The Balance

NASCAR is back under the lights at EchoPark Speedway, and there is no shortage of storylines. Tom Marquis welcomes Speedway Digest Editor-in-Chief Steve Wilson to break down everything from Saturday's O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race to tonight's Quaker State 400. The guys dive into the biggest topic in the garage—Carson Hocevar. Is he simply an aggressive young racer following in the footsteps of the sport's toughest competitors, or is he developing a reputation that could make life difficult inside the Cup garage? They discuss what fellow drivers are saying, whether NASCAR needs personalities like Hocevar, and how much patience veterans really have.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Football is back, and so is The Balance! Host Tom Marquis welcomes back Ed Kracz, Philadelphia Eagles beat writer, to kick off another NFL season. From preseason battles and quarterback competitions to offseason winners, rookie impact players, and the biggest questions facing every team, we've got you covered. Which rookie classes are ready to shine? Who's flying under the radar, and who could disappoint? Grab your coffee and join us for 30 minutes of NFL talk as the countdown to Week 1 officially begins.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Tom Marquis welcomes Derek Vance from the Push to Pass Podcast for a fast-paced 30-minute IndyCar conversation following one of the biggest weekends of the season at Mid-Ohio.Arrow McLaren finally breaks through with a historic 1-2 finish as Pato O'Ward grabs his first victory of 2026, but the racing may not even be the biggest story. Scott Dixon's shocking departure from Chip Ganassi Racing has officially launched IndyCar's Silly Season, and the dominoes are already beginning to fall.Who benefits the most? What does this mean for Alex Palou, Chip Ganassi Racing, Arrow McLaren and the rest of the paddock? Plus, championship implications, winners, losers, and what to watch as the series heads toward Iowa.Buckle up—because the championship race just got more interesting, and the driver market just exploded.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The group stage is over. Thirty-two remain. The pressure has officially arrived. Tom Marquis and Adam Jividen break down everything happening at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—from the United States winning its group, the knockout bracket taking shape, Cinderella stories, powerhouse disappointments, Lionel Messi's final World Cup run, the expanded 48-team format, and whether America can finally make a deep run on home soil. The World Cup has shifted from surviving...to winning or going home. Can Mauricio Pochettino lead the USMNT to its greatest tournament ever?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Derik Vance from Push to Pass joins The Balance for a loaded Thursday Evening Drop as he officially helps steer our IndyCar coverage through the rest of the season. Tom Marquis and Derek break down one of the busiest weeks in the paddock: Christian Lundgaard’s stunning Road America comeback win and whether he’s becoming the new performance face of Arrow McLaren, Felix Rosenqvist’s decision to leave Meyer Shank Racing after winning the Indianapolis 500, Marcus Armstrong’s heartbreak and growing breakout status, and what Mid-Ohio testing could mean for the championship race.The guys also dig into Graham Rahal’s pointed comments about crime in Indianapolis, whether his message had merit even if the delivery lit up social media, and how it all fits into the bigger conversation around the city, the series, and the personalities driving the sport. Add in Will Power, Rahal, Palou, the championship chase, and the second-half pressure building across the paddock, and this one has a little bit of everything for IndyCar fans.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

