Inside The Pylon: A Midwest College Football Podcast

Ryan and Clinton welcome Sammy Jacobs from Hoosier Huddle back to the show, to help them break down the defending national champion Indiana Hoosiers.Where to begin. From despondent and hoping for a bowl game two years ago, to 25-2, Big Ten champions and champions of the college football world, the Hoosiers have undergone a storybook turnaround under Curt Cignetti. Even a year ago, coming off a playoff appearance but viewed by many as a potential one-time flash-in-the-pan, the Hoosiers have now since cemented themselves atop the college football world.What will this team do as an encore? The offense must replace a Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall pick at QB, two 1000-yard rushers and their top-two leading receivers. However, Cignetti went hard in the portal again for replacements, highlighted by QB Josh Hoover from TCU and Nick Marsh from Michigan St. How will these pieces fit together in 2026?Defensively, a number of key players leave but the Hoosiers do retain several all-conference-level performers, namely Tyrique Tucker on the interior of the DL. They also retain star defensive coordinator Bryant Haines. Should anyone expect this defense to take even a modicum of a step back in 2026? Or will this unit once again be amongst the elite in the sport?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton welcome Redcast Rob back to the show, to help them break down the Nebraska Cornhuskers in year four of the Matt Rhule era.Year three was supposed to be the breakthrough year, the "year-three Matt Rhule jump." Instead, a 5-1 start saw another 7-6 finish. Ballyhooed QB and favorite son Dylan Raiola got hurt, and subsequently transferred to back up Dante Moore at Oregon, and Rhule ended up with a sizable contract extension to ward off interest, real or perceived, from Penn State. With the flux surrounding the program, where are fans's heads at heading into 2026?Change does bring excitement, however. Anthony Colandrea transfers in from UNLV at QB, having rehabilitated his career under Dan Mullen. He battles pseudo-incumbent TJ Lateef, who showed flashes of promise replacing the injured Raiola a season ago. However, start running back Emmett Johnson departs of the NFL, and his 1,451 rush yards out the door with him. Who can step up in the backfield to compensate for that lost production?On defense, Rob Aurich enters the program at defensive coordinator following an exceptional season calling San Diego State's defense in 2025. This Nebraska unit was great defending the pass a season ago, but often struggled against the run. What can we expect from this Aurich-led unit?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton welcome Jack Soble from Blue & Gold Illustrated back to the show, to help them break down the Notre Dame in a pivotal season for Marcus Freeman's program.Less than a year removed from a controversial playoff snub, the Irish are a preseason favorite to not only return to the playoff, but to win the whole thing. This case is bolstered by return QB CJ Carr, a preseason Heisman favorite in his own right. However he will have to pilot an offense that loses from its backfield 2025 Heisman finalist Jeremiyah Love, and first-round pick Jadarian Price to the NFL. After running secondary to an explosive run game in 2025, does Carr and his inexperienced conglomerate of pass catchers have the goods to lead the Irish offense in 2026?The 2025 Chris Ash era started off with a massive thud on defense and arguably kept the Irish out of the playoff, with poor performances against Miami and Texas A&M leading to an 0-2 start to last season. That should not be the case this season, with the Irish defense returning over 16 thousand snaps played by its defense, combined between returning players and transfer portal adds. That's a 40% increase from last season's already experienced defense. The secondary might be the best in the country. However, can the talented but green defensive line step up to make the secondary's job easier?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton welcome Mike Regalado, from Bruin 247 and the What's Bruin Show, back to the show, to help them break down the UCLA Bruins in year one of a new regime.Bob Chesney takes over as head coach for the Bruins, following a 16-game run for previous head coach DeShaun Foster which ended after four games in 2025 and a 5-11 overall record. Chesney, meanwhile, is fresh off a playoff appearance with James Madison, and a 21-6 record in two seasons with the Dukes. He succeeded Curt Cignetti and JMU, and his ascent through the ranks has drawn comparisons to the now-national-title-winning coach, though some key differences exist between the two coaches' ascent. Cignetti comps, however, are likely to continue. Are these fair? And how has Chesney acclimated to his new program and life in Southern California?He has a key weapon at QB, with Nico Iamaleava returning for a second season following a late-spring transfer to the Bruins in 2025. His statistical profile didn't live up to his five-star billing, though he didn't exactly have much help last season. How has be been meshing with Chesney and new OC Dean Kennedy, who follows Chesney from JMU and had great success with mobile QB Alonza Barnett last season?Defensively, the Bruins struggled to create havoc in 2025, with only 10 sacks and 40 TFLs for the season. Colin Hitschler likewise follows from JMU and he brings several of his defensive stalwarts from the Dukes' Sun Belt-winnings squad with him. What are we expecting the scheme to look like, and do the Bruins have enough mass on the defensive line to hold up against Big Ten rushing attacks?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton welcome Roman Tomashoff back to the show, to help them break down the Washington Huskies.It was an offseason of brief tumult for Jedd Fisch's program. QB Demond Williams attempt to flirt with the transfer portal was thwarted by contracts. Reported updates make the offseason drama seem like water under the bridge ... is this accurate? And how has the QB won back the trust of his teammates?He leads a team that will be missing several top weapon from last year's team, with Denzel Boston and Jonah Coleman off to the NFL; and Adam Mohammad and Raiden Vines-Bright both leaving through the portal. The RB position seems most perilous, with several members of the room missing portions of spring with injury. Who should be be looking out for in this room? And who can we expect to see step up, outside of Decker de Graaf and Dezmun Roebuck, at pass catcher?The Huskies defense was very good last season under new DC Ryan Walters, finishing 11th nationally in rush D and 15th in scoring D. Where can this defense hold steady, and improve the most, to take another leap in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton welcome Matt Flip from the Roar Lions Roar Blog back to the show, to help them break down the Penn State Nittany Lions heading into a new era.After a season that failed to live up to any of the preseason expectations, out is James Franklin and in comes Matt Campbell, and with him a host of former Iowa State Cyclones. What can we expect from this squad, which will feature a manageable schedule, as well as Campbell working with a new defensive coordinator for the first time since his Toledo tenure.Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue rolling through fall previews, tonight taking on the Minnesota Golden Gophers. To help the guys, Ryan Burns from Gophers Illustrated on the 247 network joins the show.In a conference of prominent freshmen QBs in 2025, Minnesota's Drake Lindsey flew under the radar nationally -- with nearly 2400 passing yards, 18 TDs and only 6 INTs. However, his 5.9 yards per attempt was 125th nationally, and Minnesota's yards per play overall was 120th nationally. Part of the reason for that was a dearth of injuries to the Gophers backfield. Star RB Darius Taylor was in and out of the lineup, while his backup AJ Turner missed nearly the entire season. Can the Gophers' offense improve simply by staying healthy (and is Taylor capable of staying healthy?), or will other adjustments be needed as well?Defensively, Minnesota boasts what should be one of the most fearsome pass rushes in the nation. Anthony Smith's 12.5 sacks led the Big Ten a year ago, and he is within spitting distance of the program's all-time sack mark. Now-sophomore Carter Menz had 6.5 sacks in only nine games played. Cal portal import TJ Bush had 5.5 himself in 2025. Maverick Baranowski is an all-conference caliber linebacker. CB John Nestor led the Big Ten in interceptions a season ago. Safety Kerry Brown is one of the best returning players at his position in the conference. How far can this defense carry the Gophers against a schedule that has its challenges, but misses both Ohio State and Oregon?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue their tour through the midwest, tonight breaking down the Maryland Terrapins. To do so, Jeff Erman from Inside MD Sports joins the show to help the guys dig into Mike Locksley's squad.The Terps head coach found himself on a fair share of hot seat lists entering last season. A 4-8 campaign that ended with eight consecutive losses certainly did not quell the noise nationally. However, a talented group of now-sophomores certainly gives this fanbase a lot to be excited about in 2026, led by QB Malik Washington. Washington was asked to carry the bulk of the load offensive last season and he held up well. His 473 pass attempts tied for seventh nationally. A big reason for the over-reliance on Washington was another paltry season from the run game. In comes offensive coordinator Clint Trickett from Jacksonville State, who led the 5th-best run offense in the nation a year ago. How will Maryland be able to marry last year's pass-heavy attack, with Trickett's run-heavy philosophy.On defense last season the Terps allowed at least 34 points five times in an eight-game losing streak to close the season. However, they have one of the better young edge rushing duos in the country with sophomores Sidney Stewart and Zahir Mathis. They add five-star freshman Zion Elee to that mix. How good can this pass rush be, and where does Maryland need to improve most to become a more well-rounded unit in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue their deep dive into Big Ten previews, tonight discussing the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. To help the guys, Richie O'Leary from Rutgers On3 joins the show.Greg Schiano has now won three or fewer Big Ten games in five of his six seasons back at Rutgers. Despite a breakout performance from RB Antwan Raymond and the passing attack in 2025, the Knights were 2-7 in conference play. Now QB Athan Kaliakmanis departs. Is there pressure on Schiano in 2026 to get this team back to bowl eligibility?Rutgers brought in Boston College (and former Bama) QB Dylan Lonergan to compete with returning AJ Surace for the starting job. Is there a preconceived lean on this QB competition, and what does each guy bring to the table?Defensively, Rutgers was not good in 2025. They once again went to the portal for experienced G6 edge rushers, after a failed experiment in this realm in 2025. Will it yield different results in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

