The Portal - Daily College Recruiting and NIL Podcast

Alabama secures one of the nation's biggest 2027 recruiting steals with defensive end Tyler Younger, a prospect many still don’t know about despite him playing for powerful Greater Atlanta Christian. Can Kalen DeBoer turn this under-the-radar prospect into a future multi-year star for the Crimson Tide? Brian Smith spotlights Younger's rapid rise at Greater Atlanta Christian and examines how Alabama's strategic scouting outpaced the competition.

Key discussion points include other overlooked talents like Dylan Gordon (Texas State), Jernard Albright (Florida State), Jayvon Dawson (Miami), and Bayon Harris (Fresno State), each poised to make a college impact. Brian Smith also previews high-stakes matchups for the upcoming season—think Texas vs. Ohio State, Georgia at Alabama, and the Red River Rivalry—and offers candid analysis on quarterbacks with the most to prove, including Bryce Underwood and Arch Manning. Which program will make the most of its recruiting coups, and which signal-caller will thrive under pressure?

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Odoo

Indeed

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Oregon Ducks strike gold in recruiting, landing dynamic playmakers Xavier Sabb, Tae Walden, Jr., and elite cornerback Hayden Stepp. Oregon’s elite recruiting is no stranger to college football fans, but even for the Ducks, adding this trio within a three-day span is incredible.

Along with Locked On Ducks host Spencer McLaughlin, recruiting analyst and host of the Portal Podcast Brian Smith breaks down Sabb’s explosive burst and versatility at wide receiver, Walden’s blazing speed and two-way potential, and Stepp’s rare combination of size and agility as a defensive back. Key topics include Oregon’s ongoing recruiting momentum, the impact of national competition from programs like Ohio State and Georgia, and the strategic deployment of these athletes at key skill positions. The discussion also touches on the Ducks’ ability to attract prospects nationwide and how player development, depth, and adaptability could define Oregon’s path to a national championship.

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Odoo

Indeed

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

Ole Miss lands a historic eighth defensive line commitment, signaling a new era for the Rebels’ recruiting dominance under Pete Golding. Texas secures elite left tackle prospect Ismael Camara, while Oregon’s national reach brings in top-100 talents Tae Walden Jr., Hayden Stepp, and Xavier Sabb. Are these powerhouse programs poised to shake up the college football playoff picture?

Brian Smith breaks down South Carolina’s recent hot streak, analyzing how commitments from Joshua Dobson and Nate Carson could be game-changers for Shane Beamer’s job security. The episode also spotlights significant moves by Florida, BYU, and Colorado, and features a bold ranking of the SEC’s top five quarterbacks—including surprise picks like LaNorris Sellers and Byrum Brown. With transfer portal buzz, NIL updates, and recruiting battles heating up, which teams are primed to turn the tide in the upcoming season?

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Odoo

Indeed

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Penn State Nittany Lions land elite quarterback James Armstrong, sparking a high-stakes recruiting battle that could shape the program’s future. Can Matt Campbell and his staff hold off powerhouse SEC and Big Ten schools all the way to the 2028 national signing day as NIL dynamics reshape college football? Armstrong’s big arm and remarkable mobility draw comparisons to Michael Penix Jr., Cam Newton, and Jayden Daniels—raising the bar for Penn State’s quarterback room.

Zach Seyko and recruiting expert Brian Smith break down Armstrong’s physical tools, scouting insights, and what his early commitment means for the Nittany Lions’ 2028 class. The conversation explores the looming QB competition with Will Wood, Penn State’s renewed focus on locking down top Pennsylvania talent, and the program’s shift in regional recruiting strategy. Can the Nittany Lions sustain this recruiting momentum and build a team ready to challenge for Big Ten dominance?

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Wisconsin Badgers pivot from tradition, prioritizing dynamic playmakers in the 2027 recruiting class. Can versatile stars like Mekhi Williams, Royalton Allen, Kingston Allen, Steele Harris, and Jai Jones elevate Wisconsin from Big Ten contender to true championship threat?

Brian Smith breaks down Wisconsin’s upgraded athleticism, highlighting Williams’s multi-position potential, Allen’s underrated savvy in the secondary, and the explosive skills of rising prospects across the field. Key topics include the impact of NIL in attracting top talent, how increased versatility changes Wisconsin’s recruiting strategy, and whether the Badgers can begin securing more Top 100 recruits to rival Michigan and Notre Dame.

