucky headline a wild SEC weekend, and The Next Round is LIVE on Sport & State breaking down everything that happened.

Welcome back to Monday Morning Live, hosted by ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill and Jim Dunaway of The Next Round! Ole Miss got the last word on Lane Kiffin — at least for one unforgettable night in Oxford. On today's LIVE edition of The Next Round, we break down a wild weekend across the SEC, beginning with No. 4 Ole Miss' emotional 32-24 victory over Lane Kiffin and LSU. Pete Golding's Rebels jumped out to a 24-7 halftime lead, survived LSU's second-half comeback and watched Trinidad Chambliss deliver another star performance with 363 passing yards, two touchdown passes and the go-ahead rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. Did Pete Golding outcoach Kiffin in his highly anticipated return to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium? How much of the difference was Chambliss? And after improving to 5-1 as a head coach with four victories over ranked opponents, what does Golding's incredible start mean for the future of Ole Miss football? We also discuss what the loss means for Kiffin, Sam Leavitt and an LSU team that entered Oxford ranked No. 7. Then it's Alabama. The Crimson Tide erased a 21-6 deficit and survived two lightning delays to beat Florida State 50-36, with freshman quarterback Keelon Russell delivering the best performance of his young career. Russell threw for 320 yards and three touchdowns, added a 57-yard rushing score and helped Alabama pile up 567 total yards. But should Alabama fans be concerned about the defense? Florida State threw for 377 yards and repeatedly created explosive plays against the Crimson Tide secondary. We examine Alabama's slow starts, problems getting off the field defensively, Kane Wommack's secondary, the Tide's three interceptions and an encouraging rushing attack that finished with 247 yards and took over late. Plus, Florida made a major statement in Jon Sumrall's SEC debut with a 44-39 road victory over Auburn. Jadan Baugh exploded for 162 rushing yards and three touchdowns as the Gators controlled the ground game and improved to 3-0. What did Florida show us at Jordan-Hare Stadium? How significant was this win for Sumrall? And where does Alex Golesh and Auburn go after a frustrating defensive performance in its SEC opener? We're also hitting the rest of a chaotic SEC Saturday: Kentucky stunned No. 9 Texas A&M 31-21 in College Station behind Kenny Minchey and CJ Baxter. Mississippi State erased an early 16-0 deficit and won 41-34 at South Carolina as Kamario Taylor threw four touchdown passes and the Bulldogs improved to 3-0. And Vanderbilt somehow pulled off one of the craziest endings you'll ever see, beating NC State 35-31 after the Wolfpack fumbled while attempting an intentional safety and Vanderbilt recovered in the end zone for the winning touchdown with one second remaining. Ole Miss. LSU. Alabama. Florida State. Florida. Auburn. Kentucky. Texas A&M. Mississippi State. South Carolina. Vanderbilt. We're breaking down everything from a massive Week 3 across college football and what it means as the SEC race begins to take shape. Subscribe to The Next Round for daily LIVE college football discussion, SEC football analysis, breaking news, rankings, reactions and more throughout the 2026 season. #CollegeFootball #SEC #OleMiss #cfb #cfbnews #secfootball #LSU #LaneKiffin #lsufootball #AlabamaFootball #rolltide #FloridaFootball #AuburnFootball #wareagle #PeteGolding #TrinidadChambliss #KeelonRussell #CFB #TheNextRound SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com 00:00 Countdown 00:05:20 Ole Miss takes down LSU in Lane Kiffin's return 00:17:30 Alabama struggles early, pulls away from Florida State 00:25:15 concerns about Alabama's defense? 00:34:15 Florida beats Auburn on the Plains for Jon Sumrall's first SEC win 00:41:40 Kentucky stuns Texas A&M on the road 00:44:10 Super Kamario leads Mississippi State to win at South Carolina 00:45:30 WILD ending in Vanderbilt's win over NC State 00:49:40 big CFB matchups: Texas at Tennessee, Oregon at USC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alabama vs. Florida State, Auburn vs. Florida, LSU vs. Ole Miss and the latest SEC injury news headline a loaded LIVE college football show!

