Today's guest is Alex Golden the host of the Set the Pace Podcast. James and Alex's conversation covers the Indiana Pacers' optimistic start to the season, the team's history, the impact of Tyrese Haliburton, challenges and successes in the Pacers' history, Tyrese Haliburton's unselfish style of play, playing style and roster construction, potential trade targets for the Pacers, ranking players of interest, potential trades for Pascal Siakam and Paul George, and a preference between Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. The guest, Alex Golden, shares his insights and analysis throughout the conversation.

Host: James Williams

Guest: Alex Golden

In this episode, James discusses his $100 bets for the upcoming weekend of sports. He starts by introducing the concept of his betting series and explains that he will be branching out to other sports since there is only one college football game this weekend. The host then goes on to discuss his bets for the Army-Navy game, the NBA in-season tournament championship game, and two NFL games. He provides analysis and reasoning for each bet, taking into account historical trends, team performance, and player matchups.

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:28) Bet 1: Army-Navy Game - Over 27.5

(02:56) Bet 2: Army-Navy Game - Army to Cover 2.5

(04:20) Bet 3: NBA In-Season Tournament - Lakers to Win

(05:16) Bet 4: NBA In-Season Tournament - LeBron James to Score 30+ Points and Lakers to Win

(07:42) Bet 5: NFL - Indianapolis Colts vs. Cincinnati Bengals

(10:05) Bet 6: NFL Monday Night Game

(12:49) Summary and Conclusion

James and William cover various topics related to the Los Angeles Clippers, including the James Harden trade, the team's size and defensive challenges, the future of the roster, the Clippers' championship window, the need for a Jokic stopper, impressive players seen in person, opinions on the in-season tournament, and James Harden as the villain. The conversation provides insights into the Clippers' current situation and the challenges they face in achieving success.

James and Kenton discuss the exclusion of Florida State from the college football playoffs and the flawed criteria used by the committee. It highlights the subjective nature of finding the best teams and the influence of preseason rankings. The impact of TV deals and money in college football is also explored, along with the future of the sport and potential conference realignment. The flaws of the current playoff system are discussed, and the need for a computer-based playoff system is suggested. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the improvement of the Detroit Lions and fantasy football players from Iowa State and Iowa.

Host: James Williams

Guest: Kenton Gibbs

The conversation covers the disappointment with the San Antonio Spurs' start to the season, particularly their 13-game losing streak. The focus then shifts to the bright spot of Victor Wembanyama's performance and his potential as a generational player. The discussion delves into the issues with the roster construction and the lack of guard depth. The controversial mic moment involving Coach Popovich is also highlighted. The unique talent and composure of Wembanyama are praised, along with his potential for Rookie of the Year and All-Star status.

Chapters

(00:00) Disappointment with the Spurs' Start

(03:32) The Bright Spot: Wembanyama's Performance

(08:59) Roster Construction and Guard Issues

(12:54) Popovich's Controversial Mic Moment

(13:51) The Unique Talent of Wembanyama

(18:36) Victor Wembanyama's Rookie of the Year Potential

(19:53) Wembanyama's Composure and Potential All-Star Status

(23:04) Jeff Garcia's Nerdiness and Where to Find His Work

James breaks down each conference championship matchup and gives the best angles for which someone should bet these games. Then he breaks down the six games he is betting on for his $100 bets series.

Host: James Williams

James breaks down why in the final year of the 4-team playoff this is by far the most difficult for the CFP committee. Who were the biggest snubs in years past? What does this mean for the big picture and for future years in the playoffs? Who will be the biggest snub in 2023?

Host: James Williams

James previews the games of teams that we aren't expecting upsets. Then breaks down the games that he was tempted to bet on before he finally reveals his $100 bets for the final week of the CFB regular season.

Host: James Williams

James ranks the best 10 rivalries for week 13 of the CFB season. From the Egg bowl to the Iron Bowl no rivalry is left unmentioned.

Host: James Williams

James reacts to where he was right and wrong with his picks last week. Then he gives a preview for every P5 game in week 12. Finally, James makes his $100 bets.

Host: James Williams