The guys continue to roll through fall previews. Tonight Ryan and Clinton are breaking down the Purdue Boilermakers, and Jordan Jones from the Boilers and Beyond re-joins the show to help them do so.Year one under Barry Odom did not look too differently on the record sheet than the final season under Ryan Walters did. But he undertook a massive rebuild, even by college football portal era circa 2026 standards. But with rival Indiana's surge to the top of the college football world, as well as Notre Dame's continued staying power, does this proximity-to-success give a sense of angst to a fanbase that has a proud football tradition?On the field, Ryan Brown returns for his third season as starting QB. He took a nice step forward last season, though turnovers were a bit of an issue, and helped Purdue's offense modestly improve from 125th in total offense in 2024, to 102nd last season. What can we expect from Browne in 2026, and how much will that depend on a quartet of WR transfers -- led by Iowa State's Xavier Townsend -- establishing themselves as productive options?On defense, Keven Kane returns as DC, having spent 2025 as Minnesota's outside LB/nickels coach after a two-year stint as the Boilermakers' DC in 2023-24 under Walters. He helped guide a Gophers' unit last season that finished second in the Big Ten in tackles for a loss and 27th nationally in rush defense. What can we expect his scheme to look like? He has good ammo at the LB corp with returning Charles Corea (96 tackles, 7,5 TFL) plus transfer imports JoJo Hayden (Illinois) and Tre Moore (San Diego).Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