Clay Travis joins The Next Round for a wide-ranging conversation covering the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, the controversy surrounding Sydney Sweeney's new ad campaign, a massive LSU vs. Ole Miss showdown, Sam Leavitt's status, and the changing landscape of college football television. The conversation begins with one of the biggest questions surrounding modern technology: Could artificial intelligence eventually become a legitimate threat to humanity? Clay explains why he remains more optimistic than many AI skeptics, while discussing the enormous energy requirements behind AI data centers, the possibility of machines eventually surpassing human intelligence, slowing global population growth, and why the speed of AI development understandably makes people nervous. Clay also explains how he already uses tools such as Grok for sports research, including pulling college football statistics, rivalry history and betting information. From there, the discussion turns to some of the darker possibilities of advanced technology — including autonomous weapons and facial-recognition drones — before examining the potential benefits of self-driving vehicles and whether autonomous transportation could eventually reduce traffic deaths and allow older Americans to remain independent longer. Then the conversation shifts to Sydney Sweeney, whose provocative new “Just Sports” campaign has generated backlash from several female athletes. Clay discusses why controversy can become enormously valuable free publicity, the role attractiveness has historically played in advertising, and why he believes Sweeney has been smart about turning her celebrity into business opportunities. Sweeney is a strategic partner and equity holder in the company and also launched her own lingerie company, SYRN, earlier in 2026. Finally, it's time for college football. Clay reacts to LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt being listed doubtful ahead of Saturday night's Top-10 showdown between No. 7 LSU and No. 8 Ole Miss in Oxford. He gives his betting thoughts on the matchup, including his opinion on the point spread and game total, as Lane Kiffin returns to Ole Miss as LSU's head coach. The guys also revisit the changing college football television landscape. Clay unloads on CBS's decision not to renew its SEC package, comparing the network's current Big Ten inventory with the marquee SEC games now airing across ABC and ESPN — and calls CBS moving away from the SEC one of the worst decisions in sports television history. From AI and autonomous technology to Sydney Sweeney, Novig, sports marketing, LSU football, Ole Miss football, Lane Kiffin, Sam Leavitt, SEC football, college football betting and media rights, this Clay Travis interview covers a little bit of everything. Subscribe to The Next Round for daily college football, SEC, NFL, sports media and entertainment coverage, interviews, analysis and reaction. #ClayTravis #TheNextRound #CollegeFootball #SEC #LSU #OleMiss #LaneKiffin #SamLeavitt #SydneySweeney #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #Novig #SECFootball #CollegeFootballPicks #SportsMedia SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny Kanell joins The Next Round for a wide-ranging college football conversation covering Florida State's mounting pressure on Mike Norvell, Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell, the latest LSU injury-report drama, Oklahoma QB John Mateer, Mississippi State breakout Kamario Taylor, Oregon's veteran roster and much more. The conversation begins with Kanell's former program, Florida State, where frustration has reached a boiling point. The Seminoles are coming off a 27-24 home loss to SMU, and fans were heard booing head coach Mike Norvell and chanting for his firing. Florida State then made a major administrative change by parting ways with athletic director Michael Alford ahead of FSU's trip to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama. Kanell explains why he believes the atmosphere around the Seminoles has become toxic and what Norvell may need to accomplish to change the direction of the program. The discussion then turns to Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell after the Crimson Tide's 45-17 road win over Kentucky. Russell threw two interceptions but responded to adversity and helped Alabama dominate the second half. Kanell explains why a young quarterback's response to mistakes can reveal more than his performance in an easy blowout, while also evaluating whether Alabama has truly fixed its running-game issues. Kanell also reacts to LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt being listed as doubtful ahead of LSU's Top-10 showdown at Ole Miss. Does Kanell actually believe Leavitt will miss the game, or is LSU head coach Lane Kiffin playing games with the SEC availability report? Plus, Kanell breaks down Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer after the Sooners' 17-10 loss at Michigan and explains why Mateer's offseason work to change his throwing motion concerns him. We also discuss one of college football's fastest-rising young quarterbacks: Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor. Taylor threw for 227 yards and three touchdowns while adding 86 rushing yards in Mississippi State's 38-13 win at Minnesota, but Kanell explains why the true test comes when a young quarterback faces SEC pressure on the road. Finally, the conversation shifts to Oregon and Dan Lanning following the Ducks' stunning 39-31 loss at Oklahoma State. Kanell discusses how NIL, veteran rosters and players delaying the NFL Draft can create a more professional mindset inside college locker rooms—and why keeping highly compensated players emotionally invested after adversity could become one of the biggest challenges in modern college football. Danny Kanell can be heard on The Early Read with Roy Philpott on SiriusXM College Sports Radio and regularly appears on CBS Sports HQ. Subscribe to The Next Round for daily coverage of Alabama football, Auburn football, SEC football, the College Football Playoff, NIL, coaching news and the biggest stories across college football. #DannyKanell #CollegeFootball #SEC #FloridaState #FSUFootball #MikeNorvell #AlabamaFootball #KeelonRussell #LSUFootball #LaneKiffin #JohnMateer #OklahomaFootball #KamarioTaylor #MississippiState #OregonFootball #DanLanning #TheNextRound SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alabama vs. Florida State is back — and this time the Seminoles are coming to Tuscaloosa. On a new episode of The Next Round's Last Call, Mick Gillespie and former Alabama national championship quarterback Jake Coker preview the Crimson Tide's highly anticipated rematch with Florida State in what we're calling “Coker Bowl 2.” Florida State stunned Alabama 31-17 in Tallahassee in 2025, but the setting and circumstances are dramatically different for the rematch. No. 10 Alabama enters 2-0 and is currently favored by roughly 19.5 points as the Crimson Tide welcomes FSU to Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. What does Alabama have to do differently this time? Jake explains why protecting the football and establishing the running game early could be critical for an Alabama offense led by Keelon Russell. The guys also discuss the potential return of right guard Michael Carroll, Alabama's improving offensive line and whether the Crimson Tide can impose its physicality from the opening drive. Defensively, Alabama has been dominant on third down, allowing opponents to convert just 1 of 23 third-down attempts through its first two games. That unit now faces a Florida State offense built around quarterback Ashton Daniels and running back Ousmane Kromah, with FSU needing its physical rushing attack to create manageable third downs and keep pressure off Daniels. But is this really a revenge game? Coker discusses how roster turnover and the transfer portal have changed the psychology of college football revenge games before sharing stories from his own playing career about how elite teams manufacture motivation. That includes Scott Cochran using the Kick Six as fuel, Nick Saban demanding championship-level practice intensity regardless of the opponent, Coker's memories from Florida State before a huge Clemson road game, and the kind of relentless effort that separated Alabama's best teams. Then things get lighter as the former quarterback — who spent time at both Florida State and Alabama — settles some Tuscaloosa vs. Tallahassee debates:

