Third String: Recent Episodes

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Zac and Pete break down the baseball and football stories you need to hear every week. Download an episode and join the debate! 3rdstring@vernacularpodcast.com

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Delayed Super Bowl Reax, Mookie goes to LA, and the XFL Debuts We talk about Mookie going to the LA Dodgers (and leaving a black eye on the Red Sox front office), whether or not Pat Mahomes deserved the Super Bowl MVP, and the new face of spring football: Oliver Luck's XFL.

Email us: 3rdstring@vernacularpodcast.com

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The Disastros and the Great Baseball Scandal of 2020 Zac and Pete talk about the growing MLB scandal, including whether or not MLB should vacate the title, Jose Altuve's diminished reputation, and whether or not this is worse than the steroid scandals of the 1990s.

Email us: 3rdstring@vernacularpodcast.com

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Mr. Rivera Goes to Washington, New Overtime Rules, and Jerry Jones is Weird Zac and Pete talk about the NFL coaching carousel, Jadeveon Clowney's hit on Carson Wentz, Zac's horrible predictions for last weekend, Zac's (hopefully) better predictions for next weekend, and some great ideas for NFL overtime.

Email us: 3rdstring@vernacularpodcast.com

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The Return: Aaron Rodgers is Average, the BCS was better, and Fantasy Football is the worst Zac and Pete are back with a new episode of 3rd String and a commitment to bring you the best baseball and football content every week. On today's episode we talk about the plan for the revived show, debut our "small ball" and "take shop" segments, and talk about Aaron Rodgers' decline, our fantasy football pain, and some guy named Boston Scott.

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In this episode, Peter and guest host Josh (co-host of Vernacular's "The Popped Cast") jump on the horn just an hour removed from celebrating the first World Series win for the Washington Nationals. SPOILER: Joy ahead.

What did we miss? Email us: lineup@vernacularpodcast.com

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Pete Visits Colorado, Designing the New XFL, the Washington Nats, and the Ewing Theory In this episode, we return to The Lineup for an in-person pod as Pete visits Colorado and sits down with Zac to talk about everything going on in the sports world. Pete shares with us his excitement about Appalachian State's football program (which is finally having the breakout year he's been watching for), the Washington Nats' trip to the World Series and the Harper version of the Ewing Theory, the NFL's terrible on-field product and how we're going to fix those problems in the new XFL. For starters: the linemen will wear oven mitts and there will be no such thing as holding.

What did we miss? Email us: lineup@vernacularpodcast.com

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The Return In a comeback that rivals Michael Jordan's September 2001 exit from retirement to play for the Washington Wizards, Zac and Pete are back at it to talk about the dog days of summer, the extreme futility of New York teams, the Washington Redskins' QB battle, why Eagles Super Bowl predictions make Zac nervous, and MLB trade deadline moves.

Email us: thelineup@vernacularpodcast.com

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In this episode, we join forces with The Popped Cast's Josh Goldman for a special crossover episode in which we break down the best baseball movies of all time. This episode originally aired on The Popped Cast, which you can find wherever you get your podcasts. Notes from the original podcast are below.

In Episode 40, Josh welcomes guests Zac Crippen (the co-founder of the Vernacular Podcast Network, co-host of Vernacular Podcast and co-host of Vernacular’s sports podcast The Line-Up) and Peter Laclede (co-host of Vernacular’s sports podcast The Line-Up), for a very special episode where we rank a selection of 15 baseball movies from worst to first to celebrate the start of the 2019 Major League Baseball season.

In no particular order, we ranked Field of Dreams, The Sandlot, The Bad News Bears, A League of Their Own, Bull Durham, Moneyball, The Natural, Fever Pitch, Major League, Rookie of the Year, Little Big League, Angels in the Outfield, For Love of the Game, 42 and The Rookie.

We individually ranked each film on a scale of 1-10 in three categories. 1. Overall enjoyment of the film. 2. Overall quality of the film. 3. Baseball accuracy. We then averaged everyone’s score to get a total for each movie out of a possible 30 points. The film with the lowest score would be #15 and the film with the highest score would be #1.

The results might surprise you - the top 5 were separated by just 3 and a half points.

Email us at thepoppedcast@vernacularpodcast.com!

Find out more at https://lineup.pinecast.co

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Zac, Pete, and guest co-host Josh Goldman break down the American League for the 2019 season.