This week on The Balance, host Tom Marquis welcomes back Tony Donohue of The Tony D Podcast to break down everything happening in IndyCar as the championship battle enters a critical stretch.The guys dive into:🏁 Josef Newgarden's huge victory at Gateway🏁 Alex Palou's march toward another championship🏁 David Malukas continuing to prove he belongs among IndyCar's elite🏁 Kyle Kirkwood's breakout season🏁 The state of Team Penske🏁 Arrow McLaren's championship hopes🏁 Road America and the summer schedule ahead🏁 The biggest storylines for the second half of the seasonNo pun intended, but we're bringing you up to speed on everything IndyCar.Stick around—it's about to get good!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NASCAR season is heating up, and every lap matters as the playoff picture starts to take shape.This week on The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of Speedway Digest and The Balance's official NASCAR contributor.The guys break down:🏁 Denny Hamlin's championship pursuit🏁 Tyler Reddick's consistency and playoff chances🏁 The biggest surprises and disappointments of 2026🏁 Who's locked into the playoffs and who's in trouble🏁 The hottest drivers in NASCAR right now🏁 Manufacturer battles between Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota🏁 What storylines fans should watch as the summer stretch beginsPlus Steve makes his playoff predictions and gives us his dark horse championship contender.Strap in—it's about to get good!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The world is coming to the United States! This week on The Balance, host Tom Marquis welcomes back our partner in crime, Adam Jividen—the Great Prognosticator, super Browns fan, super Guardians fan, super Cavs fan, super Buckeyes fan, and one of the biggest soccer fans you'll ever meet. With the World Cup approaching, Adam breaks down everything you need to know: ⚽ How the World Cup works⚽ Why this tournament is different⚽ Team USA's chances⚽ The countries to watch⚽ The superstars that could become household names⚽ Why hosting the World Cup could change sports in America forever Then we shift gears to the NBA Finals where the New York Knicks continue their magical postseason run against the San Antonio Spurs. Can the Knicks finish the job? Can the Spurs respond? Plus, it's time once again for everyone's favorite segment: 🎯 STUMP ADAM! All that and more on The Balance!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Today we remember  Ned Jarrett, the legendary two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Hall of Fame driver, and iconic broadcaster, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Newton, North Carolina, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the age of 93. The NASCAR Cup Series heads to the lightning-fast Michigan International Speedway while the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series looks to continue one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of Speedway Digest and The Balance's official NASCAR contributor, to break down last week's action from Nashville, analyze the latest points battles, discuss the hottest drivers in the garage, and preview what to watch for at Michigan. Can Denny Hamlin keep rolling? Is Tyler Reddick still the championship favorite? Who is emerging as the next Truck Series superstar? Plus, we look at the latest penalties, playoff implications, and the biggest storylines heading into one of NASCAR's fastest tracks. Buckle up—it's about to get good.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NASCAR Cup Series rolls into Music City, and there's no shortage of storylines. Host Tom Marquis  is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of SpeedwayDigest.com and The Balance's official NASCAR contributor, to break down everything happening at Nashville Superspeedway. The guys recap an emotional Coca-Cola 600 weekend that saw Daniel Suarez score a huge victory amid one of the most emotional race weekends NASCAR has experienced in years. They also reflect on the incredible tributes paid to Kyle Busch throughout Memorial Day weekend and discuss the impact his legacy continues to have on the sport. Then it's full speed ahead into Nashville as championship contenders jockey for position, playoff pressure continues to build, and the summer stretch officially begins. Can Suarez stay hot? Will the Toyotas dominate Music City? Is a surprise winner waiting in the wings? Strap in. Nashville is next. Stick around... it's about to get good!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The greatest spectacle in racing delivered everything we could ask for—drama, emotion, heartbreak, and history. Host Tom Marquis  is joined by Tony Donahue of the Tony D Podcast and Unverified as they break down an unforgettable Indianapolis 500. Felix Rosenqvist finally captures IndyCar's biggest prize, cementing his place in Indianapolis 500 history. Meanwhile, David Malukas comes painfully close to his first Indy 500 victory, only to watch the dream slip away in the closing stages. What went right for Rosenqvist? What lessons can Malukas take away? And what does this result mean for the championship battle moving forward? Then the guys shift gears and head north to the streets of Detroit. Can Alex Palou bounce back? Will Team Penske find redemption? Is Detroit set up for another surprise winner? We'll break down the storylines, championship implications, key drivers to watch, and give our predictions for this weekend's Detroit Grand Prix. Stick around...it's about to get good!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NBA Playoffs are absolutely cooking and we finally jump onto the hardwood! Host Tom Marquis  teams up with Adam Jividen — super Browns fan, super Cavs fan, super Guardians fan, super Buckeyes fan... basically a super fan of life and our partner in crime on The Balance. Today we break down the biggest stories in the NBA Playoffs, who the hottest teams are, who is under pressure, and whether these young stars are creating the next NBA dynasty. We also dive into playoff history and hit Adam with a special NBA edition of Stump Adam. Will the Cavaliers fight back? Can the Knicks finally break through? Is OKC becoming the league's next powerhouse? Is Victor Wembanyama becoming a basketball cheat code? Stick around... it's about to get good. Current playoff storylines include the New York Knicks taking a 2-0 Eastern Conference Finals lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers while the Oklahoma City Thunder lead the San Antonio Spurs 2-1 in the Western Conference Finals.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The 2026 Sonsio Grand Prix at IMS delivered one of the wildest races we’ve seen in years. Join Tom Marquis and Tony Donahue as they break down the terrifying Lap 1 crash, Christian Lundgaard’s emotional breakthrough victory for Arrow McLaren, Ganassi’s shocking tire strategy collapse, and dangerous pit lane chaos that nearly injured crew members. With the Month of May officially underway, momentum and pressure are building fast at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. You don’t want to miss this one. Stick around… it’s about to get GOOD.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