Former Alabama national championship quarterback Jake Coker joins Mick Gillispie for another episode of Last Call to break down Alabama football after the Crimson Tide's 45-17 SEC road win over Kentucky — from Keelon Russell's quarterback play and Alabama's evolving rushing attack to Kane Wommack's aggressive defense and the upcoming showdown with Florida State.How should Alabama fans evaluate Keelon Russell after his first SEC road start?Russell finished the Kentucky game 16-of-23 for 188 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions, but the box score only tells part of the story. Jake takes viewers inside the quarterback position and explains how play-calling, protection, practice performance and a coaching staff's confidence in its personnel can shape what a young quarterback is being asked to do.Drawing from his own experience playing quarterback at Alabama under Nick Saban and Lane Kiffin, Coker breaks down Russell's decision-making, throwing angles near the goal line, reading defensive looks, RPO execution and the mistakes that Alabama must clean up as the schedule gets tougher.The guys also take a closer look at the Alabama running back room. Daniel Hill delivered a career-high 104 rushing yards against Kentucky, while talented young backs EJ Crowell and Kevin Riley continue to give the Crimson Tide different options in the backfield. Jake explains what he sees from Hill's physical running style, Crowell's explosiveness and Riley's ability to make plays in space.Then it's time to talk Kane Wommack and the Alabama defense.The Crimson Tide held Kentucky to 209 total yards and just 1-of-14 on third down, with several Alabama defenders making major impacts. Caleb Woodson led the defense with 12 tackles and two sacks, while freshman linebacker Luke Metz delivered one of the biggest plays of the game with a 34-yard pick-six. Jake also discusses Red Morgan, Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. and the speed, communication and aggression Alabama is showing defensively — even drawing comparisons to the dominant 2016 Alabama defense he remembers from his playing days.But Alabama still has plenty to correct offensively.Jake explains the details behind RPOs, illegal receiver downfield penalties, offensive-line timing and quarterback execution, plus shares a hilarious story from his Alabama career involving an unintended throw that nearly drilled center Ryan Kelly against Wisconsin.Finally, Mick and Jake turn their attention toward Alabama vs. Florida State and the betting market. With Alabama sitting around a 19.5-point favorite at the time of recording, Mick tries to get Jake to reveal the pick from his betting syndicate — but Jake saves the official selection for Thursday while discussing a group he says is up 16 units on the season.

Could Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor be the BEST quarterback in college football by the end of the season? SEC Network analyst and Georgia Bulldogs quarterback legend Aaron Murray joins The Next Round to explain his bold prediction and break down the biggest SEC quarterback matchups, offensive questions and college football storylines!

Tyler Siskey joins The Next Round to break down SEC football, Lane Kiffin's return to Oxford, Vanderbilt freshman quarterback Jared Curtis, Alabama QB Keelon Russell, and Auburn's matchup with Florida—plus a hilarious story about keeping Alabama's staff golf outings hidden from Nick Saban!

