The Two Stripes Podcast

Rock M Nation's Mark Kim joins the show to talk Mizzou football. 2016 was rough for the Tigers, and Mark explains what happened, and MU's transition from Gary Pinkel to Barry Odom (6:15). The Tigers' improved offensively, and Mark breaks down QB Drew Lock's development, why they should be explosive with consistent WR play (9:08), and how the run game might be sneaky good (13:59). We also discuss what happened to the defense, why the d-line could be strong, and counting on a young group of corners (17:23). Lastly, we talk the importance of Mizzou's 2018 in-state recruiting, being in the middle of the SEC East pack, and the importance of getting to a bowl game (22:50) Bonus: A short discussion on our favorite hip-hop artists of all-time (27:04)

Anchor of Gold's Editor-in-Chief Christian D'Andrea joins the show to discuss the Vanderbilt Commodores. Christian breaks down where the program stands on the eve of Head Coach Derek Mason's fourth year, and where it's headed in the future (6:16). Vanderbilt's offense looks to take a big step forward this season, and Christian gives us their outlook (15:10), why their run game is one of the SEC's best, needing major improvement in the passing game, and how odd it is that VU is one of the only SEC teams left with a true power running game identity (21:42). He also talks about the task of replacing star linebacker Zach Cunningham (24:22), why VU's secondary may end up being one of the best in the country (26:38), their sneaky tough non-conference schedule, and expectations for 2017(28:31).

Tar Heel Blog's Jay Exum joins the show to talk North Carolina Football. Jay explains how he thinks Head Coach Larry Fedora's done in his five seasons in Chapel Hill, and the difference in expectations heading into this season compared to 2016 (6:06). UNC's offense ranks 128th out of 129 FBS teams nationally in production returning, and Jay breaks down why LSU transfer Brandon Harris is set up for success at QB, the new faces at WR, and questions in the RB group (15:57). The team also has a new defensive coordinator in John Papuchis, and Jay talks about why the losses on offense may necessitate a change in UNC's defensive identity, the Tar Heels' interception drought in 2016, and why they should be better this year. As always, expectations for the season are discussed, including why Jay thinks UNC will go bowling once again.

The Daily Stampede's Collin Sherwin joins the show to shed some light on the bubbling USF Bulls. Collin breaks down watching the program's rise the past four seasons (6:12), why new Head Coach Charlie Strong is a perfect fit in Tampa, and the competitive world of recruiting in the state of Florida (11:08). QB Quinton Flowers is an underrated Heisman candidate, and Collin talks about what makes him so special, and why USF's offense is poised for another huge season (18:07). Finally, the guys discuss why the defense probably can't get any worse (24:27), linebacker Auggie Sanchez's development as a leader (26:51), and the Bulls needing to capture their first conference title in program history (28:24).

Justin Strawn of For Whom the Cowbell Tolls joins the show to talk about the Mississippi State Bulldogs, and Dan Mullen closing in on a decade (!) in Starkville. Before breaking down the 2017 season, Justin talks about where program stands, and trolling Ole Miss about their recent NCAA troubles (6:07). He breaks down QB Nick Fitzgerald's second year as a starter (10:52), why he needs major help at receiver, and why MSU will probably have a dominant ground game once again (15:42). The Bulldogs need a bounceback year from their defense, and Justin tells us what to expect from new defensive coordinator Todd Grantham (20:30), MSU's influx of JUCO defensive linemen, and why Jeffery Simmons and Leo Lewis must play like stars in their sophomore seasons (24:55). Finally, the guys chat about what Dak Prescott's success means for the program (26:44), and expectations for 2017 (30:00).

Jon Morse of Bring on the Cats joins the show to talk about the under-the-radar Kansas State Wildcats and expectations for their 2017 season. Before that though, Jon breaks down some of the behind the scenes talk about who might replace legendary Head Coach Bill Snyder when he retires, and why his son Sean is a candidate (3:55). He assesses the health of the program, and why you can probably count on K-State winning at least 9 games for the fifth time in seven seasons (10:54). The guys also talk about quarterback Jesse Ertz, why Wildcats QB's are so good in their second season as starters, and some of the new faces to watch for (13:40). Finally Jon explains the importance of this year's Oklahoma game, and whether the Wildcats have a legit shot at the 2017 Big 12 title (19:31).

