Locked On Coogs - Daily Podcast on Houston Cougars Football and Basketball

Houston Cougars secure a statement win over Oklahoma State as Conner Weigman’s grit and Amare Thomas’ highlight-reel touchdowns light up the night. Can Houston’s dynamic offense and rising stars power them to back-to-back double-digit victory seasons in a Power Five conference?

Parker Ainsworth breaks down the Cougars’ big-time performances on both sides of the ball, spotlighting Trent Walker’s game-changing catches, Koby Young’s clutch 48-yard touchdown, and Will James’ lockdown coverage. Key topics include the dominance of Houston’s offensive line trio—Shadre Hurst, Anthony Boswell, and McKenzie Agnello—plus Brandon Mack’s disruptive pass rush and Ashton Porter’s emergence at defensive end. Houston’s defense held strong despite missing three starters, setting the stage for an all-important showdown against Utah and a chance to climb further in the AP Top 25 poll. Will the Cougars maintain their momentum on College GameDay’s primetime stage?

00:00 Houston vs. Oklahoma State Recap
05:00 Offensive Standouts & Key Plays
10:30 Defensive Performances & O-Line Impact

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This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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Houston Cougars surge into the national spotlight as College GameDay heads to Utah. Can Willie Fritz’s squad capitalize on this rare opportunity and crack the AP Top 10 with a statement win? Parker Ainsworth breaks down the Cougars’ meteoric rise after a top-20 victory, highlighting massive Big 12 implications and how Houston’s dynamic performances are rewriting expectations for the program.

Key analysis includes the significance of this prime-time showdown against the Utah Utes, College GameDay exposure as a recruiting and marketing tool, and the historical context of Houston’s previous GameDay moment with Lee Corso. The discussion covers playoff scenarios, potential impacts on the Big 12 championship race, and how Houston’s faithful can keep the momentum rolling. Is this the season the Cougars leap onto the national stage for good?

00:00 College GameDay for Houston: Impact and History
03:45 GameDay's Significance: Exposure & Recruiting
10:36 Big 12 & Playoff Implications

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5-Hour ENERGY
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Odoo
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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Houston Cougars surge into the AP Top 15 after a thrilling victory over Oklahoma State, with Conner Weigman silencing doubts and delivering clutch plays down the stretch. Can the Cougars’ gritty, next-man-up mentality power them to a season-defining win as they head into a College GameDay clash with Utah?

Host Parker Ainsworth and guest Mike Brown break down Weigman’s leadership and spotlight breakout performances from Amare Thomas and Trent Walker, while addressing defensive critiques and the electric TDECU Stadium atmosphere. Key topics include overcoming offensive hiccups, Houston’s evolving offensive weapons, and the playoff aspirations reshaping fan expectations. With Utah’s Devin Dampier and a hostile road environment waiting, are the Cougars ready for prime time? Don’t miss expert insights and bold predictions on Houston’s high-stakes path forward.

00:00 Cougars Break Into Top 15
01:30 Conner Weigman's Performance & Key Plays
08:38 Assessment: Defense, Offense, and Areas to Fix
16:57 Utah Preview & Expectations

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5-Hour ENERGY
Treat yourself to a crisp apple bite and smooth caramel delight with a Caramel Apple 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot, only available online for a limited time at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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Houston Cougars outduel Oklahoma State Cowboys in a 35-32 Big 12 thriller! Conner Weigman’s five-touchdown masterclass fuels Houston’s biggest conference win yet. Is the Cougars’ offense now among the elite, and can they ride this momentum into the top 10?

Parker Ainsworth breaks down Houston’s statement victory, spotlighting Wigman’s poise under pressure, Amare Thomas’s electrifying plays, and the offensive line’s pivotal role. The show covers how the defense overcame key injuries, Slade Nagle’s bold play-calling, and the game’s implications for Houston’s Big 12 title hopes. Key talking points include the shifting dynamics of Houston’s run game, potential rankings shake-ups, and next week’s high-stakes showdown against Utah. Can the Cougars continue their rise and secure a spot in Arlington?

The Houston Cougars and Oklahoma State Cowboys just battled in one of the BIGGEST Big 12 football games of the 2026 season! No. 20 Houston hosted No. 18 Oklahoma State in a massive Top 20 showdown at TDECU Stadium, with Big 12 Championship implications and national rankings on the line!

What this result means for Houston's Big 12 Championship hopes and College Football Playoff conversation.

The atmosphere at TDECU Stadium and what comes next for the Cougars!

Join the LIVE conversation! Drop your reactions, questions, and biggest takeaways in the comments!

Subscribe to Locked On Coogs for daily Houston Cougars football coverage!

#GoCoogs #HoustonCougars #OklahomaState #Big12Football #CollegeFootball #LockedOnCoogs

00:00 Postgame Reaction & Wegman Shines
10:25 Big 12 Implications & Defensive Overview
21:00 Player Highlights & Future Outlook

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FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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Houston Cougars brace for their biggest showdown at TDECU Stadium as they face Oklahoma State in a nationally ranked Big 12 clash with major postseason implications. Quarterbacks Conner Weigman and Drew Mestemaker headline an electric quarterback battle, with both offenses ranking among the nation’s best. Can the Cougars’ ground game, led by Makhi Hughes, overpower Oklahoma State’s defense and keep Mestemaker off the field?

Host Parker Ainsworth spotlights Houston’s dominant third-down efficiency, critical defensive injuries, and the strategic must-win environment fueled by a rare Saturday night kickoff. Key playmakers like Wyatt Young, Justin Bowick, and Coby Young come into focus, as fans wonder who will deliver game-changing moments. With a near sellout crowd and national TV lights, will Houston seize the opportunity and rewrite the narrative on their home-field advantage? Don't miss this high-stakes preview breaking down every angle of Cougars vs. Cowboys.

00:00 Game Preview & Stakes
Kicks off with the significance of the Houston vs. Oklahoma State matchup, discussing Big 12 implications and why this is a must-know game for fans.
10:09 Key Injuries & Impact
Breaks down Houston’s key defensive injuries, the effect on the matchup, and how player availability could determine outcomes.
11:18 Atmosphere & Final Predictions
Discusses stadium atmosphere, fan turnout for the primetime slot, and provides a detailed prediction for the game, including score projection and the role of crowd energy.

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5-Hour ENERGY
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ULTRA POUCHES
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Big 12’s playoff reputation hangs in the balance as BYU battles Notre Dame in Provo. National respect for the conference is on the line—will a Cougars upset reshape the College Football Playoff landscape, or will the loss fuel critics doubting the Big 12’s legitimacy? Jake Hatch, Cody Stovall, Chris Level, and JT Wistercill square off, debating whether LJ Martin’s absence could offer an excuse or if voters simply won’t care about context.

Key matchups across the league add to the drama: Texas Tech hosts Arizona State in a battle of recent champions, Baylor faces a must-win against TCU to quiet hot seat chatter, and Utah aims to avoid a trap at Colorado amid program turmoil. The hosts spotlight the offensive firepower of Bear Bachmeier and Isaiah Marshall while raising questions about K-State’s quarterback situation. Will Big 12 contenders strengthen their case or stumble as playoff bids slip away?

00:00 Big 12 Respect & BYU-Notre Dame
10:46 Big 12 Matchups & Team Outlooks
21:03 Colorado Drama & Week Preview

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5-Hour ENERGY
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ULTRA POUCHES
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Houston Cougars eye upset over Oklahoma State Cowboys by focusing on three critical areas: limiting explosive plays, dominating the ground game with Makhi Hughes and Re'Shaun Sanford, and capitalizing on turnovers. Can Houston’s defense contain Oklahoma State’s high-octane offense led by top quarterback prospect Drew Messmaker and wideout Wyatt Young, or will the Cowboys' big-play potential break through?

The conversation focused on Coach Willie Fritz’s power-run philosophy, the importance of time of possession, and strategic adjustments like increased blitzing and disguised coverages to disrupt the Cowboys. A key theme that emerged was the need for mistake-free football—seizing opportunities on defense without giving away possessions. With Houston averaging 230 rushing yards and eyeing Arlington, the discussion explored whether Conner Weigman’s steady command can outmaneuver Oklahoma State’s aggressive defense. Will a raucous home crowd help push the Cougars to a signature win and keep their Big 12 title hopes alive?

00:00 Houston vs Oklahoma State Keys
09:46 Cougars Run Game Approach
19:23 Turnover Battle & Predictions

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5-Hour ENERGY
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ULTRA POUCHES
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Houston Cougars Basketball POSTGAME: FIRST LOOK at Kelvin Sampson's NEW ROSTER! | Montana Tech

Houston Cougars dominate Montana Tech in exhibition opener as DJ Thomas dazzles at point guard and Chase McCarty emerges as the emotional leader. Can this new-look roster, rebuilt after key offseason departures, quickly reach elite status under Kelvin Sampson’s guidance?

Host Parker Ainsworth spotlights standout performances from Arafan Diane’s post presence and passing, Kordell Jefferson’s veteran savvy, and Ikenna Alozie’s impact off the bench. The episode breaks down Houston’s high-low offensive sets, defensive aggression, and the evolving chemistry that’s already paying dividends. With Michigan up next, questions linger: Will this seamless team cohesion hold against tougher competition? And can key newcomers maintain their momentum as the non-conference schedule ramps up? Don’t miss this high-energy first look at Houston Cougars basketball’s next chapter.