Brock Huard joins The Next Round to break down the biggest storylines across college football and the NFL! Oklahoma State stunned Oregon in one of the season's biggest upsets—but did the Cowboys expose predictable “tells” in the Ducks' offense? Brock examines what went wrong for Dan Lanning and Oregon, how Oklahoma State pulled off the upset and whether the Ducks' offensive tendencies could remain a problem moving forward. We also evaluate the top quarterbacks in college football and ask whether any of them currently look like sure-fire NFL quarterbacks. Brock shares his assessment of Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor, including the young playmaker's talent, development and potential at the next level. Then, the conversation shifts to the NFL:

“The Film Guy” Brooks Austin joins The Next Round to break down the biggest storylines across SEC football and the college football landscape. Kamario Taylor has officially put the college football world on notice—but how high is his ceiling after his breakout performance? Brooks breaks down Taylor's film, athleticism and playmaking ability before examining whether Alabama has finally fixed its rushing attack. We also discuss Arch Manning leading the Texas Longhorns to a dramatic comeback victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes, what fueled Georgia's offensive explosion and whether the Bulldogs have found another gear. Plus, Brooks previews Saturday's SEC showdown between the Auburn Tigers and Florida Gators at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Where are Auburn's biggest advantages, what problems can Florida create and which matchup could ultimately decide the game? Finally, we look ahead to the chaos coming to Oxford when Lane Kiffin returns to face Ole Miss as the head coach of the LSU Tigers. With Kiffin back inside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, College GameDay in town and major SEC implications on the line, could LSU vs. Ole Miss become the wildest game of the college football weekend? Topics include:

Joel Klatt joins The Next Round to break down the biggest stories from a wild weekend of college football! The Texas Longhorns stunned the Ohio State Buckeyes after overcoming a huge deficit, with Arch Manning leading a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback. What went wrong for Ohio State down the stretch? Did Texas prove it deserves to be considered the best team in college football—and was this the breakthrough performance Arch Manning needed? Joel also examines Oklahoma's loss to Michigan and John Mateer's disappointing performance against the Wolverines' defense. Has Michigan finally discovered the blueprint for maximizing five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood? Could the Wolverines become a legitimate Big Ten and College Football Playoff contender? Plus, what is wrong with the Oregon Ducks? After a troubling performance, should Oregon fans be concerned about the direction of the season? Joel shares his take on the Ducks, the Big Ten race, the national championship picture and much more from around college football.

Welcome back to Monday Morning Live, hosted by ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill and Jim Dunaway of The Next Round! Texas just delivered one of the wildest comebacks in college football history — and the College Football Playoff race may already look completely different. The No. 3/4 Texas Longhorns erased a 20-point fourth-quarter deficit to stun No. 1 Ohio State, 24-23, in Austin. Arch Manning helped ignite a 21-0 fourth-quarter run, Hollywood Smothers scored twice, and the Texas defense shut out the Buckeyes over the final 15 minutes to complete a historic comeback. What does the loss mean for Ohio State's College Football Playoff hopes, especially with Oregon also going down? And after a massive early-season win, should Texas now be viewed as the team to beat nationally? We also break down Alabama's SEC-opening win at Kentucky. The Crimson Tide trailed 17-13 at halftime before completely taking over, outscoring Kentucky 32-0 in the second half on the way to a 45-17 victory. Keelon Russell battled through two interceptions, Daniel Hill delivered his first career 100-yard rushing performance, and Alabama's defense created havoc with three turnovers, four sacks and another defensive touchdown. Is Kalen DeBoer's team beginning to look like a legitimate national championship contender? Plus: • Texas vs. Ohio State: How did the Longhorns pull off the historic comeback? • Arch Manning: What did we learn from his fourth-quarter performance? • Ohio State & Oregon: How much damage did their losses do to the CFP picture? • Alabama vs. Kentucky: Is the Tide's dominant second half a sign of what's coming? • Keelon Russell: Where does Alabama's young QB stand after his first SEC road start? • Florida vs. Auburn: Who has the edge as this rivalry returns to Jordan-Hare Stadium for the first time since 2011? • Alex Golesh vs. Jon Sumrall: Which first-year SEC coach gets the bigger statement win? • SEC Quarterbacks: Are there legitimately 15 GOOD teams in the league because the conference is loaded at quarterback? Florida enters its showdown with Auburn after outscoring its first two opponents 118-24, while the Tigers are 2-0 after surviving Baylor and dominating Southern Miss. ESPN's SP+ gives Florida the early edge, but can Auburn's toughness and the Jordan-Hare atmosphere flip the matchup? The SEC looks deeper than ever, Texas has shaken up the national championship race, and two major contenders have already taken early losses. We break down what it all means for the SEC and the College Football Playoff.