Jack Shields of Crimson and Cream Machine joins the show to talk about Oklahoma, and why the Sooners are poised for another great season. After three strong seasons in a row, Jack assesses the health of the OU program, and why their new facilities will keep recruiting rolling (5:05). Oklahoma is replacing a ton of offensive production, and Jack has some names to look out for at running back and receiver, why Offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley's philosophy won't change, and the return of quarterback Baker Mayfield and the whole offensive line (7:30). Jack also discusses the uncertainties with OU's defense (17:54), thoughts on Tom Herman's early effect on the rivalry with Texas (22:45), and why he thinks OU is headed back to the playoff (27:48).

2017 is the year Georgia puts it all together and wins the SEC East.....right? UGA Football beat writer Marc Weiszer joins the show to talk about the Bulldogs and whether they have what it takes to get back to Atlanta this season. Marc assesses Kirby Smart's first season in Athens, and some of the differences between Smart and former Bulldogs coach Mark Richt (3:45). UGA's offense really struggled last season, and Marc breaks down where quarterback Jacob Eason can improve (6:40), why there's optimism for the offensive line despite a poor 2016 (9:15), and the wealth of skill position players the Bulldogs have (11:08). Marc also discusses the state of the Georgia defense, why everything revolves around the linebackers (14:28), needing more from the defensive line, and who is going to step up at the all-important STAR position (18:45). Lastly, is Georgia the favorite in the SEC East? (22:00) and expectations for the 2017 season (23:40).

Ryan Priest of UW Dawg Pound joins the show to talk about the reigning PAC 12 champion Washington Huskies. Ryan explains when everyone began to realize 2016 was special, what makes Head Coach Chris Petersen stand out, and why beating Oregon meant so much to the program (2:45). UW is replacing five key playmakers at linebacker and defensive back, and he breaks down how they'll go about doing that, and whether its "attack" philosophy will change with new pieces in place (9:00). UW got a huge 2016 from QB Jake Browning, and Ryan explains how he can take the next step in 2017(15:15), replacing WR John Ross, and why Myles Gaskin is one of the best running backs in the country (18:45). Finally the guys discuss baseline expectations for the program, and why the PAC 12 North runs through Seattle (22:15)

UCLA Football reporter Thuc Nhi Nguyen joins the show to talk about Bruins' Spring practice, rebounding from 2016's 4-8 record, and more. After a down year offensively in 2016, Thuc Nhi describes how new Offensive Coordinator Jedd Fisch is attempting to revamp the run game, and QB Josh Rosen's ability to adjust to his complex system (6:45). She also breaks down the Bruins' losses on defense, how they've built good depth in the front seven (10:35), the new faces at cornerback (13:15), and some of their high profile recruiting misses (16:05). Lastly, Thuc Nhi talks about why Jim Mora's players love him (18:20), Josh Rosen bouncing back (22:10), the eternal shoulder stripes problem (24:05), and expectations for 2017 (25:20). Interview starts at 3:19.

Zach Helfand of the LA Times joins the show to discuss whether the USC Trojans are ready to build on their Rose Bowl victory and their status as a playoff contender in 2017. Zach describes how Head Coach Clay Helton has been a steadying force for a "volatile" program, and his demeanor heading into his 2nd season. Zach also talks about Quarterback Sam Darnold stepping up as a leader after departures to the NFL, who may emerge at wide receiver, why the offensive line is a major concern, replacing Adoree Jackson, the importance of winning the Pac-12 South, and more!

