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

Houston Cougars and LSU Tigers face off in the Texas Bowl, setting the stage for a potential new regional rivalry. With shared recruiting grounds and intertwining fan bases, can these programs finally ignite a genuine college football feud? Parker Ainsworth breaks down why this matchup means more than just a bowl game win, exploring the history, the stakes of a 10-win season for Houston under Willie Fritz, and the anticipation for their high-profile 2027 rematch at NRG Stadium.

Key insights include the impact of LSU’s size advantage, crucial player matchups, and how roster changes could influence the outcome. Plus, Parker Ainsworth spotlights the Big 12’s strength as BYU schedules a marquee series with Notre Dame—an alliance poised to boost Houston’s playoff prospects down the line. Will the Cougars cap their season with a statement win and reshape the college football landscape in the region?

0:00 – Houston vs. LSU Rivalry
11:06 – LSU Team Size Concerns
19:41 – Notre Dame/BYU Schedule Impact

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Houston Cougars prepare to clash with the LSU Tigers in the Texas Bowl, but LSU’s depth chart is upended following Lane Kiffin’s arrival and sweeping roster changes. With questions swirling around quarterback Michael Van Buren’s readiness and true freshman Harlem Berry primed to start at running back, the Tigers’ offensive approach remains unpredictable. Parker Ainsworth breaks down transfers, opt-outs, and the impact of key departures like former Houston safety AJ Haulcy, highlighting the challenges in scouting an LSU squad loaded with talented but inexperienced players.

Houston’s bowl practices feature early glimpses of the record-setting Class of 2026, with standouts like Keisean Henderson and Paris Melvin already making an impression. Coaching shifts see Brian Bell taking over as receivers coach, while Marcus Trice joins the secondary, signaling a new era for the position groups. The Cougars’ mostly intact depth chart reveals positive surprises: Tanner Koziol and Amare Thomas remain committed to play, boosting morale and culture. Can the Cougars take advantage of LSU’s volatility and reach a landmark 10-win season in their third year of Big 12 competition? Parker Ainsworth analyzes Houston’s roster stability, rising stars, and key bowl game storylines that could define the program’s ambitious trajectory.

0:00 - LSU Texas Bowl Roster
11:52 - Houston Bowl Practice
14:03 - Coaching Staff Changes
21:26 - Houston Depth Chart Updates
24:45 - NFL Futures & Player Decisions
27:13 - Program Culture & Future

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

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

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 silence Arkansas with a tactical zone defense shift and showcase their elite backcourt trio. Does Kelvin Sampson’s latest rotation signal a new era for Houston basketball?

Parker Ainsworth breaks down the Cougars’ impressive 11–1 run, spotlighting Chris Cenac’s growth in the frontcourt alongside JoJo Tugler, and debating the team's reliance on guard scoring from Emanuel Sharp and Kingston Flemings. The podcast explores Houston’s surprise use of a 1–2–2 zone, how this move disrupted the Razorbacks, and what it means for future Big 12 opponents. Key topics include Ramon Walker’s resurgence off the bench, the set starting five, and how minute allocation among Isiah Harwell, Kalifa Sakho, and Mercy Miller might shape the Cougars’ postseason chances.

Can the Houston Cougars maintain their defensive dominance and offensive efficiency as conference play approaches? Don’t miss this data-driven analysis of the nation’s most intriguing college basketball contender.

0:00 — Intro & Low Post Scoring
10:31 — Offense Analytics
12:18 — Zone Defense Usage
16:25 — Bigs/Foul Trouble Strategy
21:03 — Rotations & Bench Depth
27:42 — Challenging Bench Minutes
30:51 — Final Thoughts/Wrap-Up

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

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 overpower the No. 14 Arkansas Razorbacks with a 94-85 victory, making a statement with arguably their most dynamic offensive performance of the season. Kingston Flemings and Emanuel Sharp lead a masterclass in backcourt scoring, as Houston meets Arkansas’s high-octane pace and manages to outduel them at their own game—shooting 44% from three and racking up crucial points off turnovers. Will Houston's depth and evolving offensive firepower change the national conversation about their championship ceiling?

Parker Ainsworth spotlights the game’s pivotal moments, breaking down JoJo Tugler’s ongoing foul challenges, Ramon Walker’s impactful minutes off the bench, and Milos Uzan’s quiet leadership and defensive focus. Key talking points include Houston’s stellar ball movement, the coaching chess match between Kelvin Sampson and John Calipari, and listener Q&As on player rotations and game management. With non-conference play nearly wrapped, Houston’s ability to win gritty matchups and adapt under pressure sets a powerful tone for upcoming Big 12 showdowns. Can this Cougars squad capitalize on their growth and chase a deep postseason run?

0:00 – Houston Beats Arkansas
1:17 – Offensive Explosion Analysis
3:00 – Sharp & Kingston Stand Out
6:13 – Forcing Turnovers & Defense
7:23 – Ramon Walker’s Impact
10:20 – Listener Questions Start
13:32 – Chase McCarty Minutes
16:26 – JoJo Tugler’s Fouls
18:27 – Nightcap: Player Highlights
20:50 – Ced’s Progress
21:50 – Milos Uzan’s Defense
22:38 – Season Outlook
25:26 – Non-Conference Lessons
27:01 – Youth Development
29:44 – Team Growth & Expectations

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 prepare to battle Arkansas Razorbacks in New Jersey, with elite point guards Kingston Flemings and Darius Acuff grabbing headlines—but could the real difference come from the big men clash between Chris Cenac and Trevon Brazile? Legendary coaches Kelvin Sampson and John Calipari bring contrasting styles, as Arkansas’s high-tempo perimeter offense faces Houston’s disciplined, physical defense.

Parker Ainsworth spotlights key matchups, including how Houston’s foot speed and defensive strategy aim to limit Acuff’s driving lanes, while Sananck’s versatility may expose Arkansas’s struggles defending the paint. Insights cover Houston’s shooting resurgence from Milos Uzan and Emanuel Sharp, potential offensive rebounds, and defensive standouts like JoJo Tugler. Can Houston’s all-hands defensive effort and interior dominance tip the scales and deliver another signature win? Get the full preview, keys to victory, and a score prediction for this marquee college hoops showdown.

0:00 – PGs vs. Bigs Preview
Overview of Houston vs. Arkansas, star point guards Kingston Flemings & Darius Acuff, but focus shifts to impactful big man matchup.

6:26 – Houston Offensive Advantages
Breakdown of Houston’s edge in guard speed, shooting, and interior scoring; how they can attack Arkansas' defense.

8:44 – Defensive Strategy & Key Matchups
How Houston can stifle Arkansas, especially Acuff, and exploit rebounding; expected defensive approaches and player roles.

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 and Arkansas Razorbacks ignite an old-school Southwest Conference rivalry in an unexpected Newark, New Jersey showdown, as coaching legends Kelvin Sampson and John Calipari face off. Can Arkansas’s star freshmen Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas keep their hot start rolling against Houston’s relentless defense, or will Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac rise up for the Cougars? With NCAA Tournament stakes on the line, every possession and coaching adjustment could shape each team’s trajectory this season.

Parker Ainsworth and John Nabors break down Arkansas's transformation under Calipari, the excitement around their McDonald's All-American backcourt, and the crucial leadership of upperclassman Trevon Brazile. For Houston, rising freshmen are changing the formula in a program known for player development, and questions remain about how the Cougars' depth and adaptability will stand up in top-tier matchups. The duo analyzes DJ Wagner’s steady role, key statistical trends, and what Arkansas and Houston must learn about themselves before conference play. Will this clash forecast a future March Madness run for either side? Stay tuned for standout player spotlights, matchup breakdowns, and sharp insight into the fast-changing landscape of college basketball.

0:00 – Episode Intro & Matchup Setup
1:25 – Calipari Era & Razorback Fans
2:59 – Arkansas' Non-Conference Schedule
4:08 – Calipari's Freshmen & Team Development
6:48 – Comparing Rosters & Houston’s Approach
8:03 – Coach Identities & Scheduling Philosophy
10:01 – Key Player Matchups Begin
12:35 – Acuff’s Impact for Arkansas
14:17 – Scouting Flemings vs. Acuff
15:32 – Thomas’ Season
16:57 – Wagner’s Role
19:03 – Bigs: Brazile & Cougars’ Frontcourt
20:09 – What This Game Means for March
25:29 – What We’re Looking to Learn
28:06 – Show Close

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

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

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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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Utah’s Kyle Whittingham emerges as a likely candidate to take over at Michigan, setting off one of the most unexpected coaching carousel moves in recent college football history. Can Whittingham’s approach and legacy translate to success in Ann Arbor, and would his staff follow him or remain tied to Morgan Scalley? The crew breaks down the drama, and questions abound over Michigan’s future roster, leadership, and the impact on Big 12 dynamics.

BYU fans are fired up as Notre Dame is accused of dodging the Cougars in bowl matchups, sparking talk about underdog narratives and college football prestige. Deion Sanders’ transformative effect on Colorado—on and off the field—is spotlighted, alongside concerns about his longevity and succession plans with rising assistant Brennan Marion. Plus, the panel debates Texas high school football recruiting, scandals, and which coaches truly fit Michigan’s high-pressure program. Will Sanders build a lasting legacy in Boulder, or is another seismic shift on the horizon?

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College football faces a new threat as Cashi opens the door to betting on transfer portal decisions and recruiting announcements. Could this controversial move expose student-athletes to exploitation and formalize insider trading in college sports? Parker Ainsworth breaks down the risks, regulatory challenges, and why this development could be a watershed moment for the NCAA landscape.

Meanwhile, LSU braces for the Texas Bowl against the Houston Cougars amidst coaching chaos, mass opt-outs, and swirling excuses from the SEC. Parker Ainsworth scrutinizes Houston’s bowl opponent, evaluates key player decisions, and reveals Michael Bishop’s evolving role on Willie Fritz’s staff. With high-stakes drama both on and off the field, can Houston capitalize and rewrite the postseason narrative?