Did Byrum Brown make the Auburn Tigers offense look better than it really was in Alex Golesh's debut? And should Alabama fans be worried about the Crimson Tide's offensive line as Keelon Russell prepares for his first SEC road start at Kentucky? The Next Round breaks down the biggest storylines heading into Week 2 of the 2026 college football season. Auburn is coming off a win over Baylor, but Byrum Brown was asked to do a lot. The Tigers quarterback threw for 259 yards while also carrying the ball 21 times, including the game-clinching touchdown run. Southern Miss head coach Blake Anderson says stopping Auburn “starts and ends” with Brown. Is that a compliment to Auburn's new quarterback—or a warning sign about the rest of the Tigers offense under Alex Golesh? Then we turn to Alabama, where Kalen DeBoer could be dealing with a major concern up front. Starting right guard Michael Carroll is doubtful for the Crimson Tide's SEC opener at Kentucky, potentially leaving Alabama without the lone returning starter from last season's first-team offensive line. How big of a problem could that be for Keelon Russell as the young quarterback makes his first SEC start and first major road start at Kroger Field? Plus: • SEC Power Rankings vs. ESPN FPI — Which ranking has the conference right? • SEC vs. Big Ten — How important is this weekend for the battle between college football's two biggest conferences? • Buffalo Wild Wings Pick Three — Week 2 picks are here as we try to find three winners on another loaded college football Saturday. From Auburn and Alabama to the SEC championship race and the national battle between the SEC and Big Ten, we have you covered with everything you need to know heading into the weekend. Today on the Alexander Shunnurah Trial Attorneys Hotline: 11:30 - Alexander Shunnurah's Six Pack of Picks

Can Arch Manning and Texas deliver against Ohio State? Is Bryce Underwood ready for Brent Venables and Oklahoma? And should Clemson actually be worried about Georgia Southern? On Episode 12 of The Connor O'Gara Show, Connor is joined by Jim Dunaway of The Next Round for a wide-ranging conversation covering the biggest storylines heading into another massive weekend of college football — plus a powerful reflection on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001.

Are injuries becoming a real concern for the Alabama Crimson Tide heading into their SEC road test against the Kentucky Wildcats? Alabama starting right guard Michael Carroll is listed as doubtful, while several other Crimson Tide players are dealing with injuries ahead of Saturday's matchup in Lexington. We break down what Carroll's potential absence could mean for Kalen DeBoer, Keelon Russell and an Alabama offensive line already being tested early in the 2026 college football season. Meanwhile, Kentucky enters the game expecting to be close to full strength. Is this already a defining game for new Wildcats head coach Will Stein? Kentucky opened the Stein era with a 45-13 win over Youngstown State, but beating No. 13 Alabama would immediately change expectations in Lexington. Can the Wildcats pull off their first home win over Alabama since 1997? Plus, we hit several other major college football storylines:

FOX Sports college football analyst Joel Klatt joins The Next Round for a wide-ranging conversation about the biggest storylines in the sport. Klatt discusses potential changes to college football replay following the controversial clock situation in Michigan's narrow win over Western Michigan. What needs to change, and how can the sport prevent another officiating controversy from impacting the outcome of a game? The conversation also examines whether coaches intentionally hold back parts of their playbook against lesser opponents—and whether Michigan nearly paid the price for doing so against Western Michigan. Klatt evaluates Bryce Underwood's early struggles and explains why some of the Michigan quarterback's problems may not be easy to fix. Plus, Joel previews the massive top four showdown between the #1 Ohio State Buckeyes and #4 Texas Longhorns in Austin. What will determine the outcome between Ryan Day's Buckeyes and Steve Sarkisian's Longhorns? Finally, Klatt shares his evaluation of Keelon Russell's first start as Alabama's quarterback, what stood out about the talented young passer and what Crimson Tide fans should expect from him moving forward under Kalen DeBoer. Topics include: • College football replay changes • Michigan's clock controversy against Western Michigan • Do coaches hold back against lesser opponents? • Bryce Underwood's development and concerns • Ohio State vs. Texas preview and predictions • Keelon Russell's first Alabama start • The latest Michigan, Ohio State, Texas and Alabama football news If you enjoy college football news, analysis and interviews, hit the LIKE button and SUBSCRIBE to The Next Round YouTube channel for daily coverage of the SEC, Big Ten, College Football Playoff and the biggest stories across the sport. #CollegeFootball #JoelKlatt #TheNextRound #michigan #goblue #ohiostate #buckeyes #texas #hookem #alabama #rolltide Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alabama Crimson Tide fans are split on recognizing College Football Playoff appearances on the practice facility wall? This doesn't meet the standard? The “Alabama Third Year” is history on the side of Alabama Football coach Kalen DeBoer? Week one quarterback grades. The Auburn Tigers Offensive Line, can it improve? If you are the Florida State Seminoles, would you rather have Brian Kelly, Jimbo Fisher or the hot G6 Coach? Today on the Alexander Shunnurah Hotline: 11:30 - FanDuel President Christian Genetski LIKE the video and SUBSCRIBE to The Next Round for more SEC football news, college football analysis, reactions, predictions and breakdowns all season long. #AlabamaFootball #RollTide #KalenDeBoer #CollegeFootball #CFB #CFBPlayoff #AuburnFootball #WarEagle #FloridaState #FSUFootball #BrianKelly #JimboFisher #SECfootball #CollegeFootballNews #TheNextRound SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com 00:00 The Next Round 00:11:50 Alabama takes on Kentucky in Lexington 00:21:40 Alabama now displaying College Football Playoff appearances on wall 00:35:00 FanDuel President Christian Genetski 00:52:05 Auburn looking for improvement after win over Baylor 00:57:20 4 Downs 01:25:00 Georgia and Florida unveiling new looks this weekend 01:30:00 AP Top 25 reaction 01:36:00 viewing menu 01:40:30 grading QBs around college football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Alabama quarterback Jake Coker joins Mick Gillispie on Last Call on The Next Round to break down the Alabama Crimson Tide's 48-10 season-opening win, including the first career start for highly touted quarterback Keelon Russell. Coker gives his assessment of Russell's debut, what impressed him about the young Alabama QB, where he still needs to improve and why his combination of arm talent, athleticism and playmaking ability gives him such a high ceiling. The guys also dive into an impressive performance from the Alabama defense, a breakout showing from freshman running back EJ Crowell, the Crimson Tide's running back depth and the explosiveness of star wide receiver Ryan Williams. Williams finished with 5 catches for 130 yards, but are the drops becoming something Alabama needs to worry about before the schedule gets tougher? Plus, Mick and Jake discuss:

