Boomo Bugg Show 111325
93.9 The Score WYTK - November 13, 2025
https://www.939thescore.com/boomo-bugg-show-111325/

This transcript was generated automatically from the broadcast audio. Names and some words may be misspelt; the audio is the official record.

------------------------------------------------------------

Now, get ready to roll, Shoals, Decatur, Athens and all of Northwest Alabama and Southern Tennessee. It's time for the Valley's exclusive FM Sports Voice.
The Boomo Bugg Show. New exclusive inside track to the Tigers, Tennessee and the rest of the SEC. Now your host, Harold Bugg on 93.9 The Score.
Good afternoon and welcome in to the Boomo Bugg Show. I'm Harold Bugg alongside Brett Beaird. Thank you so much for giving us free ride around the Tennessee Valley.
Brett Beaird, welcome in. Where the question of the day is, are you ready for the date's biggest date tonight as number eight takes on number two? Good afternoon, welcome in and how are you?
Happy Thursday to you and the listeners. You're exactly correct, Harold Bugg. A top 10 college basketball matchup in Tuscaloosa tonight at 6 p.m.
with number two for you. Number eight, Alabama. By the way, you can hear that game on 93.9. The score with the pregame starting at 5.
Caleb Suggs of the Decatur Daily and JimmyLay of AL.com will preview North Alabama teams in round two of the high school football playoffs.
And BB is here right now to preview and predict the top games this weekend in college football.
BB is Bill Bender. He's got the seat at the national head of the table here at the Sporting News. Bill Bender, welcome in. How are you?
Hey, I'm doing well. Thanks for having me on.
Hey, we appreciate you taking time out. Before we get into all this chalk talk, it looks like the king of the college football playoff committee has stepped down from the throne for now.
Baylor University Athletic Director Mack Rhodes accused of having a run-in with a player before a ballgame recently.
And he's now saying, it may be time for me to tap the brakes and, as they say, temporarily step aside. It never gets boring, does it, Bill?
No, and Trey Wallace from Outkick. I'm really good friends with Trey. So, his reporting on that is spot on. We've talked about it, too.
And, so, yeah, I don't know that Mack will be back as the college football playoff committee chair this week, I guess, or this year.
I guess the big question becomes who takes place. I know there's talk about the Utah AD and the exact conflict of interest because BYU and Utah are in the hunt.
That's not how this works. They have to leave the room when those schools are talked about.
Yes, there's some influence in the conversations, I'm sure, but I don't think it's that big of a deal.
BB, we've been talking a lot about number 11, Oklahoma, coming to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 2-30 Central.
On Saturday, Oklahoma won this game last year and knocked Alabama out of the playoffs.
Oklahoma's defense is very good, led by Mason Thomas. We'll see if he's going to play with that hamstring.
Oklahoma's defense, 97 tackles for a loss this year to go along with 33 sacks. That's pretty impressive.
Ty Simpson is thrown for 2,400 yards, 21 touchdowns, one interception.
Alabama's got to protect him.
And Bill Bender says, yes, they will because he predicts Alabama to win 26-17 and cover that touchdown spread.
Yeah, you know, their offense is operating at a high level. Alabama's played well at home.
They really have.
And, you know, now, I think, I got asked this question this morning, that if Alabama loses and still makes the SEC championship game,
then loses again and has three losses, would they be left out of the playoff?
I said, I don't think there's a planet where that happens, where a team that gets to Atlanta doesn't get in the playoff.
You know, I guess maybe that's my, maybe I'm blind a little bit, but I just think the SEC, with how they've gone through this grinder,
and Alabama certainly has done their part in that grinder, would continue to be a playoff team.
Well, here's, I think, going to be the pushback from a lot of folks.
If that's the case, let's say that that scenario comes true, then the committee's already said strength of schedule comes into play.
So, if you've got one loss, two losses, or three losses, how does that play against someone who's faced a cupcake schedule,
who may be either unbeaten or maybe one or two losses?
And the other side of that coin, if that's the case, why would a team want to sit here and schedule out of conference tough?
Because next year, Alabama, along with the rest of the teams in the SEC, is already going to have it tough enough, nine conference games.
I mean, you see where I'm going with this.
Why in the world would you sit here and even want to make the league championship series,
risking a chance to go and play for even bigger marbles?
Well, you know, I have feelings of it.
It's about time the SEC went to nine conference games.
Okay?
Like, I think that, I believe, and it's only going to add to that strength of conference argument.
No offense to you guys down there, but I don't need to see you play Eastern Illinois next week.
I think it's time.
But they've already played at one time four top 25 teams.
Nobody's even close to that.
So, you're right about Eastern Illinois.
But if you look at the whole picture, they've played some folks already.
It's pretty tough on the schedule.
Then, when you add that ninth game, there's going to be no doubt about that conference argument.
And, yes, Alabama did go through a month of teams.
So, they have been through the ground.
I think they have a compelling argument no matter what.
And it's going to go off or not because I don't think they're going to lose this weekend or certainly to Eastern Illinois or to Auburn and the Iron Bowl, which now it becomes, okay, what if A&M slips up to Texas?
What if Georgia loses to Texas?
Could the long term make this interesting?
That's where we're at.
So, yeah, I mean, I agree with you guys.
But, you know, the joke was made to me this week.
It was like, well, the Big Ten plays those weak teams in September.
What's the difference?
And I said, the difference is, you know, in November, your team's a lot different than it is that first couple of weeks.
Correct.
That's exactly right.
You mentioned Texas and Georgia.
They play each other for the third time in a year on Saturday, the marquee matchup between the two quarterbacks, Arch Manning, who is playing better, Texas leads the SEC in rush defense, 78 yards a game.
As you noted, because Georgia ran for over 300 against Mississippi State, I thought the Bulldogs played their most complete game last week.
Now, Jeff Lebby may have gotten all of the juice out of the orange with Mississippi State.
But Georgia playing better.
Frazier, 181.
Noah Thomas had a good game.
But we'll see here.
I think the Texas defense is going to keep this game very close.
And Bill Bender says Georgia wins 28-20 and covers the spread.
Yeah, I do.
I think Texas is going to hang around.
They've got nasty defense.
Arch has played better here in the second half of the season.
It's amazing what happens when you give a kid a little bit of time to develop.
But how can he attack this Georgia defense?
Can they not turn the ball over?
It is on the road.
Georgia's a tough place to play.
So, with all of those things in mind, this is going to be a tough game for Texas.
If they win, it's going to create quite an overreaction, though, because Georgia, they'll have to play Georgia Tech.
If Georgia wins, I think they're good for the playoff, too, by the way.
I think they'll be at, what, 9-1 at that point.
They've got Charlotte, 10-1.
They'll be in the playoff no matter what at that point.
Check out the national scene with a man, Bill Bender.
They're at the Sporting News.
Let's step outside of the SEC and talk about a team near and dear to you.
They've got their own big matchup this weekend.
Notre Dame at No. 9.
On the road to No. 23, Pitt.
Pitt's one of those Cinderella teams that's catching some steam with a lot of folks across the country.
How do you see that one, Bill?
Yeah, I mean, it's a good matchup.
You know, Narduzzi came out this week and said he didn't matter if he beat him 113-10 or what.
You know, a lot of people made a lot of those comments.
They didn't believe I've heard a column about it.
It was just, he's right.
You know, this game, compared to the ACC games, it doesn't matter as much.
So, you know, that's one thing to consider.
I think number two, how does Pitt's run defense, which is very strong,
around those linebackers there against Jeremiah Love.
And a Notre Dame offense has only gotten better with each week.
I think it's going to be a fantastic game.
I like the Irish to win, but I do think Pitt at home will be able to hang around.
Yeah, absolutely.
Iowa at No. 17, USC.
This is an interesting game.
USC is a six-and-a-half-point favorite.
USC's been kind of lying in the weeds.
Their offense, as you know, to lead the Big Ten, they're averaging 503 yards a game.
They've got two good receivers, and Jacoby Lane and Lemon, I was coming off that heartbreaking loss to Oregon.
I know Hawkeye fans feel they should have won that game.
You've got USC winning in the Coliseum 30-18 and covering the touchdown spread.
And I think they will.
I almost called Makai Lemon King Lemon this week because they have a running back named King Miller.
So, King Lemon would be an outstanding name for a receiver.
It would, Winnie.
The point being, they've got guys all over the field that can make plays.
It blurs sometimes because they have so many.
Jaden Mayal has done a great job pulling the strings.
I think Iowa, the tough part is going to be when you have an emotional all-in loss like they did last week.
They did everything to win a game against Oregon.
How do they get back up on that?
It does sound like somebody told me today.
I got this wrong, too.
It's going to rain in Los Angeles this weekend.
Oh, my goodness.
That may actually slow the Trojans down a little bit.
They want to feel right at home.
Iowa's just coming out of a rainstorm themselves.
Bill, let's talk a little bit about one of the more intriguing matchups across the country.
It has no playoff ramifications, but can we call it the interim bowl?
Arkansas and LSU.
Who would have thunk it back in August, September that we'd be talking about the battle of the interim coaches here?
Yeah, you know, I mean, I think this is where we're at.
And with nine openings, you're going to have a couple games like this where you start to wonder who's still there.
Who's there and who's checked out for next year?
And you'll have that.
It happens in the NFL all the time, and it's going to happen in college more often, I think, when you have openings as early as you do.
Penn State, for example, they were checked in last week.
Now, will they still be checked in after having a heartbreaking loss against Indiana, against Michigan State?
I think the same thing applies in this LSU-Arkansas matchup.
LSU, they came out and they had that first quarter kind of emotional bump.
There was no doubt.
It just didn't sustain for four quarters against Alabama.
So, how interested are they going to be to be there against Arkansas?
That's the question.
While you're talking Penn State, who are you hearing?
He's got the inside track to become the new top Nittany Lion there.
Well, they're running out of candidates, man.
Like, if Jeff Braum signs an extension at Louisville, that's another guy you lost.
Because Braum, Rule, Cignetti were all on that top of the list.
Mike Elko is the guy they're probably going to take a run at, but he denied that.
And that doesn't mean anything, but still, he did.
And then you get into a couple other guys.
But, you know, so I don't know.
And this is the risk when you fire a guy that has this success that James Franklin had
that you may bump into an issue like they are right now.
Yeah.
Absolutely.
South Carolina, number three, Texas A&M.
The Aggies are going to win this game comfortably.
I thought it was interesting.
I was looking at the stat this morning.
Texas A&M, which is undefeated, having the best year they've had.
Since probably 1939 when they won the national championship, they can make the SEC championship game
without playing Ole Miss, Alabama, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Vandy.
If there was ever a team that picked a year to have their best year in eons,
it would be this year and to get away with a schedule like that.
You know, Brett, we've done the ACC and Big 12, and I have the article done.
It's going to be published tomorrow where we look at all those cumulative winning percentages
of the SEC opponents, and I am just as astounded as you are at that schedule.
I know it.
Because, I mean, on one hand, you take advantage of it.
You've got to win the games in front of you.
On the other, you look at possible tiebreakers.
If they do lose, they're going to lose out on those tiebreakers to Alabama and Georgia and Ole Miss.
And, you know, like I said, even Texas being the chaos team,
I don't think Vanderbilt or Oklahoma will have a pass to the SEC championship game.
I still think Vanderbilt has a really good shot at the playoff, though.
If they take care of business and beat Kentucky and Tennessee and get to 10 wins,
with all that carnage going on in the ACC where nobody wants to win that conference,
there is a good chance Vanderbilt could be that fifth SEC team to make the playoffs.
And to validate your point, Bill, ESPN, they would love to have Vandy in Cinderella
with David going against Diego Pavia's sales.
So they would love to have that underdog story in there.
Let me ask you about another intriguing matchup.
You look at it, and you're probably going to say, what's this guy talking about?
Kentucky at home against Tennessee Tech.
Not so fast, my friend.
Kentucky, they've caught fire of late.
But Tech comes in.
Nobody giving them any respect.
They're the Rodney Dangerfield.
But guess what?
They're 10-0.