Among the topics: Are the Red Sox favorites to repeat? Will the Royals be fun to watch as they base steal their way to 60 wins? Is Cleveland confused? Will the Yankees' bullpen be able to carry them? Is the Rays' use of an "opener" a travesty or ingenious? Join the conversation and let us know what you think!

Find out more at https://lineup.pinecast.co

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Zac and Pete resume the MLB preview episodes by finishing up rankings in each of the National League divisions.

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In this episode, Josh Goldman joins us from our sister podcast The Popped Cast to meet Zac for the first time (no, seriously) and to banter about rival NL East allegiances. Josh also encourages Zac on the 13 years of Bryce Harper that lie ahead for Phillies fans, we talk about how Bryce's new contract is long enough to have its own Bar Mitzvah, and we break down the new power rankings in the NL East.

Oh, and we tried calling Pete but he didn't pick up. Lame. Pete, consider this our virtual heckling.

Find out more at https://lineup.pinecast.co

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) preview some key things to watch in tomorrow's Super Bowl matchup, including:

  • Aaron Donald, Ndamukong Suh and the Rams' defensive line vs. the Patriots' offensive line

  • Julian Edelman on crossing routes

  • The Patriots' secondary and linebackers dropping back in coverage

  • McVay's offensive scheming vs. Belichick's defensive masterminding 

  • Romo's big day

What'd we miss? Let us know at lineup@vernacularpodcast.com or @TheLineupPod

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) review the 12 playoff teams in the NFL playoff field and review, from "worst to first," what their Super Bowl chances are. What'd we miss? Let us know at lineup@vernacularpodcast.com or @TheLineupPod. 

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) conduct a draft of the best sports moments of 2018 and then briefly discuss some sports things they hated in the past year. 

Mentioned in this episode: 

  • Washington Capitals' Stanley Cup

  • St Nick and the Eagles' Super Bowl

  • Baker Mayfield transforming the Browns

  • Shaquem Griffin being drafted

  • Tiger's first PGA tour victory since 2013

  • Shohei Ohtani as the first two-way player in decades

and much more!

What did we miss? Tell us at lineup@vernacularpodcast.com or @thelineuppod! 

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) debut The Lineup with a definitive watchability rankins of all the 2018 NCAA bowl games. Sound off on what we missed! thelineup@vernacularpodcast.com

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) run through a "Dime a Dozen" segment and give you their picks for a high payoff 12-game parlay of NFL weekend action.

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) discuss the glories of October baseball and talk about the Red Sox/Dodgers matchup, dissect the Saquon Barkley draft decision in retrospect, argue about whether or not the NFC East is the worst division in football, and talk about the surprises of the year. (And, Zac adds, the Browns' 2.5 win total is not one of those surprises.)

ICYMI: Here is the Peyton Manning video Pete mentioned. 

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Welcome to the Takes of The Game NBA Season Preview for the 2018-19 season. Taylor and Ishan open with a discussion on Jimmy Butler's practice tirade in Minnesota yesterday before wondering if player empowerment has gone too far. Then, Taylor laments the loss of DeJounte Murray and the implications for the Spurs' already-sad season. The guys give us their individual awards predictions before breaking the league down into various team tiers. Finally, they give us their predictions for the conference finals and eventual champion. Put on your sun screen--the takes are blazing hot! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) discuss the opening salvo of the MLB playoffs, including the Cubs' impressive collapse, the clash of the Titans in Boston and the Bronx, the phenoms on the Braves' roster, and the small-market team who is their favorite to advance to the World Series. 

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Ishan takes us down memory lane and tells us where his affection for Jimmy Butler began. That leads the guys on a deep dive into Butler's trade demands. They debate who's to blame for the bad blood betwen Butler and The Wolves and talk about where Butler could go from here. Then Taylor and Ishan give the "island" takes on which they find themselves all alone heading into the new NBA season. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) run through a "Dime a Dozen" segment and give you their picks for a high payoff 12-game parlay of NFL weekend action. 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen), Pete (@Pete_Laclede), and Ishan (@jimmyluandtaj) discuss the NL playoff race, Ohtani the two-way phenom who continues to bat despite a torn UCL, the Athletics' impressive ability to keep finding an edge with one of the lowest payrolls in baseball, and the close race for NL Rookie of the Year. 