Former NFL quarterback and college football analyst Brock Huard joins The Next Round to break down the biggest storylines from Week 1 across college football and the NFL. Which college football quarterbacks impressed Brock the most in the opening week? Can Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood be fixed after a difficult start? Brock also shares his thoughts on Bo Nix, the Denver Broncos and what to expect as the NFL season gets underway. From quarterback development and offensive strategy to the latest college football and NFL headlines, Brock Huard brings expert analysis and a former quarterback's perspective to the conversation. If you're a fan of college football, the NFL, Michigan football, Bryce Underwood, Bo Nix or the Denver Broncos, this interview is for you.

Former Georgia Tech head coach and longtime college football assistant Geoff Collins joins The Next Round to break down the biggest stories and performances from around the country. Coach Collins explains how SMU overcame a power failure and numerous other challenges in Tallahassee to defeat Florida State. He also reacts to Western Michigan's heartbreaking loss to Michigan following the controversial second attempt at a Hail Mary—and shares the story behind the premature congratulatory text he sent Broncos head coach Lance Taylor. The conversation also covers LSU's dominant performance against Clemson, what Collins sees from Georgia and Alabama, his early impression of Jon Sumrall at Florida, and whether Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian's comparison of Ohio State superstar Jeremiah Smith to Alabama legend Julio Jones is fair. If you love college football, SEC football, the ACC, the Big Ten and expert coaching analysis, this interview is loaded with insight from a coach who understands the game from the inside.