If you are a coach of a team facing a team like that, it's a nightmare.
They were playing with their hair on fire.
Your thoughts about Tennessee Tech unbeaten, taking on Kentucky at 4-5?
There's a saying I heard years ago before Appalachian State played Michigan, where it's, you don't
put glass in your cupcakes.
And I think it fits.
I was like, you just, that's got a lot of glass in that one.
So, especially the way Kentucky season's gone.
So, that's definitely a game to keep an eye on.
Mark Stoops is another coach that obviously has been varying levels of talk about his hot
seat in this new world SEC.
And that's one way to push it over is, like I said, when you play a school like that, it's
one of those lose-lose, right?
That's right.
What good can come of it other than you're playing a decent team from the FCS?
Right.
Absolutely.
Yeah.
And Auburn next week's got Mercer and people saying, yawn.
Mercer's 8-1.
You've got to watch some of these FCS teams, no question about it.
Great stuff, as always.
Pre-game, post-game, you have got it covered.
NFL picks, college picks, the college preview, the NFL previews.
Where can we get online and get yours and the team's great stuff?
Yeah, I've got Bill Bender 9-2 at Sporting News.
We have plenty of content up for this week.
And I can't wait.
I mean, this is a fun week cover-to-cover between Notre Dame and then Alabama-Oklahoma
and then the late capper with Texas and Georgia.
I'm super excited.
It will allow some clarity.
It's Separation Saturday by Peloton.
They even got a sponsor for it.
It'll be a lot of fun.
Do us a favor, Bill, in the meantime.
Slow this thing down.
You realize two weeks of the day, Tom Turkey still is the show.
Can you slow things down a little bit, please?
I'm trying with my kids.
I wish time would stand still a little bit.
There you go.
There you go.
Listen, man, enjoy every moment.
Thanks so much for your time today, okay?
I'll talk to you next week.
Thank you.
Thank you, buddy.
The one, the only, Bill Bender, the National Voice.
For the Sporting News, another sign of the times, playoff round two.
Caleb Suggs on deck.
Stay with us.
There are many advantages of doing business with an independent insurance agent.
Page Borden Insurance in Tuscumbia and M.J. Carter & Company Insurance in Florence can show you.
An independent insurance agent is not tied to just one company in order to get you the coverage you need at a competitive price.
Go buy and see M.J. Carter & Company Insurance at 127 South Court Street or call 256-760-9999.
Or in Tuscumbia, see Page Borden Insurance at 111 East 3rd Street or call 256-381-1334.
This is the story of the one.
As a maintenance supervisor at a manufacturing facility, he knows keeping the line up and running is a top priority.
That's why he chooses Grainger.
Because when a drive belt gets damaged, Grainger makes it easy to find the exact specs for the replacement product he needs.
And next day delivery helps ensure he'll have everything in place and running like clockwork.
Call 1-800-GRAINGER, click grainger.com or just stop by.
Grainger. For the ones who get it done.
Hey, I'm Mike Slater.
My dad passed away at the age of 63.
He's out of nowhere.
Had a stroke.
Super hard, obviously, for the whole family.
But my dad had life insurance.
This is why I have life insurance for my family, for my wife and four kids.
And the best place to get life insurance is ethos.com.
Because you can do it in 10 minutes.
And there's no medical exam and no blood test.
Just a few health questions.
Get life insurance in 10 minutes so your family is protected.
Ethos.
E-T-H-O-S.
E-T-H-O-S dot com slash play.
Tim collects bobbleheads.
A lot of bobbleheads.
Baseball bobbleheads.
Race car bobbleheads.
Little chihuahua bobbleheads.
He's got an entire room strictly for bobbleheads.
Does he need them?
No.
Is his wife mad about it?
A little.
But Tim works with Empower and he got good at money.
So he can be a little bad.
Ooh, horse bobblehead.
Classy, Tim.
Empower.
Invest well.
Live a little.
Start today at Empower.com.
Paying extra for tire care is BS.
You know, bad service.
So at Midas, we're rolling out our BS-free tire guarantee.
Included with paid installation and tax on every purchase.
You'll pay nothing for flat replacements, nada for flat repairs, and zilch for tire rotations every 5,000 miles.
That's $0 for all that.
So with this limited lifetime tire guarantee, you'll pay a whole lot of nothing compared to what the other guys charge for tire care.
That's the BS-free tire guarantee, only at Midas.
This Thanksgiving morning, move your feet before you eat.
Join us for the Tracks for Max 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, honoring longtime YMCA supporter Max Barnett and benefiting children's programs at the YMCA of the Shoals.
The race kicks off at 8 a.m., Thanksgiving Day, November 27th, at First Baptist Church in downtown Florence.
Bring the family and start a new Thanksgiving tradition.
Register online at Tracks4Max.com or call the Y at 256-246-9622.
Sponsors are welcome.
Lace up, show up, and celebrate the season of thanks at Tracks for Max.
Move your feet before you eat.
From the University of Alabama, this is Crimson Tide Today.
It's a daily update on Bama Sports, and it's brought to you by Crimson Drive, driven by NASCAR.
Streaming live at 2 p.m. Central on all CTSN social media platforms each and every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the Crimson Tide football season.
Hello again, everybody.
I'm Roger Hoover.
On Thursday's edition of Crimson Drive, driven by NASCAR, we'll be joined by Alabama freshman London Simmons.
My junior year, in the championship game, I had six sacks because I was so angry at the fact that I wasn't getting looked at.
And I felt like I'm a Division I player.
I didn't know what I was going to be, but I knew I was a Division I player.
So that just sprouted me ever since then, the six sacks in the championship game.
The last snap of the championship game was a sack by me.
So there was like a cherry on top.
But, yeah.
That's a pretty good feeling, right?
I mean, a walk-off sack?
That doesn't happen much, especially for a championship.
I was furious.
I felt like, I don't know, I was just, I just kept on grinding and putting my head down after that season.
And good things happened.
Especially because when I got, after the season, that's when I dropped a lot of weight.
I'll have more in a moment.
Hey, Bama fans.
Each Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. Central, join us live for Crimson Drive, driven by NASCAR.
This live streaming talk show features the latest on Alabama athletics with exclusive conversations
with Tide student-athletes, coaches, and media members giving their perspective on the Crimson Tide.
You can watch on YouTube, Facebook, and X, with all conversations archived as well on the Alabama Insider Podcast.
Roll Tide with Crimson Drive, driven by NASCAR.
If you missed last night's episode of Hey Coach and the Kalen DeVore Show,
catch it on demand on the Alabama Insider Podcast,
as well as a video replay on all Alabama athletics social media platforms.
Crimson Tide Today is brought to you by Crimson Drive, driven by NASCAR.
Crimson Tide Today is a production of the Crimson Tide Sports Network from Learfield.
The Score.
Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.
Welcome back in.
Really appreciate your ride around the Tennessee Valley.
And for Caleb Suggs, taking time out of his very busy schedule there,
following it all at the Decatur Daily.
Caleb, welcome in.
How are you?
I'm doing good, guys.
Sorry, y'all.
Doing good, man.
We're doing all right.
Caleb, before we talk about all the brain that goes, the brain work that goes into a game,
let's talk about a back story for Hustle High head coach, Burt Newton.
I won't steal your thunder.
They take on Homewood, and it's not only taking on Homewood, it's at Homewood.
Normally, you talk about all this, that, and the other, as far as what a disadvantage that is.
You don't know anything about the other team, but we can't say that about Coach Newton, can we?
He knows all about Homewood, and he knows all about the field that they'll be playing on.
Yeah, obviously, you know, I did a story on this about the day, but it's a field named after his dad.
You know, Bob Newton, who coached many years at Homewood and won five state championships,
so obviously very deserved to have that field named after him.
And, yeah, I think, you know, well, first of all, it's a pretty cool thing
because I just don't think you get that a lot where you have a coach that's going to coach
at a field that's named after his dad, so that's really cool.
But at the same time, I think, I mean, the familiarity is there.
I mean, Coach Newton told me himself, he literally knows just every single one of those coaches
on the Homewood staff that they have very similar ideas about coaching and stuff,
and I think these two teams are about the very images you can get.
They're a lot alike, and I think, you know, when you get in the playoffs
and you start playing these teams that you don't normally play very often,
sometimes you do get that unfamiliarity, but I don't think that's a thing this year,
even though these two teams haven't played since 2014 playoffs, I think,
is the last time they've played.
So it's been a long time, but even though they haven't played that long,
I feel like they know each other very well just because the teams they're going to face on Friday
is pretty much the team they face every weekend practice,
and that's a unique situation, and I think that's going to make for a great game.
Let me ask you about that great game.
Hartzell Carter Lee, and we've talked about him the entire year, 217 yards, one TD,
as Hartzell beat Buckhorn in the first round of the playoffs,
and we've talked about these guys with you throughout the course of the season,
running back Jaheim Pruitt, Jayden Morris, the other running back,
Cole Miles, linebacker.
Now, Homewood, as you mentioned, they're very good, too.
Caleb Carson is their quarterback.
He's good.
Hartzell is lost.
It's gone out, I think, too soon the last two years.
Just reading your article and some of the other things I've heard,
I think this is a game Hartzell really wants for obvious reasons on and off the field.
Who wins tomorrow night?
No, it's tough.
I do think Hartzell's in a really good position to win this game.
I think they, of course, both teams won it, obviously,
but I think you look at the last two years,
Hartzell's had to go on the road an hour plus in the second round both times,
and I think they felt shafted just because they were so beat up in both those games.
And, of course, that's just football.
When you play this deep in the season, you're going to have injuries.
But I think they were overly beat up, even more so than a lot of teams.
And I think, you know, this year they're about as healthy as you can get at this stage.
And I think that has them really excited about the fact that they can actually go
and, you know, put their best version of themselves out there that they haven't been able to do.
You know, you look at it, who's going to win this game?
I asked Coach Newton.
You're basically playing a team that's just like you,
what would you do to stop you if you played?
And he's like, you know, we've got to stop the run and we've got to run the football
and we've got to limit the big plays and not make mistakes.
And I think when you look at the one loss they had against Russell Scholes,
you know, they made a lot of uncharacteristic mistakes at three turnovers
that you just don't see out of Hartzell.
And so if they can limit that, if Hartzell's not killing themselves,
they're a really tough team to beat.
Now, obviously, Homewood is too, but I think I really like Hartzell.
I think they can go on the road and get the win,
but it's going to be a really close game.
It's going out either way.
One or 100, just walk away with the W.
Caleb Suggs, the Decatur Daily.
What in the world does Priceville do for an encore after last week's game?
We had Coach Parker on earlier with us talking about that.
I don't know how to worry you top that as far as an ending,
but Priceville survives round one, and now the prize they get round two
against a nine-and-two Moody team.
They're in a shadow of Decatur at Priceville.
Priceville's got the home cooking.
Yeah, I think, well, first off, that was just a crazy game last week for Priceville.
One of the most unbelievable comebacks I've ever seen.
I think Coach Parker told me that his assistant put in the scenario in chat GPT,
and it told him they had a .08% chance of winning that game.
It's just mind-boggling what they were able to do.
But I think, obviously, that's huge for a moment of any time you can win a game like that.
We know the playoffs is all about momentum.
But I think when you look at it, you know, they flipped the script this year,
going from 2-8 last year, and now they're 8-3.
And they beat up all the teams they're supposed to be.
But they kind of, you know, they had struggled against the ranked teams on their schedule.
They had struggled to finally get a win.
So I think going on the road and finally getting a win against a ranked team,
I think that's a load off their back.
And I think that's huge for them.
They're getting all they can get.
I mean, there's no sugarcoating it.
They're playing what I believe is probably the best team in the north in 5A
and possibly the best team in all of 5A.
I mean, this is a really good Moody team with a superstar head coach
who's destined to probably coach at bigger places than 5A, if we're being honest,
maybe even bigger than high school.
So it's going to be a tough matchup.
But I think they're confident.
I think they feel, you know, they went on the road
and beat a really good Guntersville team so they can compete with this team.
But either way, even if they don't win, I think I really like the trajectory of this program,
just in their second year in 5A.