0:00 – College sports betting changes
2:37 – Kalshi platform overview
6:00 – Athlete risks & insider info
10:43 – LSU Texas Bowl preview
13:08 – LSU coaching/roster turmoil
16:11 – SEC excuses & narratives
18:43 – Houston bowl game pressure
21:31 – Michael Bishop joins UH staff
23:40 – Bishop’s recruiting impact

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

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Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

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

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 target transfer portal to reload offensive line—can Willie Fritz pull off another roster overhaul for a double-digit win season? With linchpins like Demetrius “Pancake” Hunter departing and five starting offensive linemen graduating, Parker Ainsworth spotlights veteran transfer options including Shaq McRoy (Arkansas) and Connor Stroh (Texas), plus top defensive back prospects. Can Houston’s blend of experienced additions and homegrown recruits keep the Cougs competitive in the Big 12?

Key storylines include impact transfer candidates, the challenge of filling crucial OL and DB gaps, and the appeal of Houston for high-profile returnees like Jelani Watkins and Braylon Conley. Parker Ainsworth breaks down the Cougars’ transfer strategy, evaluates the likelihood of landing high-upside prospects, and asks: Will Houston’s portal moves be enough to fuel another winning run? Don’t miss the latest insights on roster shaping for Houston’s football future.

0:00 – Transfer Portal Context & Departures
[0:00:01] Parker Ainsworth introduces Houston’s roster construction via the transfer portal and sets up the main question: can Houston replicate its past portal success?

0:02 – Roster Departures & Holes
[0:02:19] Detailed review of departures, including Demetrius "Pancake" Hunter and backups, then focuses on graduation losses, especially along the offensive line.

0:04 – Offensive Line Urgency
[0:04:44] In-depth breakdown of offensive line need, why high school talent is a long-term play, and why portal veterans are required for immediate impact.

0:05:46 – Pass Catchers & Skill Spots
[0:05:46] Examining WR and TE rooms, pending pro departures, redshirts, and specific uncertainties around returning contributors.

0:06:22 – Defensive Needs: Line & DBs
[0:06:22] Looks at defensive line and defensive backfield, highlighting which positions are losing production, the impact of high school signees, and immediate portal needs.

0:07:58 – Portal vs. Development
[0:07:58] Philosophical take: value of retaining, developing current high school talent versus going to the portal.

0:11:04 – Realistic Portal Targets: OL & DL
[0:11:04] Targeting specific portal prospects for OL (Shaq McCroy, Connor Stroh) and defensive linemen (DK Kalu, Paul Oyewale, Chancellor Owens).

0:15:55 – Defensive Backs: Staff Ties & Fits
[0:15:55] Focus on potential DB additions and how Houston’s staff tends to find hidden gems with ties to Louisiana, G5 overperformers, or athletes with prior connections.

0:19:14 – Dream Fits & Big Splash Targets
[0:19:14] Introduction to "dream" portal candidates—power conference and former blue-chip prospects Houston would love to land.

0:22:45 – Homecoming & Two-Sport Stars
[0:22:45] Segment spotlighting major-impact transfers with Houston or Texas roots, including two-sport athlete Jelani Watkins.

0:27:46 – Portal Updates & Listener Info
[0:27:46] Wrap-up with notes on how portal news will be covered, encouragement to subscribe and follow for more content.

Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Everydayer Club
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Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
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Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.
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Rocket Money
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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

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

FanDuel
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Big 12 Conference shakes up college sports finance, pioneering a $500 million private capital deal—will Houston Cougars & Big 12 seize this game-changing opportunity to close the gap on the SEC and Big Ten? Parker Ainsworth unpacks the innovative Redbird and Weatherford Capital partnership, its non-equity terms, and the immense impact this could have on Houston's athletic programs, including NIL efforts and future media rights negotiations.

Quarterback chaos sweeps college football as high-profile transfers redefine team dynamics. With Conner Weigman returning and Keisean Henderson joining as the nation’s top recruit, the Houston Cougars find themselves in a rare position of strength at quarterback. Parker Ainsworth debates Joel Klatt’s claim that Cinderella stories don’t belong in the playoff, arguing why the unpredictability and underdog moments are vital to college sports magic. Will Houston capitalize on this new era and become a playoff mainstay?

0:00 – Big 12 Joins Private Capital
1:17 – Investment Structure Explained
2:53 – Media Rights & Equity Issues
6:24 – Concerns and Unknowns
9:56 – Houston’s Financial Stakes
11:25 – Transfer Portal Chaos
14:59 – QB Transfer Projections
19:01 – Houston’s QB Situation
22:32 – Joel Klatt Playoff Comments
25:02 – Magic of Cinderellas
28:12 – Upsets & Tournament Value
30:30 – Playoff Format Reality
31:40 – Houston’s Playoff Future

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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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