After one look at the new Alabama offensive line, do you feel better about Alabama up front? What was your reaction to Keelon Russell in week one? Are the drops still there for Ryan Coleman-Williams? Alabama's defense was dominant. A common reaction for the Auburn Tigers win over the Baylor Bears is that Auburn's offense hasn't changed at all. Did the performance of Auburn's offensive line concern you? What was your reaction to the Auburn debut of Byrum Brown? Auburn finally wins a close game! Is the SEC the best QB conference in the nation? Is there anyone that believes the Big Ten ruling costing Western Michigan a win at the Michigan Wolverines? LIKE the video and SUBSCRIBE to The Next Round for more SEC football news, college football analysis, reactions, predictions and breakdowns all season long. #AlabamaFootball #AuburnFootball #KeelonRussell #ByrumBrown #RollTide #WarEagle #SECfootball #CollegeFootball #CFB #secnews #sec #cfbnews #collegefootballlive #cfblive #AlabamaCrimsonTide #AuburnTigers #MichiganFootball #WesternMichigan #BigTenFootball #TheNextRound SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Monday Morning Live, hosted by ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill and Jim Dunaway of The Next Round! LSU destroys Clemson, Keelon Russell makes his Alabama debut, Auburn survives Baylor, and the SEC goes 16-0 in Week 1. Tom and Jim break down the biggest college football and SEC football storylines from opening weekend. Is LSU really this good under Lane Kiffin? The Tigers crushed Clemson 51-10 in Death Valley, handing Dabo Swinney the worst loss of his Clemson career. LSU looked faster, stronger and more explosive from the opening kick, raising an even bigger question: Could the Lane Train roll into November undefeated? Meanwhile, Clemson has major questions at quarterback, along the offensive line and with Chad Morris' offense after one of the most embarrassing losses of the Dabo era. Alabama QB Keelon Russell also made his first career start, accounting for 335 total yards and a touchdown in the Crimson Tide's 48-10 win over East Carolina. How should we grade Russell's debut, and what does his dual-threat ability mean for Kalen DeBoer's Alabama offense? Auburn beat Baylor, but it wasn't pretty. Byrum Brown threw three interceptions, the offense repeatedly stalled in Baylor territory and questionable decisions nearly cost the Tigers. But DJ Durkin's defense delivered when it mattered most. Did Alex Golesh's Auburn team just win a game it would have lost last season? Plus, the SEC finished opening weekend 16-0. Which SEC teams made the biggest statements, and what did Week 1 tell us about the conference heading into the heart of the 2026 college football season? Tom Luginbill and Jim Dunaway react to LSU vs. Clemson, Alabama vs. East Carolina, Auburn vs. Baylor, Lane Kiffin, Dabo Swinney, Keelon Russell, Byrum Brown, Alex Golesh, Kalen DeBoer and the biggest stories in SEC football and college football. LIKE the video and SUBSCRIBE to The Next Round for more SEC football news, college football analysis, reactions, predictions and breakdowns all season long. #CollegeFootball #SECFootball #LSUFootball #LaneKiffin #ClemsonFootball #AlabamaFootball #KeelonRussell #AuburnFootball #DaboSwinney #CFB #CollegeFootballPlayoff #TheNextRound SUBSCRIBE: @NextRoundLive - youtube.com/@nextroundlive @TNRClips - youtube.com/@TNRClips FOLLOW TNR ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/7zlofzLZht7dYxjNcBNpWN FOLLOW TNR ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-round/id1797862560 WEBSITE: https://nextroundlive.com/ MOBILE APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-next-round/id1580807480 SHOP THE NEXT ROUND STORE: https://nextround.store/ Like TNR on Facebook: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Twitter: / nextroundlive Follow TNR on Instagram: / nextroundlive Follow everyone from the show on Twitter: Jim Dunaway: / jimdunaway Ryan Brown: / ryanbrownlive Lance Taylor: / thelancetaylor Scott Forester: / scottforestertv Tyler Johns: /TylerJohnsTNR Brooks Carter: /BrooksACarter Sponsor the show: sales@nextroundlive.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join veteran broadcaster Mick Gillispie to recap the Alabama Crimson Tide's season opener vs. the East Carolina Pirates in the first round of the 2025 College Football Playoff! Mick takes your calls at 205-857-5410 and answer comments plus break down the matchup, Keelon Russel's start at QB, Kalen DeBoer's post game press conference comments and much more.

Alabama football is back, and Last Call is breaking down everything surrounding the Crimson Tide's season opener against East Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium. How will Kalen DeBoer, Ryan Grubb and Alabama handle an ECU team coming off a nine-win season and a Military Bowl victory? And with the heat index potentially reaching 110–111 degrees in Tuscaloosa, could the weather become one of the biggest stories of Week 1? The guys dive into the biggest Alabama football questions entering the opener, including Keelon Russell's first start at quarterback, expectations for the Crimson Tide offense, the competition along the offensive line, Alabama's running back depth and whether the Tide can establish the physical running game they'll need once SEC play arrives. They also discuss Alabama's wide receiver room, the importance of explosive plays in Ryan Grubb's offense, what the Crimson Tide need to learn from these early-season “tuneup” games and why the first two weeks could be critical before Alabama faces Florida State. Plus, the conversation expands to the biggest controversy in college football: LSU, the SEC and the push to bring former professional players back into college football. Could the ongoing dispute lead to unprecedented action from the SEC? And what does the situation say about the transfer portal, NIL, player movement and the increasingly chaotic free-agency era of college football?

“The Film Guy” Brooks Austin joins The Next Round to break down the biggest storylines entering the 2026 college football season. Brooks explains what Keelon Russell brings to Kalen DeBoer's Alabama offense and how the talented young quarterback could elevate the Crimson Tide. The crew also debates the best player in college football and puts Brooks on the spot for his three guarantees—three bold predictions for the upcoming season. Can Keelon Russell lead Alabama back to the College Football Playoff? Who deserves to be called the best player in the sport? Which teams, players and coaches could define the 2026 college football season? Watch the full conversation for Brooks Austin's film analysis, predictions and insight on Alabama football, the SEC and the national championship race.

