The Bench Podcast

We are back talking High School hoops, NFL Free Agency, College hoops and more....

In this episode of the Going for Two Bench podcast, the hosts discuss the current state of winter sports, particularly focusing on high school basketball as teams prepare for upcoming tournaments. They share humorous anecdotes from travel ball experiences, analyze the performance of various teams, and delve into the dynamics of rivalries and strategies in high school basketball. The conversation also touches on the girls' basketball scene and concludes with a discussion on the NBA's proposed no-tank policy. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into various aspects of the NBA, NFL, and college basketball, discussing player dynamics, coaching changes, and the implications of tanking in sports. They explore the challenges teams face in managing player injuries and performance, as well as the strategies surrounding the NFL draft and potential trades. The discussion also touches on the cultural significance of sports documentaries and predictions for the upcoming March Madness tournament, culminating in a lively exchange of game predictions and personal anecdotes.

In this episode of the Going For Two Bench podcast, Christopher Magnuson, Cody Kugler, and Jim discuss the latest in high school basketball, including game highlights, player performances, and upcoming matchups. They also delve into the state of girls basketball and the impact of coaching changes in the NFL. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, energy management in games, and the critical role of free throw shooting as the season progresses. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the pressures faced by NFL coaches, particularly focusing on the recent coaching changes and the implications for teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins. They explore the coaching carousel, evaluating whether recent hires are better or worse for their respective teams. The discussion also touches on the upcoming NFL draft and the challenges teams face in finding suitable quarterbacks. Additionally, the hosts make predictions for college basketball games and provide updates on the Detroit Red Wings, reflecting on their performance and future prospects.

00:00Welcome to Antarctica: A Chilly Introduction02:49High School Basketball Insights: Local Games Recap06:05Coaching Dynamics: The Importance of Team Improvement08:57Rivalries and Attendance: The Atmosphere of Local Games12:04Defensive Strategies: The Art of Coaching Basketball14:55Game Plans and Adjustments: The Key to Success17:51The Role of Post Players: Defense and Offense21:14Switching Defense: Pros and Cons23:45Gladstone's Performance: A Team on the Rise26:58Upcoming Games: Anticipation and Predictions29:58Girls Basketball: A Brief Overview33:01Top Teams: Rankings and Analysis35:59College Football Playoff Recap: Game Strategies39:26Miami's Struggles and Adjustments42:00Special Teams Decisions and Game Impact44:58Refereeing and Game Management47:02Quarterback Prospects and NFL Draft Speculations49:01Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics50:56NIL and Transfer Portal Challenges01:01:01Dabo Swinney's Controversial Stance01:03:06NFL Playoff Recap and Media Narratives01:04:50Playoff Reflections and Quarterback Discussions01:07:40Keys to Championship Games01:10:52AFC and NFC Championship Predictions01:15:15College Hoops Insights01:21:00Final Thoughts and Shoutouts

In this episode of the Going for Two Bench podcast, hosts Christopher Magnuson and Jim Manzo dive into the latest happenings in high school basketball, particularly focusing on the impressive performance of Ethan Marta from Westwood, who set a school record with 46 points in a recent game against Negaunee.The discussion highlights the strategies and challenges faced by teams in the Upper Peninsula, including the need for effective defense and rebounding as key factors for success. The hosts also touch on upcoming matchups and the implications for playoff positioning, emphasizing the importance of adapting game plans against strong opponents.As the conversation progresses, the hosts shift gears to discuss college football, analyzing the recent national championship game and the implications of coaching changes in the NFL. They debate the effectiveness of various coaching strategies and the impact of player transfers on team dynamics. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about the NHL, focusing on the Red Wings' performance and standout players, while also touching on the broader landscape of college sports and the challenges of maintaining player safety amidst an extended season.