I like what Coach Parker's doing.
I think they've got a bright future ahead.
But obviously they want to win.
You know, they've never been in the quarterfinals.
So it should be another fun game.
Price will always have a great home atmosphere.
So that should be a lot of fun, too.
Well, Cherokee County at West Morgan.
Oh, wait.
It's not Cherokee County.
It's Good Hope.
It's not going to be the fourth battle against West Morgan
because Good Hope beat Cherokee County last week.
And you can ask that question probably about every week during the course of the season.
Good Hope beat Cherokee County.
West Morgan beat Randolph from Huntsville.
And, again, we talked about this team.
McCrary Johnson had a pump return.
He's been incredible all year.
Titan Partlow is healthy.
Tashaun McDaniel, Deloney, Johnson, et cetera, et cetera.
West Morgan, 11-0, that incredible regular season streak.
And we've talked about them winning the state championship this year.
They get passed by Good Hope.
I think that can continue.
Yeah.
It was funny.
Last week after their game on Thursday, everybody was kind of waiting in the stadium
for the stadium announcer to announce the results of that Cherokee County game.
And when they did, the stadium kind of just went crazy.
And not because I don't think the West Morgan team thinks that they can't beat Cherokee County,
but I think it's just a breath of fresh air to, you know, go up and face some other teams.
So it's pretty exciting for them.
But, you know, look at this game against Good Hope, and I want to be careful how I word this
because I think 4A North is very good.
And I think you can make a case for all the teams in the North.
It could be that team that represents in the state finals.
But when I look at this on paper, I don't think this is a good matchup for Good Hope.
I think it's a great matchup for West Morgan.
I think Good Hope's a really good team, and I think they struggle with teams
that have some really great athletes.
And West Morgan's got plenty of those.
Obviously, Macquarie Johnson, the running back, but they've got other ones, too,
and receiver and anywhere else.
So I think it's a bad matchup for Good Hope.
That's not saying I think that they can't win.
Don't get me wrong.
I think Good Hope definitely is a good team, and they definitely could win.
But when you're just going by the paper, I feel like it was Morgan's game to lose,
especially being at home.
I feel like they're very well coached, and they're going to be riding high,
and they're going to be a team.
So I think they'll win this game.
It would be a surprise to me if they don't.
But Good Hope's very good, too.
I'm also interested.
I know Good Hope's quarterback went out last week.
I don't know what his status is, so that obviously plays a factor.
But, again, another great game that's going on in this area.
There's a lot of great second-round games being played in North Alabama this week.
So if you're looking for one to go to, you won't have to – it won't be hard to find one.
All right.
I'm going to ask you this before we let you go, because you saw this team play Hartzell.
It's the only loss of the season, and I know you saw them several times last year, too.
Parker and Muscle Shoals.
I think this is a better team this year with Muscle Shoals.
They've got an incredible defense.
Parker does, too.
Vondie Cleveland, the Texas commit.
But Kate Clemons, Maury Johnson, Foster, Devin Smith, whole nine yards.
I don't think Parker's as good as last year.
They're still very good.
They're 8-3 this year.
They knocked out Muscle Shoals in the quarterfinals last year.
The Trojans tend to know, is this the year Muscle Shoals wins and continues to advance?
Yeah, I think – I agree with a lot of what you said.
I think this team – obviously, this is a rematch of last year's quarterfinals,
but I think you're looking at two very different teams.
Muscle Shoals, I think, is way better than they were last year,
which is saying a lot because they're really good last year.
Defensively, last year they were not as great,
and this year they're pretty elite at defense.
Parker is just – I mean, like you said, they're still good,
but they're not what they were last year.
Yeah, they've still got some talented guys,
but they're not as stacked as they were last year as evident by their record
and the fact that they didn't even win their region.
And so, yeah, I think Muscle Shoals is the better team,
and I think Muscle Shoals wins this game because it's at Muscle Shoals.
And, you know, a home field advantage in high school,
it's obviously not what it is in, like, college or anything.
But there are certain stadiums where it literally matters,
and Muscle Shoals is one of those stadiums.
That is a tough place to go win.
You can ask Clay Chalpa last year.
They go on the road in the second round and get beat.
So, I mean, that's a tough place to go win a game.
But even if it wasn't at home, I think Muscle Shoals would have a great chance
just because I really do think they're a better team.
I think Muscle Shoals is one of the best teams in the state,
definitely one of the best teams in 6A,
and I think they have a very good chance to represent the North in 6A this year
and possibly go win a state championship.
Absolutely.
Well, the second round is when the rubber meets the road.
It is some really key games.
If you get past the second round, you can go on and quarterfinals, semis,
and then the championship game.
Great stuff.
As always, I know you've got pregame, postgame.
Good luck to all of our area teams to advance to the quarterfinals.
You've got the stands, everything else.
Where can we get online and get the previews and also your wrap-ups?
Yeah, you can get online at decaterdaily.com.
We'll have stories for all our playoff games tomorrow that's going on.
Well, some basketball is going on, too, and fly football.
Plenty of stuff there, so you can feel free to check that out.
Sounds great.
Stay safe out there, Caleb, and thanks for your time, Dave Bud.
No problem.
Thanks, guys.
Thanks, Ryan.
Thank you, buddy.
Dave Sucks, the Decater Daily.
Coming up, time to head north to Tennessee country and talk Big Orange with Ryan Callahan on deck.
Stay with us.
This football season, bring the flavor that wins every time.
Champy's World Famous Fried Chicken.
Tailgate like a champ with our legendary fried chicken, award-winning smoked hot wings,
and don't forget those Mississippi Delta hot tamales that will light up your taste buds.
Feed your whole crew with a Champy's Tailgate pack.
Packed, stacked, and ready for kickoff.
Champy's Chicken, East 2nd Street and Muscle Shoals.
World famous for a reason.
Let the million-dollar band, including six Muscle Shoals High School grads,
get you ready for Champy's Chicken and the game.
Hello, folks.
Mark Humphrey, new car sales manager at Ray Miller GMC, where we treat you like family.
We understand that buying an automobile is the second-largest purchase you'll do in your lifetime,
and just like all the Alabama athletic programs, we take pride in what we do.
So, if you're looking for a new or pre-owned automobile, we have you covered.
Also, don't forget to schedule your next oil change or any of your mechanical issues
with our award-winning service and parts department.
So, remember, folks, we're at 246 Coss Creek Parkway, Florence, Alabama,
right underneath that big and mega flag.
We hope to see you real soon.
At Bob's Tire and Alignment, we've been keeping the Shoals rolling for 49 years.
From tires to alignment for cars and trucks up to 550s,
we'll keep your ride game day ready.
And don't forget free tire rotations and fast oil changes
with whatever you need, conventional, blend, or full synthetic.
Always save big with service you can trust.
Bob's Tire and Alignment, Jackson Highway, and Sheffield,
where every drive is a winner.
During KFC $10 Tuesdays, you can get a bucket of golden brown juicy chicken
plus four dipping sauces for just $10.
Or see what $10 gets you at a coffee shop.
Okay, now, before you enjoy this coffee, let me explain the process.
Anyway, enjoy KFC $10 Tuesdays.
Get your choice of eight original recipe tenders with four sauces or classic fried chicken,
both seasoned with our secret blend of 11 herbs and spices.
Only at KFC.
It's finger-lickin' good.
Prices and participation vary while supplies last, taxes, tips, and fees extra.
It's time for Black Friday, Dell Technologies' biggest sale of the year.
Enjoy huge savings on select PCs like the Dell 16+, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors.
And with built-in advanced features, it's the PC that helps you do more, faster.
Plus, earn Dell rewards and enjoy many other benefits,
like free shipping, price match guarantee, and expert support.
They also have huge deals on accessories that pair perfectly with your Dell PC
and make perfect gifts for everyone on your list.
Shop now at dell.com slash deals.
Rich Eisen here for Sonos, the speakers that bring every game to life in my own house.
With studio quality sound, Sonos makes you feel like you're right there in the stadium.
Whether you're cheering on your team, binging your favorite show, or listening to the hottest songs,
Sonos fills every room with incredible sound.
Setup is easy.
Just plug in, open the Sonos app, and you're ready to go.
Want stadium quality sound at home, just like me?
Because I love Sonos.
You will too.
Explore soundbars, speakers, and more at Sonos.com.
Sonos.
They look as good as they sound.
The Post Crib Assembly Press Conference.
Brought to you by Progressive.
Michael, Michael, you had some trouble putting the crib together today.
What went wrong?
You know, those instructions can be tough.
And, well, you saw the outcome.
Were you upset when your wife pulled you and called in the backup?
No, I mean, the baby needs a crib to sleep in, so whatever it takes.
You've got a changing table to put together next.
It's got a lot of drawers.
What's your comment?
You know what?
We're done here.
Like it or not, sometimes you need a backup.
That's why there's Progressive, to protect your home and auto.
Progressive Casualty Insurance Company affiliates and other insurers, not available in all states or situations.
Progressive presents the Sports Flash on 93.9.
The score.
In college football action tonight, Troy is in Virginia.
They'll take on Old Dominion.
The Trojans are 6-3 on the year, 4-1 in the Sun Belt, while Old Dominion is 3-2 in conference play.
Men's basketball action today.
South Alabama will take on Central Michigan.
The two are playing in St. Petersburg, Florida, in the showdown in St. Pete.
South Alabama is 3-0.
Central Michigan is 1-1.
Tonight in Tuscaloosa, it's a top-10 basketball matchup as No. 8 Alabama will host No. 2 Purdue.
Both teams are 2-0.
You can hear all the action right here on the score.
Pre-game coverage at 5, tip-off at 6 o'clock.
Colts and Patriots joined in progress following Alabama basketball.
Progressive is helping veterans drive their lives forward with its Keys to Progress program.
Online at keystoprogress.com.
I'm John Thayer with the Sports Flash, presented by Progressive on 93.9 The Score.
Colts has 20% off gifts that are so good, your family might think you read their minds.
Check off your list now with cozy, thoughtful, and stylish gifts that will make them say,
How did you know?
Yep, with these presents from Colts, you're going to leave them feeling impressed and convinced that you're a psychic.
Shop Colts for an extra 20% off gifts that are the perfect fit.
Select styles. Offer ends November 22nd.
Some exclusions apply. See store or colts.com for details.
With Progressive, renters can save on protection for the things that make your place yours.
Even things that don't make sense to everyone.
People always wonder why I don't get rid of my guitar since I never play.
But it's like, what if I actually end up taking lessons?
Sure, I've had it for eight years.
But if I get rid of it, then what will my New Year's resolution be next January?
Exactly.
So bundle your renters in auto and save with Progressive.
And protect the things that make sense to you.
Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates and other insurers not available in all states or situations covered subject to policy terms and conditions.
The Score.
Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.
Welcome back in.
Let's move over to the late Jimmy Buffett.
He's laid back.
I will tell you why in a second.
Ryan Kellahan, he's got it all covered there at GoBoss 24-7.
Ryan, welcome in.
Ryan, how are you?
Hey, doing well.
How are you guys?
Good, Billy.
We're doing all right.
You had the awful week from following the football team.
Did you catch up on your rest and on your honeydew list?
Yeah, did as much as we could.
But, yeah, getting into fall sports season.
So I had some things to deal with.
But, yeah, we enjoyed some time off and actually getting to watch some other football games, at least as much as YouTube TV allowed with that whole interview with ESPN and ABC.
That's above my pay.
Great.
Ryan, you know, we look at the stats.
Everybody's thinking about this guy from Alabama.
He's the top quarterback when it comes to stats.
Maybe that dude there at Vanderbilt.
How about Arch Manning?
But if you look in your backyard, is it true that Joey Aguilar leaves the SEC with over 2,700 passing yards, 21 TDs, and a partridge in a pair of trees?
He's having a pretty good year, is he not?
He is, and, yeah, that's the thing nobody really expected to see from Joey Aguilar this year.
You know, a lot of those preseason lists, and it's funny how different they look now from what we've, you know, there was all the talk of, you know, Lenora Sellers and, you know, all these different guys that were at the top of the list.