Jake Welch of VanquishTheFoe.com joins the show to preview BYU's 2017 season. Jake assesses Head Coach Kalani Sitake's first season with the Cougars in 2016, and some of the differences between he and his predecessor, Bronco Mendenhall (1:30). The Cougars are replacing two stars in QB Taysom Hill and RB Jamaal Williams, and Jake breaks down who will fill those roles, and whether new QB Tanner Mangum has a capable group of receivers to make big plays (6:15). The guys also discuss the Cougars depth at defensive back (11:00), a strong linebacker group (15:00), BYU's brutal schedule (19:00), and expectations for 2017 (23:30)

The play-by-play voice of UTSA Football, Andy Everett, joins the show to discuss the 2017 Roadrunners. Andy describes what it's been like watching UTSA football transform from a proposal to making a bowl game in 2016, and the excitement of the 2017 season. Andy also explains what makes Head Coach Frank Wilson unique, and why he's seemingly able to easily make strong connections in recruiting. Finally, Andy lets us know about some of the Roadrunners' playmakers on each side of the ball, and why you should keep an eye on UTSA in 2017.

Quacking Tiger of ShakinTheSouthland.com joins the show to talk Clemson Football. Before analyzing the 2017 group, he breaks down how meaningful the Tigers' national title win was for diehard CU fans (1:20), and what players like Deshaun Watson, Ben Boulware, and Mike Williams meant to the program (2:40). He then analyzes the competition at quarterback (5:30), and new names to watch at running back, tight end and receiver (9:45). Tiger also explains why Clemson will still have a top flight defense (14:28), Dabo Swinney's interesting roster management (19:45), why the Tigers are here to stay among the nation's elite (23:30) and expectations for 2017! (27:00)

FrogsOWar.com Managing Editor Jamie Plunkett joins the show to talk TCU Football. Jamie explains what went wrong for the Horned Frogs in 2016, including coaching issues, an inconsistent offense, and a less than vintage TCU defense. Jamie gives insight on the up and down play of quarterback Kenny Hill and his receivers, and why running back Kyle Hicks could end up as one of the best players in the country. Finally, Jamie discusses replacing a dominant pass rush corps, why TCU's secondary is poised to rebound, and expectations for the 2017 season.

State of the U Managing Editor Cam Underwood joins the show to talk Miami Football, and the Hurricanes being back on the rise. (For real this time) Cam grades Mark Richt's first season in Coral Gables, and discusses the traits that separate him from past Miami head coaches. The guys break down what makes the Hurricanes' defensive line one of the best in the country, the uncertainty at quarterback, and Miami's stars at the skill positions. Finally, Cam stresses the importance of needing to beat Florida State, and expectations for 2017 and beyond.

Billy Gomila, the Managing Editor of And The Valley Shook, joins the show to talk all things LSU. What are the biggest differences between how Ed Orgeron runs the program versus Les Miles? Why did LSU lose some of the top 2017 in-state recruits to Alabama, and how can they avoid a similar fate in 2018? Billy also discusses expectations for Matt Canada's first year as Offensive Coordinator, whether Derrius Guice is the Heisman Trophy favorite next season, and how LSU will replace all the defensive talent they're losing to the NFL.

Andy Hutchins of AlligatorArmy.com joins the show to discuss Florida's crazy finish to 2017 recruiting cycle, and how Jim McElwain focused on substance over style. Andy also gives insight into the battleground that is recruiting in the state of Florida, and why the strong group of in-state coaches may prevent out of state schools from continuing to poach talented Sunshine State recruits. Andy also breaks down why improved quarterback play is the key to the Gators' offense, how UF will replace a bevy of defensive talent heading to the NFL, and an early outlook for the Gators' tough 2017 schedule.

Wescott Eberts of Burnt Orange Nation joins the podcast to talk Texas football, and the major overhaul of the program this offseason. Wescott breaks down new Head Coach Tom Herman's attention to detail, his all-star coaching staff, and expectations for his first year on the 40 acres. He explains what the Longhorns must do to improve their defense, why Shane Buechele might not be a lock to start at quarterback, and how Texas can account for losing D'Onta Foreman to the NFL draft. Also, the future of Texas recruiting, and reasonable expectations for 2017 are discussed.

On this edition of The Two Stripes Podcast, Colton talks Iowa State football with Wide Right Natty Light's Matthias Schwartzkopf. Matthias assesses Matt Campbell's first season in Ames and what makes him different from previous Cyclone head coaches, why Jacob Park's development is crucial in 2017, and breaks down the talented ISU running backs and receivers. He also sheds some light on Campbell bringing in JUCO prospects to help the defensive line, and why improvement on defense is critical to ISU's bowl hopes next season.