We’re back on the gridiron and it’s time to tell the truth. 🏈 Join Tom Marquis, Adam Jividen, and Ed Kratz as they dive into Part 2 of our NFL Draft series. This time, we’re holding EVERY team accountable. We’re comparing our mock draft predictions to what actually happened in the NFL Draft, grading each team, and breaking down who made championship moves—and who might regret their decisions. No fluff. No excuses. Just real analysis as we gear up for the 2026 NFL season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The engines are roaring and the stakes are rising! 🏁Join host Tom Marquis and Steve Wilson from Speedway Digest as they break down all the action from last week’s NASCAR showdown and dive into everything that went down in Texas. From the NASCAR Xfinity Series O’Reilly Auto Parts race recap to a full preview of what’s ahead, this segment covers it all—drivers heating up, teams finding speed, and the chaos that only NASCAR can deliver. We’re talking momentum shifts, playoff implications, and who’s built for the long haul. Buckle up—this one’s fast, fun, and full throttle.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

As the engines start to echo louder across Indiana, The Balance host Tom Marquis is joined by Tony Donahue of the Tony D Podcast and Unverified to break down the IndyCar season so far and set the stage for the greatest spectacle in racing—the Indianapolis 500. From early-season standouts and championship contenders to storylines heating up across the paddock, Tom and Tony dive into everything you need to know heading into the Month of May. Who’s fast? Who’s surprising? And who’s about to make history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Strap in—because it’s about to get loud in Indy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Strap in and hold on tight—because it’s Talladega week, baby. Host Tom Marquis teams up with SpeedwayDigest.com Editor-in-Chief Steve Wilson to break down all the action from the AG-PRO 300 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and get you ready for one of the wildest races in motorsports at Talladega Superspeedway. From last-lap chaos to drafting alliances, the guys dive into what went right, what went wrong, and who’s riding momentum into Sunday’s Cup showdown. Talladega always delivers the unexpected—and this weekend will be no different. Big wrecks? Check. Last-lap passes? Absolutely. Underdogs stealing the spotlight? You already know. Stick around… this one’s about to get FAST.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The biggest draft night of the year deserves the biggest show of the year… and that’s exactly what you get right here on The Balance. Host Tom Marquis is joined by:Adam Jividen – our college football partner in crime, Buckeye/Browns/Cavs/Guardians superfan, and elite prognosticatorEd Kratz – Philadelphia Eagles beat writer for Sports Illustrated and our official NFL insiderThis is our annual mock draft special, and we’re going ALL IN. We’re breaking down:🔥 First-round picks (as many as we can get through)🧠 Team needs and draft strategies🎯 Rotating picks between Tom, Adam, and Ed💣 Surprises, bold calls, and “wait… WHAT?!” momentsIt’s a round-robin war room—each of us stepping into the GM seat, making the call, and putting our reputation on the line. If you want insight… if you want entertainment… if you want to feel like you’re IN the draft room… 👉 This is the mock draft above ALL mock drafts. Stick around… it’s about to get GOOD.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

he Big Board rolls on, and now we get to where games are truly won — in the trenches. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Adam Jividen — Super Browns fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Guardians fan, Super Cavs fan, the Great Prognosticator, proud dad, and partner in crime in all things college football — for Part 3 of The Balance Big Board Series. This week, we break down:🏈 Offensive Tackles — the protectors, the tone-setters, the franchise builders💥 Defensive Playmakers — edge rushers, disruptors, and game-wreckers Who’s rising up draft boards?Who’s flying under the radar?And which players could change the identity of a franchise on Day 1? This is where the physicality meets the future of the league. 👉 Stick around — this is where it starts to get REALLY good.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Short track racing meets full-throttle chaos as NASCAR rolls into Martinsville, and The Balance is ready to break it all down. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of Speedway Digest and the show’s official NASCAR contributor, to talk everything happening in one of the sport’s most iconic venues. We dive into:🏁 Key storylines heading into Martinsville🔥 Drivers under pressure🚗 Short track strategy and tempers🌭 And yes… the legendary Martinsville hot dogs From bump-and-run finishes to playoff implications, Martinsville always delivers — and this weekend will be no different. 👉 Stick around — it’s getting even faster (and louder) in Martinsville.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

We keep the IndyCar conversation rolling on The Balance as the green flag gets closer for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Derek Vance of the Push to Pass Podcast to go even deeper into the weekend ahead in Alabama. We break down:🏎️ Key drivers to watch⚙️ Strategy, track conditions, and race dynamics📊 Who needs a big weekend🏁 Early conversations about the Indianapolis 500 This is where the season starts to take shape — and where contenders begin to separate from the field. 👉 Buckle up — we’re pushing it to the limit in Alabama.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

IndyCar heads south and turns up the speed as we get ready for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, and The Balance is right in the middle of it. Host Tom Marquis  is joined by Tony Donahue of the Tony D Podcast and Unverified, checking in from Alabama as the paddock gets set for one of the most technical road courses on the schedule. We break down the last IndyCar race, take a deep dive into the drivers, teams, and storylines shaping the season, and look ahead to what this weekend means with the Indianapolis 500 right around the corner. Who’s trending up? Who’s searching for speed? And who’s positioning themselves for May? 👉 Stick around — it’s about to get FAST in Alabama.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The Balance Big Board rolls on. Host Tom Marquis is joined once again by Adam Jividen — our resident Super Browns, Guardians, Buckeyes, and Cavaliers fan, college football partner in crime, and The Balance’s Great Prognosticator — as we dive into Part 2 of our NFL Draft Series. This week, we’re focusing on two critical position groups that can change games instantly: 🔥 Wide Receivers – The playmakers, the route runners, the game breakers💪 Defensive Tackles – The disruptors, space eaters, and interior monsters From Carnell Tate to Christian Miller, we’re breaking down: 🏈 Where these prospects could land in the draft📊 First-round potential vs sleeper value👀 Which players are rising up boards🔮 Early predictions heading into The Balance Mock Draft If you want to know who’s climbing, who’s falling, and who could make an impact on Sundays — this is the episode you need. The Big Board is building… and things are getting REAL.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