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

Texas A&M and Notre Dame dominate college football recruiting headlines with top-to-bottom talent. Another headline stems from elite trench prospects flocking to just a handful of powerhouse programs, with linemen like Mark Matthews (A&M), Maxwell Hiller (Florida), Albert Simien (Notre Dame), and Jaiden Bryant (Miami) as prime examples. There’s plenty of speed and skill talent as well. Kamarui Dorsey boosting the Aggies, and Julius Jones Jr. elevating the Irish's receiver corps, competition for top 100 talent heats up. Is a new recruiting arms race reshaping the future playoff landscape?

Host Brian Smith breaks down the balance and depth of classes at Miami, Texas, Oklahoma, and Oregon, highlighting key moves like Greedy James flipping to LSU and surprise surges by Wisconsin and UCLA. The discussion spotlights how NIL deals, quarterback commitments, and the intense battle for linemen are giving perennial contenders and dark horses alike a shot at playoff glory. Which program will convert recruiting wins into on-field dominance as the season approaches?

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

Notre Dame Football surges toward a potential No. 1 recruiting class, fueled by elite blue-chip commitments and transformative trench talent. Can the Fighting Irish topple Texas A&M’s juggernaut class and solidify their place atop the 2027 recruiting rankings? Tyler Wojciak and Brian Smith break down the paths to domination, debating the impact of powerhouses like Brayden Parks, Roman Igwebuike, and five-star lineman Albert Simeon on Notre Dame’s trajectory.

Key insights include why Segun Alexander may become the Irish’s next five-star defensive lineman, the rivalry with Texas A&M’s loaded class, and how Notre Dame’s back-to-back elite recruiting cycles compare to Georgia and Alabama at their peak. The episode spotlights NIL deal dynamics, the challenges and opportunities of flipping top recruits, and how the new 5-and-5 eligibility model could reshape roster building in South Bend. Will Notre Dame’s relentless recruiting net the nation’s top crop?

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Oregon Ducks stun the recruiting world by landing elite cornerback prospects Tae Walden, Jr. and Hayden Stepp, outpacing Georgia and bolstering Dan Lanning’s defensive arsenal. Can the Ducks’ recruiting surge help have a top-five class? Meanwhile, Ohio State welcomes 2028 five-star wide receiver Jett Harrison—son of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison—fueling speculation about a possible reclassification and future Buckeye stardom.

Brian Smith breaks down the major commitments shaping the college football landscape, including Colorado’s high-profile Southern recruits under Deion Sanders, Washington’s offensive line upgrades, Auburn’s defensive line additions, and the Texas Longhorns’ Cornerback haul. Key topics include NIL’s growing influence, changing recruiting rankings, and the shifting power dynamics in SEC, Big Ten, and Big 12 football. Recruiting strategies, surprise flips, and the pressure facing programs like Georgia and Miami make this episode a must-listen for die-hard college football fans tracking the next wave of superstar talent.

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Ole Miss Rebels ramp up defensive firepower as top prospect Antwan Jackson eyes a potential commitment. With Jackson’s rare blend of size, length, and athleticism—standing 6'6", 245 pounds—the Rebels could add a versatile force capable of dominating as a defensive lineman or tight end. Can Pete Golding’s high school recruiting strategy keep Ole Miss ahead of top rivals like LSU, Mississippi State, and Alabama?

Brian Smith and Steven Willis break down what Jackson brings to the table, analyze the impact of recruits like Mitchell Turner, Ben’Jarvius Shoemaker, and Jamarkus Pittman, and weigh how the new NCAA five-years-to-play-five rule could reshape SEC rosters. Key insights include Ole Miss’s focus on upgrading trench play, creative defensive packages, and the long-term implications for rivals like Mississippi State and Arkansas. Don’t miss this must-hear analysis of the Rebels’ bold recruiting moves and rising SEC ambitions.

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. Click here to learn more and join the community: https://theportal.supercast.com/

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.

The Penn State Nittany Lions’ wide receiver woes continue as recruiting setbacks threaten to stall offensive progress, despite recent coaching changes and the arrival of Matt Campbell. With top target Khalil Taylor leaning toward Nebraska and previous commits Jamir Dean and Deshawn Hall lost, questions loom about whether Penn State’s scheme or recruiting approach is to blame. Can standout receiver Landon Bloom and potential breakout star Koby Howard reverse the narrative and attract more elite talent through a more aggressive passing attack?

Host Zach Seyko teams up with recruiting expert Brian Smith to spotlight quarterback recruiting wins, including a projected commitment from top 10 Pennsylvania quarterback James Armstrong, and discuss how the new NCAA 5-for-5 eligibility rule could give Penn State a competitive edge by building a deep and experienced roster with more players spending four and five years in the weight room. Will these developments reignite Penn State’s recruiting momentum or is a cultural reset still needed to draw top-tier wide receiver talent to Happy Valley?

Everydayer Club

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire 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.