Stephen Usery, host of "Book Talk" on WYPL-FM 89.3 in Memphis, shares a list of great reads from a variety of Southern authors – just in time for Christmas shopping.  Auburn Tigers reporter Taylor Jones returns to discuss the Music City Bowl-bound football team, and the No. 8 men's basketball squad on the Plains.  And host Jon Rawl shares a list of the best Southern cities for New Year's Eve celebrations.

George Strait releases new music for the first time since 2015.  Nashville insider Preshias Harris reports on "Código," and the passing of Dolly Parton's younger brother.  Georgia Tech names Geoff Collins head football coach, and CBS Sports Digital insider Jonathan Leifheit reviews the latest hire on The Flats.   Also, we've got the latest "Hashtag Hullabaloo."

Ham will be served up at Christmas feasts around the region, and "Barbecue Barrister" Matt Heermans files a very mouthwatering report on preparing and cooking the perfect pork.  Acting U.S. attorney general Matthew Whitaker spoke in Nashville about the South's ongoing opioid crisis.  And host Jon Rawl gives love to the UCF, UAB, Appalachian State and Troy football programs.

Kyler Murray, quarterback at the University of Oklahoma, captures the 2018 Heisman Trophy.  Niagara Falls is an amazing place beyond the Mason-Dixon Line; and Jerry Short has traveled back there for his first December visit.  And the Permian Basin of West Texas has even more value after a new report details the region's oil and gas resources.

The Oak Ridge Boys perform "Amazing Grace" at the Houston funeral of President George H.W. Bush.  Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry ties the NFL record for longest touchdown run with a 99-yard scamper Thursday night against Jacksonville.  General Gridiron predicts the first batch of bowl contests.  Plus, we discuss shrimp and grits...and collard greens.