A lot of DJ Lagway talk.
He might be a quarterback in the SEC.
And so many of these guys, it's almost been the exact opposite of what we expected going into the year.
You know, Ty Simpson dominating, you know, obviously Joey Aguilar up at the top of the SEC in passing yards.
Now, it hasn't all been perfect, but, yeah, Joey Aguilar has not been, for the most part, has not been Tennessee's problem.
Now, that being said, he's had some catastrophic mistakes that have ended up costing Tennessee in some close games, and you could certainly make the case that if he doesn't make those mistakes,
they could easily still be in the playoff picture or right in the thick of the playoff picture, at least, with either two or even one loss.
But they have other issues that have contributed to those losses.
Obviously, their defense has not been as good as expected.
They've had some other problems that led to some of those interceptions, things like that.
But, yeah, he's been – he's a guy that he gives and he takes away.
So, he's had some of those negative plays that, unfortunately, have cost Tennessee in a pretty big way.
But the big picture is their passing game is explosive again in a way that it really hadn't been for Tendon Hooker back in 2022.
And he's been, you know, better than most people reasonably could have expected
and is now thrown for nearly 400 yards in back-to-back games.
So, you know, pretty impressive what he's done this season.
Let me ask you about Tim Banks.
I think he spoke to the media for the first time since the season opener with Syracuse.
And you can't hide the fact that Tennessee right now is 98th nationally in total defense
and 114th in scoring defense.
But he answered every question.
He didn't make a lot of excuses.
I think he does have some excuses because Jamod McCoy and Ricky Gibson,
who a lot of people thought may be two of the best corners in the nation,
haven't played a down this year.
And then Tennessee's lost to the number 4, 5, and 11 team ranked in the nation.
I do think that there's a reason why.
There are a lot of other ones.
But your thoughts on Tim Banks meeting with the media this week?
Yeah, you know, about what you would expect, you know, in the sense that he had to acknowledge,
obviously, the results have not been what Tennessee wanted this year on the defensive side of the ball.
And you have to tackle that up front.
But at the same time, not really big on specific solutions to what needs to be changed going forward,
what the problem really has been.
And part of the problem, you know, you're not going to throw specific players under the bus, of course.
That's not a good look when you do that.
So you can't point to specific players who might be problems or might not be as talented as what you need out there.
And, yeah, I think there's some scheme things that they need to take a look at.
You know, I kind of said for a while, I think from what I understand about it,
I think Tennessee's defense is fairly complicated.
And there are some things that they could probably do to simplify things that would allow players to do,
you know, a little more just reading and reacting as opposed to processing after the snap even,
and certainly pre-snap.
But, yeah, there's a lot that's gone wrong for Tennessee.
And there's a lot they'll have to, I think, assess after the season is over.
You know, we've talked about it since the loss to Oklahoma almost two weeks ago.
I think these last three games of the season are really important for Tennessee.
They're really important for Tim Banks.
You know, I don't know.
Absolutely.
If he loses to Florida and Vanderbilt, you know, what would happen?
Tim Banks has got a big extension this past offseason.
But absolutely the kind of situation where he could be in trouble,
at least in danger of losing his job,
if Tennessee were to struggle down the stretch here and lose another game or two.
Ryan Callahan, go ball 24-7.
Let's say that scenario takes place.
And on the other side of the coin, let's say that they rock and roll,
because here's the point I'm trying to get to, Ryan.
That is Josh Heupel.
Obviously, if he wins, Tennessee's going to try to keep him.
If he loses, the Boo Burt's going to come out and get rid of him.
It may be his call because there's a lot of openings out there,
and these coaches are kind of a catbird seat right now.
Your thoughts about Josh Heupel?
As far as his job security or?
I think his job security is there.
My point is, would Josh Heupel say, maybe I'm going to look at some of these,
like Penn State, for instance?
Yeah, well, and that's the other thing.
How much interest would there be,
especially if Tennessee were to lose another game at some point down the stretch?
You know, when you're Penn State and you're saying 10-2 wasn't good enough
under James Franklin a lot of times because you kept losing the big games.
You know, just going out and hiring Tennessee's 8-4 coach, at least that's a good point, too.
Would it be good enough?
So, yeah, that's a tough search for Penn State because it's obviously going to be a tough cycle
for them to get the absolute best candidate out there, and you're setting a pretty high bar.
So, yeah, Josh Heupel's an interesting one because, yeah, he's not a name we've heard
in a lot of these coaching searches.
There was some early mention of him in the LSU search.
I don't know that that's one that would be a serious option for him,
but if they were to finish well this year and go 9-3,
it's possible you could see his name pop up in one or two of those searches,
at least as a fringe candidate maybe.
And, yeah, that would be an interesting discussion.
You know, there would be some people, and I know there's been one columnist at least
who has floated the idea, hey, maybe Josh Heupel should get out
before the posse comes to get him and not go.
Because we've seen that before, really across the SEC,
but certainly at Tennessee that what can look like a pretty good situation one year
can turn pretty bad the next year.
And in some cases, even within the same season, it can change pretty quickly,
as we've seen this year at multiple schools.
So, yeah, it's an interesting discussion.
I think Josh Heupel likes being at Tennessee,
and I think he feels he has everything he needs to have to win a championship at Tennessee.
And so I don't think he's going to be super motivated to leave.
But, yeah, if things were to get pretty negative, I mean, just bottom line,
it changes the feel of where the program is and where it's headed.
If Tennessee were to go, say, 7-5 as opposed to 9-3,
if they were to lose to Florida next week where they haven't won in more than 20 years
and then lose to Vanderbilt, which is obviously going to be playing for a college football playoff berth most likely.
I'm not saying that's going to happen, but if that were to happen,
it's going to get pretty toxic in Knoxville this offseason.
We've seen that before.
So you do not want to go 7-5.
So it is a precarious position to be in where they are right now.
You really need to go 9-3 to keep the program kind of on the right track, even 8-4.
I think there's going to be a lot of talk this offseason of what staff changes does he need to make
because you can't stay with the status quo after a season like that at Tennessee
is the way it's going to be perceived at least in year five for Josh Heupel.
You're exactly right.
Tennessee's athletic director, Danny White, is always making news,
and he announced Wednesday that Tennessee has sold out the regular season finale on November 29th with Vandy.
That is the 27th consecutive sellout, which is a real plum for Tennessee.
He also put on his Twitter account that they are actively exploring the viability of expanding the north end zone.
That's why they've got 27,000 fans on a waiting list.
Now, Neyland Stadium is 104 years old.
I don't know how many people know that.
Your comments on this as far as maybe expanding, I know there has been construction, refurbishing the stadium.
Your comments on this?
Yeah, that's a really interesting thought, especially because most stadium renovations in recent years across the country
have been aimed at more downsizing stadiums as opposed to expanding.
Tennessee's gone a little bit in that direction, but not significantly.
When they did a survey years ago, took a kind of a straw poll among fans of what priorities they would have in renovating Neyland Stadium.
And the feedback they got was that it was still very important for Tennessee to maintain a six-figure capacity.
Fans did not want to see them go below 100,000 capacity.
So they did some renovations, kind of tastefully upgrading things and adding some premium seating and things like that.
But with the idea that we're going to keep a six-figure capacity, I don't think anyone, when they started that project,
could have envisioned they would have a waiting list of 27,000 for season tickets.
Now, exactly what that looks like, because ticket prices are rising every year at Tennessee like they are across the country.
And would all 27,000 of those buy season tickets if they came open?
It's hard to say for sure on that.
Probably not.
But regardless, the bottom line is a lot of people still want season tickets, and you've still got a product that's going to sell.
Now, you're also talking about a program that's won 30 games over the past three years before this year.
Start losing a little bit more, and that might change pretty quickly, too.
So it's a precarious position to think about adding to a stadium in this era.
I think what he's – you know, I don't want to speak for Danny White too much,
but my guess is what he's talking about is maybe rearranging some things in the north end zone
where they added a video board and a social deck up there.
It's kind of a standing room.
They envision it being like an outdoor sports bar.
Some fans who sat up there, you know, kind of mixed reviews on what the seats are,
but it's a standing room essentially with a bar top where you can have good access to an outdoor bar
and get drinks nearby.
It's still a pretty expensive ticket, but you could rearrange some things in that part of the stadium,
maybe give yourself a few more seats.
And the big thing is they're trying to figure out what to do with students
because there's not been enough tickets for students to go around.
That's changed a lot from when I was in school at Tennessee.
There were a lot of unclaimed seats for bad games.
These days that's not a problem.
Demand has gone through the roof for student tickets, and there's just not enough to go around.
So they're trying to figure out a way to alleviate that problem
while also not reducing their season ticket base, and something's got to give.
So it's an interesting problem.
I wouldn't recommend expanding to many ADs in this era,
but Tennessee has enough demand right now that they could at least justify adding a few more seats
if they can find a way to do it.
Ryan, we had a long-time Alabama fan.
We asked him about the increased cost of going to a game.
He says it's very simple.
I'm just cashing out all my kids' college savings accounts and buying tickets
and they're on their own down the road.
So it's not that complicated.
Yeah, absolutely.
Where can we get the very latest of Ryan Callahan when it comes to Big Orange Talk?
Yeah, lots to talk about this week, even though Tennessee's playing New Mexico State.
We didn't mention that because, you know, it's probably not worth mentioning a whole lot,
but it's still an important weekend for Tennessee.
Some recruits coming in this weekend, an official visitor, basketball ongoing.
So you have a lot to keep track of, and still an interesting weekend for Tennessee,
and we'll have it all covered for you at GoVols247.com.
All the best, Ryan.
Keep up the good word.
Thanks so much for your time today.
Absolutely.
Thanks a lot, guys.
Thanks.
Ryan Callahan, GoVols247.
BB, a lot of folks think we're kidding about that, but that isn't absolutely a true story,
is it not?
Yes, it is.
You'd have to meet him to know him to see the team behind you.
Coming up the next time, I'm going to be taking you all over the place.
Speaking of Alabama, Ryan Fallon's got the inside seat.
Charlie Trotman, he needs no introduction.
He comes talking to Auburn Tigers and Jimmy Lay laying it all out for the high school playoff scene.
It's all straight ahead of the Boomo Bugg Show.
Stay with us.
On the basketball court, the soccer pitch, or even a golf course, your crew brings their best, not just for the win, but for that post-game celebration.
When victory tastes like Michelob Ultra, it's worth every drop of sweat.
And if you don't win, you'll still get the beer.
It's just on you.
Hello, this is Kevin Arnold from Village Discount Drugs.
A lot of people today have prescription insurance to pay for their medications.
Did you know that with prescription insurance, you have the same copay for whichever pharmacy you choose?
That's right.
You're going to pay the same $10 there as you would here.
It's a fact that big chain drugstores can't match our local hometown service.
So if the price is the same, why settle for inferior service?
So make the switch to Village Discount Drugs, where we are always the show's problem solvers and people pleasers.
Hi, I'm Maria, salon owner.
You know the jingle.
Now discover the facts about Ozempic, a GOP-1.
There's only one FDA-approved Ozempic made by Novo Nordisk.
Learn about the real thing.
Talk to your healthcare professional today.
Call 1-833-OZEMPIC or visit ozempic.com to view the medication guide and to learn more about Ozempic.
Semaglutide injection 0.5, 1, and 2 milligrams.
At Boot Barn, we believe that the cowboy boot is an American icon.
Today's boots are not only rooted in history, but are enhanced with modern technology features for the working cowboy.
Area boots are built with advanced technology that provides the comfort and support of a high-performance athletic shoe,
yet still has the functionality and durability of the iconic cowboy boot.
And at Boot Barn, we carry over a quarter of a million pairs of Ariat boots nationwide.
Ariat at Boot Barn.
Now that I'm a dad, I can't stop thinking about what would happen to my kids if something happened to me.
Like losing the house or not affording college.
Yeah, that used to keep me up at night too.
It's why I finally got life insurance from Ethos.
It's 100% online.
No medical exams, just a few health questions.
