The Play-By-Play

Pat McAfee released his debut album "The Diary of a Polarizing Figure" last Friday, and the audience has not responded well.We break down the lyrics, the reception, and more from ESPN's biggest star.Then, we move onto the second stage of the Sports Media Influence Olympics as McAfee goes head-to-head with Big Cat, and Stephen A. Smith squares off against Charles Barkley.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is LeBron James still the face of the NBA? Will Kawhi Leonard or the Clippers be punished? And what's going on with the Lakers sale as everyone in the media agrees it's fishy?Twitch streamer and YouTuber Legend of Winning joins to give his thoughts. Plus, LOW shares which mainstream NBA media voices break through for his audience, why the Gil's Arena mess was such a big story, and more.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!0:00 Intro1:08 LeBron still face of the NBA?7:04 Is LeBron to Philly a good story?11:57 What happens to Kawhi22:09 LOW's take on Lakers sale27:15 Why LOW is one of the only big NBA Twitch streamers34:40 Which mainstream NBA media figures break through?40:00 Reaction to Gil's Arena relaunchAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three big NFL game analysts are up for new deals after 2026, so where will Troy Aikman, Kirk Herbstreit and Greg Olsen end up after this season?Plus, Round 7 of our Sports Media Influence Olympics, featuring Shannon Sharpe and Dan "Big Cat" Katz.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pablo Torre might have finally found evidence that Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers and the NBA can't ignore.Plus, Round 7 of our Sports Media Influence Olympics where Charles Barkley and Nick Wright go head-to-head in the Television region.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fox News host Jesse Watters admitted he doesn't actually care about the WNBA or believe a "man" would ever actually play in the league after days of chatter about Sophie Cunningham.We also give early predictions on where Tony Romo could end up if he loses his job as the top game analyst at CBS Sports.Plus, Round 5 of our Sports Media Influence Olympics, looking at Bill Simmons vs. Dan Patrick in the Radio & Television region.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New ESPN execs are done with "Embrace Debate" and now want to "Embrace Authenticity." Will the pivot help them re-engage with sports fans who tuned out the Worldwide Leader over the past decade?Plus, we continue our Sports Media Influence Olympics with Stephen A. Smith vs. the 'Pardon the Interruption' hosts and ESPN's NFL investigative team vs. Yahoo's Ross Dellenger.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!0:45 ESPN wants authenticity over debate18:27 Influence Olympics Rd 3: Stephen A vs Wilbon/Kornheiser39:35 Influence Olympics Rd 4: Wickersham/DVN vs DellengerAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Tony Romo OWI story keeps getting worse, despite rumors that CBS Sports will keep him in place. Plus, 49ers and NFL media seemingly kept Kyle Shanahan's car crash quiet, while ESPN's story only made things for confusing.Then, it's time for Round Two of the Sports Media Influence Olympics, with #1 Colin Cowherd facing off against #4 Ryen Russillo in the Radio and Podcast region.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Clark is out at ESPN and claims he had to be "less Black" to avoid the ire of the company over the past year before he was fired.So what is the state of play at the Worldwide Leader around politics right now?Plus, we debut our Sports Media Influence Olympics, a bracket to decide who has the most influence in the industry. First up: Pat McAfee vs. Pablo Torre.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dust has settled from ESPN's layoffs, so we discuss the network's strange handling of the cuts as well as the broader strategy behind them. Is this the beginning of the Pat McAfee takeover?Plus, what's next for Ryan Clark, Cam Newton and Tom Pelissero after ESPN laid them off? And what does it mean for ESPN to move further away from original content production, including with a new show from Josh Pate, Taylor Lewan and Will Compton?It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ESPN is laying off Ryan Clark, Cam Newton, Tom Pelissero, Karl Ravech and others as part of wider cuts at Disney.We break down the news as well as what it means for ESPN and the affected talent.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan Patrick is still ripping WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, Tom Brady keeps stooping to new lows, and Zlatan Ibrahimović delivered a surprise mic drop after covering the World Cup for Fox Sports.Plus, our review of the John Strong-Stu Holden tandem: Are they worthy of being the No. 1 soccer broadcast team in America?Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Time Magazine sports reporter Sean Gregory has profiled LeBron James, Dana White, Caitlin Clark and A'ja Wilson over the past two years, giving him unique insight into some of the biggest stories in all of sports.Gregory joins The Play-By-Play to discuss his UFC White House scoop, where he thinks LeBron will finish his NBA career, and what he would ask Clark if he could profile her again.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FIFA World Cup has been defined by VAR, leading to international controversies and conspiracies. Has the technology gone too far?Plus, a look at what Bundesliga's new U.S. TV deal means for the Premier League, MLS and the rest of the soccer world's broadcast market going forward.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conor McGregor exited his UFC 329 fight early with a knee injury, leading to immediate speculation over his status heading into the fight. Even Dana White was forced to weigh in, though it did little to quell fans' doubts.Is there actually a conspiracy at play here, or just more gambling-fueled skepticism?Plus, the story of Bryce Harper and a FanDuel VIP message gets even weirder.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Netflix will reportedly pursue the World Cup and other sports rights more aggressively as it struggles with lagging engagement compared with YouTube and other free services.Plus, MLB is in experimentation mode with July 4, the Home Run Derby and Field of Dreams games this summer. Is it working?Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The USMNT and star Christian Pulisic are getting crushed by former U.S. stars and across American sports media after an ugly loss to Belgium in the World Cup.We break down reactions from Alexi Lalas, Carli Lloyd, Taylor Twellman and more in "Stock Watch Stock Watch."Then, a look at the future of World Cup broadcasting, with Fox set to lose rights after its third tournament.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dave Portnoy has a new book on the history of Barstool Sports, charting all the innovation, controversy and inflection points that led it to become one of the most important companies in the history of media.We break down the lessons from the book, Portnoy's press tour, and what the future of Barstool might look like.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

FIFA is experimenting with YouTube and TikTok livestreams of games at the World Cup, a growing trend of leagues going around traditional TV to reach fans online.Lillian Rizzo of CNBC joins to break down how it's working for FIFA and the NBA, plus what to expect from Fox after it acquires Roku, and how the looming NBC Universal spinoff could affect NBC as a live sports destination going forward.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ESPN NFL analyst Matt Miller is alleged to have misled followers over charitable giving, scouting lessons and fantasy competitions over a period of at least a decade.We provide an inside look at our reporting on Miller and how the story has changed since a near-fatal car accident last month.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jaylen Brown created a new uproar over NBA analytics after a strange report from ESPN's Bobby Marks. Why are we stuck in the mud with this conversation?Plus, the latest Caitlin Clark scuffle has the national media turning on commissioner Cathy Engelbert and the league's disorganization.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexi Lalas is getting hit from every angle during the World Cup, but he's not the only unpopular sports commentator on TV. We look at Kirk Herbstreit, Terry Bradshaw and a slew of others to build our Mt. Rushmore of polarizing sports broadcasters. First, a look at ESPN and ABC's coverage of the NBA Draft, and why it may have been overhauled once again this year.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Netflix is using podcasts from Barstool, The Ringer, and iHeartMedia to chisel away at YouTube's dominance for online video consumption. Early returns are modest for the streamer, but the strategy still makes sense.We break down Netflix's thinking, what the data says, and how the strategy could evolve. Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FIFA World Cup coverage is in full swing and Americans once again are split on the commentators and coverage from Fox Sports, which begs the question: What should coverage of the tournament look like in the U.S.?Bay Area broadcaster and YouTube creator Brodie Brazil joins to answer that question and many more on the Fox/Roku deal, Pat McAfee's next ESPN contract, and Brodie's successful YouTube channel.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UFC Freedom 250 saw great fights amid a flood of propaganda and a circus of conspiracy and controversy. Did it work?But first, our latest edition of Stock Watch Stock Watch: Sports media is trying its best to make Victor Wembanyama into the NBA's next villain as the superstar center navigates normal early-career struggles.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NBA Finals viewership is surging and the league has momentum once again, could a new generation of fans come out of this year's series?Plus, the FIFA World Cup is underway. What could the North America-hosted tournament do for MLS and American soccer fandom?The Ringer's Anthony Dabbundo joins to discuss. Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announci Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FIFA World Cup kicks off Thursday and the USMNT follows on Friday, so it's time to hand out awards and preview the tournament.We predict the Breakout Star Commentator (Zlatan?), Biggest Non-Soccer Story (Trump?), and much more as we get ready for the summer of soccer.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announci Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ESPN's NBA Finals coverage is miles better than last year, but having Wemby and the Knicks certainly doesn't hurt.We break down the series so far from a broadcast perspective, then discuss Clay Travis leaving Outkick with plans to launch a new company.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do Democrats need to give hot takes or go on sports talk radio to relate to the average voter? A new column in The Atlantic says yes.We break down why James Talarico ripping Arch Manning or AOC showing her chops talking Yankees wouldn't actually get to the heart of the Dems' communication or political issues.Plus, a closer look at Bryce Harper's warning to MLB over how fans could move on to new sources of entertainment during a potential lockout.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pat McAfee is reportedly in talks to extend his original deal at ESPN for multiple years, a sign that one of the most game-changing contracts in the history of media is going well for both sides after a somewhat rocky start.We break down the news and what McAfee's future at the Worldwide Leader might look like.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan Le Batard and Jon "Stugotz" Weiner appear to be on the last gasp of their attempt to rekindle a relationship that dates back more than 20 years.We discuss whether this is the end for the beloved Meadowlark Media duo.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anyone talking about the WNBA has a hard time keeping track of where conspiracies start and reality ends, whether with Caitlin Clark or anyone else.Seerat Sohi of The Ringer joins the show to discuss "The Caitlin Clark Machine," how to talk about the WNBA in a healthier way, and how coverage of the league can mature.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Wright landed a resounding blow on Stephen A. Smith over Smith's handling of the Jaylen Brown saga, comparing Smith to a "mob boss" and saying he makes the rest of sports media look bad.Will Wright's comments make a dent in Smith's reputation?Plus, a look at Bill Belichick's subtle comeback tour, which started on "Pardon My Take."Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlotte Wilder and Madeline Hill of The Sports Gossip Show join to discuss the rise of sports gossip content and their show, plus they dish on Aaron Rodgers, Taylor Swift, Caitlin Clark, Jordon Hudson and more!Wilder and Hill are two of Awful Announcing's 2026 Sports Media Rising Stars: https://awfulannouncing.com/orig/sports-media-rising-stars-2026.htmlAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcingAwful Announcing on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/awfulannouncing.bsky.socialAwful Announcing on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/awfulannouncing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pablo Torre posted an exposé on Oz the Mentalist, breaking down the pre-show meetings and technological tricks he uses to fool his subjects and the audience.Meanwhile, we discuss whether Victor Wembanyama has answered questions about the next face of the NBA.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL keeps creating new national windows to make more money, shrinking the beloved Sunday slate little by little each year. We break down the data.Another big change this season will see the Chiefs-Bills rivalry move from CBS to NBC for the first time in a half-decade.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NCAA basketball tournament and College Football Playoff are both set to expand significantly in 2027, even though nobody seems to want it.As media and fans collectively push back, what's behind the moves?Plus, a look at Charles Barkley's latest social commentary on ESPN.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL schedule is almost here, and media companies like Fox, YouTube, Netflix and more are battling behind the scenes to get the best slate and stay cozy with the league.Plus, Rupert Murdoch is lobbying Donald Trump, and the NFL might be lying about its claim that 87% of games are on free TV.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Kirk Herbstreit to Charles Barkley to Al Michaels and beyond, many of the great sports broadcasters are nearing the end of the road as the media transitions into a digital-first era.We give our best guesses for who (and what) takes over for these legends in the next decade or so.It's The Play-By-Play LIVE!Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Draymond Green locked horns with Charles Barkley and Austin Rivers this week, reminding NBA fans of why he isn't the surefire media star he was once advertised as.Andy Liu of the Light Years podcast join to discuss Green's bad week and more from around NBA media.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Skip Bayless is reuniting with Stephen A. Smith on First Take this week. We break down what it means for the show and the precedent it could set at ESPN.First, a closer look at Peter Schrager's new 2pm show at the Worldwide Leader.Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby is on leave to get treatment for gambling addiction. How should sports media talk about gambling as the issues around it worsen?Plus, after ESPN touted NFL Draft viewership across several social media platforms, we ask... is this the end of sports TV ratings?Awful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL Draft was full of head coach subplots this year with Mike Vrabel (sort of) atoning for his relationship with Dianna Russini while Sean McVay danced around questions about the Rams drafting Ty Simpson.Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-play-by-play/id1763654809Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HaEA8ssc7LpPoJ8pKT1hkAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roger Goodell has cut the length of the first round of the NFL Draft in half since taking over as commissioner. Plus, the WNBA is airing every single Indiana Fever game nationally as it pushes Caitlin Clark and Co. as America's team. Jacob Feldman of Sportico joins to discuss the latest in sports media.Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-play-by-play/id1763654809Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HaEA8ssc7LpPoJ8pKT1hkAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pat McAfee was the surprise star of WrestleMania this weekend. What does his return to WWE mean for his career?Plus, our Review of the Week looks at the playoff debut of the revamped "NBA on NBC."Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-play-by-play/id1763654809Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HaEA8ssc7LpPoJ8pKT1hkAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers are teammates again with the Dallas Wings, and WNBA media is up in arms over whether and how to cover their relationship, which went public last year.Ashtyn Butuso of OffBall joins the show to discuss.Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-play-by-play/id1763654809Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HaEA8ssc7LpPoJ8pKT1hkAwful Announcing on X: https://twitter.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awfulannouncingAwful Announcing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awful_announcing/Awful Announcing on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@awful_announcing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The New York Times is investigating Dianna Russini over photos showing her spending private time with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, while Vrabel is skipping a pre-draft press conference.Plus, NFL media appears to have missed a severe car accident in which projected top-10 pick Reuben Bain was the driver.Download The Play-By-Play:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyAwful Announcing on XAwful Announcing on FacebookAwful Announcing on InstagramAwful Announcing on ThreadsAwful Announcing on BlueSkyAwful Announcing on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ESPN has again been at the center of multiple NFL offseason controversies, ranging from Jalen Hurts to Ty Simpson. And now, The Athletic's senior NFL insider is fighting off allegations of an improper relationship with a Super Bowl head coach.Brandon Perna aka @ThatsGoodSports joins the show to break down how the media has been at the center of the NFL offseason.1:15 Orlovsky-Simpson story 16:18 Hurts/ESPN report33:55 Dianna Russini and what stories the media picks upDownload The Play-By-Play:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyAwful Announcing on XAwful Announcing on FacebookAwful Announcing on InstagramAwful Announcing on ThreadsAwful Announcing on BlueSkyAwful Announcing on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Awful Announcing readers voted that the College Football Playoff, FIFA men's World Cup and NBA Finals need new broadcast homes.We discuss what readers got right and wrong, plus all the news around the Dianna Russini-Mike Vrabel bombshell from the New York Post.00:54 Russini and Vrabel19:42 AA Reader PollDownload The Play-By-Play:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyAwful Announcing on XAwful Announcing on FacebookAwful Announcing on InstagramAwful Announcing on ThreadsAwful Announcing on BlueSkyAwful Announcing on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Geno Auriemma came out as the loser of his scuffle with Dawn Staley at the Final Four, while Jay Bilas continued his crusade against the NCAA. Plus, is Jason Kelce going to call NFL games for ESPN next season?:52 Geno and Staley 19:03 Bilas vs. Calipari34:00 ESPN/NFL NetworkDownload The Play-By-Play:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyAwful Announcing on XAwful Announcing on FacebookAwful Announcing on InstagramAwful Announcing on ThreadsAwful Announcing on BlueSkyAwful Announcing on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jaden Ivey was cut by the Chicago Bulls after multiple religiously loaded rants on Instagram Live and reported issues behind the scenes dating back to Purdue.But he is not a symbol of free speech or religious freedom, despite what some of the media has argued.Plus, are we headed toward drama at ESPN between Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter?Download The Play-By-Play:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyAwful Announcing on XAwful Announcing on FacebookAwful Announcing on InstagramAwful Announcing on ThreadsAwful Announcing on BlueSkyAwful Announcing on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.