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Taylor and Ishan, in great moods after their football teams swept the weekend, dive into ranking the top five league pass teams based on watchability. They argue intensely about the Atlanta Hawks, give some love to the surprisingly deep Indiana Pacers, discuss why the Lakers could be entertaining (it's not just LeBron) and give their case for AD & Giannis making their teams "must-watch TV." Finally, they drool over the Toronto Raptors.

Follow Taylor: @TheTYoung
Follow Ishan's NEW handle: @JimmyLuandTaj

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) break down storylines so far from weeks one and two of college football season, including Willie Taggart's performance in Tallahassee, Scott Frost's challenge in Lincoln, and the realignment of the college football landscape over the last two decades. Then they shift to the NFL and debut a new "Dime a Dozen" segment, where they gave you their picks for a high payoff 12-game parlay. 

Listen more: anchor.fm/3rdstring

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On this weeks TOTG, Ishan recaps the WNBA Finals and explains how the WNBA will continue to market themselves, then Taylor and Ishan deep dive on strategy shifts over the last 20 years in the NBA and guess what the next frontiers will be. They ask: what does EuroBall in the NBA look like? What is the future of the big man? Could LeBron become the best 5 in the league? Finally, Taylor snaps about Kawhi Leonard...it was a long time coming.

Follow Taylor: @TheTYoung
Follow Ishan's NEW handle: @JimmyLuandTaj

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede), true NFC East homers, break down why the Cowboys and Giants are in horrendous trouble: Did you know that 11% of the Giants' roster was added after the end of the preseason? Did you know that 50% of Dallas' offensive line is injured? The guys also identify stories to watch with the Washington Redskins and the [Super Bowl Champion] Philadelphia Eagles.

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In this episode, 3rd String Benchwarmers Zac (@ZacCrippen), Ishan (@shouldakeptJB), and Taylor (@TheTYoung) host a live discussion about all things fantasy football while the 3rd String draft progresses through ten rounds. Hear the reaction to the shocking #2 overall selection, the kicker drafted in the sixth round, the good old days of Shannon Sharpe, and divergent thoughts on draft philosophies. 

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) preview the NFC/AFC West, breaking down storylines for each team and talking about the "X-Factor." Will the Rams reign supreme? Are the Seahawks in true rebuild? Is Denver back? Hear all of these discussions and more, and let us know what you think.  

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Taylor Young (@TheTYoung) and Ishan Nath (@shouldakeptJB) discuss Manu Ginobili's retirement from the San Antonio Spurs, his legacy in the NBA, and the greatest Manu moments of all time. Ishan also prognosticates on the WNBA postseason and talks about why fantasy basketball is so great.  

Follow Takes of the Game on Twitter

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Taylor Young (@TheTYoung) and Ishan Nath (@shouldakeptJB) return to the microphones this week for a primer on advanced stats for the uninitiated. Want to know all about lineup data, VORP, and more? This is the pod for you. You'll also hear Taylor's hot take on Michael Jordan (he was "good at basketball") and hear Ishan's story about a Luol Deng trade that sent him into the literal fetal position. 

Follow Takes of the Game on Twitter

For more, check out Bleacher Report's Advanced NBA Stats for Dummies

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) preview the college football season in advance of kickoff weekend, exploring storylines, teams, and personalities to watch in each of the Power 5 conferences. Is this the year for Tom Herman's Texas squad to take a big step forward? What about Justin Fuente's Hokies? are Alabama and Georgia destined for a CFP rematch? (We hope not.) Is James Franklin underrated?

Hear all of these and more, and join the conversation on Twitter!

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) react to the news of Urban Meyer's three game suspension and discuss whether or not this meets the requirements of justice (hint: it doesn't). 

Join our Fantasy Football League (it's free!)

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) discuss preview the NFC/AFC South this year, talking about each team's storyline and X-factor. Will Sacksonville maintain its elite pass rush? Will Kamara continue his torrid pace to give Drew Brees options? Is this finally the year of the Falcons? Is J.J. Watt back for good? How early do you have to check into a Southwest flight to not get a middle seat?

Join our Fantasy Football League (it's free!)

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Ishan (@shouldakeptJB) discuss what the Josh Hader ordeal tells us about baseball (read: is baseball too white?), examine whether or not the 2018 Red Sox are the best Red Sox team of all time, and look at the states of the NL divison and wild card races. 

For further reading: "With a Loud Ovation, Baseball Shows its Whiteness" by Michael Powell

Join our Fantasy Football League (it's free!)