I got $2 million in coverage for around $2 a day.
I never realized it was that simple.
Get your free quote at ethos.com slash game.
That's E-T-H-O-S dot com slash game.
Rates may vary.
Build monthly.
Sample rate 10-year term life policy for a 35-year-old healthy non-smoking male.
Harry Douglas here.
Fellas, it's time to step up your grooming game.
Manscaped just leveled up with the Lawn Mower 5 and the Chairman Plus,
two powerhouses built for unmatched precision, comfort, and control.
Whether you're cleaning up before a night out, preparing for a big meeting, or getting ready
for a game day, Manscaped has the tools to help you look and feel your absolute best.
These aren't just old school clippers.
They're engineered for modern men who take pride in their daily routine.
So upgrade your grooming gear and experience the difference.
And now you can find Manscaped products at your local Walmart.
Are you ready to unleash the beast?
Monster Energy is here to give you the edge this college tailgate season.
Loaded with bold flavors, our powerful blend gives you the energy you need to push you beyond your limits.
Tune in all season long with Monster, the energy drink of ESPN Radio College Football Tour.
Power your performance with a drink that's as hungry for victory as you are.
Crack open an ice cold monster and dominate the competition.
Monster Energy, unleash the beast.
Grab yours today.
A Georgia-based cable manufacturing company is planning to expand a facility that they have here in Heflin, Alabama.
The company known as Southwire will be investing $176 million to expand the East Alabama plant.
That will be an additional 340,000 square feet.
This modernization and expansion project will also create 85 new jobs in Heflin.
The Heflin plant first opened in 1996 and has undergone three expansions.
Construction for this latest project will start at the end of this year and be fully completed and operational by 2027.
I'll be back with more Alabama stories after this.
Some of the greatest blessings is just having the people that care about you, to have someone that's just going to love you and make you feel important.
They encourage you to be in church.
They encourage you to be in prayer.
They encourage you to be in your Bible.
Now it's a part of my day every day.
My house parents planted seeds in me that you can see where those seeds have sprouted in my life and helped change my life.
Big Oak Ranch, a Christian home for children needing a chance.
In Huntsville, the police department held a ribbon cutting on a brand new crime scene and evidence warehouse.
The new facility includes labs, office space, evidence processing areas, and vehicle processing bays on top of the evidence storage, which is in a climate-controlled building.
More room created by this warehouse now allows for multiple cases to be processed at the same time by Huntsville police, along with including technology to help solve those cases faster.
A man accused of threatening rabbis here in Alabama appeared in court this week.
Jeremy Shoemaker was before a federal judge regarding charges of threatening messages.
Authorities also seized multiple weapons, ammunition, and body armor from Shoemaker's residence.
Shoemaker was asked about his personal finances in order to determine if he needed a public defender.
Shoemaker revealed that he has been receiving disability payments and is unemployed.
I'm Andrea Theis.
For more news affecting Alabamians, go to 1819news.com.
And while you're there, subscribe to the daily newsletter.
Valley Broadcasting Corporation, WITK-FM, Rogersville, Athens, Decatur, The Shores.
Sports Radio 93.9, The Score.
Scott Graham here from Westwood One.
Don't miss any of our exclusive NFL action all season long until a new champion is crowned at Super Bowl 60.
Of course, each week begins with Thursday Night Football.
I'll get it started with a preview and a look ahead at the big weekend games.
Then it's to the stadium for the play-by-play of all the action.
Join us all season long on Thursday Night Football.
Brian Ranky here from Sunday Night Football on Westwood One.
Join Mike Golick and me every Sunday for a marquee primetime NFL matchup.
Scott Graham gets things started with a pregame show from the studio with exclusive player interviews and the latest league news.
Then from the stadium, Mike and I bring you the exclusive play-by-play call of the action.
Join us every week for Sunday Night Football.
93.9, The Score.
93.9, The Score weather.
Today, mostly sunny with a high around 70.
Tonight, partly cloudy with a low near 45.
Tomorrow, sunny with a light breeze and a high around 75.
Tomorrow night, mostly clear with a low near 55.
And for your Saturday, sunny with a high around 75.
Your weather from 93.9, The Score.
Now, get ready to roll.
Shoals, Decatur, Athens, and all of northwest Alabama and southern Tennessee.
It's time for the Valley's exclusive FM sports voice.
The Boomo Bugg Show.
Your exclusive inside track to the tide.
Tigers, Tennessee, and the rest of the SEC.
Now, your host, Harold Bugg on 93.9, The Score.
Welcome back to our Twitter, the Boomo Bugg Show.
I'm Harold Bugg, alongside Brett Beaird.
Thank you so much for giving us free ride around the Tennessee Valley.
And Brett Beaird, are you ready for some second-round high school playoff action?
I am ready, and the weather should be very, very good to watch it.
And no one is more appreciative of that than the man who follows the dog right there all the time,
Jimmy Lay at AL.com.
Jimmy, welcome in.
Would you concur that you're proud the weather's going to cooperate, at least right now?
Absolutely.
Yeah, last week we were worried about tornado watches and situations like that.
And this week it should be perfect for playoff weather, and field should be great, good condition,
and everybody should be ready to go.
I thought about you.
What was it?
Monday morning we woke up and it was 22 degrees.
It's the ultimate rally, hope.
You better hope the weather rallies than it has so far.
So, Jimmy, be that it may, it rains on both sides of the field, as they say.
It's cold on both sides, warm on both sides.
But your thoughts about both sides of the Madison Academy at Aniston show.
Let's face it, Aniston, they got the proud tradition.
Madison Academy is like a train.
They started out slow when they built that program years ago.
But, boy, has it been chugging along as late.
Your thoughts about 9-2, Madison Academy on the road to 11-0, Aniston.
Yeah, last week they had a tough one with Hatton.
But they had enough to get it done in the end.
That's what counts.
It really, you know, you play the game and you, you know, you battle through the weather
and through the turnovers and whatever happens in the game.
But in the end they just had a little bit more, was able to get past Hatton.
This week they're facing a different animal.
Aniston is huge.
I mean, they've got some, I think they've got one guy on their defensive line that's like 390 pounds.
I mean, this is just, yeah, oh yeah.
I mean, this is a different animal altogether.
But how do you beat size?
You beat size with speed and Madison Academy has got speed.
Charlton Owens, you know, they didn't really use him last week to run the ball that much.
Look for them to get a heavy dose of Charlton Owens this week, you know, pulling that ball out running.
But also they run a great, you know, option threat where he pulls it out, then he runs,
and then he can still throw the ball too.
And so I think Madison Academy has got a great chance to move on to the third round
if they can just hold up against this massive Aniston.
They're huge on offense too.
I mean, they've got some 300-pounders on offense too.
And they just want to pound you and pound you and pound you.
If they can get Aniston in some third longs and force them to punt a few times,
I think they'd win this thing.
Jimmy, at Good Hope, in not Cherokee County for the fourth consecutive year,
Good Hope's playing West Morgan.
I saw West Morgan play Brooks first game of the season,
and Brooks was not quite ready then.
But West Morgan, 11-0, Priceful was their closest win, 8-7.
And we'll talk about them in a few minutes.
West Morgan, 41 points a game.
They're only giving up 10 points a game.
And McCrary Johnson is a special back.
He returned to punt last week for a touchdown.
Titan Partlow was injured in that Priceful game.
But that's grown man football.
Several of our analysts have talked about that.
A lot of people think West Morgan,
if they had to play Cherokee County, who's been a real nemesis,
they don't now, right now, West Morgan, I think he's got a chance to go to the championship game.
Can they beat Good Hope tomorrow, Jimmy, and keep going?
I think they can.
I think this is their year.
Cherokee County has finally got knocked out of their path.
I think they would have liked that matchup this year.
I think they would have matched up really well against them this year and probably had a great chance to beat them.
But Good Hope, it just depends on what kind of region are you playing in.
And when you look at West Morgan, they're playing against Deschler, playing against Hatton,
playing against Central, Florence, and those kind of teams.
And I really feel like they're battle-tested.
They took care of Randolph twice this year with a solid team from 4A Region 8.
I just think they've got a little bit more than Good Hope.
Good Hope's had a great year.
They finished number two there.
And they've had a great season.
But I think it comes to an end as West Morgan continues that march to the Super 7 this year.
Check out Jimmy Lay at AL.com.
Jimmy, when we're checking in to two teams who know each other very well,
if it's November, you know Muscle Shoals and Parker's going to play each other.
The question is where.
This time, they're playing each other again.
The where is right here in their own backyard.
Your thoughts about 10-0 Muscle Shoals taking on 8-3.
Parker?
I tell you what, Muscle Shoals' defense is incredible.
They're only giving up seven a game, which is, you know, nobody can score on them.
And so, if you can't score, you can't win.
And so, that's really what they hang their hat off.
I mean, they're putting up 37 a game in a pretty good region with Jasper this year and with Hartsell.
You know, Kate Clemens is a solid quarterback.
And I know they'll be ready to go.
Parker, though, man.
I mean, they're going to put it up in the air.
I mean, Kentrell Davis, or not Kentrell Davis, Dylan Reese, he's thrown for 35 touchdowns this year, over 2,500 yards passing.
That test, that defense is going to be put to the test this week against Parker.
Parker averaging 42 a game.
I think Muscle Shoals can get it done in the fourth quarter.
If they can win the turnover battle, get a few tip balls, get a few sacks on Mr. Reese, I think Muscle Shoals can get it done and move on to the third round.
Jamie, when you get to this time of the year, Paul Benefield's name comes up quite often.
They are traveling to an undefeated Piedmont team at 11-0.
Piedmont is averaging 51 points a game.
They're the number one defense in Class A.
They're giving up 9.6.
Well, Fife is not exactly a panker either.
They're scoring 42 points a game.
Roder Gibson had a big day again.
Fife beat Lauderdale County last week, 34-7.
Piedmont beat Phil Campbell.
We all know Fife runs about five plays a game, but they just run over you and just keep doing it.
But as you said earlier, Piedmont is a different animal.
They are very, very good.
Your thoughts on Fife and Piedmont?
Yeah, this was a rematch of last year's quarterfinal matchup that played at Piedmont.
It went to overtime, and Piedmont was able to get a stop to get the win.
I'm going to tell you something.
Paul Benefield, I mean, he don't talk about revenge to his players, and he don't talk about this is a totally different team,
totally different season and that kind of thing, but I guarantee you he put that in the back of his head last year
because he does not want a repeat of last season.
The thing is, though, as you mentioned, you know, Piedmont is just so strong, and they're able to score so quickly.
If Fife can hold them down from the big plays and make them have to go 80 yards, I think they can win this thing.
It's just a tough task, you know, to ask those guys to, you know, to be able to stop.
I mean, you know, Raleigh Pinto is just a game-breaker, man.
He just – he's going to get loose, you know, a couple times, and so what hurt Fife last year is that they turned the ball over.
They ended up getting a safety, snapping the ball over the quarterback's head.
They made some mistakes last year in their – you know, on the play that stopped the game, they ran into each other a little bit.
It's just got to – yeah, it's one of those things where that offense has got to be – it's got to run smooth.
Any little hiccup in the play can mess the whole thing up if you're playing against a good team like Piedmont.
They've got to be perfect.
I just think Piedmont's got a little bit too much for them, and they're going to beat them again.
Jim, we talked – what a matchup in 4A across the board.
We talked about Madison Academy and Aniston and Good Hope and West Morgan.
What gives here?
Dasher is 10-1.
They're on the road to Hamilton at 11-0.
The Aggies, not only are 11-0, they've got the home cooking against Dasher again at 10-1.
What gives there?
Yeah, that's kind of what we talked about earlier.
All regions are not created equal, and Dasher, you know, playing in the same region with West Morgan and Hatton and Central Florence and Brooks.
I mean, Central Florence didn't even make the playoffs, and they're a really good team.
Hamilton's 11-0, scoring 44 a game, but they just haven't faced anything like what Deschler is going to bring this Friday night.
I think this thing probably goes to the fourth quarter.
I give a slight edge, you know, to Deschler, but you just never know.
When it gets playoff time and when the game is on the line, the guys that can really keep their nerves in place can make all the difference.
That one, that snap on the extra point, the guy that's holding the kick, those kind of things could make a big difference.
And whoever comes out and makes the plays and doesn't cause themselves any miscues is going to win this game.
I think Deschler gets it done, though.
Jimmy, quite a story on and off the field with Hartzell at Homewood.
Both teams are 10-1.
Hartzell's only loss this year was two months with Shoals as the Trojans came back from 17-3 to win the game.
I believe it was 31-17.
Burt Newton, the coach at Hartzell, is basically going to be playing on a field that he played on himself.
And his dad, Bob, is an absolute legend there.
We've talked with you a little bit about Hartzell.
Carter Lee, Jaheim Pruitt, Cole Miles, Jake Miles' son, the athletic director.
Very interesting game.
Hartzell has been put out the last two years in the second round.
We talked to Caleb Suggs about this a little bit earlier.
Burt Newton wants to win this game pretty bad, as you can imagine.
Absolutely.
And it's the same kind of thing we've talked about with Muscle Shoals.
I mean, their defense is even, well, it's about the same.
I mean, they're giving up a little over eight points a game.
They're just tough to run on.
They're tough to move.
I mean, last week, you know, Buckhorn, the only way they scored was on a pick-six.
Otherwise, they'd have a shutout.
You know, so, but you look at Homewood.
I mean, they want to put the ball in the air.
I mean, their quarterback, Caleb Carson, is at 26 touchdowns, over 2,200 yards passing.
They're going to, and they're, you know, they're 10-1 for a reason, you know.
And Hartzell has had a hard time getting past that second round.
They've got to make the plays.
They can't make the silly mistakes that can beat you in a thing like this.
If they can win the turnover battle, I think Hartzell can get it done and move on to the third round.
Jimmy, who has a more intriguing matchup than your friends out at Lexington?
They're 8-3.
They're on the road to Coos the Christian.
Who's the coach at Coos the Christian?
I think his name is Rush Probst.
Lexington against the fighting Rush Probst from Coos the Christian this week.
Yeah.
Coos the Christian has just got a knack for being able to find players, and that's all I'll say about that.
But they're able to, you know, they're able to do that.
Very talented.
Well, and normally, you know, we say that it's not the X's and O's.
It's the Jimmy's and Joe's.
But they got both.
You know, they got a legendary coach, and they got some really good players.
And, you know, I think Coos, I think they're probably going to, I hate to say this, I think they're going to name their score.
Lexington is going to battle.
It's going to be probably for a half.
But in the end, I think they just, Coos is going to make too many big plays on them, and they're going to be able to march on to the third round.
Jimmy, we've talked about this throughout the season.
Class 7A, Region 4, we were anticipating at least one might come away with a win.
James Clemens was the closest one losing 31-21.
But, once again, Spartan, James Clemens, Florence, and Austin lost.
The last time a Region 4 team won was 2019, when James Clemens beat Vestavia Hills and Florence beat Mountain Brook.
Jimmy, when is this going to end?
You know, we talked about that earlier in the week with Scott Tyson and Drew DeArmond.
It's just one of those things where if you go around Huntsville City School, I mean, Huntsville area, you will find over 100 soccer fields all over the place.
You know how many rec football fields you got?
You got two.
Okay.
So, it starts in the youth league.
And if they don't put some money and some resources into the youth leagues, like a lot of these areas do in South Georgia, in Montgomery, in Birmingham, it's not going to change.
I don't care what great coaches you bring in here.
If they don't have players that have been playing.
Most kids don't start playing football until they're in seventh grade, helmets and shoulder pads.
And by that time, you're playing against kids that have been playing since they were in first grade.
And a place like Fife, oh, man, they start playing in the rec league and it's the same system all the way through.
So, by the time they get to varsity, they're ready to go.
To me, I don't know what the answer is.
Just the city would have to decide, hey, we're going to invest in that.
It's just that soccer and other sports like that, they're just a lot easier.
They don't cost as much.
Football is expensive.
It's hard to put together.
I mean, you know how much those football helmets for the varsity will run over $400 apiece.
That's a lot of – I'm telling you, but you've got to have safety.
And it costs a lot for those resources.
I don't know what the answer is.
I don't know that it's coaching.
I just think that the players just have not – like I said, most of them didn't start playing until they're in seventh grade.
And by that time, they're way behind the game when you talk about all these programs from other areas.
And that's probably where it's got to start.
And I know some of the private schools are doing a better job.
I know Whitesburg Christian, they have a youth league.
I mean, Westminster Christian started a youth league this year.
Madison Academy has a youth league.
The private schools are doing that.
Time for the public, for the city to decide, hey, we want to have some good football.
It starts at the youth level.
Absolutely.
I know you can have a wrap-up of all the games come Friday night, Saturday morning.
It should be – hopefully a lot of our area teams will be able to advance to the quarterfinals.
And also, Jimmy, if they've got a video clip, if they're at a game, send it in to AL.com.
Tell us again how to do that.
Yeah, if you've got a clip – and I hope you do.
I hope people will send in these clips.
Go to – just send it straight to their X account, ALDOTCOM, capital P, Preps,
and send it straight to it, and it'll show up, and everybody will see it.
And you just – you go there, and you see some of these videos,
and then you start – you just start watching it pop up over and over,
and you see how many people are viewing that thing.
And it goes out, you know, everywhere, all over the state.
And AL.com is liable to pick it up.
You never know one of the news crews is liable to pick it up to be able to show it.
But, man, there's a lot of good high school football out there,
and we've only got so many folks, you know, that can cover these things.
So, it really helps out when people send in those video clips.
Even Santa Claus is watching there to the North Pole.
Jimmy Lanson, thanks so much for your time today,
and enjoy a second-round playoff action, okay?
All right, guys. Have a great weekend.
Thank you, Jimmy.
You do the same.
JimmyLayAL.com.
Coming up, what's going on with the Tiger Talk down the plains?
The man who's been there and done that, Charlie Trotman, on deck.
Stay with us.
Mugshot's Grill & Bar has a winning fall lineup with their limited-time offers.
Choose from the smoky bourbon maple stack with two kid burgers
or the pretzel basket with four pretzel sticks sprinkled with kosher salt.
You must try the Chili Trio, which is a cup of cheesy chili,
or the Nashville Hot Tacos, three flour tortillas with three Nashville Hot chicken tenders.
Happy Hour is two to six daily,
and get $3 mimosas and $5 Bloody Marys until three on Saturdays and Sundays.
Watch the game with our game day pitchers.
So grab your friends and head to Mugshots for beer, burgers, and ball
in historic downtown Florence.
You want furniture deals this Black Friday?
Well, we got them at the Story and Lee Black Friday sale going on now,
where you'll find super Black Friday savings throughout our entire showroom
with hundreds of doorbusters.
And with our huge warehouse full of furniture,
we've got just about anything you want in stock,
all delivered to your home before the holidays.
Plus, get 0% financing and free delivery, too.
Story and Lee Furniture's Black Friday sale.
It's just a short drive to big savings.
Highway 43 in Leoma, Tennessee.
All right, gentlemen, this is Emmett Smith on behalf of Depend,
and I've got the perfect play.
Run straight to your doctor's office for a life-changing catch.
Because when prostate cancer is caught early, it's up to 99% treatable,
and one blood test might be all it takes.
And now through November, Depend is donating to the Prostate Cancer Foundation for select purchases.
Talk about a great play.
From September 1st to November 30th, Depend is donating 25 cents to the Prostate Cancer Foundation
for Depend Shields Guards RealFit products purchased in the U.S.
up to a maximum of $300,000.
This is the story of the one.
As a maintenance supervisor at a manufacturing facility,
he knows keeping the line up and running is a top priority.
That's why he chooses Grainger.
Because when a drive belt gets damaged,
Grainger makes it easy to find the exact specs for the replacement product he needs.
And next day delivery helps ensure he'll have everything in place and running like clockwork.
Call 1-800-GRAINGER, click grainger.com, or just stop by.
Grainger, for the ones who get it done.
Rich Eisen here.
As you all know, I care deeply about pediatric cancer research and awareness.
That's why I'm proud to talk about Hyundai Hope on Wheels.
For over 27 years, every Hyundai Sold has helped fund life-saving pediatric cancer research.
Together with over 850 dealers nationwide, they've raised more than $277 million,
supporting over 25,000 kids in their fight against cancer.
At Hyundai, hope isn't optional.
It comes standard.
Visit HyundaiUSA.com and search Hyundai Hope on Wheels to learn more.
At AT&T, we guarantee our network,
so you can talk college football with your BFF while taking Buster to the vet.
Hey, yeah, I can't believe he ate the whole thing of chicken wings.
And I can't believe we're staging a comeback.
Touchdown!
Yes!
Staying connected matters.
That's why in the rare event of a network outage,
you'll automatically get a bill credit for a full day's service.
For wireless downtime lasting 60 minutes or more,
caused by a single incident impacting 10 or more towers.
Must be connected to impacted tower at onset of outage.
Restrictions and exclusions apply.
See ATT.com slash guarantee for full details.
This is the story of the one.
As a maintenance supervisor at a manufacturing facility,
he knows keeping the line up and running is a top priority.
That's why he chooses Grainger.
Because when a drive belt gets damaged,
Grainger makes it easy to find the exact specs for the replacement product he needs.
And next day delivery helps ensure he'll have everything in place and running like clockwork.
Call 1-800-GRAINGER, click Grainger.com, or just stop by.
Grainger, for the ones who get it done.
Hey, I'm Mike Slater.
My dad passed away at the age of 63.
He's out of nowhere.
Had a stroke.
Super hard, obviously, for the whole family.
But my dad had life insurance.
This is why I have life insurance for my family, for my wife and four kids.
And the best place to get life insurance is ethos.com.
Because you can do it in 10 minutes.
And there's no medical exam and no blood test.
Just a few health questions.
Get life insurance in 10 minutes so your family is protected.
Ethos, E-T-H-O-S, ethos.com slash play.
Get on your way of Northwest Alabama is thrilled to announce the return of its signature fundraising gala,
Shoals Royale, on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at the Renaissance Shoals Conference Center.
This black-tie optional casino-themed event brings all the glitz and excitement of Las Vegas to the Shoals,
complete with live entertainment, gaming tables, prizes, hors d'oeuvres, and a cash bar, and all for a great cause.
Now in its fourth year, Shoals Royale has become one of Northwest Alabama's premier charity events.
Uniting local businesses, community leaders, and residents for a night of luxury and purpose.
Proceeds directly benefit United Way of Northwest Alabama and the 12 local non-profit partners and 22 community programs and funds.
Individual tickets are $125 or $200 per couple.
Or go in VIP style for $350 or $600 per couple.
Shoals Royale, 2026, Saturday, February 21st, at 7 p.m. at the Renaissance Shoals Conference Center.
Tickets are available now at givebutter.com slash Shoals Royale, 2026.
The Score.
Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.
Welcome back in.
It is an absolute pleasure for us to say hello to Charlie Trotman, former Auburn quarterback.
Also knows a thing or two about radio talk and about life itself.
Charlie Trotman, welcome in.
How are you?
Doing great, Harold.
You and Brent.
Good to be with you.
Charlie.
You too.
Charlie, is it true that Auburn has 70 points this season on offense, half of them in one game against Vanderbilt?
What happened?
Well, the offense came to life.
You know, we had a great, in my opinion, the calls that were made were excellent offensive calls.
I thought that Derek Nix did yeoman's work, getting ready for that game, and it was the first game that he's called by himself.
And I thought he did a whale of a job, and, you know, I felt like that, you know, we had a lot of big plays in the game.
Cam Coleman came up with a lot of big catches, and, you know, we had some pretty good, you know, Daniels threw the ball well, I thought.
And, you know, it was our best offensive outing probably in two years, you know, so it's been a long time in coming.
But, you know, as good as the offense played, the defense, for some reason, faltered.
And, you know, you could say, well, the reason is Diego Pavia, and the guy is just elusive as, you know, a slippery watermelon seed.
And I tell you what, we just couldn't get our hands on him and get in control of his offense because, you know, he scored when they really needed it.
He brought them back from a deficit and then scored in overtime, and Auburn was not able to score.
Charlie, when you talk about legendary quarterbacks in the SEC, I can't think of anybody who could talk about this better than the former.
quarterback at Auburn, and you're one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the history of the league.
But when you mention Pavia, to me, you've got to put him in a group with Tim Tebow, Johnny Manziel, Cam Newton,
and I know we can probably come up with a couple of other ones, but it's a handful.
It's even hard to describe him.
He's not your pro-typical quarterback at 6'5", 250.
He looks like he needs to be playing in a YMCA league.
Charlie, he gained 480 yards against one of the best defenses in the country.
He did just absolutely amazing.
his moxie, leadership, discipline.
Charlie, your thoughts on Pavia.
Well, he's an Auburn killer.
I mean, he beat Auburn at New Mexico State in an uncanny performance, and then he didn't do as well last year.
They did beat Auburn 17-7, but it was really Auburn's net that's on offense,
and not so much Pavia on offense that beat Auburn last year when Vanderbilt came to the Plains.
But, listen, this game that he played was marvelous.
His awareness, guys, is awareness of where defensive players are, where his offensive players are,
how to get the ball on time to his receivers.
And then, when he's in trouble, he was able to get out of trouble and make big plays.
Not just, you know, a five-yard gain out of a bad situation, but I'm talking about a 25-yard gain when Auburn is chasing him,
and they're right at his heels, but they can't gain on him.
And he is miraculously crafty.
That's what I would say a great word for him is he's crafty, and he's a magician.
I mean, he just knows how to move the ball, and he's done it his whole career, especially against Auburn.
He's got that instinct.
He's like a bird.
You don't have to teach the fly.
He just knows.
Charlie, your thoughts about, obviously, it's an audition every week,
but you couldn't ask for a better audition for Durkin in game one.
It's game one.
Sometimes these kids come out and run through a wall for a coach.
But on the balance of the season, if it continues to go this way,
what does Auburn do with Durkin as far as the obvious question?
Well, that's a great question, and, of course, you know, the Alabama game is going to be the answer.
I mean, we all hope and believe that Auburn will beat Mercer.
But, you know, if Auburn has a great game against Alabama,
even if it's a game sort of like they had against Vanderbilt,
D.J. Durkin has to be considered.
And I know he's under consideration now.
How they play against Alabama is going to be paramount, you know,
in his ability to secure the permanent job.
But, you know, I think Jon Sumrall probably has the inside track right now,
and that is given a typical offensive performance that Auburn might have
against Alabama and not be able to, you know, be in the game in the fourth quarter.
And if that occurs, then I think, you know, probably Durkin's chances of being the coach
are going to be compromised greatly.
But I would say, you know, he's, you know, probably, he's got probably a 35% chance right
now of getting a job.
I'd say maybe, you know, Sumrall in my estimation is probably the leading candidate.
But, you know, and he may be a 50-50 guy.
Who knows?
But, you know, I like Durkin.
It wouldn't hurt my feelings if he got the job.
I think he's an excellent coach.
I think he's a good motivator.
I think the kids love him.
I think he's a good recruiter.
You know, he does all the things.
He checks all the boxes, except for the fact that he wasn't really, really successful
as a coach at Maryland.
But, you know, to me, he's done enough as a defensive coordinator to warrant giving him
an opportunity.
Now, you know, is that a dangerous thing to do?
If you're Auburn, maybe.
You know, maybe you try to find somebody who's been a proven head coach.
But, again, I think D.J. Durkin is unique in his ability to get players to play for him.
And, you know, maybe he could do that as the head coach.
You know, we'll have to wait and see.
Charlie, what did Derek Nix do to simplify this offense?
Number one, he got the ball to the playmakers, Eric Singleton and Cam Coleman.
But he finished with 442 yards of total offense, which ranks third in the history of Auburn football
behind Nick Marshall and Damian Craig.
What happened the week after Hugh Freeze got fired with his staff?
To me, one of the things that Derek Nix did is he took advantage of the open areas in the zone defense.
And even when Vanderbilt went to some man coverage, but they were playing a lot of zone.
And he had people sit down in the zones in what you would call a hitch route, maybe.
You know, Singleton would go out, find the open area, sit down in the open area, and very quickly, you know, Daniels,
Ashton Daniels would find him for, you know, what would be only a six- or seven-yard game.
But then Singleton would turn up field and make it a 10- or 12-yard game.
And they finally ran a slant route for a touchdown, which that's been a big deal at Ole Miss.
You know, they do it all the time.
Lane Kiffin is big on slant routes.
And Auburn just hasn't run the slant route much this year.
And it's been there.
And Cam Coleman, you know, caught, I think, one of those two.
And, you know, they finally, as you said, they used the guys that can make things happen.
You know, they threw a couple of passes to Perry Thompson.
And, you know, they didn't really use the tight end very much.
I think they threw him one pass.
But, you know, our tight end, for some reason, you know, he's had Preston Howard.
He's had a – we've had one tight end, you know, Frazier, Hurt.
But Preston Howard has been really struggling catching the ball.
I'm not sure why.
But, you know, he's a 6'5 guy.
He's got great, you know, arm width and reach.
And he just – he fights the ball when it comes to him.
I'm not sure why that is.
But they didn't go to him very often.
And he made a big critical mistake when Ashton Daniels had the long touchdown run.
He was holding.
So, you know, we've got to get Preston Howard, you know,
playing at a higher level than he's playing right now.
Absolutely.
Yeah, two of them was pretty good at those slant passes too, Charlie.
Listen, we always enjoy – that's right.
We always enjoy the conversation.
Great insight into the coaching.
We'll find out in a couple of weeks, Charlie, certainly where that is going.
Listen, have a great week and enjoy the bye week.
Let's do this again real soon.
We'll do it, Brett.
Thank you so much.
Harold, you and I appreciate y'all having me.
Hey, we appreciate you taking time out there, Charlie.
There you have it.
Former Auburn quarterback, Charlie Trappett.
Coming up, pretty big weekend.
Anything but an off weekend in Tuscaloosa.
Ryan Fowler, the latest next.
Stay with us.
Hey, Scholes.
I know you do anything for a win on game day and for an ice-cold Bud Light.
Because whether you're tailgating in the parking lot or parked on the couch,
sitting on your lucky stool at the bar, or standing in the fan section all game long,
a win isn't a win without the clean, crisp taste of Bud Light.
And there's nothing easier to enjoy than that.
Bud Light.
Easy to drink.
Easy to enjoy.
Enjoy responsibly.
I'm Houser Bush Bud Light.
Bury St. Louis, Missouri.
Flavor is calling at Lost Pizza Company Scholes.
Introducing the new limited-time only Margarita Pizza.
Fresh basil, fine-ripened tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls on our homemade crust.
Light, bright, and bursting with flavor.
Try our all-new dry rub wings.
Seasoned to perfection with bold, smoky spices.
It'll have you coming back for more.
Don't forget dessert.
Cotton, blues, cheesecake slices are here.
Creamy, dreamy, and downright legendary.
These flavors won't stick around forever.
Only at Lost Pizza Company Scholes, where the lost get fed.
Carbine Construction is honored to be a part of building projects with the Florence City School System.
We're also glad to cheer on the Falcons as they celebrate milestone achievements as well.
As Carbine Construction wishes you the very best this season.
Remember, at Carbine Construction, we build trust.
We build relationships.
We continue to build.
Your ambition just met its match with Robinhood.
Trade stocks and ETFs, options, futures, and crypto all on one platform.
Get started today at Robinhood.com slash your money.
Your money, your move.
All investments involve risk, including loss of principal.
Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors.
Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC member SIPC.
Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives LLC.
Not FDIC or SIPC protected.
Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto LLC.
NMLS ID 1702840.
Not FDIC or SIPC protected.
Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies.
An SEC registered advisor.
This holiday season, Target has your back with irresistibly cool gifts for everyone on your list.
For the trendsetter, start with affordable beauty kits and gift sets.
Need something the whole fam will love?
Grab snuggly matching fits in every size and style.
And for the thrill seekers, don't forget the hottest toys and tech of the season.
Target's got you covered with the best deals for endless fun.
Shop in store or online.
And step into the holidays with Target.
Restrictions apply.
Progressive presents the Sports Flash on 93.9 The Score.
Sunday in the NFL, the Falcons are at home against the Carolina Panthers.
In college football action tonight, Troy is in Virginia.
They'll take on Old Dominion.
The Trojans are 6-3 on the year.
4-1 in the Sun Belt.
While Old Dominion is 3-2 in conference play.
Tonight, it's the top 10 matchup in Tuscaloosa.
Alabama plays host to Purdue.
You can hear all of the action right here on The Score.
Number 2, Purdue.
Number 8, Alabama.
Both teams are 2-0 on the season.
Pre-game coverage at 5.
Tip-off at 6 o'clock.
Thursday night football joined in progress.
Progressive is helping veterans drive their lives forward with its Keys to Progress program.
Online at keystoprogress.com.
I'm John Thayer with the Sports Flash presented by Progressive on 93.9 The Score.
Macy's has Black Friday deals you can shop now.
That means you're getting early access to our top holiday deals on gifts for everyone on your list, including you.
Like select sweaters for just $19.99.
This season's hottest shoes and boots, 40-50% off.
And festive sheet sets from $7.99 to $17.99.
So come into Macy's, beat the rush, and get your holiday shopping done early.
Black Friday early access starts here at Macy's.
Savings off select styles.
Exclusions apply.
Find what you love, love what you find.
A total wine and more, there's so much waiting for you.
Spirits and beer, thousands of wines.
Walk right through the door, it's all here to explore.
With guides in the know, when prices so low, it just might blow your mind.
You're gonna find what you love, and love what you find.
Speak responsibly, B-21.
The score.
Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.
Welcome back here.
One of the busiest folks down in Tuscaloosa is Ryan Fowler.
After you hook up with him there as host for the game, tied 109 FM.
Hopefully, Ryan's gonna be able to clear out his calendar there.
He's got a lot going on, including BB, something that, when's the last time a school anywhere, in this case, Alabama, has hosted an all top 10 matchup in football.
It's Alabama and Oklahoma coming up this weekend.
I say top 10, top 20 matchup there.
And a top 8 matchup in basketball.
Tonight, it's Alabama ranked 8th and Purdue ranked 2nd.
That's pretty good if you are looking to look at some good hot action and keep it parked close to home, BB.
Well, it nearly is a, both of them top 10, because Oklahoma's number 11, and Alabama's number 4, so it nearly is, yeah.
The Alabama-Purdue game, Purdue was number 1 in Houston, who is playing Auburn Sunday in Birmingham, is number 1.
Purdue now number 2.
Purdue is just incredible.
This is the 4th game that these teams have played in the last 4 years.
Nate Oates really wants a very tough preseason schedule.
Braden Smith is a kid that you will see.
This game's on ESPN, too.
You can hear it on 93-9, the score at 5, and then the tip-off approximately at 6 o'clock.
Braden Smith, one of the best guards in the country.
Trey Kaufman-Ren, he's 6'9", 6'10", one of the best forwards.
Now, he hasn't played this year, and he's kind of a game-time decision.
Fletcher, Loyal, I mean, they just got kids that they also seem to stay there for 8 years whenever they get in with Matt Painter.
But you're right, very rare for two top 10 in football and basketball to be played within 3 days of each other.
More on the football matchup in a second, but you've got to look at Nate Oates.
I mean, this guy does not back down back to the old, what, to some back in the day.
Two things I think he does on this.
Well, actually, many things.
Some of the primary, he wants to find out a good measuring stick of how good or how bad his team is, what he needs to work on.
I think here in November, he's building his resume for March.
So, if there's any doubt whatsoever, this committee is going to have a hard time saying Alabama's not deserving if they can keep it between the dishes between now and then.
And also, he wants to get ready for a juggernaut called the SEC slate once the calendar turns, and we go into 2026.
So, when you look at it that way, if you've got confidence in the team, it's hard to argue with Nate Oates' strategy because this is not the first time he's done this.
Well, that's exactly the reason why he plays a tough preseason schedule, is when the selection committee sits down and looks at the fact that Alabama's played five or six top 25 teams in the preseason.
As far as seeding is concerned, but Harold, they beat St. John's Saturday in the Garden, and then they've got Purdue, and then they've got Illinois coming up, and then they go out to Las Vegas in that NIL tournament, and they're going to be playing Gonzaga in Nevada, Las Vegas, and a little bit later, they play Clemson.
So, again, it's another rugged preseason schedule.
In case you missed this team over the weekend, BB, obviously Nate Oates has recruited very well, but the one thing that I think a lot of folks were going, wow, was the play of the guards.
I mean, they are rabbit quick.
You take your eye off of them for one second, and I think what Nate Oates has done, he's built his reputation as a three-point team, but now when you come out and you guard the arc, this quickness of the guards, they just go by you, and they'll take the easy two.
Well, I won't say it's easy two, but the high percentage two, and speaking of high percentage, when it comes to talking Tide, no one can give you more than Ryan Fowler.
He's hosted the game on Tide 109 FM on your way home afternoons down in Tide Town.
Ryan Fowler, welcome in.
How are you?
Hey, good.
I apologize.
I'm a couple of minutes late.
My apologies.
It's all right.
I stumbled, and I'm not going to lie.
So, yeah, I jumped in the shower right before, and I said –
You're not there now, right, Ryan?
You're not there now, right?
No, no, no.
This will be the first time that I've never done an interview.
Yeah, yeah.
But anyway, so my apologies, guys.
I guess I was sluggish like Alabama's offense, just a little bit sluggish.
A little bit sluggish.
Let's talk about that, Ryan.
Obviously, you can do that against a lot of teams, but Oklahoma, I mean, make no bones about it.
They brag about their D.
They brag about winning on the road.
They've lost two games.
Neither one of them at home.
They lost one on a neutral field to Texas, and the other one was on the road.
You get this question all the time.
This late in the season, where does Alabama find an answer to give Ty Simpson some relief
against this Oklahoma defense to maybe spread the wealth a little bit?
Errol, I think it's the million-dollar question.
They've tried a lot of different things, and a lot of things have worked.
I still think there's more to this offense than we have seen so far.
I still think that there's a lot more to this offense's side of the football.
They're having to be creative.
It's not one of those that when you step back and you begin to look at it, you begin to analyze it,
it's not their traditional offense.
But we knew that when Caleb DeBoer was going to come in.
I mean, they're going to put up gigantic numbers.
I mean, guys, it's hard to complain about an offense that's, what, 24 touchdowns and one interception
and a chance for a Heisman Trophy if he can have a big game.
They can't run the football, and I'm more convinced.
I know a few weeks ago I was on with you guys, and I made the statement that, you know,
I thought it was more of schematic-wise because initially I did.
I was like, okay, what scheme-wise?
What scheme-wise?
Because, you know, the sample size, if you go to Seattle, the Seattle Seahawks,
Ryan Grubb couldn't run the football.
Well, I went and talked with some people up in Seattle, and they said, no, no, no, no.
We understand what you're saying, but the problem up here was offensive line.
Our offensive line was just absolutely, you know, garbage for NFL offensive line.
Okay, so we went through this, and he said, the backs are okay up here.
He said, but listen, what he was able to do with Geno Smith, and if you look at Geno,
Geno's had an awful season so far this year in the Raiders.
So, obviously, he took him and put him in the top ten passing record.
So, there was a reason that you could blame it on schematic-wise, that it was a scheme,
that it was something they were doing.
I'm now more confirmed that, you know what, I think it's a personnel.
I think it's a personnel issue.
I just think when you look at quality of backs, they're just not there.
They're just not, they're not there.
And I think when you look at the offensive line, yeah, they could probably, you know,
open holes that you and I could run through, but these backs are just not seeing, you know,
what they're trying to provide.
Right, let me ask you about some of the reports and rumors we're getting this week.
The name A.K. Deer has popped up.
What are you hearing?
We know he was all that in a bag of chips coming out of high school in Mississippi,
but can a kid who played in Mississippi high school learn to play a complete game in the SEC,
including picking up blitz packages?
What are you hearing about A.K. Deer running back?
Well, I've got to go back to the board.
Yesterday, on the SEC teleconference, he used the word sooner rather than later.
Now, I don't know if he was talking about Oklahoma sooner, or was he talking about eastern Illinois sooner?
He said sooner rather than later, okay?
I don't know.
I mean, am I hearing things about A.K. Deer?
Yes, I think he's probably the most talented back in your backfield.
I don't think there's any doubt when you look at the quality of him.
But I also think when you look at it, it's a guy that is going to give you a lot of different things.
And then he put that encrypted tweet out, right?
I mean, it was a little cryptic.
I was like, whoa, whoa, whoa, what is this?
What is this?
He put that tweet out.
Did you guys see it?
We're – let me see if I've got it.
It was just a – it was – you see, you've got to remember, these kids communicate different.
And he goes, update, dot, dot, dot, dot, dot.
And that came from A.K. Deer.
Well, then that got us all to thinking.
And then I believe it was Joe Gaither who asked the question yesterday to DeBoer on the SEC teleconference.
And then that's when he said sooner rather than later.
I think you're going to see a big dose of Daniel Heal.
I also wonder if Jan Miller is still – he doesn't trust something.
You know, what is that?
You know, when they clear somebody, that means that they have been medically cleared, physically cleared.
That doesn't mean that they've been mentally cleared to get it.
Because when you have an injury – I mean, think about us.
You know, I mean, in small things, we've broken a bone or twisted a toenail.
And your doctor says, oh, you're fine.
You're going to be good.
You're going to be good.
But you're still hesitant.
I think that's where Jan Miller is because he's just not hitting the hole.
And I believe that Jan Miller is a better back than what we've seen the last few weeks.
But, you know, the last time – the last time we kept talking about somebody not being able to do something, man, oh, man, oh, man.
They came out and did it.
And I remember them talking about, well, you couldn't stop Ahmaud Hardy.
This defense will never stop.
So, I think this team, I think they feed off this.
I really do.
Because I think, listen, everywhere DeBoer goes, they're talking about running the football or lack thereof.
But that's got to motivate these players, that offensive line.
Because think about this entire run that they're on right now was probably built on motivation of the doubt that this team could do it.
They used it.
You know, so now, really, if you look at it going against this Oklahoma team, they got a lot of reason to play a different level of football.
Simply because of what?
Because of the doubt.
So, I wouldn't be shocked if we see a different intensity.
This team's not going to be Derrick Henry.
Okay?
They're not going to be 2011 with Trent Richardson and 2012, Betty Lacey.
It's just – guys, they're not.
Okay?
But they can't, I think, be a productive running back.
And I also – running back room, and when I say productive, I'm not talking about leading the SEC.
I'm talking about just being enough that the other guys will respect you.
And also, keep in mind, as they get closer to that deep ball, okay, that deep ball should be able to open up some other things, too.
And they were so close on Saturday to those deep balls.
Once those start connecting – and Ryan Williams talked about this yesterday on the K-1-4 show – he's getting healthier.
That's another weapon to stretch the field.
It's just something to think about, you know, just something to think about, you know.
When you really, you know, sit there and look at when the deep balls start happening, I think that all kind of works together.
When you look at the deep balls happening, the safeties are going to get out of the box.
It's going to carry more rushing lanes.
Then I think you're going to be able to find maybe a little bit of production there.
And, you know, we'll see.
Ryan, I use the term, Ron, yours used on time or side or rhythm.
From Georgia to the Tennessee game, Ty Simpson was probably the best quarterback in the country.
The last two games, he's been under more pressure.
And you're right, Jeremy Bernard was a layup for a touchdown, and then he underthrew Lodzair Brooks.
If that's two touchdowns, that's 34-9.
But isn't it interesting at how effective this team is on the last drive of the first half?
They just seem to line up and go tempo and just rip it.
And you saw it again.
They went 66 yards just right before the half and scored again, and they've done that countless times.
I don't know if it's a fact that they're just reacting and not thinking.
But you're right.
If Ty Simpson can get into more of a rhythm, that would really help.
No, and I think that's another big part of it is they've been a little bit out of rhythm in a lot of ways.
Is that fair?
I mean, it's South Carolina, and we use the South Carolina game as fatigue, right?
We kept going, okay, it's just the grind of the season that they've been on.
It's the grind of the season that they've been on.
Right, right.
And now as we look at it, it seems to be maybe a little bit different.
And I also think, listen, last year, Alabama's offense, guys, they got embarrassed.
I mean, they did.
It's going to be 24-3.
Grant Venables is an elite defensive coordinator.
He's going to have some things ready.
You're going to have to be ready for that.
But I also think Kaitlin Boer is an elite offensive mind.
I think, you know, that bye week was probably spent installing some stuff.
I still think there's more to this offense that we've seen this far.
And I think you're going to see that.
And I will be shocked if we don't see a better, even though you're going up against a better defense,
a better performance from Alabama's offense.
I think you're going to see that Saturday against the Oklahoma Boomer Sooners.
Ryan Fowler, I'm guessing that Nate Oates is going to have a sellout crowd to see the number eight versus the number two game.
Tonight, as we talked about before you came on, how rare is it to have a top ten matchup in basketball Thursday and a near top ten matchup.
Oklahoma is number 11 in football.
It's going to be fun to see how Alabama stacks up against number two Purdue tonight beginning at 6 o'clock.
Yeah, it will be.
It will be.
And it was a big win over St. John's.
And I heard Harold and you guys were sitting there talking about the guards.
And the guards have been a lot of fun to be able to watch and depth at those positions.
But, you know, it's a tough run.
But this team was not intimidated by going to Madison Square Garden.
So, it's going to be something that we're going to watch closely.
And I have not seen a spread on this game tonight.
I don't know if Alabama's the favorite.
I can really quickly look.
But I would.
It's just something I watched all day yesterday that was not released, which tells me it's going to be super, super close.
Ryan, I thought I saw Alabama was a two-point favorite, which surprised me a little bit.
Three and a half right now.
Three and a half right now.
So, it's moving.
It's moving.
So, Alabama's the favorite over Purdue.
So, wow, what a weekend.
Yeah, as you said, top ten.
And Alabama's the only program in the country that has a top ten basketball program and a top ten football team.
That's pretty awesome.
Pretty awesome.
Absolutely.
But who have you got on the show this afternoon?
And where can we get online to listen to it?
We've got Rodney Orr coming up at 2.15.
We've got Josh from College Football Nerds at 3, 3.30.
Y'all's friend and my friend, Bruce Marshall, is going to be with us.
We're going to do keys to victory for this Alabama Crimson Tide team.
And we'll fire it up coming up here in about five or six minutes.
Once again, guys, sorry I was a couple of minutes late.
I got distracted and just time slipped away and I didn't have my phone right beside me.
So, I appreciate you guys understanding that.
Thank you guys so much.
So much.
Ryan's going to have a squeaky clean show today, fresh from the shower.
B.B., it's obviously a heck of a week here on 93.9 to score.
You talked about all those matchups.
We got you covered, including a big one tonight, in case you missed it again.
It says a lot about Alabama basketball.
How long ago would it have been that people have said the Alabama basketball team is going to be the three-and-a-half-point favorite
over the number two team in the nation, B.B.?
Well, that tells you where Nate Oates has fit this program right now, Harold, and I think that will continue again.
Pre-game at five, Chris Stewart, Roger Hoover, Brian Passink at five o'clock pre-game, tip-off a little bit after six.
We've got to get Brian back on the show if we can get him settled down on that camera.
Can we do that, B.B.?
Yes, we can.
Stay tuned.
We're going to take care of business for now on behalf of B.B., Greg, James Blair, the entire crew here.
Harold Buck, thank you so much for your time today.
Let's do it again tomorrow at noon to two for the Boomwell Buck Show.
Back here on Sports Radio, 93.9 The Score.