Pete Thamel and ESPN senior writer Dan Wetzel break down the SEC’s push to have its grueling schedule factor more heavily into the College Football Playoff. They dive into whether the new 5+11 format truly rewards the best teams, especially with strength of schedule still a murky metric. The duo also weighs in on the uncertain future of the USC–Notre Dame rivalry, growing frustration from Ohio State fans over noon kickoffs, and Michigan’s looming NCAA meeting in the Connor Stalions case. Then, Alabama star Ryan Williams joins the show to talk EA SPORTS College Football 26, training with DeVonta Smith, and his bond with coach Kalen DeBoer.

04:33 - SEC gauntlet schedule deserves CFP reform

07:15 - Will the CFP 5 + 11 playoff format deliver?

16:21 - The State of the USC-Notre Dame rivalry

18:06 - Why USC-Notre Dame Matters in 2025

20:28 - Ohio State fans are over Noon kickoffs

28:49 - Michigan Connor Stalions update

37:38 - Alabama’s Ryan Williams CFB 26 cover star

39:35 - Inside Ryan Williams CFB 26 cover shoot

44:28 - Ryan Williams on training with DeVonta Smith

55:22 - Ryan Williams interview reaction

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices