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 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.

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 The Boomo Bugg Show. Your exclusive inside track to the tie, Tigers, Tennessee and the rest of the SEC. Now your host, Harold Bugg on 93.9 The Score.

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 Good afternoon and welcome in to the Boomo Bugg Show. I'm Harold Bugg alongside Brett Beaird. Thank you so much for giving us a free ride around the Tennessee Valley.

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 Brett Beaird, welcome in where Alabama gets ready for scrimmage number two and Auburn gets ready to take on a national title time with Tulsa on the hardwood.

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 Good afternoon. Welcome in. How are you? And is it true that the Braves just scored again? How are you?

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 Happy good Friday to you and the listeners. Bill Shanks will recount the first week of the Braves season, including a 17-2 win over Arizona last night.

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 Hugh alluded to Auburn beats Illinois State 86-66 and will advance to the championship game of the NIT on Sunday.

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 But right now, Jimmy is here to look at Alabama's basketball roster for next season and the second football scrimmage of the spring this afternoon.

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 The lion may sleep, but not Jimmy Stein. He's busy there as co-host of Locked on Bama, part of the Locked on Network.

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 Jimmy, welcome in. You made it. Happy Friday. How are you?

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 I'm doing great, guys. Thanks for having me back on.

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 You got a plate full again. But, Jimmy, the word is football is still king of the heels.

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 Scrimmage number two. What are we going to learn today, Jimmy?

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 Well, we'll see what Kalen DeBoer says. You know, post-scrimmage, there'll be a limited crowd kind of invitation only today.

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 So, you know, some things might leak out here and there.

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 You know, no starting positions are awarded to anybody in the spring officially.

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 I know there's been some quotes from an Alabama assistant coach about that.

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 But no spots are won.

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 But it is significant in the sense that there is some depth chart shuffling that happens as a result of these scrimmages.

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 It's the most game-like things they do outside of A-Day.

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 And that will be a scrimmage everyone gets to see in just eight days.

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 But, you know, in terms of learning what's going on, just real curious about the quarterbacks and how they split reps.

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 Probably doesn't mean as much to some folks.

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 But I'm curious myself as when the first team offense hits the field today for the first snap, is it Austin Mack or is it Keelan Russell?

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 I think that's interesting.

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 I wouldn't read too deep into it, but it is going to be interesting to note.

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 Jimmy, another thing that's going to be interesting notes, the running back room.

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 We know coming out of high school, he was walking on water out of Jackson High.

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 Your thoughts about E.J. Crowell and from everything we're able to gather, that's kind of jacked up.

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 The guys, if you will, the old veterans who are now probably sophomores, but old considering Crowell.

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 Your thoughts as far as the running back room and what are you hearing about E.J.?

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 Well, E.J.'s been banged up a little bit.

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 He doesn't have a significant injury.

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 It's more of a leg, kind of a strain issue.

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 So they haven't overdone it with him.

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 I think it's an injury where if they put a lot of work on him, it could get worse and he would miss even more time.

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 But he's apparently doing more this week.

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 Real curious to see if he gets carries today because he's missed so much time.

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 Who knows?

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 Maybe he's even held out of the scrimmage because he's missed so much time.

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 But what I have heard from inside the program is that in the limited reps he's received, they are very impressed.

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 They're certainly impressed with him off the field and in the weight room and his attitude and the intangible.

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 Really what's happening in the Alabama running back room, guys, is there's just a clear line between the veterans and the young guys who have a high talent level, or at least that's the perception.

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 But you have returning guys like Daniel Hill and Kevin Riley.

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 They really needed to improve to hold their standing as the top returning guys in the room.

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 And they've done that in the weight room.

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 Daniel Hill has lost weight, which he needed to do to gain some quickness and burst.

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 Kevin Riley needed to add weight to become a little bit better at breaking through contact.

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 They've both done those things.

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 But they'll need to improve to keep E.J. Crowell and A.K. Deer off the top of the depth chart.

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 I think that'll be a thing that we'll find more about in the fall.

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 But reports are they're very impressed by both E.J. Crowell and A.K. Deer.

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 They're the future at the position of Alabama, but it's a fair question as to whether that future might mean this fall.

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 It's very possible.

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 To be honest, Daniel Hill and Kevin Riley in the game have yet to do anything to permanently stamp, you know, themselves in terms of becoming fixtures of the spot.

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 You know, they've opened the door for other guys.

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 But it does appear to be an improved group with the veterans.

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 But it's an exciting group with the young guys.

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 Another young guy, Treshaun Brown, who's in the signing class, has also turned some heads this spring.

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 He's been impressive at times.

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 It'll be interesting to hear whether he gets some runs with the ones today.

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 Jimmy, the spring is always a time for experimentation.

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 I wanted to ask you about the offensive line.

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 According to multiple media reports, what they've seen, or very little that they've seen, but what they've heard, Jackson Lloyd at left tackle.

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 Nick Brooks at left guard.

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 William Sanders will have something to say about that during summer camp.

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 Rayson Delgotti from Cal Poly at center.

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 Michael Carroll inside at right guard.

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 And Jevin James, Mississippi State transfer at right tackle.

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 And again, I know Kaelin DeBoer mentioned Strayhorn, Ethan Fields, also in a couple of interviews.

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 Jimmy, your thoughts on the progress of the offensive line?

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 It must be going pretty well because they seem sort of set.

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 Now, it's not permanent by any means.

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 We're still looking at a couple of different groups.

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 But the offensive line, as you described it, the first team of Jackson Lloyd, Nick Brooks, Rayson Delgotti, Michael Carroll, and Jaden James.

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 That first team seems to be getting a lot of run.

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 I mean, it seems to be a pretty steady group.

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 It'll be interesting to hear if today that remains the case.

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 Another group that often works as a first team unit, largely the same, but Michael Carroll slides back to his normal right tackle spot with Mal Waldrop working as first team right guard.

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 They've looked at that quite a bit, too.

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 So it is a time for experimentation.

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 It's certainly a time for competition.

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 Nothing is set in stone, even with Ryan Grubb saying Jackson Lloyd's going to be the left tackle.

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 I think probably the better phrase is to say Jackson Lloyd is a great bet to be the starting left tackle.

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 But the competition continues, and it will continue today.

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 There'll be, again, another scrimmage next Saturday, known as the A-Day game.

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 There'll be two scrimmages in the fall.

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 There always are.

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 We'll see that again this fall.

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 And that will ultimately determine what that lineup will look like against East Carolina on September 5th.

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 Check out Jimmy Stiles' work.

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 It's called Locked on Bama.

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 Jimmy, let's not kid ourselves.

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 This is year three.

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 Honeymoons are getting shorter and shorter for every coach in the college world of football.

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 Certainly at Alabama, it is a very short fuse.

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 Your thoughts, just from a mindset.

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 I saw the encouraging news of the day, if you're looking at it with crimson glasses.

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 DeBoer says, all that talk about Michigan.

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 Forget about it.

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 We knew what we were getting into.

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 When we got here, the pressure's going to be high, but so are the rewards.

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 We welcome the challenge.

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 You can say that in April, but your thoughts just about year three,

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 how important this spring is for Alabama football and for DeBoer himself.

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 You know, I don't know that year three's going to answer emphatically a lot of the questions,

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 but here we are going into year three, and his tenure has featured a lot of really impressive moments.

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 I mean, things that are pretty great.

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 He made the playoff.

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 He won a playoff game.

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 He's beaten Georgia in two regular season games, one of them on the road.

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 He went into Atlanta as the number one seed after an SEC regular season, you know, finishing seven and one in the league.

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 There's been some individual awards and individual performances that have been great.

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 So there's that, but there's also been some pretty low lows, losing at least three games to teams.

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 Honestly, Alabama had no business losing to a 6-6 Oklahoma team.

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 He lost even worse to a 5-7 Florida State team.

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 So the highs have been high, and they are there, but there's also been lows.

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 I'll tell you, I don't know about making the playoff or not,

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 but I think considerable progress for Caelan DeBoer this fall would simply be winning approximately the eight games

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 that you'll be a decided favorite in.

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 The first five games of the year, there's a very good chance Alabama will be a double-digit favorite to win all five.

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 The last three games at Vanderbilt, UT Chattanooga, and a home game against Auburn,

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 you know, there's a lot of football to be played, but it's not crazy to assume Alabama's going to be a favorite

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 in all three of those games.

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 You've got to win those games, those eight.

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 Now, those middle four are crazy tough.

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 Those are crazy tough football games.

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 Anyone, Ohio State, Oregon, anybody could lose to some of those opponents.

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 But you've got to win the games you should win when you're favored by double digits.

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 I think if DeBoer can just simply do that, it will feel like everything continues to progress.

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 Jimmy, the transfer portal for basketball opens officially April the 7th,

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 and a big part of this is not so much who is coming in.

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 We'll see there are three phenoms coming in.

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 We got a glimpse of them earlier this week with McDonald, Boys and Girls All-American game.

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 But keeping the core of this group, Amari Allen, Aiden Sherrell, London Jemison, Tater Bo Bowen, Davian Hanna,

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 and we'll see where Aiden Holloway's legal issues go.

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 Again, who the coaching staff wants to keep, has to keep.

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 Jimmy, your thoughts on keeping the core of this group together.

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 Well, I get asked, of course, hey, who is Alabama going to be interested in in the transfer portal,

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 which doesn't even open for another couple of days.

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 They'll understand that around 900 players have already announced their intention to enter the portal.

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 But I'm asking, hey, who is Alabama going to be interested in?

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 The first question that has to be answered is exactly what you all are saying,

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 which is who's back?

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 How many spots do you have?

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 And it's not so much, you know, the old-time question was, you know, how many spots do you have?

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 The new age question is, how much money do you have left?

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 Because the first thing you have to do is pay the guys you want coming back.

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 Who do you want back?

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 What's that going to cost?

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 Now, how many spots do you have left and how much money is left?

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 Now, Nate Oates has not been shy about saying that he has had ample resources at Alabama,

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 and he believes that those resources are rising this year,

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 that Alabama is going to have even more significant money to spend.

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 But it's going to start with this.

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 Who do they want back?

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 What will that cost?

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 Now, how many spots do you have and what are your needs?

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 Now, unfortunately for Alabama, it might not be immediately known for at least two reasons.

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 Aidan Holloway's legal situation may not work itself out for quite a while.

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 You may have every intention of bringing Aidan Holloway back.

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 But, you know, he's also, as we speak, charged with a serious felony.

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 And he may or may not be back as a result of the legal process.

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 Secondly, Amari Allen, he hasn't announced anything yet formally.

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 But I think it would be a real shock if he didn't at least enter the draft process,

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 very similarly to what LeBaron Phylon did a year ago,

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 where as he attends the NBA Combine, he, you know, works out for all 30 NBA teams,

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 gets a lot of feedback on where he might be selected if he came out.

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 You're not going to know about Amari Allen's availability

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 until he decides whether he's going to stay in the draft or return to Alabama like Phylon did.

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 So that's going to complicate matters in terms of how many spots do we have

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 and how much money do we have left.

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 Because I think we know, I think we know without knowing that Aidan Holloway

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 and Amari Allen will be a little pricey, I mean, in terms of them coming back.

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 Those are guys you're going to have to commit some significant resources to.

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 Well, jump off, Jimmy.

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 The ship has sailed.

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 The quote of the week from one Greg Byrne is Greg Sankey listening to his man in Tuscaloosa.

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 About the SEC championship game?

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 Yeah.

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 Yep.

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 I think the issue there is almost simple.

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 If the playoff is expanding, and it hasn't yet.

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 I mean, it's not expanded for this upcoming season.

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 But if the playoff expands to 16 teams, or 24 teams, like the Big Ten is pushing,

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 if it expands, you have to get rid of the championship games.

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 If just for this one huge reason, you need that weekend to start playing playoff games.

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 You can't wait into the middle of December to start the 16-team or 24-team playoff.

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 You need that weekend, what's been known as championship weekend.

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 That weekend needs to be the first round of an expanded playoff.

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 So I really think for all of Greg Byrne's comments about it, and he is correct as usual,

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 I think it's just directly tied to playoff expansion.

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 Well, Jimmy, we can get the absolute latest football, basketball, the baseball team on a heater.

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 They beat, or have a loan to beat Oklahoma last night.

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 It's spring practice, the latest with basketball as far as constructing the roster,

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 and the nearly daily updates from you and Luke Robinson, which is a must-listen-to for Alabama fans.

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 Jimmy, where can we get online and get all the great stuff?

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 Yeah, I appreciate that, Brett.

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 It's Locked on Bama.

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 You can find us on YouTube.

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 It's a daily show, 30-minute show.

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 Find us on YouTube, or if you just prefer the audio podcast while you're driving around

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 or just want to listen, you can find Locked on Bama wherever you get podcasts, Spotify, iTunes,

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 any place.

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 Locked on Bama with myself and Luke Robinson.

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 New show six or even this week, seven days a week,

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 because we'll have a special show on Saturday regarding today's scrimmage.

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 Got a feeling.

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 There's a lot of interest in that, baby.

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 Jimmy, keep up the good work, and thanks so much for your time today.

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 Hey, appreciate it, guys.

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 Thanks.

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 Thank you, Jimmy.

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 Thank you.

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 Jimmy Stein, co-host of Locked on Bama.

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 Coming up, what's shaking around North Alabama?

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 Caleb Suggs on that more.

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 A lot of bobbleheads.

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 Baseball bobbleheads.

241
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 Race car bobbleheads.

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245
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 No.

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 Is his wife mad about it?

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 Ooh, horse bobblehead.

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303
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 From the University of Alabama, this is Crimson Tide Today.

304
00:20:15,100 --> 00:20:18,320
 It's a daily update on PAMA sports, and it's brought to you by the Good Feet Store.

305
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 Start your journey today at goodfeet.com.

306
00:20:21,280 --> 00:20:21,960
 Hello again, everybody.

307
00:20:22,120 --> 00:20:22,960
 I'm Roger Hoover.

308
00:20:23,280 --> 00:20:28,820
 Here are comments from new Alabama women's basketball head coach Pauline Love from her press conference on Thursday.

309
00:20:29,240 --> 00:20:29,840
 All right.

310
00:20:29,960 --> 00:20:31,940
 Good morning and roll tide.

311
00:20:32,320 --> 00:20:33,020
 Roll tide.

312
00:20:33,500 --> 00:20:36,300
 Listen, I'm going to try to get through this without shedding a tear.

313
00:20:36,740 --> 00:20:41,800
 It's hard because so many people sacrificed a lot of things for me to be here today.

314
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 So if I read fast, I apologize.

315
00:20:45,180 --> 00:20:46,440
 I'm just trying to get through it, okay?

316
00:20:46,860 --> 00:20:48,620
 But, again, thank you all for being here.

317
00:20:49,520 --> 00:21:00,120
 First, I want to thank the University of Alabama Board of Trustees, our president, Dr. Mohler, Greg Byrne, Karen Lee, Calvese, our current player.

318
00:21:00,200 --> 00:21:01,260
 Thank you for showing up today.

319
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 I appreciate that so much.

320
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 and everyone involved in this process for trusting me with this opportunity.

321
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 This is a place with a championship standard, passionate people, and a tradition and brand that speaks for itself.

322
00:21:15,000 --> 00:21:16,880
 This is Christian Miller for the Good Feet Store.

323
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329
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 That's goodfeet.com.

330
00:21:44,540 --> 00:21:45,040
 Roll Tide.

331
00:21:45,400 --> 00:21:48,020
 Crimson Tide Today is brought to you by the Good Feet Store.

332
00:21:48,400 --> 00:21:52,260
 Crimson Tide Today is a production of the Crimson Tide Sports Network from Learfield.

333
00:21:53,200 --> 00:21:54,320
 The Score.

334
00:21:54,700 --> 00:21:58,240
 Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9.

335
00:21:58,400 --> 00:21:59,440
 The Score.

336
00:22:00,000 --> 00:22:00,260
 The Score.

337
00:22:00,260 --> 00:22:04,940
 We really appreciate so much you taking time out of your busy schedule and sharing it with us.

338
00:22:04,940 --> 00:22:11,560
 Obviously, if you're a regular here, you know we love talking about, obviously, Alabama, Auburn, Tennessee, the SEC, and the Braves.

339
00:22:11,640 --> 00:22:18,700
 But we also love to give a shout-out to folks who sometimes work just as hard but don't get the spotlight.

340
00:22:19,020 --> 00:22:20,800
 And that's called our high school friends across the valley.

341
00:22:20,940 --> 00:22:25,580
 Caleb Suggs does an outstanding job of filling in the pieces there with the Decatur Daily.

342
00:22:26,220 --> 00:22:27,000
 Caleb, welcome in.

343
00:22:27,080 --> 00:22:27,860
 How are you?

344
00:22:28,780 --> 00:22:29,540
 I'm doing good, guys.

345
00:22:29,620 --> 00:22:29,940
 How are y'all?

346
00:22:30,360 --> 00:22:30,660
 Hey, man.

347
00:22:30,940 --> 00:22:33,260
 I would imagine you're coming off one of the tougher jobs.

348
00:22:33,340 --> 00:22:35,720
 A lot of talent throughout North Alabama.

349
00:22:35,900 --> 00:22:39,040
 You've got the centerpiece there of this part of the state.

350
00:22:39,040 --> 00:22:48,140
 And when people say, Caleb, can you come up with the players of the year with the respective classes in your neck of the woods?

351
00:22:48,220 --> 00:22:50,760
 I would imagine that is a daunting job.

352
00:22:50,820 --> 00:22:51,720
 Would you agree, Caleb?

353
00:22:52,460 --> 00:22:56,020
 Yeah, it's not something I look forward to doing every year.

354
00:22:56,020 --> 00:22:58,720
 You know, I love it for the players that they get that honor.

355
00:22:59,060 --> 00:23:01,180
 But, yeah, I mean, sometimes it's cut and dry.

356
00:23:01,640 --> 00:23:03,400
 And, you know, that makes it easier.

357
00:23:03,660 --> 00:23:07,180
 But, you know, sometimes you really face for the tough decision.

358
00:23:07,360 --> 00:23:08,800
 And I had a couple of those this year.

359
00:23:08,940 --> 00:23:10,300
 And then, you know, all area teams.

360
00:23:10,480 --> 00:23:15,920
 But, you know, at the same time, you know, that just means you're blessed to be able to cover great players and great teams.

361
00:23:15,920 --> 00:23:21,240
 And, you know, it's certainly better that way than, you know, not having, you know, anybody good to cover.

362
00:23:21,360 --> 00:23:23,040
 So I'm not going to complain too much about it.

363
00:23:23,500 --> 00:23:31,380
 So where do we start with that tough answer to the question, who are the best players of the respective girls, boys, classes in our neck of the woods?

364
00:23:31,460 --> 00:23:32,300
 Caleb, where do you start?

365
00:23:33,260 --> 00:23:36,900
 Well, you know, the toughest was our final one, which will go tomorrow.

366
00:23:37,120 --> 00:23:39,500
 So I'm not going to tip my hand too much on that.

367
00:23:39,620 --> 00:23:45,440
 But, you know, looking at the other ones that we've done, you know, Abby Lane Lewis was, you know, our largest school girls player of the year.

368
00:23:45,440 --> 00:23:47,520
 Just a phenomenal career and priceful.

369
00:23:47,740 --> 00:23:49,920
 And, you know, she's going to go to college for volleyball.

370
00:23:50,200 --> 00:23:53,000
 But just a great player and a great kid as well.

371
00:23:53,120 --> 00:23:55,600
 You know, someone I just love to talk to all the time.

372
00:23:55,720 --> 00:24:00,880
 And when you look at Caden Ricks at Austin, you know, averaging a double-double or a large school player of the year.

373
00:24:01,000 --> 00:24:05,440
 You know, another in a long line of players of the year that we've had that have come from Austin.

374
00:24:05,560 --> 00:24:08,900
 They just, you know, kind of produce them at least every other year, if not every year.

375
00:24:09,500 --> 00:24:14,080
 And then finally, you know, Leah Pierce at Foggle, who is actually, you know, just a freshman, sophomore.

376
00:24:14,080 --> 00:24:18,580
 So I can't forget which one, but a very young player who, you know, averaged 25 points a game.

377
00:24:19,140 --> 00:24:23,640
 You know, and for a program that's not had a lot of success lately, she's kind of bringing back that spotlight.

378
00:24:23,840 --> 00:24:24,680
 That's kind of her goal.

379
00:24:24,840 --> 00:24:27,580
 And so, you know, she had a really good year.

380
00:24:27,720 --> 00:24:29,820
 And she's going to continue, I think, to even get better.

381
00:24:30,120 --> 00:24:31,400
 And that's always the fun.

382
00:24:31,520 --> 00:24:34,080
 You know, it's great when you're able to give the awards to seniors.

383
00:24:34,180 --> 00:24:38,440
 But when you have, like, young kids that are able to win that award and you're, you know, they're already player of the year.

384
00:24:38,500 --> 00:24:39,660
 You're like, how could they get better?

385
00:24:39,760 --> 00:24:41,580
 But I have no doubt that they will get better.

386
00:24:41,720 --> 00:24:43,160
 That's what's fun to watch.

387
00:24:43,240 --> 00:24:44,120
 So I'm looking forward to that.

388
00:24:44,340 --> 00:24:46,280
 And, yeah, we've got our last one coming out tomorrow.

389
00:24:46,460 --> 00:24:48,000
 So, you know, feel free to check that out, too.

390
00:24:49,180 --> 00:25:05,220
 Yeah, what I liked about Leah Pierce with Falkville was, I know sometimes, as you mentioned, it's black and white when you look at someone who went to the Final Four or the Elite Eight, the Regional, Wallace, et cetera.

391
00:25:05,440 --> 00:25:14,700
 But Falkville went 12 and 17, which, you know, on the surface, that's not, you know, it's not getting to Wallace.

392
00:25:14,700 --> 00:25:17,580
 But she contributed to them tremendously.

393
00:25:18,080 --> 00:25:24,000
 And Coach Bowling, in his first year, they made a major improvement over the past year.

394
00:25:24,680 --> 00:25:27,580
 Let's ask you about some of the coaches of the year.

395
00:25:27,700 --> 00:25:32,300
 Start first with a school that gets overlooked, I think, all the time.

396
00:25:32,360 --> 00:25:34,220
 But we talked about them consistently.

397
00:25:35,080 --> 00:25:36,740
 Jake Moran of East Limestone.

398
00:25:37,060 --> 00:25:38,800
 They went to the Elite Eight.

399
00:25:38,800 --> 00:25:45,160
 He started 16 wins, 18 wins, second season, 24 wins.

400
00:25:45,720 --> 00:25:49,820
 In this season, 27 and 6, reached the Elite Eight.

401
00:25:50,840 --> 00:25:54,580
 And they have been very consistent in the program.

402
00:25:54,680 --> 00:25:55,840
 It continues to grow.

403
00:25:56,460 --> 00:26:02,400
 Congratulations to East Limestone, the Decatur Daily 5A, 7A Basketball Coach of the Year.

404
00:26:03,560 --> 00:26:05,640
 Yeah, you know, a phenomenal year.

405
00:26:06,580 --> 00:26:11,340
 And, you know, something I think that came as a little bit of a surprise, I think, you know, you look at it last year.

406
00:26:11,420 --> 00:26:12,440
 They made the Sweet 16.

407
00:26:13,000 --> 00:26:18,940
 They had Zach Kane, who was a first-team All-State player of the year, and they lost him.

408
00:26:18,940 --> 00:26:24,200
 And I think everybody assumed, myself included, that there's just no way you can't take a step back when you're losing him.

409
00:26:24,400 --> 00:26:25,980
 And some other starters as well.

410
00:26:26,100 --> 00:26:31,860
 But they went out there, and they're even better this year, which I think just speaks to the program that Coach Moran has built there.

411
00:26:31,940 --> 00:26:37,780
 And just how they continue to improve, and, you know, no matter, you know, what players they lose or don't lose.

412
00:26:37,960 --> 00:26:40,060
 And, you know, it was unfortunate.

413
00:26:40,280 --> 00:26:45,980
 I thought that they were a Final Four team, and I think that, you know, they kind of played their worst game of the year in that Elite Eight,

414
00:26:45,980 --> 00:26:49,720
 which is, you know, sometimes what happens when you get a single elimination in the tournament.

415
00:26:49,940 --> 00:26:53,760
 But, you know, I think it's something to be really proud of, what they did this year.

416
00:26:54,440 --> 00:26:55,880
 Especially with, you know, expectations.

417
00:26:56,140 --> 00:26:57,580
 Nobody believed that they could do it.

418
00:26:58,120 --> 00:27:04,560
 And so, you know, now that, you know, now that brings you to where, you know, now people are going to expect them for this year, no matter who they have.

419
00:27:04,720 --> 00:27:06,760
 So, we'll see how they handle that expectation.

420
00:27:07,000 --> 00:27:10,240
 But he's been one of the best coaches I've had, you know, in my time here.

421
00:27:10,320 --> 00:27:12,340
 I mean, they continue to be good every year.

422
00:27:12,700 --> 00:27:14,920
 And I think they're going to continue to be good next year.

423
00:27:16,080 --> 00:27:17,640
 Caleb, it's also the time of the year.

424
00:27:17,760 --> 00:27:21,820
 Speaking of coaches, a lot of times they're always on the move in some cases.

425
00:27:22,040 --> 00:27:25,100
 Your thoughts about the coaching shuffle across this neck of the woods.

426
00:27:25,240 --> 00:27:31,920
 I know one place, Austin High, apparently has a brand new girls head basketball coach in Mike Chase.

427
00:27:32,880 --> 00:27:33,140
 Yeah.

428
00:27:33,240 --> 00:27:36,120
 I mean, it's kind of funny, you know, you look at it.

429
00:27:36,580 --> 00:27:40,480
 You know, Decatur has an amazing season with their first year coach.

430
00:27:40,480 --> 00:27:47,380
 And, you know, went to the Sweet 16, were the only team in the postseason that, you know, gave Hazel Green a game and almost beat them.

431
00:27:47,520 --> 00:27:49,140
 You know, they have a little bright future.

432
00:27:49,300 --> 00:27:52,100
 So, I guess Austin looks at that like, well, we've got to do something.

433
00:27:52,240 --> 00:27:54,860
 So, they're going to bring in their own state championship coach.

434
00:27:54,940 --> 00:27:56,360
 And he is a great coach.

435
00:27:56,480 --> 00:27:58,340
 I mean, that's a heck of a hire.

436
00:27:58,840 --> 00:28:04,140
 You know, a guy that's won not just the state championship, but one of the state championship at the highest level in the state.

437
00:28:04,740 --> 00:28:06,220
 So, but, you know, you just look at it.

438
00:28:06,240 --> 00:28:07,860
 That just is what Austin's doing right now.

439
00:28:07,960 --> 00:28:09,720
 They're really investing in their sports.

440
00:28:09,720 --> 00:28:14,460
 I mean, obviously, their football and boys basketball with Coach Perkins and Coach Phillips has been great.

441
00:28:14,560 --> 00:28:17,880
 But you look at it, you know, they hired Coach Marsh, a state championship coach at volleyball.

442
00:28:18,700 --> 00:28:22,680
 You know, she takes them to win almost 50 games in the final four of this year.

443
00:28:22,840 --> 00:28:29,580
 And then, you know, Coach Potter, who was the coach of the year for us at Priceville, has Austin baseball, you know, having their best year in a while.

444
00:28:29,660 --> 00:28:31,960
 And now you get a state championship coach for girls basketball.

445
00:28:32,240 --> 00:28:33,800
 I mean, they're investing in sports.

446
00:28:33,820 --> 00:28:39,700
 And I love to see that because I think when you invest in your athletics, it leads to good things for your entire school.

447
00:28:39,720 --> 00:28:41,060
 So, that's really cool.

448
00:28:41,240 --> 00:28:46,340
 And I think he's going to have great success and he's going to bring Austin back to what I believe, you know, they should be.

449
00:28:46,540 --> 00:28:49,380
 You know, I always thought Austin girls basketball was a great program.

450
00:28:49,600 --> 00:28:53,700
 And, you know, they've kind of had, ever since Bruce Hamilton left, have been in a little bit of a slide.

451
00:28:53,820 --> 00:28:55,680
 But I think he'll definitely get them back.

452
00:28:55,960 --> 00:28:57,040
 And it's going to be exciting.

453
00:28:57,160 --> 00:29:00,020
 I'm looking forward to him and Coach Wright at Decatur.

454
00:29:00,140 --> 00:29:02,500
 I think that's going to be some great games going forward.

455
00:29:03,440 --> 00:29:06,040
 I was going to mention Coach Wright.

456
00:29:06,200 --> 00:29:14,520
 Taylor Wright, the coach of the Decatur girls, 2026 5A, 7A girls coach of the year.

457
00:29:14,520 --> 00:29:30,200
 And we talked about the Decatur girls throughout the basketball season, finished 28-6, its most wins in 26 years, advanced to the regional tournament for the first time since 2005.

458
00:29:31,180 --> 00:29:33,920
 They were a perfect 14-0 at home.

459
00:29:34,800 --> 00:29:41,800
 And it was the renaissance of a program that, back in the 1990s, had a tremendous team.

460
00:29:42,260 --> 00:29:45,460
 Congratulations to Tyler Wright, coach of the Decatur girls.

461
00:29:46,460 --> 00:29:55,720
 Yeah, I mean, I think, you know, I tell people, it's hard to describe for a program that won five state titles in the 90s just how bad it had fallen off.

462
00:29:56,420 --> 00:29:58,560
 And, you know, just kind of calling it spade to spade.

463
00:29:58,660 --> 00:29:59,700
 I mean, it is what it is.

464
00:29:59,700 --> 00:30:05,400
 They went through some really dark years, and, you know, it's not like he just came in and overturned it overnight.

465
00:30:05,620 --> 00:30:09,720
 I think they have been building back up to it for a little while.

466
00:30:10,380 --> 00:30:13,980
 But, you know, this year, I mean, he really brought, like, a culture just immediately.

467
00:30:14,180 --> 00:30:18,820
 It just kind of shifted things, and the players bought in, and it was an amazing season.

468
00:30:19,020 --> 00:30:21,280
 And it wasn't like they just, you know, were beating bad teams.

469
00:30:21,420 --> 00:30:23,420
 I mean, like I said, they went toe-to-toe with Hazel Green.

470
00:30:23,880 --> 00:30:25,760
 Had it cut down to one point in the fourth quarter.

471
00:30:25,760 --> 00:30:29,680
 I mean, you're talking about, nobody came within 20 points of Hazel Green in the postseason.

472
00:30:29,700 --> 00:30:30,560
 Except for Decatur.

473
00:30:30,720 --> 00:30:32,140
 So, I mean, they were right there.

474
00:30:32,800 --> 00:30:37,420
 And, you know, then the crazy thing was the defense players in that game were freshmen and eighth graders.

475
00:30:37,560 --> 00:30:38,800
 So, they have a bright future.

476
00:30:38,960 --> 00:30:41,940
 Coach Wright, he's a heck of a coach and a great guy as well.

477
00:30:42,060 --> 00:30:43,680
 I enjoy talking to him all the time.

478
00:30:44,120 --> 00:30:45,160
 They've got a bright future.

479
00:30:45,280 --> 00:30:47,060
 But, yeah, what he did this year was amazing.

480
00:30:47,220 --> 00:30:48,440
 Just an amazing story.

481
00:30:48,700 --> 00:30:50,860
 And I'm glad I was able to be a part of it.

482
00:30:51,000 --> 00:30:53,600
 And I'm looking forward to seeing what they're able to do going forward.

483
00:30:54,260 --> 00:30:58,320
 Well, congratulations to all of the players and coaches of the year.

484
00:30:58,400 --> 00:31:02,220
 And you can read about him in more detail on the Decatur Daily website.

485
00:31:02,360 --> 00:31:07,880
 We'll be talking with you about baseball and softball in the next coming weeks, getting down to crunch time.

486
00:31:08,540 --> 00:31:13,020
 Lindsey Lane is the number three team in Class 2A.

487
00:31:13,480 --> 00:31:14,520
 That's Robbie Parker.

488
00:31:14,740 --> 00:31:20,420
 Robbie Parker was the former head baseball coach, Bob Jones, with the Whitesburg Academy.

489
00:31:20,600 --> 00:31:25,260
 Now, Lindsey Lane, they're now number three in Class 2A.

490
00:31:25,360 --> 00:31:26,440
 You will watch for them.

491
00:31:26,560 --> 00:31:28,480
 Athens Bible having a good year, too.

492
00:31:29,120 --> 00:31:32,200
 We'll be talking about these teams and more soon.

493
00:31:32,880 --> 00:31:38,160
 But where can we get the big announcement tomorrow for the last one and then get all the good stuff online?

494
00:31:38,560 --> 00:31:40,940
 Yeah, you can get online at Decatur Daily.com.

495
00:31:41,440 --> 00:31:44,340
 Like you said, we'll have our final player of the year stuff going out tomorrow.

496
00:31:44,560 --> 00:31:47,760
 And then, of course, plenty of baseball, softball, and other stuff.

497
00:31:48,740 --> 00:31:51,000
 We're getting actually pretty close to the baseball postseason.

498
00:31:51,260 --> 00:31:52,180
 It's crazy as it sounds.

499
00:31:52,540 --> 00:31:54,920
 But, yeah, you can go online and find all that stuff there.

500
00:31:57,840 --> 00:31:58,760
 Absolutely great.

501
00:31:59,060 --> 00:32:01,200
 Listen, have a great couple of weeks.

502
00:32:01,320 --> 00:32:03,180
 We will catch up with you in a few weeks.

503
00:32:03,340 --> 00:32:04,500
 Have a great weekend, Caleb.

504
00:32:05,200 --> 00:32:05,860
 Sounds good, guys.

505
00:32:05,900 --> 00:32:06,420
 Thanks for having me.

506
00:32:07,180 --> 00:32:08,520
 Caleb Suggs taking a night with us.

507
00:32:08,600 --> 00:32:10,340
 Busy there at the Decatur Daily.

508
00:32:10,460 --> 00:32:15,140
 I wonder if he went to sleep last night, if he was still counting runs for the Braves.

509
00:32:15,140 --> 00:32:18,040
 Mr. Braves himself, Bill Shanks on deck.

510
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 Progressive presents the Sports Flash on 93-9, the score.

571
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 Auburn Mets basketball team was a winner in the NIT semifinals last night as they beat Illinois State, 88-66.

572
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 Auburn will play in Sunday's championship game in Indianapolis at Cambridge Fieldhouse.

573
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574
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575
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576
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577
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 Rinaldo Lopez earned the victory for Atlanta.

578
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579
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580
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581
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609
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610
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 The Score.

611
00:38:03,140 --> 00:38:03,880
 Welcome back in.

612
00:38:03,940 --> 00:38:07,940
 I got a feeling he said, now that's the way you do it.

613
00:38:08,020 --> 00:38:12,700
 Bill Shanks is host of The Bill Shanks Show on 93.1 FM in Macon, Georgia.

614
00:38:12,840 --> 00:38:17,540
 Online at thesesuperstations.com and on the tube at 41NBC.

615
00:38:17,720 --> 00:38:19,180
 Bill Shanks, welcome in.

616
00:38:19,800 --> 00:38:21,300
 Are you a happy, brave today?

617
00:38:21,380 --> 00:38:21,900
 How are you?

618
00:38:22,720 --> 00:38:26,880
 Well, I like 5-2 a lot better than Owen Salman, that's for sure.

619
00:38:26,880 --> 00:38:27,360
 You got it.

620
00:38:28,640 --> 00:38:31,840
 You know, Bill, if they'd hit a field goal last night, they'd scored 20, right?

621
00:38:32,280 --> 00:38:38,020
 Your thoughts about the game, the team, and as you alluded to, what a difference the year makes.

622
00:38:38,100 --> 00:38:38,960
 Last year, a nightmare.

623
00:38:39,200 --> 00:38:40,820
 And so far, they're living the dream.

624
00:38:41,260 --> 00:38:44,680
 By comparison, anyway, your thoughts about the game and the start.

625
00:38:45,800 --> 00:38:47,200
 Well, it's a really good start.

626
00:38:47,360 --> 00:38:49,120
 I mean, I think we have to feel good about it.

627
00:38:49,780 --> 00:38:51,720
 I think Kansas City's a good team.

628
00:38:51,720 --> 00:38:56,520
 I think Oakland's, or excuse me, the Athletics are going to be better than what they are.

629
00:38:57,380 --> 00:39:01,440
 And, you know, I think Arizona's going to be a decent team.

630
00:39:01,660 --> 00:39:06,860
 I mean, so, they scored the Tigers, who were the best team, I think, in the American League Central Division.

631
00:39:07,080 --> 00:39:09,520
 So, I think it's very good.

632
00:39:09,840 --> 00:39:13,620
 And thank God they didn't start off with great teams like San Diego and L.A.

633
00:39:13,620 --> 00:39:15,440
 because they did a break after last year.

634
00:39:15,680 --> 00:39:42,140
 The other thing I like, Bill, I don't care what sport it is, it's hard to win a championship when you have a star and basically not much else.

635
00:39:42,420 --> 00:39:50,200
 The point I'm trying to make here, correct me if I'm wrong, but the Braves now are the first Major League Baseball team to have 11 different,

636
00:39:50,300 --> 00:39:58,700
 and that's the key word, players with a hit and an RBI in a game since the Expos back in 1979, a long time ago.

637
00:39:59,200 --> 00:40:02,840
 The point being, it's not just one guy that's carrying the load right now.

638
00:40:02,900 --> 00:40:07,200
 When you get this kind of across-the-board contribution, you've got to be optimistic.

639
00:40:08,160 --> 00:40:08,960
 I think so.

640
00:40:09,100 --> 00:40:11,560
 And I think that's what we wanted to see coming out of spring training, right?

641
00:40:11,560 --> 00:40:12,900
 They had a really good spring training.

642
00:40:13,260 --> 00:40:15,160
 They did very, very well.

643
00:40:15,160 --> 00:40:17,920
 And I think that's exactly what we wanted to see.

644
00:40:18,200 --> 00:40:23,800
 And so, to have that, again, you just can't really write a better beginning of the season.

645
00:40:24,020 --> 00:40:34,440
 I was just looking up, the team ERA is 2.00, and the, especially the National League, only the Yankees, at 1.01, have a better team ERA.

646
00:40:35,560 --> 00:40:39,140
 The Marlins, of course, have been a very surprising team, no doubt about that.

647
00:40:39,260 --> 00:40:42,600
 But Braves lead the Major League in home runs.

648
00:40:43,020 --> 00:40:45,700
 They have the third-best batting average.

649
00:40:45,900 --> 00:40:49,000
 They have scored the third-most runs.

650
00:40:49,560 --> 00:41:00,160
 So, I mean, it's just all, again, I think because of a lot of things, but mostly year one of Walt White, this was needed.

651
00:41:00,600 --> 00:41:08,400
 You needed to have just a good start to the season to not flip a script, you know, and that's what they've been able to do.

652
00:41:10,160 --> 00:41:13,040
 Well, Drake Baldwin is a future superstar.

653
00:41:13,360 --> 00:41:15,440
 That's not a surprise to a lot of people.

654
00:41:15,960 --> 00:41:24,820
 What has been a pleasant surprise to me is Lopez, with two good starts, gave up one run over five innings, and I still ask the same question.

655
00:41:24,960 --> 00:41:26,960
 Can he do it over the course of the season?

656
00:41:27,860 --> 00:41:31,020
 Dominique Smith has been an amazing story.

657
00:41:31,020 --> 00:41:43,820
 With left spring training for a week, his mother passed away, comes back, hits a grand slam against the Royals, and then had another homer last night.

658
00:41:43,940 --> 00:41:45,940
 DuBois is playing well.

659
00:41:46,600 --> 00:41:56,880
 Again, I keep pinching myself, thinking about this, and then Chris Sale pitched Wednesday in the day game, and as Walt White said, was sick as a dog.

660
00:41:58,120 --> 00:42:07,820
 12 innings, 9Ks, .75 ERA, and your favorite pitcher, Bryce Elder, has not given up anything.

661
00:42:08,340 --> 00:42:11,860
 Again, like you said, it's going well so far.

662
00:42:12,820 --> 00:42:13,640
 Yes, it is.

663
00:42:14,080 --> 00:42:16,520
 Bryce did well, which is great.

664
00:42:16,680 --> 00:42:17,540
 I want to see that.

665
00:42:17,780 --> 00:42:24,080
 I think, you know, to have the – I mean, it's not much to complain about.

666
00:42:24,260 --> 00:42:26,280
 It's just not a whole lot to complain about right now.

667
00:42:26,280 --> 00:42:30,620
 You have the rotation with an ERA of 2.39.

668
00:42:30,880 --> 00:42:37,720
 The overall ERA is 2, which means the bullpen ERA is even better, right?

669
00:42:38,760 --> 00:42:42,860
 I'm looking that up now, curious about that, since the starter's ERA was so good.

670
00:42:43,000 --> 00:42:44,720
 Yeah, the bullpen ERA is 1.42.

671
00:42:45,020 --> 00:42:46,300
 Well, that's awesome.

672
00:42:46,700 --> 00:42:50,280
 I mean, you know, they've walked three people in 25 innings.

673
00:42:50,980 --> 00:42:54,040
 You're going to win a lot of games if you do put up numbers like that.

674
00:42:54,300 --> 00:43:06,200
 And, you know, I think they've just got to continue – you know, every team – I tell you, I've come almost philosophical on this because of what's happened at Atlanta Hawks, which I know you all have been talking about in detail.

675
00:43:06,320 --> 00:43:06,500
 Right.

676
00:43:06,680 --> 00:43:07,160
 Absolutely.

677
00:43:07,620 --> 00:43:07,760
 Right.

678
00:43:07,980 --> 00:43:15,940
 The metamorphosis of a team during a season to me is always interesting, and that's why the Hawks are such a great story.

679
00:43:16,120 --> 00:43:17,040
 Truthfully, they are.

680
00:43:17,520 --> 00:43:20,480
 And the Braves, you never know what their story's going to be.

681
00:43:20,700 --> 00:43:26,280
 I mean, we didn't know in 2021 that Ronald Acuna would get hurt and he'd turn around and win the World Series anyway.

682
00:43:26,580 --> 00:43:32,040
 You know, there's just so many things that you can do over the course of six months or 162 games.

683
00:43:32,440 --> 00:43:39,840
 But to start your story off in a good note – and, again, compared to last year when we learned that to start your story off with a bad note, you're in trouble.

684
00:43:40,300 --> 00:43:44,940
 It's just a very, very important thing for this team this year after what happened last year.

685
00:43:45,500 --> 00:43:49,420
 You bring – that's going to bring up that point just to add to that.

686
00:43:49,560 --> 00:43:52,820
 I mean, sometimes it's one of those deals in life.

687
00:43:52,960 --> 00:43:54,480
 It's not always a perfect script.

688
00:43:54,480 --> 00:43:58,620
 And the fact that they went through the offseason, everybody says we've had key injuries.

689
00:43:58,820 --> 00:44:03,860
 And then even before things began, you get the profile news, you get the injuries, the key injuries of the pitching staff.

690
00:44:04,380 --> 00:44:05,160
 It's a choice.

691
00:44:05,240 --> 00:44:06,960
 You come to that fork in road and you've got to take it.

692
00:44:07,000 --> 00:44:11,220
 It either says you're getting a fetal position or you can break out the us-against-them card.

693
00:44:11,780 --> 00:44:13,460
 You went to camp with these guys.

694
00:44:14,000 --> 00:44:17,580
 From afar, it seems like they're applying to the latter part there, Bill.

695
00:44:17,640 --> 00:44:18,840
 It's us against them.

696
00:44:18,840 --> 00:44:22,940
 Sometimes adversity can be a good thing if you make it work for you.

697
00:44:23,880 --> 00:44:28,000
 Well, I mean, they had some things happen to them in spring training early on that were not good.

698
00:44:28,500 --> 00:44:31,900
 So they were like kind of, here we go again.

699
00:44:32,420 --> 00:44:41,640
 And for them – I mean, look, I'm probably the only one in the country who gave a d*** about the fact that the Atlanta Braves had a really good record in spring training.

700
00:44:42,300 --> 00:44:45,540
 And, you know, I still stand by that, that it mattered.

701
00:44:45,680 --> 00:44:49,920
 It mattered because of what they did last year.

702
00:44:49,920 --> 00:45:04,260
 And, again, I know I'm old and take a weird view because of what happened, but 44 years ago, Joe Torrey took over the Braves and wanted a winning spring training.

703
00:45:04,400 --> 00:45:06,160
 He said, we need to win in spring training.

704
00:45:06,240 --> 00:45:07,560
 We don't need to lose in spring training.

705
00:45:07,660 --> 00:45:08,500
 We're starting over.

706
00:45:08,600 --> 00:45:10,180
 We've got to have a different culture.

707
00:45:10,620 --> 00:45:13,000
 And it wasn't that drastic this year, don't get me wrong.

708
00:45:13,100 --> 00:45:22,680
 But still, because of what happened last year, because of the managerial change, it was similar in a certain aspect that, okay, if you did well in spring training, carry that over.

709
00:45:22,680 --> 00:45:31,100
 Well, not that I expected the Braves to win 13 straight like they did 44 years ago in 1982, but I did want them to just simply start strong, and that's what they've done.

710
00:45:31,420 --> 00:45:34,220
 So, you know, once again, I'm right, and everybody's wrong.

711
00:45:34,320 --> 00:45:35,320
 It's just a matter of fact.

712
00:45:37,100 --> 00:45:37,700
 That's it.

713
00:45:37,840 --> 00:45:41,900
 Well, and something else you write about is with the future of college football.

714
00:45:42,040 --> 00:45:44,920
 We talked about this on the year award-winning show yesterday.

715
00:45:45,360 --> 00:46:03,080
 Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne comes out and says the ship has sailed in reference to the SEC championship game or conference championship games, which Georgia and Alabama have been very successful with, along with Florida.

716
00:46:03,500 --> 00:46:13,900
 I think a lot of people saw this when they expand eventually to 16 or, heaven forbid, 24, and you said yesterday you've got all the answers to this that they'd ever listen to.

717
00:46:13,900 --> 00:46:16,720
 So, you put it on the napkin in the Mexican restaurant.

718
00:46:18,000 --> 00:46:19,320
 Talk about this.

719
00:46:19,480 --> 00:46:31,200
 I've always been in favor of a definitive way to reach a champion, and you do that on the field, and now it would be standings and head-to-head.

720
00:46:31,520 --> 00:46:37,640
 But your thoughts on what Greg Byrne said yesterday and what seems to be the direction we're going in.

721
00:46:37,980 --> 00:46:41,040
 Well, I understand why he said it, but I just don't like it.

722
00:46:41,440 --> 00:46:47,280
 I don't like the potential elimination of a conference championship game because I don't think it's necessary.

723
00:46:47,900 --> 00:47:01,960
 I think if they incentivize the championship game to get there and to win it by tying it into the national playoff, then you're going to have teams want to get to it and want to play in it.

724
00:47:01,960 --> 00:47:16,140
 I had someone call in later on in my show and said, you know, I think they ought to somehow tie in the regular season champion and the conference championship game winner.

725
00:47:16,620 --> 00:47:22,240
 But I said, well, you know, what's the likelihood that the regular season champion would not be in the conference championship game?

726
00:47:22,320 --> 00:47:25,880
 I mean, that's kind of the point of having the standings there.

727
00:47:26,320 --> 00:47:30,400
 However, I think still, you know, we're getting the conversation going.

728
00:47:30,540 --> 00:47:32,080
 I mean, I'm serious.

729
00:47:32,280 --> 00:47:37,000
 Four months ago when I was saying all this and screaming out loud, I'm like, somebody say something.

730
00:47:37,640 --> 00:47:38,880
 Somebody say something.

731
00:47:39,120 --> 00:47:42,340
 Somebody make a comment and come up with a plan.

732
00:47:42,520 --> 00:47:48,300
 And, you know, and I hate to say this, but if you're so d*** smart about college football, you come up with something.

733
00:47:48,440 --> 00:47:49,700
 You're going to complain about it.

734
00:47:49,820 --> 00:47:58,100
 And I'm talking about people who are highly paid, more than the three of us, who, if they're so brilliant at college football, well, what's your plan?

735
00:47:58,380 --> 00:47:59,240
 What's your idea?

736
00:47:59,420 --> 00:48:00,500
 What do you think will happen?

737
00:48:00,620 --> 00:48:02,100
 Because nobody was saying anything.

738
00:48:02,340 --> 00:48:04,860
 And so, and I include athletic directors about that.

739
00:48:04,860 --> 00:48:09,980
 So I applaud the fact that now athletic directors are starting to speak out and say something.

740
00:48:10,240 --> 00:48:15,640
 I mean, but I still think the conference championship should mean something.

741
00:48:16,400 --> 00:48:20,000
 And you can't tell me you can't tie that to part of the playoff.

742
00:48:20,360 --> 00:48:21,060
 Why can't you?

743
00:48:21,500 --> 00:48:22,320
 And you know what?

744
00:48:22,460 --> 00:48:24,900
 They're going to say, well, we can't because we've got ten conferences.

745
00:48:25,280 --> 00:48:30,900
 Well, there's your little opening to tell the other six conferences to go do their own d*** thing, right?

746
00:48:31,220 --> 00:48:33,840
 Because they do not need to be in this playoff.

747
00:48:33,840 --> 00:48:37,780
 So, yeah, I mean, 478-646-ESPN.

748
00:48:37,880 --> 00:48:39,780
 If they want to call me later, they can let me know.

749
00:48:40,780 --> 00:48:44,140
 Well, I think Greg may be on the other line right now.

750
00:48:44,220 --> 00:48:48,260
 But there's another question going to be, Bill, does Georgia still have a football team?

751
00:48:48,360 --> 00:48:50,140
 If so, how are things going this spring?

752
00:48:51,380 --> 00:48:52,380
 Well, they do.

753
00:48:52,720 --> 00:48:55,400
 And they are, things are going very well.

754
00:48:56,240 --> 00:49:01,140
 I personally, here on April 3rd, don't think that Georgia's going to lose a game in the next 18 months.

755
00:49:01,320 --> 00:49:05,640
 I mean, it's very good here in April.

756
00:49:05,640 --> 00:49:07,240
 You know, everything looks good in April.

757
00:49:07,860 --> 00:49:09,160
 No, they're having a good camp.

758
00:49:09,380 --> 00:49:10,480
 They're doing very well.

759
00:49:10,540 --> 00:49:13,140
 They seem to be in good shape.

760
00:49:13,240 --> 00:49:15,400
 They're finding out some things about their depth.

761
00:49:15,680 --> 00:49:22,720
 They're looking at the wide receiver room and trying to figure things out of who's going to kind of step up with the people that have left now,

762
00:49:22,900 --> 00:49:25,520
 like Branch and some others.

763
00:49:25,940 --> 00:49:28,780
 But, yeah, they're having a really good camp.

764
00:49:28,960 --> 00:49:30,160
 Everything seems to be good.

765
00:49:30,160 --> 00:49:32,060
 The depth is very good.

766
00:49:32,740 --> 00:49:40,780
 And, you know, I just think it's, you know, they just need to stay healthy and continue to have a good spring practice.

767
00:49:40,960 --> 00:49:44,840
 But I think the line of scrimmage depth is what they're working on.

768
00:49:44,900 --> 00:49:46,020
 That seems to be going well.

769
00:49:46,080 --> 00:49:47,220
 We're hearing a lot of good names.

770
00:49:47,720 --> 00:49:50,500
 You know, in spring practice, you just want to hear names, right?

771
00:49:50,900 --> 00:49:51,820
 Who's doing well?

772
00:49:51,880 --> 00:49:52,700
 Who's showing up?

773
00:49:53,120 --> 00:49:57,900
 And now, because every d*** freshman's there, all right, well, what freshman's doing well now?

774
00:49:58,040 --> 00:49:59,380
 So, I think we're hearing that.

775
00:49:59,720 --> 00:50:07,160
 And, you know, it's, I mean, it's really, it should scare every team to just contract and go to the ACC, to be honest with you.

776
00:50:07,500 --> 00:50:21,260
 Now, this afternoon, when you're going through the, reviewing the Braves' incredible start to the season and you get into your plan for college football,

777
00:50:21,500 --> 00:50:27,680
 I encourage our local listeners to give you a call, such as Jay and Tim from Athens, to say,

778
00:50:27,780 --> 00:50:33,260
 first of all, Bill Shanks is the smartest man on the planet when he comes to sports.

779
00:50:33,260 --> 00:50:39,720
 And we need to be listening to him with everything that he says, and particularly about college football.

780
00:50:39,940 --> 00:50:44,380
 So, if they would like to call you and talk about the great start the Braves have had,

781
00:50:44,960 --> 00:50:49,920
 your incredible plan to rejuvenate college football and get into the future,

782
00:50:50,420 --> 00:50:56,520
 and how bad Alabama is going to beat Georgia in Tulsa this coming fall, where can they go?

783
00:50:57,540 --> 00:51:04,780
 Well, first of all, bretthasadream.com, and second of all, dsuperstations.com.

784
00:51:04,860 --> 00:51:08,740
 We will be on the air, and we will be leading everybody up to Hawks basketball,

785
00:51:09,080 --> 00:51:13,540
 and my next plan is to get everybody in Alabama on the Hawks bandwagon so y'all better prepare.

786
00:51:14,700 --> 00:51:16,620
 I just clicked on that website you mentioned.

787
00:51:16,700 --> 00:51:17,960
 You should see the pictures on there.

788
00:51:18,240 --> 00:51:20,620
 We can't discuss them here, but Bill, maybe later on.

789
00:51:21,920 --> 00:51:24,420
 Listen, man, as always, out of the park with it.

790
00:51:24,440 --> 00:51:25,100
 Have a good weekend.

791
00:51:25,200 --> 00:51:26,440
 Stay safe out there, Bill, okay?

792
00:51:26,620 --> 00:51:27,420
 Thank you, guys.

793
00:51:27,500 --> 00:51:28,060
 Happy Easter.

794
00:51:28,680 --> 00:51:29,180
 See you, buddy.

795
00:51:29,280 --> 00:51:29,600
 You too.

796
00:51:29,600 --> 00:51:30,020
 Happy Easter to you, Bill.

797
00:51:30,080 --> 00:51:33,940
 Bill Shanks, again, online at thesuperstations.com.

798
00:51:34,220 --> 00:51:35,680
 It's not April Fool's.

799
00:51:35,880 --> 00:51:37,480
 Auburn's in a championship game, BB.

800
00:51:38,540 --> 00:51:43,480
 They beat Illinois State last night, rather handily, 86-66,

801
00:51:43,480 --> 00:51:49,760
 and will advance to the championship game Sunday night against Tulsa, as you mentioned.

802
00:51:50,520 --> 00:51:53,740
 Quite frankly, they just overmatched Illinois State.

803
00:51:53,860 --> 00:51:59,460
 They had the big guy in the middle of four, and he only scored 10 points.

804
00:52:00,900 --> 00:52:02,740
 Now, last night's game was at Hinkle.

805
00:52:03,560 --> 00:52:07,700
 Sunday night's game will be at the home of the NBA's Indiana Pacers.

806
00:52:08,120 --> 00:52:13,740
 That will be on ESPN2 starting, I believe, at 7 o'clock.

807
00:52:13,960 --> 00:52:18,120
 The Tigers with some Tulsa time coming up on Sunday night.

808
00:52:18,220 --> 00:52:22,700
 In the meantime, Drew D'Armond, Doug Sigrist, and Mike Hugin, and all straight ahead,

809
00:52:23,060 --> 00:52:24,020
 here to the Boom O'Buck Show.

810
00:52:24,100 --> 00:52:24,680
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 Auburn Mets basketball team was a winner in the NIT semifinals last night as they beat Illinois State 88-66.

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895
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896
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897
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898
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899
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900
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901
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902
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903
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904
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905
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906
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907
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908
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909
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910
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911
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912
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 Well, I mean, you know, as far as a website that lets you shop, quote, and buy insurance in one place.

913
00:57:42,680 --> 00:57:45,260
 But hey, maybe that is everything you've always wanted.

914
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915
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 Yeah, people have different types of dreams.

916
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917
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918
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919
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920
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921
00:58:02,140 --> 00:58:04,780
 Oh, could this vintage store be any cuter?

922
00:58:04,940 --> 00:58:05,220
 Right?

923
00:58:05,440 --> 00:58:06,260
 And the best part?

924
00:58:06,440 --> 00:58:07,400
 They accept Discover.

925
00:58:07,780 --> 00:58:08,500
 Accept Discover?

926
00:58:08,920 --> 00:58:10,240
 In a little place like this?

927
00:58:10,600 --> 00:58:11,700
 I don't think so, Jennifer.

928
00:58:11,980 --> 00:58:12,800
 Oh, yeah, huh.

929
00:58:13,120 --> 00:58:15,000
 Discover's accepted where I like to shop.

930
00:58:15,160 --> 00:58:15,940
 Come on, baby.

931
00:58:16,040 --> 00:58:17,000
 Get with the times.

932
00:58:17,700 --> 00:58:20,600
 Right, so we shouldn't get the parachute pants?

933
00:58:21,000 --> 00:58:22,200
 These are making a comeback.

934
00:58:23,720 --> 00:58:24,580
 I think.

935
00:58:25,220 --> 00:58:28,780
 Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide.

936
00:58:29,220 --> 00:58:31,660
 Based on the February 2025 Nielsen Report.

937
00:58:33,360 --> 00:58:35,780
 WITK Rogersville Athens to cater the show.

938
00:58:36,040 --> 00:58:38,160
 Sports Radio 93.9 The School.

939
00:58:38,380 --> 00:58:39,980
 Valley Broadcasting Corporation.

940
00:58:41,580 --> 00:58:45,380
 Dribbles right, spins, jabs, steps, steps back, wide open, three.

941
00:58:45,600 --> 00:58:46,220
 That's good.

942
00:58:46,600 --> 00:58:47,420
 Just brilliant.

943
00:58:47,700 --> 00:58:51,720
 With 64 NCAA men's tournament games played, just three remain.

944
00:58:52,060 --> 00:58:56,060
 Coming up Saturday, it's Michigan versus Arizona and Connecticut versus Illinois.

945
00:58:56,480 --> 00:59:00,420
 Then the winners meet to settle the 2026 men's basketball title.

946
00:59:00,420 --> 00:59:05,960
 Tune in this Saturday to hear Westwood One's exclusive coverage of the NCAA men's Final Four.

947
00:59:06,460 --> 00:59:11,060
 Final Four coverage begins this Saturday following Atlanta Braves baseball on 93.9 The Score.

948
00:59:11,520 --> 00:59:16,320
 Brought to you locally by Lost Pizza, Alabama Health Guidance, Carter Oil, CB&S Bank,

949
00:59:16,600 --> 00:59:18,020
 and Champy's Famous Fried Chicken.

950
00:59:18,020 --> 00:59:20,960
 27 tournament trips.

951
00:59:20,960 --> 00:59:23,580
 Five journeys to Omaha.

952
00:59:24,220 --> 00:59:26,400
 72 major leaguers.

953
00:59:26,720 --> 00:59:28,960
 It's good to be a Bama baseball fanatic.

954
00:59:29,800 --> 00:59:32,120
 Swing and a fly ball lifted high in the air.

955
00:59:32,380 --> 00:59:33,360
 Deep left field.

956
00:59:33,680 --> 00:59:38,020
 A go-ahead two-run homer over the high left field wall at Auburn.

957
00:59:38,120 --> 00:59:44,200
 Alabama's favorite pastime plays right here on your home for Alabama baseball.

958
00:59:44,200 --> 00:59:47,520
 The Crimson Tide Sports Network from Learfield.

959
00:59:48,520 --> 00:59:50,800
 93.9 The Score weather.

960
00:59:51,280 --> 00:59:53,340
 Today, mostly sunny with a high around 85.

961
00:59:54,520 --> 00:59:57,820
 Tonight, partly cloudy with possible gusty winds overnight and a low near 65.

962
00:59:58,720 --> 01:00:03,380
 Tomorrow, partly sunny with a 70% chance of afternoon showers and a high around 85.

963
01:00:04,380 --> 01:00:07,380
 Tomorrow night, showers and thunderstorms likely with a low near 50.

964
01:00:08,060 --> 01:00:10,840
 Ampere Sunday, mostly sunny with a high around 70.

965
01:00:11,260 --> 01:00:13,900
 Your weather from 93.9 The Score.

966
01:00:18,520 --> 01:00:26,980
 Now, get ready to roll Shoals, Decatur, Athens, and all of northwest Alabama and southern Tennessee.

967
01:00:27,640 --> 01:00:30,980
 It's time for the Valley's exclusive FM Sports Voice.

968
01:00:33,780 --> 01:00:36,560
 The Boomo Bugg Show.

969
01:00:36,840 --> 01:00:42,080
 Your exclusive inside track to the Tide, Tigers, Tennessee, and the rest of the SEC.

970
01:00:42,860 --> 01:00:48,300
 Now, your host, Harold Bugg on 93.9 The Score.

971
01:00:49,220 --> 01:00:51,200
 Welcome back in our Tide of the Boomo Bugg Show.

972
01:00:51,320 --> 01:00:52,980
 I'm Harold Bugg alongside Brett Beaird.

973
01:00:53,100 --> 01:00:56,120
 Thank you so much for giving us a free ride around the Tennessee Valley.

974
01:00:56,260 --> 01:01:03,480
 With that, we say hello to Mr. Mike Kuganon College, football, basketball, national analyst down in a place called Orlando, Florida.

975
01:01:03,740 --> 01:01:04,940
 Mike, welcome in.

976
01:01:05,020 --> 01:01:05,860
 How are you?

977
01:01:06,640 --> 01:01:07,660
 Doing quite well.

978
01:01:08,300 --> 01:01:08,540
 I'm good.

979
01:01:09,200 --> 01:01:13,520
 Mike, obviously, before we get to the obvious topic, the final four, it's very interesting.

980
01:01:13,600 --> 01:01:17,120
 The question, where were you in 1976?

981
01:01:18,180 --> 01:01:23,160
 The reason we bring that up, 50 years ago, Indiana made history.

982
01:01:23,260 --> 01:01:25,700
 What a year it's been for Indiana football this year.

983
01:01:25,760 --> 01:01:33,060
 And 50 years ago, Indiana basketball, the last team to go unbeaten from wire to wire.

984
01:01:33,440 --> 01:01:38,420
 A special recognition coming up before Monday night's championship game.

985
01:01:38,960 --> 01:01:42,360
 Your thoughts just about how incredible that was.

986
01:01:42,420 --> 01:01:48,260
 There's been some close calls since then, but it just illustrates how tough it is to go unbeaten from wire to wire.

987
01:01:49,060 --> 01:01:54,220
 Yeah, that was back in the era when I would argue that not nearly as many teams cared about basketball.

988
01:01:54,460 --> 01:01:56,840
 It's still an unbeaten squad.

989
01:01:56,980 --> 01:02:02,160
 They beat Michigan in the final, and that was the first all-one conference final.

990
01:02:02,380 --> 01:02:09,160
 I think it was only the third year of more than one team from a league being allowed to go.

991
01:02:10,600 --> 01:02:13,760
 But, yeah, going undefeated is exceedingly difficult.

992
01:02:14,360 --> 01:02:17,940
 Losing one or two games, just one or two games is exceedingly difficult.

993
01:02:18,840 --> 01:02:23,380
 Gonzaga almost did it a couple years ago, lost to Baylor in the final.

994
01:02:23,380 --> 01:02:31,040
 But, yeah, if you're unbeaten, again, I don't care what league you're in, that is exceedingly difficult to do.

995
01:02:31,620 --> 01:02:38,260
 So, that is a pretty incredible memory 50 years ago.

996
01:02:38,500 --> 01:02:39,020
 That's what I'm saying.

997
01:02:39,260 --> 01:02:40,280
 I mean, just for a –

998
01:02:40,280 --> 01:02:41,760
 That's sobering, unfortunately.

999
01:02:42,360 --> 01:02:43,980
 Yeah, I apologize.

1000
01:02:44,220 --> 01:02:47,980
 Just for a fun topic, where would Bobby Knight be with today's athlete?

1001
01:02:48,840 --> 01:03:00,820
 Today's college basketball, the idea about players are getting paid.

1002
01:03:01,600 --> 01:03:04,060
 If they don't like you, they'll leave.

1003
01:03:05,240 --> 01:03:10,940
 I think he is the ultimate old-school coach, and I don't think –

1004
01:03:10,940 --> 01:03:15,900
 if he were around today, very few players would like to play for him.

1005
01:03:16,820 --> 01:03:20,620
 It's not to say he wasn't a really – he was a high-level X's and O's guy.

1006
01:03:21,380 --> 01:03:24,560
 But, yeah, the way he treated players –

1007
01:03:24,560 --> 01:03:28,740
 and I know there's a lot of players who still to this day say,

1008
01:03:28,820 --> 01:03:31,500
 oh, best thing that ever happened to me, all that kind of stuff, that's fine.

1009
01:03:31,900 --> 01:03:35,180
 I just don't think in this era he would be successful at all.

1010
01:03:36,440 --> 01:03:37,560
 Let me ask you.

1011
01:03:37,560 --> 01:03:46,340
 You announced about an hour ago that Tommy Lloyd at Arizona has agreed to a contract extension.

1012
01:03:47,120 --> 01:03:56,300
 One of the more interesting stipulations in the contract that I noticed was he doesn't have to report to the athletic director anymore.

1013
01:03:57,760 --> 01:04:04,720
 Now that he is off the table for North Carolina, who do you think are the two candidates?

1014
01:04:04,880 --> 01:04:13,820
 Dusty Mate, Michigan, Billy Donovan, who appears to be getting a little – not bored, but maybe a little tired with the NBA.

1015
01:04:14,480 --> 01:04:17,160
 Where does North Carolina go after the Final Four?

1016
01:04:19,700 --> 01:04:21,980
 And Tommy Lloyd were their top two choices.

1017
01:04:23,480 --> 01:04:31,220
 It's exceedingly rare – I mean, here we are a day before the national semifinals that Arizona's playing in,

1018
01:04:31,580 --> 01:04:35,300
 and Arizona felt the need to say, oh, we re-signed him to a –

1019
01:04:35,300 --> 01:04:35,700
 That's right.

1020
01:04:36,140 --> 01:04:43,060
 Which means that during the NCAA tournament, there was talk about him re-upping.

1021
01:04:43,460 --> 01:04:46,300
 Generally, that kind of stuff is done after the tournament's over.

1022
01:04:46,460 --> 01:04:51,640
 Obviously, Arizona felt that they were in a little bit of danger of losing him.

1023
01:04:52,560 --> 01:04:56,740
 You know, Donovan, he left college basketball.

1024
01:04:56,900 --> 01:05:02,560
 He wasn't a fan of recruiting, and obviously college basketball is much more like the NBA now.

1025
01:05:04,120 --> 01:05:08,420
 But, I mean, at the same time, I mean, he hasn't coached in college basketball for a decade.

1026
01:05:09,020 --> 01:05:09,180
 Yeah.

1027
01:05:09,640 --> 01:05:11,020
 That would be interesting to see.

1028
01:05:11,140 --> 01:05:14,620
 I'm not sure why Dusty May would leave Michigan.

1029
01:05:14,760 --> 01:05:20,080
 Obviously, he has everything he needs at Michigan to win a national title.

1030
01:05:20,160 --> 01:05:21,720
 Though, I will say, I've been to Ann Arbor.

1031
01:05:21,840 --> 01:05:22,780
 I've been to Chapel Hill.

1032
01:05:23,160 --> 01:05:25,360
 I'd much rather live in Chapel Hill than Ann Arbor.

1033
01:05:25,900 --> 01:05:30,820
 So, you know, I don't know if coaches – you know, I think, you know, quote-unquote,

1034
01:05:30,940 --> 01:05:33,100
 normal people care about that kind of stuff.

1035
01:05:34,180 --> 01:05:37,160
 Maybe, you know, maybe coaches don't because they make so much money

1036
01:05:37,160 --> 01:05:40,620
 and don't have to associate with us riff-raff.

1037
01:05:40,620 --> 01:05:46,320
 But the triangle area in – the research triangle area in North Carolina

1038
01:05:46,320 --> 01:05:50,860
 is a heck of a lot nicer than that area in Michigan.

1039
01:05:51,820 --> 01:05:57,020
 Now that bit, he's facing some political storms over the past few days at his NBA level.

1040
01:05:57,120 --> 01:05:58,320
 That's a story for another day.

1041
01:05:58,400 --> 01:06:00,440
 But let's talk about the final four, Mike.

1042
01:06:00,780 --> 01:06:02,980
 Let's talk about the other game.

1043
01:06:03,740 --> 01:06:04,920
 Number two, UConn.

1044
01:06:04,980 --> 01:06:05,920
 Number three, Illinois.

1045
01:06:08,960 --> 01:06:13,960
 Again, obviously, UConn – they shouldn't be there because Duke choked.

1046
01:06:15,060 --> 01:06:18,740
 I think the difference was Duke was counting on a lot of young guys when they play.

1047
01:06:18,860 --> 01:06:20,040
 The young guys make mistakes.

1048
01:06:21,160 --> 01:06:22,800
 UConn is a veteran team.

1049
01:06:23,400 --> 01:06:24,220
 Hung in there.

1050
01:06:24,280 --> 01:06:28,720
 They looked dead in the water twice and still one.

1051
01:06:29,220 --> 01:06:33,220
 Terrace Reed is a really talented big man.

1052
01:06:34,420 --> 01:06:39,600
 Illinois has enormous height, solid depth.

1053
01:06:40,340 --> 01:06:45,560
 Wagler has played way beyond his years and way beyond his recruiting ranking.

1054
01:06:47,160 --> 01:06:48,940
 Brad Underwood's a great story.

1055
01:06:48,940 --> 01:06:56,440
 I mean, here's a guy – 20 years ago, Brad Underwood was a 42-year-old man, head coach at Daytona Beach Community College.

1056
01:06:57,000 --> 01:07:09,260
 And my presumption is that he was thinking, I'm 42, I'm a junior college coach, what potentially can I do?

1057
01:07:09,920 --> 01:07:11,940
 And here he is in the final four.

1058
01:07:12,080 --> 01:07:14,320
 So, he's a basketball lifer.

1059
01:07:14,840 --> 01:07:16,400
 You've got to like guys like that.

1060
01:07:17,020 --> 01:07:19,160
 This is a team that shoots the ball well.

1061
01:07:19,920 --> 01:07:21,440
 They've got a lot of big guys.

1062
01:07:21,960 --> 01:07:27,780
 And one thing that Illinois can do, they can handle a lot of guys getting in foul trouble.

1063
01:07:28,600 --> 01:07:32,340
 So, my assumption is they're going to be extremely physical with Terrace Reed.

1064
01:07:33,060 --> 01:07:35,480
 Let's see if Terrace Reed can avoid fouls.

1065
01:07:36,140 --> 01:07:38,340
 I think Illinois is going to win.

1066
01:07:39,900 --> 01:07:41,440
 What's your thoughts on Hurley?

1067
01:07:41,580 --> 01:07:42,660
 We know he can win.

1068
01:07:42,840 --> 01:07:44,300
 He loves the camera.

1069
01:07:44,480 --> 01:07:46,640
 If not, he does a good job fooling a lot of folks.

1070
01:07:46,700 --> 01:07:48,260
 Your thoughts about Hurley with Connecticut?

1071
01:07:50,560 --> 01:07:51,580
 A good coach.

1072
01:07:52,800 --> 01:07:54,940
 His antics can be bothersome.

1073
01:07:55,460 --> 01:08:01,940
 I also think, though, that there are a lot of coaches who prefer – you know, I think the idea is,

1074
01:08:02,000 --> 01:08:04,040
 well, look, that guy's a camera hog.

1075
01:08:04,220 --> 01:08:05,600
 Talk about Danny Hurley.

1076
01:08:05,600 --> 01:08:08,900
 And meanwhile, no one's discussing anything about UConn players.

1077
01:08:09,320 --> 01:08:12,120
 And I think that does take some of the pressure off the players.

1078
01:08:13,580 --> 01:08:15,320
 UConn's got a nice basketball budget.

1079
01:08:15,560 --> 01:08:17,360
 They're spending money on basketball.

1080
01:08:18,880 --> 01:08:26,140
 You know, and as good a coach as Hurley is, he is not nearly as accomplished as the women's coach on his campus.

1081
01:08:26,580 --> 01:08:37,720
 But one thing that's interesting to me, Hurley defers to Ariema, certainly something that Jim Calhoun never, ever, ever did.

1082
01:08:38,140 --> 01:08:40,760
 Heck, I'm not even sure Calhoun would have even thought of that.

1083
01:08:41,920 --> 01:08:44,220
 He and Ariema did not have a good relationship.

1084
01:08:44,820 --> 01:08:46,380
 Hurley makes no bones about it.

1085
01:08:46,440 --> 01:08:48,160
 Jim Calhoun built this program.

1086
01:08:48,760 --> 01:08:51,800
 Gino Ariema has made UConn into a national name.

1087
01:08:52,240 --> 01:08:54,200
 I'm just sort of the keeper of the flame.

1088
01:08:55,020 --> 01:08:57,980
 But, yeah, his antics on the sideline can be bothersome.

1089
01:08:58,160 --> 01:09:01,800
 But his teams are extremely well coached.

1090
01:09:02,100 --> 01:09:03,880
 He defers a lot to his assistants.

1091
01:09:05,860 --> 01:09:11,180
 You know, Luke Murray is going to become coach at Boston College.

1092
01:09:11,280 --> 01:09:17,160
 And I think that's specifically because Hurley gives him a lot of leeway.

1093
01:09:17,700 --> 01:09:19,980
 So, I think Hurley is a really good coach.

1094
01:09:20,100 --> 01:09:25,200
 But, yeah, I think there's a lot of folks out there who are tired of his antics.

1095
01:09:26,600 --> 01:09:32,740
 Mike, everybody is looking forward to, as Harold alluded to, of course, the second game against the two,

1096
01:09:33,480 --> 01:09:35,480
 Bethamoss and Basketball.

1097
01:09:35,480 --> 01:09:42,480
 Michigan has just been a buzzsaw running through Alabama, even though the tide led that game at halftime.

1098
01:09:43,600 --> 01:09:45,480
 And then Michigan hit seven out of seven shots.

1099
01:09:46,260 --> 01:09:48,800
 Then they just run Tennessee out of the gym.

1100
01:09:49,840 --> 01:09:53,140
 I saw a stat that amazed me, Mike.

1101
01:09:53,980 --> 01:09:57,780
 And Linda Boer may be the MVP of the tournament right now.

1102
01:09:57,880 --> 01:09:59,580
 We'll see about the next two games.

1103
01:10:00,300 --> 01:10:07,320
 But Michigan has outscored their opponents by 109 points.

1104
01:10:07,900 --> 01:10:11,140
 Now, you say, well, you know, for a very good team, that's pretty common.

1105
01:10:11,840 --> 01:10:15,280
 Arizona's outscored their opponents by 292 points.

1106
01:10:15,280 --> 01:10:17,280
 That still amazes me.

1107
01:10:17,700 --> 01:10:21,060
 Mike, break down what many people think is the game of the tournament.

1108
01:10:21,680 --> 01:10:25,920
 Yeah, I think the winner of this game is going to win it all.

1109
01:10:27,080 --> 01:10:28,700
 Arizona's got the better record.

1110
01:10:29,200 --> 01:10:31,140
 They're seven points away from being unbeaten.

1111
01:10:31,960 --> 01:10:34,080
 A really interesting mix.

1112
01:10:35,740 --> 01:10:39,520
 Experienced guys and absolutely vital freshmen.

1113
01:10:40,460 --> 01:10:41,980
 Jaden Bradley, senior.

1114
01:10:41,980 --> 01:10:43,700
 Toby O'Walka, senior.

1115
01:10:44,200 --> 01:10:45,740
 The Krivos kid, junior.

1116
01:10:45,980 --> 01:10:47,140
 Delorso, senior.

1117
01:10:47,600 --> 01:10:54,260
 But then you've got Karchnikoff, Burries, and Pete, who are all exceedingly important freshmen.

1118
01:10:55,260 --> 01:10:57,300
 You mentioned Lindeborg.

1119
01:10:57,640 --> 01:11:02,100
 He has had just an incredibly productive tournament.

1120
01:11:02,320 --> 01:11:02,420
 Really?

1121
01:11:02,980 --> 01:11:10,260
 Michigan's got that really impressive three-man power rotation of Lindeborg, Johnson, and Mara.

1122
01:11:11,540 --> 01:11:23,260
 They bring Roddy Gale's a senior, and Amari Burnett's a senior, Kado's a junior, Lindeborg's a senior, an example of an old team put together through the portal.

1123
01:11:24,540 --> 01:11:28,520
 I'm interested in seeing how Arizona handles Lindeborg.

1124
01:11:28,980 --> 01:11:33,260
 I think of Lindeborg as, I think he's a little bit thin-skinned.

1125
01:11:33,920 --> 01:11:39,840
 So, Arizona can, they can handle guys being in foul trouble.

1126
01:11:40,700 --> 01:11:44,680
 So, I'm exceedingly, and O'Walka fouls often.

1127
01:11:45,280 --> 01:11:48,620
 But I can see O'Walka bothering Lindeborg.

1128
01:11:48,960 --> 01:11:54,880
 I can see Pete bothering Lindeborg, and I can see Krivos bothering Lindeborg.

1129
01:11:54,880 --> 01:12:01,840
 So, the Krivos-Day-Mara thing is going to be fascinating.

1130
01:12:02,020 --> 01:12:03,780
 A 7'2 guy and a 7'3 guy.

1131
01:12:04,900 --> 01:12:10,220
 You know, Arizona does not shoot a lot of threes, but they're exceedingly good when they shoot them.

1132
01:12:11,480 --> 01:12:14,720
 So, this is just a phenomenal game.

1133
01:12:14,840 --> 01:12:16,700
 But I think it comes down to me.

1134
01:12:17,400 --> 01:12:22,560
 I trust Jaden Bradley more than I trust Elliott Kado.

1135
01:12:23,060 --> 01:12:26,900
 So, to me, that's going to be the determining factor.

1136
01:12:27,040 --> 01:12:30,220
 And I think Arizona wins because I think Bradley is better than Kado.

1137
01:12:31,200 --> 01:12:32,480
 Mike, you're going to hook it up with us.

1138
01:12:32,540 --> 01:12:36,900
 National College basketball slash football analyst Mike Bilsail says,

1139
01:12:37,000 --> 01:12:37,880
 I'm coming back.

1140
01:12:38,000 --> 01:12:41,560
 Forget all that talk about me hanging it up due to health reasons.

1141
01:12:41,600 --> 01:12:42,760
 What does that do for Kansas?

1142
01:12:43,020 --> 01:12:46,880
 What does it do for a lot of these coaches who wanted to get their resume in there

1143
01:12:46,880 --> 01:12:48,740
 and jump on that gravy train at Kansas?

1144
01:12:49,580 --> 01:12:52,820
 Yeah, you know, I will say this.

1145
01:12:52,820 --> 01:13:00,240
 It's interesting to me, at least, that since the NIL portal era really kicked into high gear,

1146
01:13:01,460 --> 01:13:06,240
 Kansas is, I don't know, an 8, 9, 10, 11-loss team.

1147
01:13:06,920 --> 01:13:07,100
 Yeah.

1148
01:13:07,760 --> 01:13:17,080
 Which, you know, you talk to the cynical among us, and they're like, well, now that there's more of an even playing field and Kansas doesn't buy the better players,

1149
01:13:17,640 --> 01:13:20,440
 they're really not that special anymore.

1150
01:13:21,100 --> 01:13:23,880
 And I'll be honest, I think there is something to that.

1151
01:13:25,180 --> 01:13:32,700
 I think, you know, Bill Self obviously has won national titles, he recruits well, Kansas has money to spend,

1152
01:13:32,980 --> 01:13:37,240
 but they have underachieved relative to their talent level the last couple of years.

1153
01:13:37,360 --> 01:13:39,000
 I think that's a reflection of the coach.

1154
01:13:39,620 --> 01:13:47,020
 And if I'm, you know, maybe if this were five years ago or eight years ago and Bill Self was coming back,

1155
01:13:47,080 --> 01:13:50,780
 I'm a big 12 coach going, oh, man, that irritates me.

1156
01:13:51,780 --> 01:13:54,240
 Now I'm like, eh, who cares?

1157
01:13:55,160 --> 01:13:59,340
 Because I don't think Bill Self and Kansas are a special team anymore.

1158
01:14:00,740 --> 01:14:02,180
 That's a good way to put that.

1159
01:14:02,320 --> 01:14:05,400
 I agree with your assessment of that Michigan-Arizona team.

1160
01:14:05,520 --> 01:14:11,400
 Bradley, who, of course, played at Alabama, the transfer to Arizona, has got the experience.

1161
01:14:11,600 --> 01:14:13,840
 Cadeau, he transferred from North Carolina.

1162
01:14:15,100 --> 01:14:17,740
 Some of that may show up Saturday night.

1163
01:14:17,840 --> 01:14:18,860
 We'll see where it goes.

1164
01:14:18,860 --> 01:14:24,860
 Well, listen, enjoy the final four, it's been a fun tournament, and let's do this again next Friday.

1165
01:14:28,040 --> 01:14:33,660
 Mike Coogan and Huddle with us, National College Football slash Basketball Analyst down in Orlando.

1166
01:14:33,900 --> 01:14:39,000
 Not to go that far to get the vibes of the man from Birmingham, Doug Secret, Don Deck, stay with us.

1167
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 This is an important notice to all U.S. taxpayers.

1168
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1173
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1174
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 Evan Cohen here.

1175
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1176
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1177
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1181
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1182
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1183
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1184
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1185
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 She didn't have life insurance, and that was devastating for my family.

1186
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1187
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1189
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1190
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1191
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1192
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1193
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1194
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1195
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1196
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1197
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1199
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1200
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1201
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1202
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 America, look around.

1203
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 Everywhere you go, prices are still high, rates have been whipsawing markets, and the debt and spending don't exactly scream stability.

1204
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1205
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1209
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1210
01:17:51,660 --> 01:17:53,340
 You should always consult your financial and tax professional.

1211
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 Adam Schefter here.

1212
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 Did you know the average employer sorts through about 250 resumes for one job opening?

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1217
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1218
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1219
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 Progressive knows that boat days can come with unexpected problems.

1220
01:18:28,200 --> 01:18:28,880
 Oh, no.

1221
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1222
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 I can't think of anything worse than the looming threat of potentially having chapped lips.

1223
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 Ah, it was ginger vanilla, too.

1224
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1225
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1226
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1227
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1228
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 Not available in D.C.

1229
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 And power.

1230
01:18:55,380 --> 01:18:56,960
 Tim collects bobbleheads.

1231
01:18:57,300 --> 01:18:58,700
 A lot of bobbleheads.

1232
01:18:59,080 --> 01:19:00,160
 Baseball bobbleheads.

1233
01:19:00,460 --> 01:19:01,780
 Race car bobbleheads.

1234
01:19:02,040 --> 01:19:03,480
 Little chihuahua bobbleheads.

1235
01:19:03,580 --> 01:19:06,520
 He's got an entire room strictly for bobbleheads.

1236
01:19:06,960 --> 01:19:07,700
 Does he need them?

1237
01:19:07,900 --> 01:19:08,180
 No.

1238
01:19:08,420 --> 01:19:09,520
 Is his wife mad about it?

1239
01:19:09,600 --> 01:19:10,300
 A little.

1240
01:19:10,540 --> 01:19:13,140
 But Tim works with Empower, and he got good at money.

1241
01:19:13,400 --> 01:19:14,760
 So he can be a little bad.

1242
01:19:15,060 --> 01:19:16,560
 Ooh, horse bobblehead.

1243
01:19:16,840 --> 01:19:17,740
 Classy, Tim.

1244
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 Empower.

1245
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1246
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1248
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1255
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1256
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1257
01:19:53,420 --> 01:19:54,560
 The Score.

1258
01:19:55,020 --> 01:19:59,800
 Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.

1259
01:20:00,340 --> 01:20:01,180
 Welcome back in.

1260
01:20:01,260 --> 01:20:03,960
 He could be called the saddest man on the planet.

1261
01:20:04,160 --> 01:20:04,480
 Why?

1262
01:20:04,740 --> 01:20:07,520
 Because he has loved himself from college basketball.

1263
01:20:08,560 --> 01:20:11,560
 And as they say on the street corner, the end is near.

1264
01:20:11,660 --> 01:20:13,280
 I think Doug Seegers might agree with that.

1265
01:20:13,320 --> 01:20:13,700
 Maybe not.

1266
01:20:13,780 --> 01:20:14,440
 We'll check in.

1267
01:20:14,560 --> 01:20:18,000
 Former tri-host of The Zone, ABC 3340 down in Birmingham.

1268
01:20:18,520 --> 01:20:22,500
 Named as one of the 50 legends of the Alabama Sports Writers Association.

1269
01:20:22,880 --> 01:20:24,820
 His book is called A Storm Came Up.

1270
01:20:24,900 --> 01:20:25,640
 Doug, welcome in.

1271
01:20:25,700 --> 01:20:26,420
 How are you?

1272
01:20:27,720 --> 01:20:28,960
 I'm great, and you're right.

1273
01:20:28,960 --> 01:20:30,280
 I mean, the end is nigh.

1274
01:20:30,560 --> 01:20:33,020
 But here's the thing about March Madness.

1275
01:20:33,700 --> 01:20:36,600
 It bleeds into Major League Baseball and the Masters.

1276
01:20:37,140 --> 01:20:39,920
 So, I'm set for the next six months.

1277
01:20:40,540 --> 01:20:42,040
 So, you're a happy man, right, Doug?

1278
01:20:42,120 --> 01:20:44,480
 I mean, first of all, what about the Braves last night?

1279
01:20:44,540 --> 01:20:45,920
 What about that start from these guys?

1280
01:20:46,100 --> 01:20:48,860
 If they hit that field goal, they scored over 20 points, Doug.

1281
01:20:49,460 --> 01:20:51,220
 No, that's incredible.

1282
01:20:51,600 --> 01:20:52,160
 I mean, think about it.

1283
01:20:52,160 --> 01:20:57,740
 It's the first time 11 players have had to hit in an RBI since the Expos.

1284
01:20:57,740 --> 01:21:03,400
 I mean, yeah, listen, a five and two stars is much better than those and seven stars.

1285
01:21:03,460 --> 01:21:04,720
 So, I will admit that.

1286
01:21:05,340 --> 01:21:06,620
 You know what's amazing about that, Doug?

1287
01:21:06,660 --> 01:21:08,920
 There's a generation of guys out there saying, who are the Expos?

1288
01:21:09,020 --> 01:21:12,000
 The Montreal Expos, by the way.

1289
01:21:12,140 --> 01:21:12,780
 Look it up.

1290
01:21:13,360 --> 01:21:16,260
 Doug, still say one of the best uniforms of all time.

1291
01:21:16,420 --> 01:21:17,060
 Your thoughts?

1292
01:21:17,680 --> 01:21:26,220
 Before we're talking about Final Four Fever, did you have it on your bingo card that Auburn will be playing in Indianapolis for a national championship game?

1293
01:21:27,800 --> 01:21:29,060
 I did not.

1294
01:21:29,060 --> 01:21:38,620
 I thought they would have a shot at getting there for the NCAA tournament, but not for the NIT.

1295
01:21:39,260 --> 01:21:40,580
 So, credit to them.

1296
01:21:40,680 --> 01:21:42,520
 I mean, I'm impressed.

1297
01:21:42,940 --> 01:21:46,520
 I know everybody belittles it, and it doesn't mean what it used to mean.

1298
01:21:46,600 --> 01:21:53,700
 But the bottom line is this team had chemistry and culture problems a month ago, and they've rallied.

1299
01:21:53,900 --> 01:21:56,180
 And I think that's a good sign going forward.

1300
01:21:56,880 --> 01:22:05,320
 So, what do you think Pearl has learned from this experience, the disappointment in the time of not making it back after last year's success?

1301
01:22:06,200 --> 01:22:07,880
 It's one thing to get the NIT.

1302
01:22:08,040 --> 01:22:08,700
 That's great.

1303
01:22:08,860 --> 01:22:14,940
 But more importantly, lessons learned this year heading into year two after you've had his on-the-job training as a head coach.

1304
01:22:14,980 --> 01:22:15,960
 What are you going to learn, Doug?

1305
01:22:16,960 --> 01:22:19,720
 I think sometimes you've got to make tough decisions.

1306
01:22:19,920 --> 01:22:21,800
 You've got to sit really good players.

1307
01:22:22,340 --> 01:22:23,440
 You've got to get their attention.

1308
01:22:23,920 --> 01:22:29,840
 And, you know, when he did that, you know, didn't respond immediately, but responded pretty quickly.

1309
01:22:30,600 --> 01:22:36,980
 And, again, you know, Bruce Pearl has his own personality, can handle things a certain way.

1310
01:22:37,900 --> 01:22:41,360
 Steven's got to kind of get out from under the shadows.

1311
01:22:41,700 --> 01:22:45,420
 And, excuse me, I just think he handled the hard times well.

1312
01:22:46,820 --> 01:22:49,040
 Let me ask you about the SEC coaches.

1313
01:22:49,040 --> 01:22:56,020
 About two weeks ago, Nate Oates was on the way to North Carolina, according to some media pundits.

1314
01:22:56,620 --> 01:23:00,540
 Or, if he didn't go, Mark Byington at Vanderbilt was going to go.

1315
01:23:01,140 --> 01:23:03,620
 Rick Barnes was going to retire.

1316
01:23:05,180 --> 01:23:09,080
 And then Will Wade comes in, the one and only, to LSU.

1317
01:23:09,240 --> 01:23:13,180
 That's going to be entertaining moving forward.

1318
01:23:13,180 --> 01:23:20,200
 But, according to Greg Byrne last Saturday night, he ain't going anywhere, according to Nate Oates.

1319
01:23:20,700 --> 01:23:25,360
 Art Byington is supposedly going to be signing another extension at Vandy.

1320
01:23:25,560 --> 01:23:29,520
 And Rick Barnes says, yeah, I'm coming back for year 12.

1321
01:23:30,520 --> 01:23:39,640
 And, right now, there doesn't appear to be any more changes in the SEC for the basketball, men's basketball coaches.

1322
01:23:40,100 --> 01:23:41,040
 Doug, your thoughts?

1323
01:23:42,240 --> 01:23:47,860
 I think everybody wants to stick around just to make sure Will Wade doesn't take over the thing.

1324
01:23:47,880 --> 01:23:48,460
 Oh, my goodness.

1325
01:23:49,100 --> 01:23:51,320
 Yeah, there's some robberies there.

1326
01:23:51,520 --> 01:23:58,800
 No, listen, I've always thought if Nate Oates left, it would be for Michigan State or the NBA.

1327
01:23:59,460 --> 01:24:07,120
 And, again, you know, I think the NBA is great, but I think it's awfully hard to coach.

1328
01:24:07,200 --> 01:24:13,120
 I mean, it's the only sport where the coaches are really kind of overshadowed by everybody else.

1329
01:24:13,240 --> 01:24:16,100
 I mean, we don't know coaches in the NBA like we do at the college level.

1330
01:24:16,560 --> 01:24:16,860
 Right.

1331
01:24:17,460 --> 01:24:23,660
 In college or king, you know, you look at Mark Byington, you know, 10 years ago, that would have been a no-brainer.

1332
01:24:23,780 --> 01:24:27,260
 You get out of Vanderbilt as quickly as possible, but now Vanderbilt has the money.

1333
01:24:28,040 --> 01:24:28,200
 Right.

1334
01:24:28,960 --> 01:24:31,620
 You know, they've got complete athletic support.

1335
01:24:31,800 --> 01:24:36,840
 What they've done with this entire athletic department is just incredible.

1336
01:24:36,980 --> 01:24:39,780
 And this is a place you can win big for a long time.

1337
01:24:40,680 --> 01:24:43,620
 And I think with Rick Barnes, it's just his unfinished business.

1338
01:24:43,620 --> 01:24:46,120
 He wants to get to that Final Four.

1339
01:24:46,240 --> 01:24:47,340
 They've been so close.

1340
01:24:49,200 --> 01:24:52,280
 He's still got fire left to him as evidenced by this team.

1341
01:24:52,400 --> 01:24:58,580
 Again, if you look at Alabama and Tennessee's rosters at this time last year, with what they had coming back,

1342
01:24:58,640 --> 01:25:02,520
 for them to go as far as they did is really kind of a head-scratcher.

1343
01:25:02,740 --> 01:25:04,660
 So he's proven he can still do it.

1344
01:25:05,560 --> 01:25:06,640
 You're right about the NBA.

1345
01:25:06,820 --> 01:25:09,120
 People buy tickets not to watch coaches.

1346
01:25:09,480 --> 01:25:13,200
 They come for the players, and I think a coach has to understand that before they get into that.

1347
01:25:13,500 --> 01:25:17,460
 Doug, in the meantime, have you caught a dose of Final Four fever?

1348
01:25:17,560 --> 01:25:22,320
 Where do you start in breaking down the weekend before the big show on Monday night?

1349
01:25:24,120 --> 01:25:29,920
 I think the winner, and I think we all agree that the winner comes out of the Michigan-Arizona game.

1350
01:25:30,040 --> 01:25:32,780
 I've said all along, I think Michigan's the best team in the country.

1351
01:25:32,940 --> 01:25:36,880
 I think if anybody can tame them, it's Arizona.

1352
01:25:37,240 --> 01:25:41,860
 Now we go to that other game, and I just said the first one's the national championship game.

1353
01:25:42,680 --> 01:25:46,720
 But this is an Illinois team that has the size of Michigan and Arizona.

1354
01:25:47,100 --> 01:25:49,220
 It has the outside shooting.

1355
01:25:50,340 --> 01:25:52,240
 It's a complete team.

1356
01:25:52,780 --> 01:25:56,540
 They've got, again, maybe the best freshman left in the tournament.

1357
01:25:57,480 --> 01:26:06,560
 And then UConn, which I'm not sure this is, you know, top three roster that we've seen the last four years from Danny Hurley.

1358
01:26:07,000 --> 01:26:08,760
 But they've got the best coach in the business.

1359
01:26:09,840 --> 01:26:11,960
 Really have no business being here.

1360
01:26:12,700 --> 01:26:13,720
 And yet here they are.

1361
01:26:14,060 --> 01:26:17,740
 And he can, you know, he can out-scheme anybody.

1362
01:26:18,800 --> 01:26:24,180
 So while I think Saturday are the two best teams that should be the national championship,

1363
01:26:25,080 --> 01:26:28,040
 I wouldn't sell either one of these other two teams short.

1364
01:26:28,040 --> 01:26:36,140
 Illinois is just for the fact that, you know, they kind of know what Michigan does if that's the matchup we get.

1365
01:26:37,200 --> 01:26:40,160
 And then UConn can figure out a way to stop anybody.

1366
01:26:42,340 --> 01:26:48,920
 Linden Borg at Michigan, as you mentioned, you think Michigan is, they've been a steamroller all year.

1367
01:26:49,220 --> 01:26:53,020
 And, of course, beat Alabama, even though Alabama looked very good in the first half.

1368
01:26:53,540 --> 01:26:55,080
 Ran Tennessee at the gym.

1369
01:26:55,560 --> 01:26:59,880
 A lot of people have asked me, is this the same guy who played at UAB?

1370
01:27:00,780 --> 01:27:01,300
 Yeah.

1371
01:27:02,240 --> 01:27:10,220
 Talk about what you saw with him at UAB compared to what you've seen the last two games against SEC teams.

1372
01:27:11,080 --> 01:27:14,800
 I think everybody forgets how good UAB was.

1373
01:27:15,020 --> 01:27:20,100
 And had they not been in one big league, I mean, you know, they'd been in the tournament both of his seasons.

1374
01:27:20,540 --> 01:27:22,540
 He was just, he was very good.

1375
01:27:23,180 --> 01:27:27,760
 The difference is if he had an off game, it usually cost UAB.

1376
01:27:28,220 --> 01:27:31,900
 And everybody in that league knew he was kind of the bell cow.

1377
01:27:32,160 --> 01:27:34,840
 And you had, you know, Budda, Johnson, some other players.

1378
01:27:35,300 --> 01:27:36,720
 But he was kind of the bell cow.

1379
01:27:36,820 --> 01:27:39,860
 Now he is the best player in the country.

1380
01:27:40,460 --> 01:27:44,300
 But if he has an off night, four other guys can go for 20 and 10.

1381
01:27:44,960 --> 01:27:45,480
 Great point.

1382
01:27:45,540 --> 01:27:47,080
 And that's just how good the roster is.

1383
01:27:47,200 --> 01:27:53,220
 But I just think you take him and you put him on Alabama or Auburn's roster.

1384
01:27:54,220 --> 01:27:57,000
 And they're in this position right now.

1385
01:27:57,220 --> 01:28:01,920
 And so, NIT or even the Sweet 16, that's how good he is.

1386
01:28:01,960 --> 01:28:03,380
 He's a transformational player.

1387
01:28:04,860 --> 01:28:11,580
 And, again, credit to Andy Kennedy and Sidney Ball and some of those assistants who found him at UAB.

1388
01:28:11,720 --> 01:28:12,880
 Nobody knew about this guy.

1389
01:28:13,000 --> 01:28:14,380
 I mean, he barely played high school ball.

1390
01:28:16,680 --> 01:28:18,880
 And he's a good dude to boot.

1391
01:28:19,100 --> 01:28:23,960
 You know, he's come off a little arrogant in some of the postgame stuff.

1392
01:28:24,080 --> 01:28:25,420
 But I think that's just his personality.

1393
01:28:26,000 --> 01:28:30,000
 Everybody who knows him just thinks he's a great kid, down to earth.

1394
01:28:30,380 --> 01:28:31,560
 He just loves playing ball.

1395
01:28:33,840 --> 01:28:34,960
 Nothing wrong with that.

1396
01:28:35,160 --> 01:28:35,280
 Yeah.

1397
01:28:35,420 --> 01:28:38,900
 And Andy Kennedy is still one of the most underrated coaches in the country.

1398
01:28:39,120 --> 01:28:43,100
 We'd be curious to see where UAB goes from here.

1399
01:28:43,280 --> 01:28:47,420
 Well, listen, get to the store if you need some more refreshments.

1400
01:28:47,420 --> 01:28:49,540
 Make sure the TV's working.

1401
01:28:50,920 --> 01:28:53,920
 And enjoy yourself some Final Four, my friend.

1402
01:28:54,780 --> 01:28:56,520
 Yeah, I think I need chips and dip.

1403
01:28:56,680 --> 01:28:57,860
 I'm going to just place an order.

1404
01:28:59,360 --> 01:29:01,900
 You might need some tees and green jackets.

1405
01:29:01,980 --> 01:29:03,280
 Let's talk about that next week.

1406
01:29:03,340 --> 01:29:05,080
 But enjoy this weekend first, Doug, okay?

1407
01:29:05,980 --> 01:29:06,620
 Thanks, guys.

1408
01:29:06,800 --> 01:29:07,320
 You'll have a great weekend.

1409
01:29:07,320 --> 01:29:07,740
 See you, bud.

1410
01:29:08,220 --> 01:29:12,580
 Doug Sigrist, former tri-host of The Zone, ABC 3340 Down in Birmingham.

1411
01:29:13,160 --> 01:29:15,720
 Coming up, D-Square, Drew DeArmond on deck.

1412
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1413
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1473
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 Progressive presents the Sports Flash on 93.9, The Score.

1474
01:33:00,080 --> 01:33:02,440
 The Atlanta Braves yesterday, winners in Arizona.

1475
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 They crushed the Diamondbacks 17-2.

1476
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 Braves with the victory are now 5-2.

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1478
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 In college baseball action yesterday, Auburn was a winner over Arkansas 10-2.

1479
01:33:15,440 --> 01:33:18,960
 Alabama won on the road at Oklahoma 10-7.

1480
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 South Alabama was beaten at 14th-ranked Coastal Carolina 12-2.

1481
01:33:23,240 --> 01:33:26,800
 Troy a winner at home against Arkansas State 6-4.

1482
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 Auburn Mets basketball team was a winner in the NIT semifinals last night as they beat Illinois State 88-66.

1483
01:33:33,940 --> 01:33:38,780
 Auburn will play in Sunday's championship game in Indianapolis at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

1484
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1506
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 Now, back with Boomo Bugg on 93.9 The Score.

1507
01:35:07,280 --> 01:35:08,020
 Welcome back in.

1508
01:35:08,060 --> 01:35:11,200
 It is a pleasure for us to open the door and say hello, Double D.

1509
01:35:11,360 --> 01:35:15,060
 Drew DeArmond, host of Talking Ball and Hustle's 97.7 FM The Zone.

1510
01:35:15,200 --> 01:35:16,060
 Drew, welcome in.

1511
01:35:16,140 --> 01:35:17,320
 Happy Friday to you.

1512
01:35:17,380 --> 01:35:17,880
 How are you?

1513
01:35:18,620 --> 01:35:19,240
 I'm good.

1514
01:35:19,320 --> 01:35:19,740
 How are y'all?

1515
01:35:20,380 --> 01:35:22,640
 Now, getting ready for a little scrimmage time.

1516
01:35:22,740 --> 01:35:24,740
 Part two in Tuscaloosa.

1517
01:35:24,740 --> 01:35:30,320
 Drew, what are you looking for in the second scrimmage in year three of Mr. DeBoer?

1518
01:35:30,720 --> 01:35:31,680
 Well, we'll see.

1519
01:35:32,020 --> 01:35:37,180
 You know, of course, we're going to hear some quarterback buzz, see which, you know, which

1520
01:35:37,180 --> 01:35:40,340
 QB, you know, maybe stands out if it's continuing.

1521
01:35:40,500 --> 01:35:45,980
 I think it'll probably be more of the same, both of them performing well as far as, you

1522
01:35:45,980 --> 01:35:48,400
 know, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell.

1523
01:35:48,400 --> 01:35:54,520
 Also, you know, maybe some combinations along the offensive line and see if, you know, if

1524
01:35:54,520 --> 01:36:00,740
 we, if we continue to, you know, hear of the same five that have kind of stepped up and

1525
01:36:00,740 --> 01:36:08,460
 then David James at right tackle and Jackson Lloyd at left tackle, you know, and to see

1526
01:36:08,460 --> 01:36:12,180
 if Delgotti has continued to look good in the pivot.

1527
01:36:12,520 --> 01:36:19,120
 You know, I think right now, I think those are the, the one, and I think Mike Carroll at

1528
01:36:19,120 --> 01:36:20,200
 right guard.

1529
01:36:20,880 --> 01:36:23,480
 And then we'll see what's going on at left guard.

1530
01:36:23,560 --> 01:36:30,200
 I think certainly, you know, it's probably still going to be Nick Brooks, who's the, who's

1531
01:36:30,200 --> 01:36:35,240
 the transfer from Texas, but I'm anxious to kind of hear, you know, how those guys have looked

1532
01:36:35,240 --> 01:36:35,820
 up and run.

1533
01:36:35,920 --> 01:36:43,040
 And then defensive line with a lot of the new names, Terrence Green and Tom and those guys, certainly

1534
01:36:43,040 --> 01:36:49,520
 there's some new blood there along the D line and definitely looking forward to kind of hearing how

1535
01:36:49,520 --> 01:36:51,080
 that, how that group performed.

1536
01:36:51,200 --> 01:36:53,300
 I mean, you're going head to head against each other.

1537
01:36:53,380 --> 01:36:58,520
 So somebody will have the advantage, but certainly looking forward to hearing that and seeing, you

1538
01:36:58,520 --> 01:37:02,940
 know, how the, how the running, how the running game looks, you know, who the running back stepped

1539
01:37:02,940 --> 01:37:03,580
 up a little bit.

1540
01:37:03,580 --> 01:37:09,380
 You know, you're not going to get much, if any, out of Crowell right now, but still Daniel

1541
01:37:09,380 --> 01:37:10,640
 Hill's lost some weight.

1542
01:37:10,720 --> 01:37:11,560
 He's looked better.

1543
01:37:12,120 --> 01:37:15,240
 Kevin Riley, you know, certainly.

1544
01:37:15,560 --> 01:37:17,000
 And so AK deer.

1545
01:37:17,200 --> 01:37:22,300
 So I ain't anxious to kind of hear how they looked on the offensive side of the ball.

1546
01:37:23,160 --> 01:37:29,440
 Let me ask you this, Drew, from everything we're hearing in NASCAR terms, it's neck and neck

1547
01:37:29,440 --> 01:37:31,940
 at the quarterback competition between Mac and Russell.

1548
01:37:31,940 --> 01:37:36,020
 We know the paper game, Mac's got more time with his coaching staff.

1549
01:37:36,200 --> 01:37:40,440
 Russell, he's walking on the warrior river down there, according to reports.

1550
01:37:40,680 --> 01:37:44,600
 So if this continues to be a neck and neck race, obviously, correct me if I'm wrong, you

1551
01:37:44,600 --> 01:37:46,200
 can only play one at a time.

1552
01:37:46,940 --> 01:37:51,360
 At the end of the day, who do you think is going to eke out that starting position in game

1553
01:37:51,360 --> 01:37:51,880
 one?

1554
01:37:52,300 --> 01:37:56,620
 And of course, we've seen from Alabama football in the past, just because you're the starter

1555
01:37:56,620 --> 01:38:00,240
 on game one, opening day, doesn't mean you're going to keep that, go back a few years.

1556
01:38:00,540 --> 01:38:05,940
 But right now, your thoughts about who gets the nod if this continues to be a neck and neck

1557
01:38:05,940 --> 01:38:06,320
 race?

1558
01:38:07,080 --> 01:38:08,200
 It's hard to say.

1559
01:38:08,580 --> 01:38:13,180
 You know, I think either guy could make the case to be the starter.

1560
01:38:13,340 --> 01:38:15,000
 I've already said I'm talking ball.

1561
01:38:15,160 --> 01:38:17,440
 I think very likely the first game or two.

1562
01:38:17,940 --> 01:38:20,020
 We talked to Josh Pate about this today.

1563
01:38:20,120 --> 01:38:22,660
 I think it'll be two guys playing.

1564
01:38:23,340 --> 01:38:28,400
 I don't think it'll be decided until probably either game two or game three.

1565
01:38:29,020 --> 01:38:31,140
 I think it's probably going to be that close.

1566
01:38:32,100 --> 01:38:35,620
 You know, Mack has a slight experience edge with three years.

1567
01:38:35,760 --> 01:38:40,560
 So I would say the odds are that he may likely take the first nap.

1568
01:38:40,740 --> 01:38:43,800
 But I think Keelan Russell is probably the most talented.

1569
01:38:44,200 --> 01:38:48,320
 But I think it's a little bit along the lines of Philip Sims and A.J.

1570
01:38:48,460 --> 01:38:50,200
 McCarron back in 2011.

1571
01:38:51,200 --> 01:38:54,500
 Sims was more ballyhooed than A.J., even though A.J.

1572
01:38:54,560 --> 01:38:55,860
 was an outstanding prospect.

1573
01:38:56,580 --> 01:38:58,840
 And Sims was thought to be more physically talented.

1574
01:38:59,000 --> 01:39:02,200
 But I think we all understand what happened between the ears of both guys.

1575
01:39:02,880 --> 01:39:06,160
 And then A.J. was able to pull away.

1576
01:39:06,620 --> 01:39:13,620
 And after splitting time in the first game, he started the next one on the road at Penn

1577
01:39:13,620 --> 01:39:13,940
 State.

1578
01:39:14,060 --> 01:39:15,660
 And the rest is history, so to speak.

1579
01:39:15,660 --> 01:39:18,180
 He kept the job for three years.

1580
01:39:18,900 --> 01:39:22,780
 And I think it will be decided in that connotation a little bit.

1581
01:39:22,940 --> 01:39:28,160
 So it's going to come down to who takes care of the ball, who they think can, you know, move

1582
01:39:28,160 --> 01:39:29,120
 the team the best.

1583
01:39:29,500 --> 01:39:30,880
 Both guys have mobility.

1584
01:39:31,420 --> 01:39:34,200
 I think Mack has not really played up as much.

1585
01:39:34,600 --> 01:39:38,000
 They both have the, you know, arm talent that's necessary.

1586
01:39:38,240 --> 01:39:44,220
 So I think it's going to be, you know, a big-time battle between two very talented guys.

1587
01:39:44,380 --> 01:39:49,540
 And I think it's just something I, you know, it might be decided in fall camp before, you

1588
01:39:49,540 --> 01:39:50,360
 know, game one.

1589
01:39:50,460 --> 01:39:53,980
 But something tells me they're going to wait for the live bullets.

1590
01:39:53,980 --> 01:40:01,240
 And then once those, once the dust settles, that's when it'll be, when one of the guys will win

1591
01:40:01,240 --> 01:40:01,740
 the team.

1592
01:40:01,900 --> 01:40:04,600
 And they'll, and they will, because to me, you can't rotate.

1593
01:40:04,940 --> 01:40:06,660
 You're going to have to go with one dude.

1594
01:40:06,660 --> 01:40:10,160
 And then you can play both of them, but there has to be a dude.

1595
01:40:10,360 --> 01:40:16,340
 And I think, you know, after the season opener next year, going into game two is probably when

1596
01:40:16,340 --> 01:40:17,200
 it'll be decided.

1597
01:40:18,320 --> 01:40:20,160
 Let me ask you about linebacker.

1598
01:40:20,300 --> 01:40:25,680
 Outside, inside, Yonsei Pierre, a lot of people think that Wolf is going to have an incredible

1599
01:40:25,680 --> 01:40:26,240
 year.

1600
01:40:26,440 --> 01:40:29,440
 Desmond Yu, coming from South Carolina.

1601
01:40:29,600 --> 01:40:32,500
 Justin Hill, Marion Latham.

1602
01:40:33,140 --> 01:40:37,960
 Inside linebacker, Caleb Woodson, the transfer from Virginia Tech.

1603
01:40:38,580 --> 01:40:40,840
 I hear good things about Caden Jones.

1604
01:40:41,400 --> 01:40:44,360
 And then QB Reese, Luke Matts, Duke Johnson.

1605
01:40:44,800 --> 01:40:47,600
 Don't forget about five-star Xavier Griffin.

1606
01:40:48,320 --> 01:40:52,400
 Duke, your thoughts on the, and particularly the inside linebacker competition.

1607
01:40:53,580 --> 01:40:57,520
 Well, I think, you know, Caleb Woodson was brought in to lead the group.

1608
01:40:58,060 --> 01:40:59,700
 You know, no doubt about it.

1609
01:41:00,060 --> 01:41:06,360
 I think from Virginia Tech, and I think he's an older guy that they want his experience to

1610
01:41:06,360 --> 01:41:08,860
 help next year, no question.

1611
01:41:09,160 --> 01:41:10,540
 And I think that that'll happen.

1612
01:41:11,920 --> 01:41:14,880
 I think so far he's done everything they wanted him to do.

1613
01:41:14,980 --> 01:41:21,680
 Now, of course, we haven't had anything, you know, any sort of live bullets in a real game

1614
01:41:21,680 --> 01:41:22,400
 situation.

1615
01:41:22,580 --> 01:41:28,220
 But I think, except for practice, but I think Caleb Woodson so far has been everything they've

1616
01:41:28,220 --> 01:41:28,540
 hoped.

1617
01:41:29,400 --> 01:41:34,380
 Certainly, so I think I would expect them to play a ton, if not start.

1618
01:41:34,920 --> 01:41:38,940
 And that's the beauty of it, because, you know, they lost so much for us.

1619
01:41:39,020 --> 01:41:44,580
 They lost three seniors last year that are all going to basically play on the next level.

1620
01:41:45,580 --> 01:41:50,680
 And so, you know, they knew they were going to have to kind of rebuild this unit.

1621
01:41:51,100 --> 01:41:55,900
 And in some ways, I think the first thought, people thought they might sign at least two

1622
01:41:55,900 --> 01:41:58,140
 transfers to come in and play.

1623
01:41:58,220 --> 01:42:01,200
 But I think they've liked the progress of the young guys.

1624
01:42:01,940 --> 01:42:06,300
 And, you know, QB Reese is a guy that I've been hearing, you know, things about as far

1625
01:42:06,300 --> 01:42:07,500
 as his makeup and everything.

1626
01:42:07,660 --> 01:42:11,320
 And he's the son of Quentin Reese, who played at Auburn.

1627
01:42:11,760 --> 01:42:13,360
 But he's from Ramsey High School.

1628
01:42:13,520 --> 01:42:18,260
 And I think, you know, from what I was hearing, I think he made some plays in the first scrimmage.

1629
01:42:18,760 --> 01:42:24,060
 And so I think he'll be a guy that, you know, could, you know, I'm not saying be a sleeper,

1630
01:42:24,120 --> 01:42:28,780
 but I think he could be a guy that plays a lot and could take one of those starting spots

1631
01:42:28,780 --> 01:42:30,040
 along with Caleb Woodson.

1632
01:42:30,920 --> 01:42:32,940
 Of course, you talked about Xavier Griffin.

1633
01:42:33,380 --> 01:42:37,480
 He's got some position versatility where he's already gained a lot of weight,

1634
01:42:37,560 --> 01:42:39,080
 but I think he could play inside.

1635
01:42:39,080 --> 01:42:43,720
 I think he could play outside, you know, at the wolf spot to rush the passer.

1636
01:42:44,040 --> 01:42:45,460
 So that'll be interesting.

1637
01:42:45,980 --> 01:42:50,180
 I've been hearing quite a bit about Luke Abdul-Sanders, who's a redshirt freshman,

1638
01:42:50,780 --> 01:42:53,500
 who I think could factor in an inside linebacker.

1639
01:42:53,600 --> 01:42:55,820
 And I think also I like Luke Smith.

1640
01:42:56,680 --> 01:43:00,220
 He's from Mill Creek, the same high school as Caleb Downs.

1641
01:43:00,360 --> 01:43:04,960
 And he got to play some last year, even though really he's basically still redshirted.

1642
01:43:05,380 --> 01:43:08,500
 He played a little bit last year, and I thought he looked very productive.

1643
01:43:09,040 --> 01:43:11,580
 I think it's actually a talented room.

1644
01:43:11,920 --> 01:43:14,640
 You know, it may lack a little bit in size,

1645
01:43:14,760 --> 01:43:16,980
 but I think it makes up for it in speed.

1646
01:43:17,580 --> 01:43:20,700
 And so I think they've got a lot of talent in the room.

1647
01:43:20,800 --> 01:43:23,300
 I think they've got more than enough to be good.

1648
01:43:23,420 --> 01:43:27,920
 And so I'm going to be really intrigued to see, you know,

1649
01:43:27,980 --> 01:43:31,440
 and kind of hear how, what's the buzz coming out of the scrimmage today,

1650
01:43:31,440 --> 01:43:34,480
 and then even after A-Day and on into the fall.

1651
01:43:34,480 --> 01:43:41,040
 So I think they've got some nice pieces and some nice players that are in that linebacker room.

1652
01:43:41,700 --> 01:43:49,560
 And even in the Wolf room, because you mentioned Justin Hill, I definitely think Yonsei Pierre is the alpha of the Wolf group.

1653
01:43:50,080 --> 01:43:59,420
 I think he's going to be a guy that has a chance to be an All-American and a guy that has a chance to be one of the better players in the SEC and in college football.

1654
01:43:59,980 --> 01:44:07,820
 But I certainly think Justin Hill and we just mentioned Xavier Griffin, I think they'll be guys that they can play and mix and match there.

1655
01:44:07,960 --> 01:44:15,300
 And I know they lost Kway Russo to Ohio State, but I think they're going to, I don't think they'll skip a beat.

1656
01:44:15,380 --> 01:44:17,220
 I think they'll, you know, they're not going to miss him.

1657
01:44:17,680 --> 01:44:23,040
 I mean, to be honest with you, Kway was hurt, I think, more than he was healthy.

1658
01:44:23,620 --> 01:44:25,340
 And so he never did play a lot.

1659
01:44:25,500 --> 01:44:28,040
 So I think, you know, it opened the door.

1660
01:44:28,220 --> 01:44:38,360
 Because remember, Yonsei was a third-string player going into last year before the injuries kind of opened the door for him to become a first-team All-SEC type guy.

1661
01:44:38,360 --> 01:44:40,860
 And I think he's continued to get even better.

1662
01:44:41,380 --> 01:44:44,040
 And then I thought Justin Hill flashed a lot last year.

1663
01:44:44,180 --> 01:44:48,860
 And he should be a guy that's much more comfortable now that he's actually played.

1664
01:44:49,020 --> 01:44:55,780
 So I think the linebacker room, while they don't have a lot of proven guys besides Yonsei returning,

1665
01:44:56,320 --> 01:45:01,240
 I do think with Caleb Woodson's addition in the portal and then some of these young guys,

1666
01:45:01,300 --> 01:45:03,880
 I think Alabama's still going to be okay as linebacker.

1667
01:45:05,320 --> 01:45:08,640
 Yeah, I was talking about All-Hunstles, 97-7 FM in the zone.

1668
01:45:08,720 --> 01:45:09,760
 You mentioned the portal, Drew.

1669
01:45:10,020 --> 01:45:14,160
 Switching over to basketball, the curtain's going to come up here in a few minutes.

1670
01:45:14,180 --> 01:45:21,220
 How do you see this Alabama roster shaping up, starting with the portal, the Cummings and the Goins next week?

1671
01:45:22,220 --> 01:45:30,600
 Well, I mean, the key, they've got to hold on to Aiden Sherell, who is going to be a wanted man because he's a big, some talent, some ability.

1672
01:45:30,860 --> 01:45:34,520
 And he got a lot better from his freshman to his sophomore year.

1673
01:45:34,960 --> 01:45:36,440
 So you need to lock him down.

1674
01:45:36,960 --> 01:45:41,720
 I think you need to find a true five because he can play maybe more of the four.

1675
01:45:42,420 --> 01:45:48,240
 Now he can still rim protect and certainly, you know, and help you inside defensively and rebounding.

1676
01:45:48,380 --> 01:45:56,200
 But it will help him if he's got another rim protector where, you know, he can step out a little bit more and shoot the basketball.

1677
01:45:56,800 --> 01:46:04,800
 And then also on the perimeter defensively, he can certainly roam a little bit and have somebody behind him that can block shots.

1678
01:46:05,400 --> 01:46:07,560
 So I hope they can find a true five.

1679
01:46:07,660 --> 01:46:08,160
 We'll see.

1680
01:46:08,720 --> 01:46:14,680
 You know, there's even a prospect emerging at Shelton State.

1681
01:46:15,060 --> 01:46:16,300
 It's a 6'10 kid.

1682
01:46:16,540 --> 01:46:17,400
 We'll see.

1683
01:46:17,860 --> 01:46:21,120
 You know, if he's a guy that Alabama ultimately offers.

1684
01:46:21,320 --> 01:46:25,060
 You know, Andy Kennedy at UAB has been kind of recruiting that kid.

1685
01:46:25,520 --> 01:46:26,900
 So we'll see what happens there.

1686
01:46:26,980 --> 01:46:29,640
 He's about 6'10, 240 pounds.

1687
01:46:30,040 --> 01:46:35,800
 And he's a rim protector that averages about 9 and 8 in a couple of blocks.

1688
01:46:35,920 --> 01:46:37,920
 So I think he's a possibility.

1689
01:46:38,140 --> 01:46:41,140
 But I think they're also going to see what's out there in the portal.

1690
01:46:41,140 --> 01:46:44,920
 Now, the interesting thing is we've seen tons of names going in.

1691
01:46:45,400 --> 01:46:50,300
 But, you know, we haven't really heard a lot of buzz about who you're connected to yet.

1692
01:46:50,720 --> 01:46:56,800
 Again, that probably won't happen for another few days until I think the women's portal opens on the 6th.

1693
01:46:57,200 --> 01:46:59,280
 The men's opens on the 7th.

1694
01:46:59,380 --> 01:47:01,000
 So that'll certainly be interesting.

1695
01:47:01,080 --> 01:47:05,560
 But I think retention is going to be important for Alabama, too, besides Aiden Terrell.

1696
01:47:06,060 --> 01:47:10,540
 You know, Aiden Holloway is a little bit uncertain because of his issues off the floor.

1697
01:47:10,840 --> 01:47:20,120
 But I felt like before he got in trouble and even then and more so after, they're going to want to try to retain him because, you know,

1698
01:47:20,120 --> 01:47:22,280
 he averaged 17 points a game.

1699
01:47:22,620 --> 01:47:26,420
 And I think he's a really good system fit for what Nate wants to do.

1700
01:47:26,480 --> 01:47:30,700
 So if they believe his situation, and I know he got indicted the other day,

1701
01:47:31,100 --> 01:47:38,840
 but if they can get his situation cleared up, I certainly believe they'd like him to return for his final year of eligibility.

1702
01:47:39,400 --> 01:47:49,100
 And then, of course, Mari Allen, you're going to have to probably wait out the draft process like you did with LeBaron Phylon last year.

1703
01:47:49,180 --> 01:47:55,380
 But I still think, ultimately, he would benefit for coming back another season.

1704
01:47:55,920 --> 01:48:02,640
 So he's another guy that I think definitely you're going to want to retain and hold the spot for.

1705
01:48:03,280 --> 01:48:06,180
 So I think that's another one to look for.

1706
01:48:06,260 --> 01:48:12,180
 And I think the ones that are interesting are the Davion Hannas, who he was really good early,

1707
01:48:12,300 --> 01:48:14,900
 but then he hurt his hip and then he redshirted.

1708
01:48:15,400 --> 01:48:16,900
 I would want to bring him back.

1709
01:48:16,980 --> 01:48:19,220
 I think he has outstanding defensive potential.

1710
01:48:19,660 --> 01:48:22,760
 And I thought he was doing a good job making shots.

1711
01:48:23,300 --> 01:48:25,640
 So I would want to bring somebody like him back.

1712
01:48:25,960 --> 01:48:31,220
 I still think, ultimately, you know, five, maybe six guys they'll want to retain.

1713
01:48:31,460 --> 01:48:34,700
 And then, of course, you know, they've got three really good signees.

1714
01:48:35,260 --> 01:48:40,640
 And then, you know, you could bring in two or three guys from the portal to supplement everything.

1715
01:48:41,140 --> 01:48:42,480
 But I think you'll see it.

1716
01:48:42,600 --> 01:48:46,120
 The picture will be a lot clearer probably in the next week or so.

1717
01:48:46,900 --> 01:48:48,120
 Yeah, I agree with you.

1718
01:48:48,140 --> 01:48:49,900
 Boy, those phenoms look good.

1719
01:48:50,020 --> 01:48:58,120
 Jackson Richardson in the McDonald's, the dunk contest, Paris Bowie and Quaden Samuels.

1720
01:48:59,120 --> 01:49:01,120
 Those guys are going to be fun to watch.

1721
01:49:01,280 --> 01:49:08,820
 Give us your final four picks, D2, and where can we get online and listen to you and Scott weekdays?

1722
01:49:09,540 --> 01:49:10,540
 Yeah, you're right.

1723
01:49:10,680 --> 01:49:14,160
 Jackson Richardson won the dunk contest at the McDonald's game.

1724
01:49:14,300 --> 01:49:18,140
 And he looked really good in the open floor, you know, in that game.

1725
01:49:18,220 --> 01:49:19,580
 And that was not surprising.

1726
01:49:19,580 --> 01:49:24,740
 I think he, Terrace Bowie, and even Samuels, I think they're all three going to be in the Jordan brand classic.

1727
01:49:24,960 --> 01:49:30,500
 So I'm sure a lot of Alabama fans will be, you know, tuning in for that as well, no doubt.

1728
01:49:31,100 --> 01:49:40,440
 Certainly, you know, I think, I'm hoping just for, you know, because I felt like Alabama, it's ironic.

1729
01:49:40,560 --> 01:49:41,640
 They played three of the four.

1730
01:49:41,740 --> 01:49:43,060
 They beat one of them in Illinois.

1731
01:49:43,800 --> 01:49:47,220
 I thought the two best teams they played were Arizona and Michigan.

1732
01:49:47,840 --> 01:49:50,880
 I would take Arizona by a hair over Michigan.

1733
01:49:50,880 --> 01:49:53,560
 I think that's going to be a great semifinal.

1734
01:49:54,140 --> 01:49:56,520
 I would take, so I would take the Wildcats.

1735
01:49:57,160 --> 01:50:04,020
 And then I'm going to take UConn and Dan Hurley and their winning culture in another good game over Illinois.

1736
01:50:04,560 --> 01:50:08,300
 And then I'm going to take the Arizona Wildcats to cut the nets down.

1737
01:50:08,480 --> 01:50:11,700
 I think they, I've thought all year they had the best team.

1738
01:50:11,820 --> 01:50:14,000
 I do think Michigan's outstanding as well.

1739
01:50:14,520 --> 01:50:23,600
 And part of me also, they, I just want to see the Big Ten go a 26th year without winning the basketball championship.

1740
01:50:23,600 --> 01:50:26,740
 Because they certainly have ruled the roost in football.

1741
01:50:26,920 --> 01:50:31,940
 And I think they've been assuming that this was just going to be theirs in basketball.

1742
01:50:32,500 --> 01:50:34,200
 And that's what I hope it's going to be.

1743
01:50:34,480 --> 01:50:36,880
 Arizona and UConn in the championship game.

1744
01:50:37,240 --> 01:50:41,660
 And then there'll be a lot of heartburn for them on Easter Sunday after that.

1745
01:50:41,700 --> 01:50:42,300
 But we'll see.

1746
01:50:42,440 --> 01:50:46,720
 But you can certainly follow me at 977 ESPN on X.

1747
01:50:47,160 --> 01:50:58,900
 And you can get any of our content, Talking Ball, Scott Tyson, not at 977, the zone on SoundCloud, 977 ESPN, the zone.

1748
01:50:59,260 --> 01:51:02,700
 And then 977 ESPN.com for any of our content.

1749
01:51:02,700 --> 01:51:06,020
 And, again, happy Easter to y'all and to all your listeners.

1750
01:51:06,540 --> 01:51:08,880
 Everybody stay safe out there and have a blessed holiday.

1751
01:51:09,500 --> 01:51:12,000
 Certainly, I always enjoy coming on with you guys.

1752
01:51:12,580 --> 01:51:13,960
 Great reminder about Easter.

1753
01:51:14,080 --> 01:51:15,240
 Have a safe weekend, Drew.

1754
01:51:15,280 --> 01:51:16,420
 And let's do it again soon, okay?

1755
01:51:17,080 --> 01:51:17,480
 Yes, sir.

1756
01:51:17,560 --> 01:51:17,960
 Thank y'all.

1757
01:51:18,020 --> 01:51:18,480
 Y'all be safe.

1758
01:51:18,520 --> 01:51:19,060
 Thank you, bud.

1759
01:51:19,340 --> 01:51:22,720
 Double D, Drew DeArman, host, Talking Ball, 97.7 FM, the zone.

1760
01:51:22,780 --> 01:51:25,060
 BB, are you ready for a final four weekend?

1761
01:51:25,460 --> 01:51:26,340
 I am, Ian.

1762
01:51:26,660 --> 01:51:30,160
 As Drew alluded to, happy Easter to our listeners.

1763
01:51:30,380 --> 01:51:31,400
 Have a safe one.

1764
01:51:31,520 --> 01:51:32,720
 Again, he has risen.

1765
01:51:33,120 --> 01:51:33,320
 Yes.

1766
01:51:33,320 --> 01:51:38,260
 I know food, bunny rabbits and Easter eggs and food are great.

1767
01:51:38,480 --> 01:51:43,680
 But, again, remember the reason for the season and enjoy the final four.

1768
01:51:43,940 --> 01:51:47,680
 That, and enjoy the Braves tonight here on 93.9 The Score.

1769
01:51:47,780 --> 01:51:54,940
 Grant Holmes with a man trying to do whatever you can do to have an encore for that 17-2 win in Arizona last night.

1770
01:51:55,620 --> 01:51:58,040
 Hear what to do tonight here on 93.9 The Score.

1771
01:51:58,140 --> 01:52:01,900
 It's going to take care of business for now on behalf of BB, Greg, James Blair, the entire crew here.

1772
01:52:01,980 --> 01:52:04,060
 Peril Buck, thank you so much for your time today.

1773
01:52:04,600 --> 01:52:09,600
 Let's do it again Monday, noon to 2 for the BMO Buck Show back here on Sports Radio 93.9 The Score.