Ep 381 - Bowl Games, Press Conferences, Portals & Hot Yoga

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6daOdjN7937QEBPSAmj96j?si=Cl0qTo4qSDSPbosJEOPMWg

Introduction: In the latest episode of the Red White Podcast, hosts Ev and Will dive deep into the highs and lows of NC State football, reflecting on past games, coaching changes, and the dynamics of college sports. With their signature blend of humor and analysis, they explore the current state of the team and the broader implications for college athletics.

Main Content:

1. Reflections on the UNC Game
   The episode kicks off with Ev and Will reminiscing about the NC State vs. UNC game, a match that seems to have slipped through the cracks of their podcast episodes. "We were just talking about it before the pod if we had talked about the UNC game... Turns out we didn't talk about it before or after," Ev admits, highlighting a shared sense of fatigue among fans and commentators alike regarding the season's disappointments. Will adds, "Isn't it wild that at one point, yeah at one point it was 14-7... I looked down and said there’s not even a worry, why would I even be worried about this?" This casual dismissal encapsulates the prevailing sentiment: a lack of concern for the outcome, reflecting a season that has left many feeling indifferent.
2. The State of Bowl Games
   With the bowl game approaching, Ev expresses skepticism about the team's prospects, noting, "Clockwork beat UNC, clockwork lay an egg in the ballgame. That's what I'm expecting." The conversation shifts to the coaching turmoil within the Memphis team, leading to questions about the unpredictability of bowl game outcomes. Ev reveals that it has been since 2017 since NC State won a bowl game, underscoring the importance of these matches and the stakes involved. "I just feel like it's throwing money away because you're straight up guessing," he says, reflecting a broader frustration among fans about the current state of college football.
3. Player Transfers and College Football's Landscape
   As they discuss player movements, the hosts touch on the recent decision of Hollywood Smothers to enter the transfer portal. "I thought there was no way he was transferring out again. I thought his next move was to the draft," Ev shares, showcasing the complexity of player decisions in today’s college sports landscape. The duo explores the implications of players opting out and transferring, with Will suggesting that a player could potentially make more money in college than as a fourth or fifth-round draft pick. This raises critical questions about the future of college athletics and the financial incentives driving these decisions.
4. The ACC Championship Game and Notre Dame’s Controversy
   The discussion also delves into the ACC Championship game and the ensuing controversy around Notre Dame’s exclusion from the playoffs. Ev critiques the ACC's handling of the situation, stating, "Jim Phillips could have just railed him and thank God for your Brett, your mark in the big 12." This reflects a deep-seated frustration with the current leadership and decision-making processes within college sports. Will echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in how teams are evaluated and selected for postseason play.

Conclusion:
The Red White Podcast offers a candid and entertaining look at the challenges facing NC State football and college athletics as a whole. From reflections on past games to discussions about player transfers and the politics of postseason selection, Ev and Will provide listeners with valuable insights into the current landscape. The key takeaways from this episode include the importance of effective leadership in college sports, the impact of player mobility on team dynamics, and the ongoing debate about the future of bowl games and playoff selections. As the season winds down, fans are left hoping for a turnaround and a brighter future for NC State football.

Tags: NC State Football, College Sports, Bowl Games, Player Transfers, ACC Championship, College Athletics, Sports Commentary, Red White Podcast