Nobody Expects the Unexpected in Sports
Fred and Art try to figure out what went wrong with the Rams in their loss to the 49ers on Monday Night Football, topped off with the added spectacle of Bobby Wagner making a rather unusual tackle. What caused Draymond Green to punch a teammate? Will Shohei Otani or Aaron Judge be awarded the American League MVP trophy? And who will be heading to the playoffs after the MLB Wild Card Series this weekend?
Changes, They are A-Comin’
Fred and Art run down the transformations ahead for some long-standing sports traditions. Is the Pro Bowl an irrelevant relic? Has golf been torn in two between the PGA and the LIV, and is the LIV eyeing Fox? What does Rob Manfred have in mind for baseball that Maury Wills would have appreciated? How is Jimmy Garoppolo looking for the 49ers vs. Rams game? And will Craig Kimbrel remain the Dodgers’ go-to closer?
A Billionaire Owner Ousted and the Passing of a Baseball Legend
Fred and Art comment on the behavior of billionaire team owners resulting in disciplinary action and expulsion from their leagues, with Robert Sarver of the Phoenix Mercury and Suns teams the latest asked to leave. Are class-act owners like Peter O’Malley all too rare these days? What happened with Al Michaels during his broadcast last week? And will the passing of baseball great Maury Wills finally be the impetus to induct him into the Hall of Fame?
Questionable Decisions and High Ratings in the NFL
Fred and Art shake their heads over the chancy move made by Denver Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett on Monday against Seattle. Why did he opt to go with a field goal attempt instead of relying on his QB Russell Wilson to try and win the game? Is Aaron Rodgers off to a rocky start this season? Why is the NBA suspending Phoenix Suns and Mercury owner Robert Sarver? And will Yankee Aaron Judge be this year’s American League MVP?
Sports From a Woman’s Point of View
Fred is joined this week by his cousin, Aliza Sodos, to discuss the women’s sports movement and shares a unique perspective as a parent of four daughters, some of whom are athletes. Will retiring basketball star Sue Bird remain in the world of sports and be an advocate? Who is the GOAT in women’s tennis, Serena Williams or Margaret Court? And how will the Seattle Seahawks fare now that Russell Wilson has moved to Denver?
It’s Time for Some Football!
Fred and Art are ready for an exciting weekend of football, just in time for Art’s birthday. From HBO’s Hard Knocks, featuring a behind-the-scenes look at the Detroit Lions training camp, to the possibilities ahead for the UCLA Bruins, to all the college football, it’s a good time to grab your favorite tailgate grub and settle in for some thrilling gridiron action. And how about Notre Dame starting their season as the 17 ½-point favorites?
When is a Record Really a Record?
Fred and Art debate on what constitutes a record in baseball. The game has changed so much from the early days, with powerhouses like Honus Wagner whose stats may not have been fully recorded. Would today’s milestones measure up to those of yesteryear? College football is starting, Alabama coach Nick Saban has a big payday, and Arte Moreno is selling the LA Angels. Will Steve Ballmer snap them up and help them reach their full potential?
The NFL’s Decision for Deshaun
Fred and Art weigh in on Deshaun Watson’s suspension and subsequent fines. Does the NFL have separate rules for superstar players when disciplinary action is needed? With the Dodgers doing well at the moment, why is Cody Bellinger on the bench? Will Mike Trout of the Angels be off the IL and back on the field this week? Did Larry Scott change the Pac-12 forever? And how much are the Lakers paying LeBron James to stay in LA?
Can On-Air Personalities Opt Out?
Fred and Art discuss the request by Keith Hernandez to be excused from providing commentary for any Phillies games, citing his disapproval of their defense. Can commentators do that? Should Deshaun Watson be able to play in the Cleveland Browns’ next game in Florida while his suspension is still pending? Will Colin Kaepernick be the Browns’ secret weapon if Watson is out for the season? And what inspired Whit Merrifield to get vaccinated?
A Final Goodbye to Beloved Broadcasting Giants
Fred and Art mourn the loss of Vin Scully and Bill Russell and share personal stories of their interactions with these two heroes of the sports world. The NFL is enjoying a time of great prosperity but is also dealing with lawsuits and multiple cases of misconduct within the ranks, such as those involving Deshaun Watson and Steven Ross, to name a few. Is money the root cause of all of their troubles?