It's not quite summer yet but fall preview season is officially upon us. To better space out shows and to accommodate for some vacation time, we are getting a head start on previews this year. But some things stay the same, and kicking things off for the third straight year, the guys start with the Northwestern Wildcats, and are pleased to once again be joined by Matt Shelton from Wildcat Report on the On3 Network.We've joked about the stadium and the size but all things considered we will cherish the last few games of it this season prior to the Ryan Field re-opening in October. Matt discusses the excitement around the program with this stadium enhancement forthcoming.With all the coaching turnover in the league, one of the more underrated and under-the-radar moves was the Wildcats tabbing national-championship-winning offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to call this offense in 2026 (plus the addition of one-time UCLA wunderkind Jerry Neuheisel as QB coach). What can this offense look like with Kelly, a new, mobile QB in Aidan Chiles, and deep RB room and an underrated WR corps?On defense, the Wildcats had good counting stats but were more middle-of-the-back in yards per play allowed. Talent returns (including all-conference player in S Robert Fitzgerald). But the Wildcats struggled to get consistent pressure last year, and leading sack-getter Aidan Hubbard is off to the next level (plus the transfer of Anto Saka to Texas A&M). David Braun has done well coaching defenses ... who can he get to step up to help bolster than unit in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. We are back into fall preview season. Episodes will be live on Youtube throughout the week as schedule permits, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on our fall preview episode schedule, to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show. Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform to get notified as soon as a new episode drops so you never miss a show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Another day another blow to NCAA football as we know it. The guys start the show with a quick take on a Texas judge granting Texas Tech QB Brenden Sorsby a temporary injunction to be eligible for the 2026 CFB season, despite an NCAA suspension for gambling on his own team's games. But for the bulk of the show, the guys take a stab a predicting an All-Big Ten team for the 2026 season, covering offense and defense.Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Happy June! We are one month closer to the season, which means we are one month closer to preview content, which means it's time to start thinking about the things that matter most: beating the team you hate.Ohio State/Michigan gets its flowers as the best rivalry in the sport, but what about the other games that get our juices flowing? In this episode, Ryan and Clinton rank their top-5 Big Ten rivalries outside of The Game.Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton are back, and and with preview season coming down the pipe, they take a look at post-spring win total projections for each Big Ten team, and decide whether they would take the over or the under on that specific number. Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton are back, and they are looking ahead to the games of the season. Each co-host ranks his top-five most anticipated matchups in the midwest of the upcoming 2026 college football season. No specific criteria was employed, and each co-host was given free reigns to determine what was most important to them when selecting their games. Did your team have a contest make the cut? Tune in to find out!Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Who loves rankings? You love rankings, and the guys obliged you with this week's episode. Ryan and Clinton go, 1-18, their own personal rankings of the projected starting runnings backs in the Big Ten heading into 2026. Do you agree? Did one of the guys make you mad with their idiotic list? Let us know!Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

It's the dog days of summer, officially. Spring ball has concluded, May is here, and we are three months away from preseason camps kicking off. You know what that means: it's time to concoct dumb scenarios that probably aren't going to happen, and decide which is more likely to come to fruition.Ryan and Clinton play a version of "This or That?" Both co-hosts have formulated a handful of hypothetical situations, and pairing two against each other, they decide which of the two unlikely outcomes is more likely to come to fruition during the 26-27 college football season. Get your popcorn and undoubtedly get mad, and see what nonsense the guys have come up with. Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