00:00 Season Opener & Chemistry
Discussion of Houston's exhibition win over Montana Tech, team chemistry, new roster's first impressions, and connection to Kelvin Sampson's coaching roots.
10:03 Standout Players & Rotations
Deep dive into individual standout performances (DJ Thomas, Chase McCarty, Arafan Diane, Delrecco Gillespie, Ikenna Alozie), analysis of positional roles, and rotation surprises.
22:57 Areas to Improve & Looking Ahead
Assessment of areas for improvement, defensive lapses, previewing upcoming exhibition vs. Michigan, and big-picture outlook for the season.

Houston Cougars basketball is BACK! Kelvin Sampson and the Houston Cougars open the 2026-27 college basketball season with an exhibition matchup against Montana Tech at the Fertitta Center, giving UH fans their FIRST LOOK at a dramatically revamped roster loaded with returning talent, high-profile transfers, and elite freshmen!

On this LIVE POSTGAME edition of Locked On Coogs, host Parker Ainsworth breaks down Houston vs. Montana Tech, the biggest takeaways from the exhibition, standout performances, early chemistry, and what we learned about the newest version of Kelvin Sampson's basketball powerhouse.

There's plenty of star power to watch! Returning Cougars JoJo Tugler, Mercy Miller, and Chase McCarty headline a team welcoming star guard Dedan "DJ" Thomas Jr., transfer standouts Delrecco Gillespie and Corey Hadnot II, five-star freshman Arafan Diané, and highly touted four-star point guard Ikenna Alozie.

How does Houston's new-look backcourt fit together? Who looks ready for a bigger role? What stood out about the Cougars' defensive intensity, offensive execution, rotations, and overall chemistry? And what should fans take away from the team's first exhibition?

There's also a special connection to tonight's opponent: Montana Tech is where legendary Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson began his college head coaching career! It's a full-circle moment for one of college basketball's greatest coaches.

Join the LIVE conversation for Houston Cougars basketball postgame reactions, analysis, and a first look at what could be another special season in the Big 12!

🔴 SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Coogs for daily Houston Cougars football, basketball, recruiting news, analysis, and more!

#HoustonCougars #GoCoogs #HoustonBasketball #KelvinSampson #CollegeBasketball #LockedOnCoogs #Big12Basketball

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This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Houston Cougars aim to defend home turf and keep Willie Fritz amid Big 12 power shifts, but can their fanbase rise to the occasion against the surging Oklahoma State Cowboys? The coaching showdown between veteran Fritz and fast-rising Eric Morris sets the stage for a battle with high stakes in recruiting, identity, and conference hierarchy.

Parker Ainsworth and Cody Stovall dissect Houston’s rapid ascent in NIL rankings, Oklahoma State’s fan presence in Houston, and the contrasting coaching philosophies fueling each program. Key segments spotlight recruiting rivalries across Texas, the impact of alumni turnout, and the emotional storyline as former Cowboy Boogie Johnson suits up for the Cougars. Can the Houston pipeline tip the balance, or will Oklahoma State’s tradition and traveling fans steal the show? This episode goes beyond X’s and O’s, examining what it truly takes to build and sustain power in the new Big 12.

00:00 Coaching Matchup Breakdown
06:46 Recruiting, NIL & Big 12 Landscape
21:51 Attendance, Fan Base & Game Impact

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5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

ULTRA POUCHES
Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Houston Cougars unveil a revamped lineup as DJ Thomas takes the reins and Coach Kelvin Sampson sets bold expectations for the season. Can Houston’s blend of veteran transfers and standout returners like JoJo Tugler deliver on their head start—and look more “true Houston” than last year’s squad? The conversation focused on Sampson’s insights from media availability, how new faces like Delrecco Gillespie and Chase McCarty might shape the team identity, and why scrimmage-driven growth is fueling optimism.

A key theme that emerged was the quest for defensive intensity and team chemistry in the transfer portal era. The discussion explored Montana Tech’s sharpshooting threats ahead of the Cougars’ exhibition game and touched on Sampson’s nostalgic ties to his former school. As the Cougars experiment with rotations and wait on Kendall Weaver’s eligibility, fans get a sneak peek at how Houston aims to transform early season “progress not perfection” into championship-caliber basketball.

00:00 — Houston Basketball Preview
10:45 — Team Development & Coaching Philosophy
20:12 — Montana Tech Scouting Report

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KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

ULTRA POUCHES
Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.