Section 1: The Joy of Higher DaysAs the new year unfolds, we reflect on the brightening days ahead, signaling the return of high school hoops. With the weather still cold and windy, the anticipation of upcoming games brings warmth to fans and players alike. The podcast kicks off with a light-hearted banter among hosts Christopher Magnuson, Cody Kugler, and Jim, setting the tone for an engaging discussion.Section 2: Spotlight on Menominee vs. IshpemingOne of the highlighted matchups discussed is the anticipated game between Ishpeming and Menominee. Magnuson notes, "If they had betting in high school basketball, this would be an overpick," hinting at the high-scoring potential of the game. Menominee's ability to score 80 points even with key players absent showcases their depth and offensive prowess. The hosts emphasize that this matchup serves as a critical benchmark for Ishpeming, providing insights into their strengths and weaknesses as the season progresses.Section 3: Strategies for SuccessA key point raised during the podcast is the importance of adaptability in coaching. Jim suggests that Ishpeming should experiment with different defensive strategies, such as zones or half-court traps, to challenge Menominee's offensive flow. The discussion underlines that even if the goal isn't necessarily winning, gaining experience and experimenting with strategies can be beneficial for player development. Magnuson concurs, highlighting that this game is an opportunity for Ishpeming to learn and grow.Section 4: A Reflection on Past GamesJim shares a personal coaching experience involving Joe Dumars' son, which emphasizes the unpredictability of basketball and the value of trying new strategies. His team's initial struggle with a zone defense quickly turned into a lesson in resilience, as they adapted and nearly tied the game against a formidable opponent. This anecdote serves as a reminder that the journey of growth in sports often includes unexpected challenges and learning moments.Section 5: Other Teams to WatchThe podcast also touches on other teams and upcoming games that are generating buzz in the local basketball scene. Westwood's impressive defense against Iron Mountain and their upcoming matchup with Gladstone are highlighted as significant tests for the team. The hosts express excitement about the potential showdown between Westwood and Menominee, which promises to be a thrilling encounter later in the season.Conclusion: Key TakeawaysAs the high school basketball season continues, the insights shared in this podcast provide valuable perspectives for players, coaches, and fans alike. The importance of adaptability, the thrill of competition, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats are central themes that resonate throughout the discussion. Whether you’re a player looking to improve or a fan cheering from the sidelines, the journey in high school basketball is filled with opportunities for growth and excitement.

In this episode of the Going for Two podcast, hosts Christopher Magnuson and Cody Kugler dive into the thrilling world of college football, sharing their excitement over recent games and discussing the implications of coaching decisions. They also explore high school football dynamics, emphasizing the importance of effective coaching strategies and player development. The conversation shifts to the NFL, where they analyze team performances, coaching challenges, and the overall state of the league. The episode concludes with final thoughts and shoutouts, encouraging listeners to enjoy the beautiful weather and the excitement of football season.

Jim and Topher begin with MLB predictions with season winding down. Jim has a hot team making the playoffs down the stretch. We go over the UPSSA Football poll and feel this week will give a better vision of who is where. We move to college Football; we alter our CFP and talk about the big matchups and the overreaction of the media after 2 weeks. We give our NFL Locks, talk about must wins and give a shoutout to the D1 Rejects Pod!

Summer's over, and the weather is changing.High school football is back in swing with exciting games.College football teams are showing early season strengths and weaknesses.NFL predictions are being made based on team performances and player conditions.Coaching strategies are crucial in both college and high school football.The importance of home games in college football playoffs is highlighted.Week one of the NFL is often unpredictable and can be misleading.Fans should temper their expectations after week one of the NFL season.The significance of player injuries and their impact on team performance is discussed.Shoutout to teachers and coaches for their hard work and dedication.summary

00:00Welcome Back to Sports Talk02:37High School Football Insights05:10Challenges in High School Football08:24The State of College Football11:02The Evolution of Player Commitment14:14NIL and Its Impact on College Sports16:45Under the Radar Teams in College Football19:26Predictions and Expectations for the Season32:12College Football Predictions and Rivalries38:24Conference Over/Under Analysis45:13Big Ten Insights and Predictions51:59Playoff Predictions and Team Turnarounds

We promised to be back in a week and we are. Football is in the air with Lions-Chargers and NFL Over/Unders. We move on to James Franklin's ridiculous comments about Notre Dame not beating them if they played in a conference. The WNBA continues to have issues, this week with Wigs and Dildos falling on their floor. WE finish with shoutouts..

Jim and Topher are back, ready to rock Season 2. We begin with MLB, the slumping Tigers, the red-hot Brewers, Red Sox and Blue Jays as the MLB season winds down. We about the WNBA continuing to jump over a $5 bill for a Nickel, Scotty Scheffler, and his aspiration to be just himself as opposed to another Tiger, and move on to NFL notes, and discuss AAU as it interferes into High School summer camps.

Jim and Topher are back after hiatus!! We cover some NFL Schedule and Draft Info, The Red Hot Tigers, the underachieving Red Sox and our first World Series picks. We talk some NHL playoffs, our wishes for the Stanley Cup and Jim fixes the Red Wings. We finish with some NBA Playoffs and PGA Tour, and the greatness of Tiger.

In this episode of the Bench Podcast, Christopher Magnuson, Jim Manzo, and Cody Kugler discuss their experiences with youth basketball, upcoming high school district games, and the excitement surrounding the GLIAC and NCAA basketball seasons. They also delve into the NHL All-Star Game, the Daytona 500, and engage in a fun draft of their favorite sports commentators, sharing insights and personal anecdotes throughout the conversation.

In this episode of the Bench podcast, the Jim, Tracy and Topher discuss a variety of sports topics, including a recap of the Super Bowl, the future of Aaron Rodgers, insights into high school and college basketball, and Jim talks about the Detroit Red Wings' performance. The conversation flows naturally between these themes, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current sports landscape. In this engaging conversation, the hosts reflect on their nostalgic sports experiences, discuss the implications of the new flopping rule in basketball, and draft their favorite baseball stadiums while sharing personal anecdotes. They also critique the current state of the NBA, emphasizing the importance of player participation and the changing dynamics of sports fandom.

The Bench is back, We start out with Jim's white hot Red Wings and their assent since the coaching change. Next we talk NFL playoffs, the Packers blowing a golden chance in Philly, it's time for a change in Pittsburgh and the first Dominoe falls with Mike Vrabel going to New England. We talk some CFP, and move to High School hoops with some big matchups coming up including IM vs Kingsford, Westwood vs Negaunee and Marquette going to Grand Blanc.

Happy New Year!! Tracy, Jim and Topher are back!! We start with High School hoops, Marquette - Kingsford lived up to the hype, Westwood with a huge win in Iron Mountain. We move on the CFP, and teams interviewing GM's to manage the NIL and Transfer Portal. Will Urban go to Florida? WE discuss Notre Dame- Penn State and can Texas slow down Ohio State. WE have Jim's first Red Wing Corner, and move on to the NFL, the playoff picture and the Coaching Carousel as we get to Black Monday..

Jim, Tracy and Topher are back, we start out with CFP and simple solutions for it. Bring back the BCS Formula and eliminate Conference Championship games. We move on to High School Hoops, the NFL and Jim taking a cruise during the NFC Championship weekend. Check us out on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and email us at [email protected]

Jim, Tracy and Topher are back from a week off and are back in the MBEC. We start with some high School hoops, talk about the big week ahead with the big matchups. We move on to the CFP, our thoughts and Jim gives his positive rant about the Lions. We continue with the NFL, Bill Belichick, Penn State's backup entering the Transfer portal and if the NBA is Fixable??

Jim, Topher and Tracy are back, we begin with our weekends, the Packers game and move on into the Michigan -Ohio State game. We talk about Ryan Day, the intimidation factor Michigan has by being borderline dirty and what the logic for Ohio State was. We talk CFP Playoffs, the Lions mash unit and give a little love to Mike McCarthy.

We are back with Jim dialing in from Florida. We go over the MHSAA Football Finals, before making our CFP national championship picks. The SEC should only get 3 teams in only, ACC 2 and Big Ten 4. Tracy picks Ohio State and Jim and I pick Notre Dame. We move to the NFL and the Thanksgiving game Turds are discussed along with our Locks and Upset picks. WE discuss Bobby Hurley going crazy, and we do out Thanksgiving day shoutouts.

Jim and Topher are back, a little late but back. We talk MHSAA playoffs in Football including a loaded D1 bracket, move onto the CFP and finish up with some NFL and high school hoops program building.

We are back for the first Episode of November. The Lions with an epic comeback despite 5 interceptions, the Cowboys continue the path towards the first pick, the Jets meltdown and the Bears are who we thought they would be. We move on to College Football and talk about the Big Ten having 4 of the 5 top teams in the rankings. Miami moves to the Fraud Category, and we discuss how Georgia could be out. We finish with High School football, results and predictions for this coming week.

Jim, Topher and Tracy are back. We recap the World Series and the Dodgers winning the world series and would Baseball be better with 138 games. We recap the first round of the High School playoffs, and look at the second round, including Jim's D1 preview. We move onto College Football, the playoff, and could the SEC get their share of teams into the playoff. We finish with the NFL, the Lions dominance, should Jordan Love have played, and who is the biggest threat to the Lions..

Jim, Topher and Tracy start with the MHSAA Playoff pairings and talk about Home Field Advantage. We move on to the NFL, the Lions winning big, Packers surviving, and the Saints/Chargers pitching matchup and the disaster known as the Jets. We dive into college football, Sparty missing an opportunity, Ohio State struggling and some of the playoffs.

We start with High School Football secnarios and who can host in the playoffs, Jim and Topher move on to the NFL, and anyalyze a big win for the Lions, is Jordan Love turning into Favre and the hot mess the Jets are. We finish with College Football, the lessons Texas and Oklahoma need to learn to be in the SEC, and Playoff scenarios, including SMU in the playoffs?

We begin the MLB Playoffs, the Tigers exit and what they need to do to take the next step. We get into College Football, What was Ryan Day thinking and why Billy Napier didn't go for the win. We move onto the Lions dismantling of the Cowboys, the comparison in Cultures, and why Jerry Jones won't let his control go. We get into the High School Football playoff brackets and sign off with our final thoughts.

Tracy is back from Suspension (JK) as we start with baseball while game 2 of the Tigers/Indians is live. Another Brewer choke job, why Managers try to outthink themselves? Both Jim and I like the Mets and Padres to move on. We move to College Football, Overrated Michigan, and talk about the Upsets over the weekend. We talk some NFL, Is Rodgers done? The same with Watson? What about the 49ers?

We are later this week, but it was worth it. The Tigers advance to the Division round and were 8 games under 500 on August 10th. Brew Crew trying to stay alive, Lions are on Fire and the Packers were desperate. After the first 4 games, we redo our playoff predictions in the NFL, and Topher brags about his draft predictions. We give our NFL Lock and Upset. We go over College Football, Michigan a dog on the road, the SEC delivers as usual and we compare the Big Ten vs SEC.

Jim and Topher get into the Wild Card and Tiger's hot streak combined with the Twins and Royals choking. We talk about College Football, Michigan, Sparty and the dominance of the SEC. We finish up with the NFL, the Chiefs getting every call, The Packers and Lions looking solid and the Cowboys mediocrity.

Jim and Topher recap the MLB Wild Card with Jim's Tigers being alive. We hop into the NFL, Why it's so sporadic and who is any good? We dive into College Football, Michigan-USC, Tennessee-Oklahoma and who are top teams are. Finally we get into high school football as the season is 1/3 of the way completed.

We begin with the MLB Wild Card Race, The Tigers are alive and well. The Braves and the Mets are tied and the Red Sox keep blowing opportunities. WE move onto college, Texas controlling Michigan, and Sparty with an upset. We break down some games for next week and wonder what happened to Notre Dame. We finally get into the NFL, the Dallas victory feels different, what the Packers need to do and how the Lions have become a top tier team.

Jim and Topher recap the weekend, including High School and College football, make our NFL Picks and preview the Upcoming Weekend. We go over the Wild Card Race in MLB and do our shoutouts!

Jim, Tracy and Topher record their first episode on a pontoon boat in the middle of the Dead River Basin. We start with Florida State losing the Georgia Tech in week zero of College Football, the Wild Card race in baseball and some insight from High School scrimmages. We hit some NFC over/unders and wrap up the show.

We begin with a recap of the weekend, then talk about the shortage of coaches and officials in high school sports. We do our Over/Unders for the AFC West/North and somehow get into Alumni Basketball, Racing and Jim's fishing weekend.

Jim, Tracy and Topher are back. We recap the weekend, got over our greatest sports calls. We give our AFC South Over/Unders and go over what franchises are cursed. We give out FInal Shout outs as we roll to football season.

Tracy is back and we kick off with our recap of the weekend, then move into baseball with the Tigers trade deadline strategy and a big series for the Red Sox. We talk a little short track racing as Topher prepares for his annual trip to Kaukauna for the Ganrud 250. We talk about the Michigan investigation, move into NFC East Over/Unders and Topher's crush on the Colts. We finish with Jim's NUMEROUS in person heart breaking moments and finish up with Shout outs!!

We open with the weekend recap, move into NFL training camp and analyze QB battles. We move into Historic Sporting events you wish you could of attended the MLB trade deadline and BIg 12 Over/Unders.

Jim, Tracy and Topher discuss the British Open, Baseball Records that won't be broken, the Olympics, and SEC Over/Unders. Keep in mind, a Nothern Pike would make a great 4 in your hoops lineup.

Jim Manzo, Tracy and Topher are back after a week off! We talk about baseball stadiums and the experience. We go into Bronny James and why this process is failing. We talk some old school football, US Soccer and why we stink. We finish up with Big Ten Football Over/Unders.

The T and T podcast is happy to have Jim Manzo join as a guest host and Coach Ryan Reichel of the Ishpeming Girls Basketball team. Coach Reichel chats with Coach Manzo and myself about his past year, his upcoming year, his evolvement as a coach and even huddle strategy. Make sure you tune in for this one.

The T and T podcast is guestless, but we start out with a concert tour update, roll into NMU Hockey, the NBA Draft and Random Thoughts about Les Miles, Lebron etc.

We are lucky enough to have NMU Women's coach Casey Thousand on Episode # 11 of the T and T podcast. Coach Thousand talks about the success of last year's team and her outlook for this year's team. Casey goes into her journey back to NMU and we get into the Caitlyn Clark and the continuous controversy surrounding the WNBA. We finish up with the US Open, shoutouts and some advice for coach's pitch baseball.

In this episode we have Jim Manzo and Kobe Manzo. Jim Manzo goes over his coaching career some memorable players, games and times. We ask Kobe about his football career, his podcasting, what inspired him, and his West Bloomfield game as a senior. We go into Promotions gone wrong, try to do final thoughts, but spin back into the Caitlyn Clark Olympic snub.

The original T's are back and guestless. We chat about Bill Walton's legacy, life as an announcer and player. We move into the NBA Finals, some keys to look for. Once again Caitlyn Clark is back on the podcast as we wonder why WNBA players can't embrace the success the leagues i experiencing because of her. We go to Random thoughts and tell you that College Football is only 82 days away!!

The T and T podcast had a great guest today in Negaunee Varsity Boys/Girls coach Kyler Saari. Coach Saari talks about the Culture being established at both Negaunee tennis programs. We talk about Negaunee's summer program, the extension to his youth program. We talk about the WNBA, the Caitlyn Clark effect, and the controversy over charter flights. We finish up with NBA playoffs, random thoughts, and shoutouts. Have a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend!

We are fortunate enough to have GLIAC coach of the year Matt Majkrzak on the T and T podcast. He gives a review of his NMU career, the great success he has had over the last 3 years and the challenges of the Transfer Portal. We pick his brain on AAU and the NBA playoffs as well.

The Varsity boys coach from Westwood high joins us. Luke Gray. We talk about Summer Preparation, team camps and expectations. We transition into the NBA, the PGA Championship and some great What ifs in sports history...

We start out with a weekend recap, and move into the Kentucky Derby. We go over the NBA Playoffs, Lebron gets another coach fired and Kyries Rennaissance. Tom goes into coach mode and goes over game prep, and what he expects out of practice, games etc. Final thoughts and shoutouts conclude the podcast.

We start out with the NFL draft, Detroit rocked it!! Quarterback panic, why have draft grades? Can GB handle the draft next year? Next, we discuss the dismissal of Alma's women's basketball coach, the impact of administration on coaches, why at some schools the tail wags the dog, and the impact of travel ball. Finally, we address more information about NIL, the transfer portal, the money being collected, the rules and how helpless the NCAA is. Final Shoutouts come out, including the Mel Kiper of Green Bay..