It's draft season! And to honor the occasion Ryan and Clinton are drafting Big Ten positions groups ... but with a twist.In what will be a season-long game, each co-host will draft a team in which each pick is an entire position group (QB, RB, WR/TE, OL, D, ST). To make things more interesting, each position group has been assigned a hypothetical dollar value, ranging between $1 and $5, and each team will have a salary cap of $18. Spend big on proven productions? Or look for bargains and build the deepest overall team? What will each of our co-hosts choose in a game that will be fun to track as the season progresses.Tier prices listed below:Tiers:QB$5 OSU, Oregon$4 Indiana, USC, Washington$3 Michigan, UCLA, Penn St, Maryland$2 Nebraska, Illinois, Michigan St, Northwestern, Minnesota, Wisconsin$1 Iowa, Rutgers, PurdueRB$5 Michigan, Oregon, USC$4 OSU, Indiana$3 Michigan St, Iowa, Rutgers, Minnesota, Northwestern, UCLA, Penn St, Illinois$2 Nebraska, Wisconsin, Washington$1 Purdue, MarylandWR/TE$5 OSU, Oregon, Indiana$4$3 Washington, Michigan, Northwestern, Rutgers, USC, Nebraska$2 Michigan St, Minnesota, UCLA, Iowa, Penn St, Illinois$1 Purdue, Maryland, WisconsinOL$5 USC, Indiana $4 Washington, OSU, Iowa, Oregon$3 Michigan, Penn St, Nebraska, Illinois $2 Northwestern, Michigan St, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Maryland$1 Purdue, UCLA, RutgersD$5 Oregon, Indiana$4 OSU, Michigan, Iowa$3 Minnesota, Washington, Nebraska, Penn St, $2 Northwestern, USC, Illinois, Michigan St, UCLA, Wisconsin$1 Rutgers, Purdue, MarylandST$5 Purdue, psu, iowa$4 iu, nw, ill$3 Maryland, Oregon, osu$2 Rutgers, Nebraska, ucla, Washington $1 wisc, usc, msu, Michigan, minnJoin us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton are back on the weekly grind with ranking shows and other various musings. This week, the guys talk top defenses in the Big Ten and each ranks their top five. Who came out on top? And what went into each of their rankings?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton are back on the weekly grind with ranking shows and other various musings. This week, the guys talk top offenses in the Big Ten and each ranks their top five. Who came out on top? And what went into each of their rankings?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday live at 9 pm est on Youtube until fall previews begin in July, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Spring spotlights are over and we are back to once-weekly programming with rankings, debates, and other fun discussions to fill your time and preoccupy your offseason blues. Tonight, Ryan and Clinton discuss their preseason top-5 quarterbacks in the Big Ten conference. Who are the names they are looking at? Are they looking at the same group of players? How do they feel about the position at large in the conference this year?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Wisconsin.After another disappointing year, the Badgers retained head coach Luke Fickell with a promise to invest more heavily in the roster. Mission accomplished -- somewhat -- with 33 incoming transfers. Much of the work was done on the defensive side of the ball. The Badges could be looking at four transfers starting in the secondary when they take on Notre Dame to begin the season, with the goal of helping bolster a pass defense that finished 62nd in yards per game against last season. The rush defense was better, but seven DL transfers come in to help offset front seven losses to the NFL and portal.On offense, QB Colton Joseph is the latest portal add for Wisconsin and he will look to avoid the injury plague that befuddled his previous three predecessors. Joseph, from Old Dominion, was a competent passer last season -- 59.6% completion, 2,624 yards with 21 TDs to 10 INTs. But he makes plays in the running game, finishing last season with 1,007 yards and 13 TDs on the ground. Can he bring forth that running threat to the Big Ten and add another dimension to this Wisconsin offense?He will need help, and for better or worse the Badgers will see a makeover at the skill positions in 2026. Their top four receivers from last year have departed -- they bring in three portal adds at WR with varying levels of production at varying levels of competition. Leading rusher Darrion Dupree returns, though with only 363 yards he is hardly entrenched as a starter. The Badgers also add three RBs from the portal, including 750-yard rusher Abu Sama from Iowa State. Can any of the portal adds -- or the returning players -- step up to be a go-to guy for this offense? Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Washington.The story of the trenches for Washington in 2026 will be told by an experienced OL, and a young, but talented, DL. The Huskies return for OL starters from last year's team, and bring in 5-star freshman Kodi Greene to compete for the fifth spot. On the DL, added pieces in the portal and will look to several former 4-star recruits to step up onto more prominent roles this season to help carry over a defense that finished 11th nationally last season defending the run, but often struggled getting pressure on the QB.On the offensive side of the ball, RB Jonah Coleman is off to the next level after an injury-plagued and somewhat disappointing 2025. Is backup, Adam Mohammad, transferred to Cal. The Huskies brought in two portal additions -- including former Oregon Duck Jayden Limar -- but both are out for spring recovering from surgeries. Will their absence allow a returning player, or perhaps an incoming freshman, ascend to a prominent role in the offense?At WR, Freshman All-American Dezmen Roebuck returns but leading receiver Denzel Boston is off to the NFL. The room also suffers from portal attrition. Two portal receivers enter, as do a trio of incoming blue-chip freshmen. Can this room perform at a similar level to 2025 and help out star QB Demond Williams?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Notre Dame.In 2025, Notre Dame had one of the best runnings games in college football -- ranking 3rd nationally averaging 5.7 yards per carry -- on the strength of a generational backfield in Jeremyiah Love and Jadarian Price. They achieved this (2,046 combined rushing yards, 29 combined rushing TDs) despite below-expectations play from the offensive line. With both backs off the the NFL, can Notre Dame come close to replicating last season's rushing offense with an improved offensive line, and a still-capable stable of running backs on the roster?QB CJ Carr may be the best returning starting quarterback the Irish have had since Brady Quinn in 2006, and he is among the best returning QBs in the nation. However, he will need to get established with a new cast of WRs, as Notre Dame's 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th leading yards-producing receivers in 2025 are no longer on the roster. The room is as deep and talented as it has been in Marcus Freeman's tenure as head coach. However, can one (or two) of those players step up to be a true game-breaker for Carr out wide?On defense, the Irish secondary should be among the best in the nation. They were fine getting after the QB last year -- finishing 26th nationally in sack rate, and finished 12th nationally in rush defense. That defensive line gets a bit of a makeover this season via the portal and high school recruiting. Can returning players Boubacar Traore and Bryce Young take a step forward in 2026, and can the imports on the interior successfully replace the players lost to graduation?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking USC.For whatever faults he may have as a head coach, developing QBs and prolific offenses is not one of them for Lincoln Riley. He returns a strong, experience signal caller in 2026 with Jayden Maiava returning after throwing for 3700 yards and 24 TDs a season ago. However, four of USC's top five pass-catchers in terms of yards from last season have either transferred or gone pro. Now-sophomore Tanook Hines is a key returning piece to the WR room. NC State transfer Terrell Anderson also figures to be a key piece. But the rest of the room is bereft of experience, albeit talented. Will a freshman pass catcher step up to help carry the load?What the WR room make lack in experience, the OL and RB rooms more than make up for. USC returns five OL with significant starting experience, and their top two rushers from 2025. Riley's offense ran the ball more often and more effectively in 2025 than the previous two seasons -- with a lack of experience out wide, will USC lead more heavily on this talented and experienced run game in 2026?On defense, former long-time TCU head coach Gary Patterson joins the staff as their defensive coordinator == replacing the departed-for-Penn-State D'Anton Lynn. The defense progressively improved in Lynn's two seasons, but was still middle-of-the-pack at best in 2025. However, the Trojans have stepped up their recruiting and portal game and despite some questions at LB and in the secondary, should have plenty of talented depth in 2026 across the board. Can they turn that talent into production? Can Gary Patterson snap Lincoln Riley out of his defensive trance? Or will it be same song, different chorus for the Trojans's defense in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking UCLA.The Bruins were a train wreck under DeShaun Foster last season, with a brief reprieve upon his firing and the promotion of Tim Skipper to interim head coach. That lasted three games before a five-game losing streak (with only one game being within three scores) saw them finish 3-9. In comes Bob Chesney from James Madison. He brings with him, among others, start RB Wayne Knight -- who rushed for nearly 1400 yards for the playoff Dukes. His import looks to bolster a UCLA rush attack that finished last season 85th in yards per game.In 2025 the entire offense ran through QB Nico Iamaleava. To help him, Chesney and staff brought in six transfer portal WRs. Who are the names to know here and will one (or more) of them step up?On defense, the Bruins's DL managed only 10 sacks last season. Sahmir West -- another JMU import -- was the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year and was a freshman All-America last season, posting seven sacks and 14 TFLs last season. At 6-4, 270 pounds, he has the length and mass needed to carry that success forward into the Big Ten. Four other key transfers join West on the DL, as the Bruins look to better affect the QB in 2026. Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Rutgers.Athan Kaliakmanis took a big step forward in year two of Kirk Ciarrocca's offense last season, just in time to jump for the NFL. Replacing him will either be 2025 backup AJ Surace, or Boston College transfer Dylan Lonergan. Surace attempted only two passes against P4 competition last season, while Lonergan had an up and down season at BC. Can Ciarrocca squeeze enough out of the QB position to replicate last season's 27th-best passive attack?To help, they will need someone at WR to step up. Star WR KJ Duff returns, but running mates Ian Strong (Cal) and DT Sheffield (NFL) are gone. a group of young players appears poised to take the next step, but can one of them make a move to be a legitimate No. 2 option to take heat off Duff?On defense, Rutgers was catastrophically bad in 2025. To address this, head coach Greg Schiano went hard at the portal and brought in what could be upwards of seven transfers who will start game one. Edge rushers Malachi Davis (Toledo) and J'Dan Burnett (Tulsa) join the fray, and four new transfers come in at CB. Will that be enough to give the Scarlet Knights's defense a boost in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Purdue.Year 1 for Barry Odom felt like a step in the right direction for Purdue despite going 2-10. On offense, he relied on part-time 2024 starter (and spring 2025 portal addition) Ryan Browne at QB with mixed results. A strong start to the season (250+ yards in four of Purdue's first five games) ended with him not hitting that mark again once in the final seven contests, and included five games at fewer than 140 pass yards. Can a portal haul at OL and WR help turn the Boilers' fortunes on offense in 2026?That offense will continue out without -- for what seems like the first time in 15 years -- RB Devin Mockobee, who is off to the NFL Draft. Three RBs come in from the portal in Jerrick Gibson (Texas), Fame Ijejboi (Minnesota) and Travis Terrell Jr (Jackson St). On defense, Purdue snagged only four INTs last season and was PFF's worst-graded pass defense. With a slew of talented QBs on the 2026 schedule, Purdue attempted to bolster the back end with eight portal additions. Will that make a difference or will it be another long season for the Boilermakers's back end?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Penn State.Last season was an abject failure for the Nittany Lions. With it came a coaching change and an exciting new era with Matt Campbell. It also brings plenty of roster turnover, with 46 players heading out via the transfer portal and 39 coming in. We've seen roster flips and early success with several programs the last few seasons, but was the portal a net positive or net negative for Penn State?One of the key portal additions for Penn State was Iowa State QB Rocco Becht. After a strong 2024 season, he took a step back in 2025 after two of his top receivers left for the NFL. Much of that receiver room he struggled with follows him to Happy Valley. Can Becht rediscover his 2024 form? On defense, D'Anton Lynn returns to his alma mater to leave a defense that was fine in 2025 under Jim Knowles. They had their moments but underachieved relative to expectations. With a new scheme and a lot of new faces, what will this unit look like in 2025?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Oregon.Oregon has been a steady beacon in two seasons in the Big Ten, going 26-3 in two seasons, with two of those three defeats coming in the CFP. Now, Dan Lanning must wade through coordinator turnover with DC Tosh Lupoi and OC Will Stein both getting head coaching jobs. Lanning stayed in-house with replacements, promoting his co-OC (Drew Mehringer) and co-DC (Chris Hampton) to lead coordinators. Mehringer has one season of OC experience with Rutgers in 2016, while Hampton was DC at Tulane in 2021 and 2022. Can these two, with limited play calling experience continue the run of strong coordinators in Eugene?The Ducks are loaded with talent, but one question could be the linebacker spot. Bryce Boettcher is off to the NFL after leading the Ducks with 136 tackles last season. Fourth-leading (and leading sack-getter) tackler Teitum Tuioti returns, as does fifth-leading tackler Jerry Mixon. Can either take a step forward to be the leader of this defense that Boettcher was in 2025?On offense, Dante Moore gets the headlines but he is helped out by an excellent WR room. Evan Stewart missed 2025 with a torn patellar tendon but looks to return to form and should be healthy enough to participate in spring. Dakorien Moore had a strong freshman season and could be primed for a big 2026. Jeremiah McClellan led the team with 557 yards in 2025 and likewise could be primed for another big step forward this season. To further bolster the room, they import Iverson Hooks from UAB (72 catches, 927 yards, 7 TD in 2025).Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Ohio State.The Buckeyes OL bolsters 34 returning starts, and plenty of intriguing names come back in that room. How much position shifting will occur and what might the starting five look like in 2026?Perhaps the biggest change with Ohio State comes with the departure of one-year playcaller but long-time assistant Brian Hartline, who finally spread his wings and flew away from Columbus to a head coaching job with USF. The WR room gets a bit of a makeover, with Carnell Tate off to the NFL and Bryson Rogers, Mylan Graham and Quincey Porter hitting the portal. But Jeremiah Smith is back to dominate college football. Brandon Innis returns, and in come talented freshman Chris Henry Jr. and Jerquaden Gilford, in addition to transfers Kyle Parker (LSU) and Devin McCuin (UTSA). Can new WR coach Cortez Hankton keep the tradition of WRU moving forward?On defense, the Buckeye once again will lose a plethora of talented production. LBs Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese depart, as does S Caleb Downs. Jaylen McClain returns as safety but the Buckeyes also hit the portal to bring in Earl Little Jr (Florida State) and Terry Moore (Duke). How will the Ohio State back end shape up in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Northwestern.One of the most intriguing hires of the offseason was OC Chip Kelly, back in the Big Ten after a year in the NFL. He teams up with transfer QB Aidan Chiles, himself an import from Michigan State. With a good amount of skill talent to work with at RB and WR, will the marriage yield Will Howard-esque results for Northwestern in 2026, or will it look more like 2023 then-true freshman Dante Moore?Northwestern had a strong OL in 2025 particularly in pass protection, where they allowed 17 sacks in 13 games. Three (and maybe four?) of last year's starting OL is out the door. Starting LG Ezomo Oratokhai returns, while starting C Jackson Carsello is waiting on a ruling for a sixth-year waiver. The Wildcats brought in one of the portal's best OTs in Oklahoma State's Grant Seagren, but also return several part-time contributors from 2025 looking to slide into the starting lineup. Can this group help ease Chiles's transition?On defense, five of the team's top-10 tacklers from 2025 have graduated -- which does not include star DE Anto Saka's transfer to Texas A&M. However, the Wildcats return a key player at each level, bolstered on the back end by the Big Ten's leading solo tackler Robert Fitzgerald. Can this unit that was good in 2025, but only forced 19 turnovers, take a big step forward in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Nebraska.Rob Aurich joins Matt Rhule's staff as defensive coordinator. He had a largely successful run with San Diego State, where he called what was one of the nation's best defenses in both yards per game and points per game in 2025. How with this translate to Nebraska, which boasted one of the nation's best pass defenses in 2025, but ranked 100th nationally in yards per game against the run?At QB, favorite son Dylan Railoa left via the portal for Oregon. After a flirtation with Kenny Minchey, the Huskers landed UNLV transfer Anthony Colandrea in the portal. He will compete with four-game starter TJ Lateef for the starting roll in 2026. What does Collandrea bring and how might he fit into Dana Holgerson's offense if he wins the job?One of the brightest spots of Nebraska's 2025 season was RB Emmett Johnson, who is off to the NFL. Despite Johnson's 1451 yards and 12 TDs on the ground, the Huskers otherwise struggled running the football. Who will step up to carry the load (no pun intended) in 2026?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Minnesota.Drake Lindsey took over under center for Minnesota in 2025 and had a fine season overall. He took care of the ball well with 18 TDs to 6 INTs, but the passing offense lacked explosiveness. The Gophers ranked 127th nationally at 5.9 yards per attempt for the season. Coupled with a rushing offense that struggled to gain momentum, and you have an offense that ranked in the bottom third in FBS in points per game. Lindsey will need to take his game to the next level, but would benefit from help out wide.Also helping would be a healthy Darius Taylor. After a mostly healthy 2024, the Gopher's star RB missed three full games in 2025 and large chunks of two others. Can he stay on the field and get back to the form he showed in 2024 where he had 12 TDs and 1300 all-purpose yards?New DL coach CJ Robbins enters and inherits an edge group that should be among the best in the Big Ten. Anthony Smith has a legitimate change to finish 2026 as the program's all-time sack leader, while now-sophomore Karter Menz had 6.5 sacks in 8 games last season. But 1400 snaps leave the interior DL. Can Robbins get this group up to speed? Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Michigan State.QB play was not a bright spot for this squad a year ago but neither start had help from his OL. The Spartans allowed 37 sacks a year ago, and struggled to consistently open run lanes. Can several transfer portal adds help shore up this unit?While they could not protect their own QB, the Spartans defense could also not affect any pressure on opposing QBs with only 22 sacks accrued in 2025. Is there a player on the roster who can step up to help turn that tide in 2026?In the secondary, CB Charles Brantley returns after a one-year run at Miami. He led MSU in INTs and PBUs in 2024. Can he help give a boost to a unit that struggled in 2025?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Michigan.A year ago Michigan won nine games despite a still-lacking passing attack and a head coach who was ... preoccupied. With a serious staff (and a real QB coach) what might be this offense's ceiling with Kyle Whittingham and Jason Beck calling the shots?Part of that depends on someone stepping up out wide. Andrew Marsh established himself as a No. 1 target in 2025. Will a transfer -- or a player already in toe -- step up beside him to give Michigan another pass-catching threat?On defense, Michigan had turnover in the secondary but plenty of talent remains. But at linebacker, top player Cole Sullivan leaves for Oklahoma. Who will step up to help fill the void?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, talking Maryland.Maryland built its 2025 offense around true freshman QB Malik Washington and he delivered well. However he did not have much help from the run game and the Terps' top-three receivers are off to the NFL. What will this offense look like under new OC Clint Trickett?Maryland struggled defensively as 2025 progressed, particularly against the run where they ranked 15th in the Big Ten, allowing 175.6 yards per game on the ground. To address this, Maryland brought in a handful of interior DL transfers. What are we looking for from this unit?At the edge, Zahir Mathis and Sidney Stewart had big years in 2025, and they add class of 2026 5-start prospect Zion Elee to the mix. Could this fearsome attack off the edge help a Terps defense that finished 48th nationally in sacks per game a year ago?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, touching on Iowa. Another 9-win season in 2025, with a win against playoff-contending Vanderbilt in the bowl game showed the consistency of Kirk Ferentz's program. However, turnover will be abound with this team in 2026.That starts at the QB position. After portal shopping the last year years, and having good success with Mark Gronowski in 2025, the Hawkeyes will look to turn to an in-house solution (who also previously transferred in) in 2026 with Jeremy Hecklinski or Hank Brown. How with this alter the offensive identity?Out wide, we know Iowa has a case for TEU and they should be well-stocked at that position. But they turned to the FCS ranks to re-stock the WR position with productive players. Can they handle the jump in physicality of Big Ten defenses?One of the hallmarks of Iowa football has been special teams play. But for the first time since 2007, LaVar Woods will not be on this staff. Can the Hawkeyes special teams units remain elite game-wreckers?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton continue to roll through Big Ten spring spotlights, touching on Illinois. After a breakout 2024 led to a strong, but maybe short of expectations 2025, where will the team head in 2026?They will be led by a new QB with three-year starter Luke Altmyer off for the NFL. In comes ECU transfer Katin Houser, he of 2023 Michigan State lore. A big body with a strong arm and a more physical run style, will Illinois alter its offensive look in 2026 to accommodate the new signal caller?He will need help from his OL, which was not good enough in 2025 but replaces four of five starters. Who are names to know along this unit?On defense, new DC Bobby Hauck imports a 3-3-5 defense that will put more on an Illinois secondary that was injury-riddled in 2025 but returns a plethora of talent, despite several losses. Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

Ryan and Clinton return from hiatus to begin a journey through the midwest as spring ball begins to kick off. The guys open with the defending national champion Indiana Hoosiers, with three items to observe for in the spring.On the edge, Mikhail Kamara departs after a successful two year run in Bloomington following a transfer from JMU. To help ease his loss, along with several others, the Hoosiers hit the portal hard. Who are the names to know this spring.Out wide, Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper are off to the NFL, but 2025 breakout star Charlie Becker returns for new QB Josh Hoover. Michigan State transfer Nick Marsh enters, and who else should we be keeping our eyes on?In the backfield, Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black also depart. In what has been a running-back-by-committee in two years for Curt Cignetti in Bloomington, will we see more of the same in 2026 or will a bell cow emerge?Join us on our Youtube channel live for shows. Spring time will feature shows Monday and Thursday live at 9 pm est until the conclusion of spring ball, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

In part four of our four part February series, Ryan and Clinton talk coaching carousel. In the Big Ten, four new head coaching jobs start in 2026: Pat Fitzgerald returns to the Big Ten at Michigan State; Matt Campbell takes the next step in his career moving to Penn State; Bob Chesney jumps from James Madison to UCLA; and Kyle Whittingham stepped down at Utah and took Michigan's vacant posting. What are aspects of these hires we like that could indicate coming success? What are some potential trepidations with these hires that give us cause for pause. Additionally, the guys talk a couple OC/DC new hires to watch for. Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

In part three of our four part February series, Ryan and Clinton talk transfer portal. In the Big Ten, who are key names to know for each team, and who is a player who might be flying under the radar ready for a big breakout?Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

In part two of our four-part February series, Ryan and Clinton reminisce and eulogize the Southeastern Football Conference, which has now gone three consecutive seasons without playing in a national championship game. What has led to this shift in the power dynamics of college football, and will the shift in power toward the Midwest continue moving forward?Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

You have questions, we have answers (mostly). In part one of four of the guy's February pre-recorded series, the guys tackle user questions. From early playoff predictions, to past dream jobs, the guys tackle a wide range of topics.Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaI

The Indiana Hoosiers are champions of the college football world for the first time in program history, To commemorate the occasion, friend of the show Sammy Jacobs of Hoosier Huddle re-joins the show to talk about Indiana's unprecedented season. How did this come together? When did he know that this year's team had a chance to be special? How does one react to being a national champion? And what comes next for Curt Cignetti and this program?Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp

The CFB season is at an end and Ryan and Clinton return to recap Indiana's magical run to national champions with a 27-21 win against Miami. Where does this rank in terms of "best CFP stories of all time," and what staying power do the Hoosiers have?Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp

The CFB season is at an end and Ryan and Clinton return for their last preview of the 2025 season for the National Championship game between Miami and Indiana. The Hoosiers are looking to win their first national title in program history, and finalize the first 16-0 season in the history of the sport. To do so they will have to take down the Hurricanes in Miami. The guys break down key matchups and give their last prediction of the season. Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp

Ryan and Clinton reconvene to recap Indiana's 56-22 win in the CFP semifinal against Oregon. How did we get here? What is next for the Ducks? And is an Indiana national title inevitible?Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp

We have reached the college football semifinal, and we are graced with a rematch of one of the premier games of the regular season with Indiana taking on Oregon with a spot in the National Title Game on the line. Will the Ducks avenge their midseason defeat at the hands of the Hoosiers, or will Curt Cignetti's squad continue their undefeated run? Ryan and Clinton break down the matchup and pick the winner.Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp

The CFP quarterfinals have come and gone and with a lone exception the first-round bye was once again unkind to teams, with the purported top-4 seeds falling to a combined 1-7 in the two-year history of the 12-team playoff. However, a midwest school was able to buck that trend, set up an anticipated semifinal rematch, and ensures the Big Ten will be playing for a national title for the third consecutive season.In the first game, Ohio State was befuddled by a violent Miami front seven. The Hurricanes, with few exceptions, kept Ohio State's offense bottled up with seven tackles for loss, including five sacks. Heisman finalist Julian Sayin threw for 287 yards, but had two interceptions -- including a crucial pick-six in a decisive second quarter that gave Miami a 14-0 lead. Has Clinton recovered? And where does he think things went wrong for Ohio State?In the early New Years Day game, Oregon's defense out-dueled Texas Tech's elite unit with a 23-0 win. Dan Lanning seemingly had little concern for the Red Raiders's offense with multiple fourth-down conversion attempts near midfield. Like Miami, the Ducks had seven TFLs, including four sacks, and picked off Texas Tech Behren Morton twice.In the catharsis matchup of the day, Indiana did to Alabama what so many Saban-era 'Bama teams did to others, with a smothering 38-3 win that was never in doubt. The Hoosiers stifled the Tide running game, and battled QB Ty Simpson out of the game. The win sets up a rematch with Oregon in this Friday's Peach Bowl.Join us on our Youtube channel live Saturday/Monday/Thursday for shows, with the episode dropping in your podcast feed the following morning. Live time for Monday/Thursday shows will remain 9 pm, while we will go live for instant reactions Saturday night following the games. Follow us on Twitter to get notified when we are going live and to interact with the show.LINKS:Twitter: https://x.com/ITPCFBInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ITPCFB/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-pylon-a-midwest-college-football-podcast/id1729819040Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0duY5MWU52VLBGm8sO7eaIBattle Bets league: https://www.battlebets.app/itp