Does wearing No. 12 at Alabama come with a different level of pressure? The jersey carries one of the richest quarterback legacies in Alabama Crimson Tide football history, and the expectations in Tuscaloosa are enormous. We break down the incredible history of Alabama's No. 12 quarterbacks, including four national championship winners:

ESPN play-by-play announcer Tom Hart joins The Next Round to discuss the next chapter of his broadcasting career as he joins a new college football crew after spending the past nine seasons alongside Cole Cubelic and Jordan Rodgers. Hart also explains why he believes the biggest storyline at Alabama is flying under the radar while much of the national college football conversation focuses on Lane Kiffin and Texas. What are people overlooking about the Crimson Tide? Plus, Tom shares his expectations for Alex Golesh's Auburn Tigers, the challenges facing the new coaching staff on the Plains and much more from around SEC football.

Former Alabama quarterback Jake Coker and Mick Gillispie break down the latest surrounding Alabama Crimson Tide football as the 2026 college football season approaches — including a surprise defensive starter, a devastating injury, a major future scheduling change and one of the SEC's best rivalries bringing back an incredible tradition.

Former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback and national champion Jake Coker joins Mick Gillispie for a deep dive into the latest Alabama Football storylines, led by Kalen DeBoer officially naming Keelon Russell the Crimson Tide's starting quarterback. Coker gives a former QB's perspective on what happens behind the scenes when a coach names his starter, sharing stories from his own private conversations with Nick Saban and Jimbo Fisher. He also explains why Austin Mack still has to prepare like Alabama's starter every single week — because a backup quarterback is always just one play away. The guys also break down Alabama's projected offensive line, why continuity and chemistry up front are so important for pass protection, the latest Crimson Tide injury updates, and the competitive kicking battle between Graham Nicholson and Conor Talty. Plus, Jake and Mick discuss the changing landscape of NCAA eligibility and roster rules, including the possibility of players with NFL experience returning to college football. And it wouldn't be a conversation with Jake Coker without getting off the football field. The guys get into Charles Barkley and Larry Bird stories, Dwight Yoakam, Billy Bob Thornton, the legendary Kenny Chesney Flora-Bama concert, golf, smoking brisket and why Jake would rather spend a weekend with his family than five hours on the golf course. If you're an Alabama Football fan, subscribe for more Crimson Tide news, analysis, player updates and college football discussion all season long.

Danny Kanell joins The Next Round to break down some of the biggest storylines heading into the college football season. How important is team chemistry in the transfer portal era? Danny examines Lane Kiffin's rebuilt LSU roster and whether a talented group of transfers can come together quickly enough to compete for an SEC Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. We also discuss the most underrated quarterbacks in college football, which program deserves to be considered the second-best team in the ACC behind Miami, and the pressure surrounding Mike Norvell at Florida State. Can Norvell lead the Seminoles back into contention and save his job, or is FSU approaching another major change? Danny Kanell offers his unfiltered opinions on LSU Football, Florida State Football, the ACC race, quarterback play, the transfer portal and the national championship picture. Who is the most overlooked quarterback in college football? Let us know in the comments!

Tom Luginbill joins The Next Round to break down some of the biggest storylines across the SEC and college football as the 2026 season approaches. Alabama has officially named Keelon Russell QB1 — what should Crimson Tide fans expect from the former five-star quarterback as he takes over Kalen DeBoer's offense? Tom gives his thoughts on Russell, Alabama's ceiling and what the move means for the Tide in the SEC race. We also dive into Tennessee Football and whether the Volunteers could emerge as one of the surprise teams in the SEC, plus expectations for Auburn's offense as the Tigers try to take a major step forward. Elsewhere around college football, could North Carolina already be preparing to move on from Bill Belichick? Tom weighs in on the situation in Chapel Hill and what could come next for the Tar Heels. Plus, we discuss Florida naming Aaron Philo its starting quarterback, Lane Kiffin and LSU pursuing a former NFL tight end, the latest SEC quarterback news, roster developments, coaching storylines and much more from around the college football world. If you love college football, SEC football, Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee, LSU, Florida and the biggest stories from around the sport, make sure to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to The Next Round for more interviews, analysis, breaking news and daily college football conversation. #CollegeFootball #SECFootball #AlabamaFootball #KeelonRussell #RollTide #TennesseeFootball #GoVols #AuburnFootball #WarEagle #LSUFootball #LaneKiffin #FloridaGators #UNCFootball #BillBelichick #TheNextRound #CFB #CollegeFootballPlayoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Alabama Crimson Tide have their starting quarterback — and it's Keelon Russell. The former five-star recruit beat out senior Austin Mack during fall camp and will take over an Alabama offense that lost Ty Simpson to the NFL Draft. Russell arrived in Tuscaloosa as ESPN's No. 2 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting class and flashed his potential during Alabama's A-Day game with 240 passing yards and four touchdowns. What should Alabama fans expect from Russell as QB1? What former Crimson Tide quarterback does his game remind us of? And how high is the ceiling for Kalen DeBoer's Alabama offense with Russell behind center? We also dive into several huge stories around the SEC: