The Bill Simmons Podcast Arch Manning, NFL Announcers, a New Deal for 'PTI', the Ballmer Scandal, and a Crawford-Canelo Megafight With Van Lathan Jr., Bryan Curtis, and Chris Mannix
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Sep 10, 2025 
Van Lathan Jr., a media personality known for his sharp cultural insights, joins media reporter Bryan Curtis and boxing analyst Chris Mannix for a lively conversation. They dive into the rise of college football star Arch Manning and the pressures of young athletes. The discussion shifts to the Steve Ballmer scandal in the NBA, exploring its implications. Finally, they analyze the upcoming Crawford-Canelo megafight, debating styles, strategies, and legacies in boxing while reflecting on the evolving landscape of sports media.
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Arch Manning: Hype Vs. Early Tape
- Arch Manning's early games created big expectations but tape showed inconsistencies despite good stat lines.
- Bryan Curtis argues it's early and Texas' roster and new starters explain uneven play.
Playoff Increased Engagement
- The expanded college playoff has increased engagement and interesting storylines despite traditionalist worry.
- Bryan Curtis says the playoff created new conflicts and made seasons more compelling.
College Media Reinvents Its Voice
- College football media is reinventing itself with new personalities and formats replacing old relationships.
- Bryan Curtis highlights the Saban–Pat McAfee dynamic replacing classic GameDay chemistry.