It’s March… and you know what that means — MADNESS. On this Saturday Drop of The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Josh Elmore aka $2 Bill  Josh to break down everything happening across the men’s NCAA Tournament bracket. We’re hitting all four corners of the bracket: 🏀 What’s already gone crazy💥 Biggest upsets so far👀 Cinderella teams making noise🔮 What chaos is STILL coming Because let’s be honest… it wouldn’t be March without busted brackets and wild predictions. If your bracket is already cooked — don’t worry… you’re not alone 😅Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Draft season has officially begun on The Balance. Host Tom Marquis is joined by our partner in crime for all things college football and NFL draft talk — Adam Jividen, our resident Super Browns fan, Super Guardians fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Cavs fan, incredible dad, and of course The Balance’s Great Prognosticator. Today marks the start of a brand-new series as we unveil The Balance Big Draft Board. Over the next several weeks, Tom and Adam will break down the top prospects across every position group as we get closer to the NFL Draft. In Part 1, we kick things off with the most important positions in football: 🏈 Quarterbacks – Who’s QB1 and which teams could make a move?💥 Defensive Ends / Edge Rushers – The pass rushers that can change games instantly.🏃 Running Backs – If time allows, we’ll start looking at the backs who could impact the league right away. We’ll talk first-round projections, team fits, sleepers, and early draft predictions as we begin building The Balance Big Board. If you love college football, the NFL Draft, and bold predictions, this is the start of a series you won’t want to miss. Let the draft debates begin.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The engines are roaring and NASCAR heads to the desert! On this Saturday Drop of The Balance, host Tom Marquis welcomes back Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of SpeedwayDigest.com and our official NASCAR contributor, to break down everything happening in the world of NASCAR. First, we rewind to Phoenix Raceway, where the NASCAR Cup Series delivered plenty of drama in the desert during the Shiners Children’s 500 weekend. Who impressed? Who struggled? And which drivers are starting to separate themselves early in the season? Then it's Vegas, baby! The NASCAR Cup Series rolls into Las Vegas Motor Speedway, one of the fastest and most exciting intermediate tracks on the circuit. We’ll talk storylines, contenders, dark horses, and what fans should watch for as the series hits the neon lights of Nevada. From Phoenix heat to Vegas speed, we’ve got everything you need to get ready for a big weekend of racing. Strap in. Let’s talk NASCAR.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The engines are fired up and the desert is ready. On this Sunday Drop of The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of SpeedwayDigest.com and official NASCAR contributor, to break down everything happening at Phoenix Raceway. It’s been a massive motorsports weekend in the desert with IndyCar and NASCAR sharing the track, and after a strong IndyCar race and the NASCAR O’Reilly Parts series showdown yesterday, the spotlight now turns to today’s NASCAR Cup race.Leading the field?🏁 Joey Logano on the pole Tom and Steve dive into everything you need to know before the green flag: 🏁 Key drivers to watch🏁 How Phoenix’s fast, flat oval changes strategy🏁 Who looked strong in practice and qualifying🏁 Championship implications early in the NASCAR season🏁 The momentum drivers bringing into today’s race Plus, Steve Wilson brings his expert insight from SpeedwayDigest.com as the guys break down what it will take to conquer the desert. If you're getting ready for race day, this is your NASCAR race preview you don’t want to miss. Start your engines — it’s NASCAR Sunday on The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NFL Combine is over… and now the real chaos begins. On this Saturday Drop of The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Ed Kratz, beat writer for SI.com covering the Philadelphia Eagles and official NFL contributor to the show. Now that the stopwatches are put away in Indianapolis, front offices across the league are scrambling to adjust their 2026 NFL Draft boards. Tom and Ed break down:🏈 Combine winners and losers🏈 Players who skyrocketed their draft stock🏈 Prospects who may have cost themselves millions🏈 The latest buzz around quarterbacks and top picks🏈 What teams like the Eagles and others might do on draft night Plus — early predictions on who goes where as the road to the 2026 NFL Draft heats up. If you love draft speculation, scouting drama, and front office strategy, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. The NFL offseason is officially in full swing.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Start your engines — IndyCar is back in the desert! On this Saturday Drop of The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Derek Vance of the Push to Pass Podcast to break down one of the most unique race weekends of the year. Phoenix Raceway becomes the epicenter of motorsports with IndyCar and NASCAR sharing the same track on the same weekend — a rare desert doubleheader that race fans absolutely love. The guys dive into:🏁 David Malukas earning his first career NTT P1 Pole Award🏁 What Phoenix means for the 2026 IndyCar championship picture🏁 Strategy, tire wear, and the unique challenges of racing in the desert🏁 How IndyCar drivers approach a track that NASCAR will race later the same night🏁 What teams learned from St. Pete heading into Race #2 Plus Derek gives his insider insight on what to watch for when the green flag drops in Phoenix. It’s IndyCar talk, racing strategy, and desert speed on this special Saturday motorsports edition of The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Alright… Homer Cap ON. 🧢 Indy radio legend Matt Hicks joins The Balance for a full-on Colts breakdown. No holding back. We tackle:The state of the Colts in 2026Anthony Richardson — progression or pressure?Front office decisionsPlayoff expectationsWhat Indy fans should realistically expectThis is passionate. This is honest. This is Colts football the way we talk about it in Indianapolis. We’re not neutral on this one — and that’s okay.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NFL world has landed in Indianapolis. From high atop The Balance Studios in the west suburbs of Indy, we’re in the middle of Combine chaos — and Ed Kracz of SI.com joins us to break it all down. We dive into:Philadelphia Eagles offseason movesWhat the Colts are facing heading into 2026Combine standouts and draft risersStorylines heading into the NFL DraftLeague-wide offseason buzzWith the Combine in our backyard, this is must-listen football talk. Draft boards. 40-yard dashes. Front office chess moves. Let’s go.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

It’s our only drop of the week — and we’re spending Valentine’s Day the right way… with the Daytona 500. 🏁❤️ Host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of Speedway Digest and our official NASCAR contributor, for a full-throttle breakdown of The Great American Race — the biggest race in NASCAR. We’re talking:🏁 Why the Daytona 500 still sets the tone for the entire NASCAR season🏁 Kyle Busch on the pole and chasing his first Daytona 500 win after 20 tries🏁 Five former champions in the field who still don’t own a Daytona trophy🏁 Truck Series takeaways from Friday night🏁 A preview of the newly named O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity)🏁 Drafting strategy, manufacturer games, and how chaos can decide everything🏁 Who’s built for patience — and who’s going to force the issue This race is fast. It’s unpredictable. It’s emotional.Buckle up, stick around — give me fuel, give me fire… Daytona is about to rock. 🤘🏁Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Tom Marquis and Adam Jividen (Super Browns fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Cavs fan, elite prognosticator, great dad, and Balance legend) close out Super Bowl Sunday with 45 minutes of predictions, laughs, legacy talk, and food debates. We break down the game, the commercials, the halftime show, and the most important part of Super Bowl Sunday — THE FOOD.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR’s Super Bowl — and it’s right around the corner.Tom Marquis links up with Steve Wilson (Speedway Digest) to break down every storyline heading into the 2026 Daytona 500. From driver changes to championship expectations, we’re getting you locked in for NASCAR’s biggest stage.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Tom Marquis is joined by Tony Donahue (Tony D Podcast), our official IndyCar contributor, to officially kick off the IndyCar season — with a little Super Bowl flavor mixed in. We’re talking racing, storylines, momentum heading into May, and why IndyCar and the Super Bowl actually share more DNA than fans realize.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The engines are warming up and IndyCar season is right around the corner.Tom Marquis is joined by Derek Vance of the Push to Pass Podcast to kick off our IndyCar coverage as we sit just over 100 days from the Indy 500. We talk drivers, teams, storylines, championship contenders, and what fans should be watching early in the 2026 IndyCar season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

It’s our annual Super Bowl Special on The Balance — and this year, the NFL gives us a rematch for the ages:🏈 Seattle Seahawks vs New England Patriots – Super Bowl 2026. Tom Marquis is joined by:🔥 Mo (BS Sports Show)🔥 Ed Kratz (SI.com, Eagles beat writer) We break down the game, the storylines, the legacies, and what this rematch means years after their first Super Bowl clash. We’ll hit the X’s & O’s, key matchups, coaching chess moves, and who has the edge when it matters most. This is your full Super Bowl table-setter.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

We’re starting Super Bowl Sunday the only way The Balance knows how — with TOTAL CHAOS. Tom Marquis kicks off the day with Rick Riggan and the crew from Chaos Wrestling, talking about their new, semi-funny, not-so-semi-funny, all-out chaotic wrestling event going down in Southern Indiana.It’s wild. It’s local. It’s unpredictable. And it’s the perfect way to set the tone for Super Bowl weekend. From ring stories to behind-the-scenes madness, this is how you start a sports holiday the Balance way — with chaos.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

NASCAR season is knocking — and The Balance is officially bringing it back. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of SpeedwayDigest.com and our official NASCAR contributor, for a full-throttle 30-minute NASCAR reset as we get closer to the 2025 Daytona 500. We cover it all:🏁 Major Cup Series driver changes and offseason shakeups🏁 The Clash, the Sprint format, and early-season momentum🏁 Why multiple drivers won’t qualify for the 2026 Cup grid with Corey Heim’s confirmation🏁 What’s happening beyond the flag — weather, scheduling, and track uncertainty🏁 Bowman Gray Stadium not hosting on-track Cup action this weekend🏁 Could another track be removed due to weather?🏁 Sponsorship movement, team chemistry, and manufacturer storylines🏁 Looking ahead to 2026 storylines already forming🏁 A fun debate on 10 of the greatest NASCAR Cup Series drivers ever and Hall of Fame impact It’s fast. It’s informed. It’s NASCAR — the way fans want it.🎧 Buckle up. The Balance is back in racing form.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NFL coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever — and The Balance is here to sort through every hire, firing, and strategic move. Hosted by Tom Marquis, joined by Adam Jividen — Super Browns fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Guardians fan, Super Cavs fan, great prognosticator, great dad, and your favorite NFL analyst partner — we’re unpacking the biggest coaching news this offseason. We’ll break down:🏈 All the major head coach hires and firings from the 2025 cycle🏈 Which teams bet big on new leadership🏈 Strategic winners who upgraded their culture and scheme🏈 Surprising losers who mishandled coaching decisions🏈 Coordinator shakeups that might reshape offensive and defensive identities🏈 The real impacts these moves will have on the 2026 season From Todd Monken in Cleveland to Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh, from Joe Brady’s head coach jump to Kevin Stefanski’s new gig in Atlanta, we’ve got all the storylines. Plus — you know Adam will deliver his trademark prognostication 🔮 on which coaching hires will make the biggest splash — and which ones might crash and burn. 🎧 Strap in — it’s going to be a coaching clinic on The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

History has been made in Bloomington. On this special championship edition of The Balance, host Tom Marquis is joined by Adam Jividen — Super Browns fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Guardians fan, elite prognosticator, great dad, and partner in crime — to celebrate and break down Indiana’s unforgettable National Championship victory over Miami. The Hoosiers finish a perfect 16–0 season, capping one of the greatest years in program history with a thrilling 27–21 win over a very talented Miami squad. We dive into:🏈 Fernando Mendoza’s legendary performance — including the moment he lowered his pads and imposed his will🏈 Curt Cignetti capturing a national title in the 64th year of his coaching journey🏈 The emotional impact of a championship season for Indiana fans🏈 Full game breakdown: key drives, momentum swings, and execution🏈 Mendoza’s NFL future as the projected #1 overall draft pick🏈 The latest movement in the NFL coaching carousel and what it means league-wide It’s a celebration, a breakdown, and a look into the future — all in one electric episode. 🎧 Hoosier Nation… this one’s for you.16–0. National Champions. Let’s go.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NFL Playoffs are here — and the road to Super Bowl 2026 is officially tightening. Your host Tom Marquis of The Balance links up with Ed Kratz, Philadelphia Eagles beat writer for Sports Illustrated and our official NFL contributor, to break down the final championship paths across the NFL. We dive deep into:🏈 San Francisco vs Seattle🏈 Rams vs Bears🏈 Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos🏈 Houston Texans vs New England Patriots Who’s built for January football?Which quarterback can carry the moment?Where do the coaching edges tilt the bracket?And ultimately… who’s punching their ticket to Super Bowl 2026? Plus — for the first time ever — Ed steps into the hot seat with a special NFL & Super Bowl history stumper question designed to test even the sharpest football minds. 🎧 Buckle up — playoff football doesn’t get better than this on The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

t’s Championship Weekend in college football — and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Your host Tom Marquis welcomes back Adam Jividen — Super Browns fan, Super Buckeyes fan, Super Guardians fan, Super Cavs fan, elite prognosticator, and great dad — for a full-throttle breakdown of Indiana vs Miami. For the next hour, we dive deep into:🏈 How Miami can attack Indiana🏈 How Indiana can neutralize Miami🏈 Matchups, schemes, personnel advantages🏈 Coaching chess moves🏈 Situational football and momentum swings🏈 What it all means for the National Championship picture This isn’t surface-level talk — this is full X’s and O’s, real football conversation for fans who want more than hot takes. And of course… Adam faces another stumper question designed to push even the great prognosticator to the limit. 🎧 Strap in — Championship Weekend just got real on The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The NFL Playoffs are here—and there’s no better time to lock in.Your host Tom Marquis of The Balance is joined by Ed Kratz, Philadelphia Eagles beat writer for Sports Illustrated and our official NFL contributor, as we break down the NFL Playoff bracket, the All-Pro Philadelphia Eagles, and their massive postseason matchup with the San Francisco 49ers. Who’s built for January football?Which teams are peaking at the right time?And ultimately… who’s going to the Super Bowl? We analyze the matchups, the pressure points, and the paths that matter most as the road to the Lombardi Trophy begins. 🎧 Stick around—it’s about to get really goodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The College Football Playoff is down to the Final Four, and The Balance is locked in. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Adam Jividen—super Browns, Cavs, Buckeyes, and Guardians fan, the great prognosticator, and trusted partner of the show—to break down every remaining contender and what it will take to reach the national championship game. From Indiana’s opportunity, to Alabama’s playoff pedigree, to Ohio State’s championship expectations, Tom and Adam analyze the matchups, pressure points, and defining factors that will decide who survives and who goes home. Plus, can Adam handle a next-level Stump Adam built for the biggest stage in college football? College football is still alive—and the pressure has never been higher.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

Tom Marquis is joined by Steve Wilson, Editor-in-Chief of SpeedwayDigest.com, for a thoughtful and reflective conversation honoring Greg Biffle—the racer, the competitor, and the person. Over the course of this episode, Tom and Steve look back on Biffle’s journey through NASCAR, his championship success, his influence in the garage, and the lasting impact he has made on the sport. This is not a race recap or a debate show—this is a moment to slow down, reflect, and appreciate a career and a life that helped shape modern NASCAR. This episode is dedicated to respect, perspective, and legacy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

It’s Christmas week in the NFL, and The Balance is breaking it all down. Host Tom Marquis is joined by Ed Kracz, Philadelphia Eagles beat writer for SI.com, for a full walk around the league as the playoff picture tightens. Tom and Ed dive deep into the state of the Philadelphia Eagles, discuss what’s ahead for the Indianapolis Colts on Monday Night Football, and explore how Christmas week impacts preparation, pressure, and performance across the NFL. From playoff contenders to holiday chaos, this is December football at its finest. Pour some eggnog, grab the remote, and settle in—it’s time to go Around the NFL.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The College Football Playoff is officially underway, and The Balance is locked in. Your host Tom Marquis is joined by Adam Jividen—super Browns, Guardians, Cavs, and Buckeyes fan, and the great prognosticator—as they recap the Alabama vs Oklahoma playoff showdown and break down everything happening across today’s slate of College Football Playoff games. From pressure-packed performances and coaching decisions to matchup advantages and championship implications, Tom and Adam take you deep into what we’ve learned so far and what’s coming next as the field narrows and the national championship comes into focus. Plus, can Adam survive a brutal Stump Adam playoff trivia challenge? College football is still alive—and it’s only getting better.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

The College Football Playoff has arrived, and The Balance is kicking things off in a big way. Your host Tom Marquis is joined by Adam Jividen—super Browns, Cavs, Guardians, and Buckeyes fan, the great prognosticator, and a trusted partner of the show—to break down the opening playoff matchup between Alabama and Oklahoma. From playoff experience and physicality to explosive offense and pressure moments, Tom and Adam dive deep into the key matchups, game-changing storylines, and what each team must do to survive and advance. It’s win-or-go-home football, legacy on the line, and everything that makes college football special. Lock in as the College Football Playoff begins—this is The Balance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.

It’s Heisman Trophy Week, and The Balance delivers a full hour of college football insight, debate, and tradition. Hosts Tom Marquis and Adam Jividen — the Great Panosticator himself — dive into the Heisman Trophy race, including a spotlight on Indiana’s Mendoza and what his season means for the Hoosiers’ historic rise. The guys celebrate Indiana football heading to the Rose Bowl for the first time in a lifetime, preview the College Football Playoff and New Year’s Six bowls, and pay proper respect to one of the sport’s greatest traditions: the Army–Navy game. Plus, we go deep into the archives for another edition of Stump Adam, where history, Heisman lore, and pride are all on the line. This is college football — the way it’s meant to be talked about.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-balance--6491129/support.