The Varsity

Gary Danielson, CBS's top college football analyst with a remarkable 36-season career, shares insights on his decision to retire. He reminisces about iconic calls like the 'Kick Six' and discusses the evolving landscape of college sports. Gary emphasizes the importance of adaptability in broadcasting and how social media has transformed sports commentary. He also tackles issues like player compensation and the impact of NIL deals while reflecting on the competitive dynamics between conferences. His journey highlights the balance between career and family, leaving a lasting legacy.

Julia Alexander, a streaming expert at Puck and former Disney strategist, dives into the fierce race for sports streaming supremacy. She breaks down Peacock’s clever regional sports approach and reveals ESPN’s multifaceted strategy. Julia also discusses Netflix’s experimental ventures and why Apple TV+ is lagging behind. Additionally, she highlights YouTube's potential advertising explosion and the significance of catering to young female audiences. This insightful discussion uncovers the shifting landscape of media consumption and sports engagement.

Michael Nathanson, a top-tier analyst at MoffettNathanson, and Robert Fishman, an equity research analyst at the same firm, share insights on the intensifying competition between Netflix and YouTube in the streaming arena. They discuss the evolving landscape of sports media rights and speculate on ESPN's future. The duo delves into how sports betting could reshape the industry and reveal strategies for captivating audiences with innovative event presentations. Get ready for a lively debate on the future of media and sports!

Hall of Fame coach Jay Wright joins John for a candid chat about the evolution of his legendary career. He explains the moment he knew it was time to retire and discusses how the job changed over his 22 years helming Villanova, including two national championships. He also weighs into all the massive upheaval in college sports, the notorious transfer portal, and the murky future of the NCAA Tournament. Then, Jay dives into his transition into star CBS analyst. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Luis Silberwasser, C.E.O. and chairman of TNT Sports, dives into the whirlwind changes in sports broadcasting after losing NBA rights. He reveals the challenges of negotiations amidst media scrutiny and emphasizes the shift towards digital platforms to engage younger fans. Luis also discusses the unique partnership of CBS and Turner Sports during March Madness, exploring innovative ad strategies. With plans for diversifying sports offerings, he shares insights on enhancing fan experiences and navigating the future of sports media.

Golf Channel’s Eamon Lynch joins John for an in-depth breakdown of the chaos percolating professional golf. Eamon explains why the sport is facing a crisis of confidence and structure—and why the PGA Tour can’t just rely on its past glory anymore. He also dishes on the Tour's search for a C.E.O., calls out its history of arrogance and complacency, and takes a deep dive into the ever-controversial LIV Golf. Plus, could a PGA-LIV reunification ever happen? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jessica Berman, the Commissioner of the NWSL, dives into the impressive growth of women's soccer, highlighting record attendance and a dramatic rise in TV viewership. She emphasizes the role of storytelling in engaging fans and building cultural relevance. The discussion covers the league's groundbreaking media rights deals, which skyrocketed game sales 40-fold, and the implications of high-profile transfers like Naomi Girma's $1.1 million move. Berman's insights reveal the strategic focus needed to further expand and elevate women's soccer.

Sara Fischer, Axios's media correspondent and CNN contributor, joins the discussion on the declining landscape of regional sports networks, particularly the unraveling of MASN. With the Nationals stepping away, could this signal Ted Leonsis's chance to consolidate D.C. sports? They also dive into the fallout from MLB's split with ESPN and the impending launch of Fox's new direct-to-consumer streaming service, examining its potential impact on how fans will engage with sports in the future.

Roger Bennett, founder of the Men in Blazers Media Network, dives into the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America. He discusses the emotional dynamics of soccer fandom and the significant role of sports media in shaping public perception. Bennett highlights the intense Liverpool-Everton rivalry, the importance of fan loyalty, and the historical context of soccer in the U.S. He reflects on the transformative impact of the 1994 World Cup and the growing American soccer culture, igniting excitement and anticipation for the future.

Evan Drellich, a baseball reporter for The Athletic known for his insightful coverage of the MLB and ESPN split, dives into the complexities of the recent divorce between the two giants. He shares why he believes this isn’t the end of their relationship, discusses the financial fallout from collapsing regional sports networks, and previews upcoming labor negotiations. The conversation also hints at potential rule changes for baseball, including the introduction of automated umpire technology by 2026.