Chris Vannini

Chris Vannini, a Senior writer for The Athletic specializing in college football, delves into the upheaval of the Pac-12 conference as teams migrate to rival leagues, leaving fans disoriented. He discusses the burgeoning power of the SEC and Big Ten, emphasizing financial disparities and their impact on traditional rivalries. Vannini also highlights how television revenue is transforming college sports, echoing professional dynamics, and the challenges this poses for sustainability and engagement with younger fans.

Join John Canzano, a seasoned sports podcast host, and Chris Vannini, a reporter for The Athletic, as they dissect the dramatic decline of the once-mighty Pac-12. They dive into the fallout of media deals that led to top teams leaving, leaving only two behind. Canzano shares insights on the emotional toll of conference realignment, while Vannini breaks down the ramifications of shifting broadcasting rights and technology’s impact on viewership. The conversation uncovers the challenges and future prospects for college football as it navigates a turbulent media landscape.

The Athletic's Chris Vannini joins Ryen Russillo to discuss the long-term effects of college football conference realignment. They explore the challenges faced by the Big 12 and the Pac-12, the impact on historic rivalry games, and concerns about the sport losing its essence. They also touch on the limited opportunities for backup quarterbacks in the NFL and answer listener-submitted life advice questions.