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) provide a preview of the AFC and NFC North, predicting division winners and identifying each team's "X-factors" and storylines to watch. Hear Zac's hot take on the dark horse of the AFC North, Pete's wildly optimistic forecast for Hue Jackson and company, and the guys' thoughts on the Packers' uphill climb against the Vikings. 

Join our Fantasy Football League (it's free!)

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) discuss the Urban Meyer allegations and the future of the NCAA, Jalen Hurts' dissatisfaction at Alabama, Terrell Owens' Hall of Fame celebration, Ray Lewis' and Cristiano Ronaldo's busts, and Lance McCuller's elbow. Links below:

Brett McMurphy's original report 

Jalen Hurts' comments

Terrell Owens HOF Celebration

Ray Lewis | Cristiano Ronaldo

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And we're back! After taking their own All-Star break, Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) return to the show to break down all of the MLB trade deadline action. What team emerged as the winner? Who is the deadline loser? Why didn't the Nationals trade Harper? The guys also banter about who has worse weather in the summer (Zac in Austin or Pete in Vegas), MLB teams that are too easy to hate, the perpetual dysfunction of the Dallas Cowboys, and what surprise dark horse NFL teams could go all the way to the Super Bowl. 

Show links:

Mookie Betts mic'd up / Matt Kemp mic'd up

RosterResource

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In this special National Ice Cream Day/Home Run Derby edition episode, Zac and Pete draft their Home Run Derby teams and discuss their favorite ice cream flavors after Pete ate his own weight in ice cream at a Vegas ice cream festival (Zac routinely eats his own weight in ice cream, so he is also qualified to discuss these matters.)  And a draft spoiler alert: Pete is a Bryce Harper homer (typical) but Zac beats him to the punch.  

We're also building a Facebook Group! Join here. 

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In this episode, Zac and Pete banter about World Cup Soccer, Kirk Cousins, and D.C. sports, and debate the snubs of the All-Star Game. You can find the full All-Star Game rosters here. 

We're also building a Facebook Group! Join here. 

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Zac (@ZacCrippen), Pete (@Pete_Laclede), and Ishan (@shouldakeptJB) answer a listener question about unwritten rules in baseball, banter about Dexter Fowler's rocky tenure in St. Louis, conduct a midseason evaluation of the MLB playoff race, anoint a new anti-three true outcome king, and make completely ignorant and uninformed World Cup predictions. Send us questions and comments!

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) talk about the best baseball movies of all time, summer in Vegas and Austin, the designated hitter coming to the NL, Zac's terrible DH idea, pace of play changes, and round two of Pete's journey on the Lane Kiffin Hype Train. 

Don't miss out on The Popped Cast, the new pop culture podcast from Vernacular!

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) talk about the MLB season so far, including the resurgent Astros, the slumping Bryce Harper, and Clayton Kershaw's attempt to return from a back injury. Then Zac brings Taylor (@theTYoung) on to talk about the latest Kawhi Leonard reports and the impact on the NBA's future.

Don't miss out on The Popped Cast, the new pop culture podcast from Vernacular!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In part two of this special Father's Day episode, Zac (@ZacCrippen), Pete Laclede (@Pete_Laclede), and Josh Goldman (@GoldmanStandard) talk about the defining biography of Tiger Woods and the lessons that fathers everywhere can draw from it. Also be sure to check out Zac's longform piece on Tiger Woods, Golfing in the Dark.

Don't miss the Vernacular Podcast Network's newest show, The Popped Cast, launching later this month! Josh and Maureen Goldman host this pop culture addition to the Vernacular lexicon.

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In part one of this special Father's Day episode, Zac (@ZacCrippen), Pete Laclede (@Pete_Laclede), and Josh Goldman (@GoldmanStandard) talk about the defining biography of Tiger Woods and the lessons that fathers everywhere can draw from it. Also be sure to check out Zac's longform piece on Tiger Woods, Golfing in the Dark.

Don't miss the Vernacular Podcast Network's newest show, The Popped Cast, launching later this month! Josh and Maureen Goldman host this pop culture addition to the Vernacular lexicon.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen), Ishan (@shouldakeptJB), and Taylor (@theTYoung) discuss J.R. Smith's Finals-defining gaffe, LeBron's hand injury and his 2018 destination, Ishan's solution to tanking, and the Eastern Conference team with the best chance to upset the Warriors in the 2018-2019 season. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It's the final installment of the Roadtrip Diaries! As Pete's roadtrip winds down and he descends into the Nevada desert, Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) discuss the Washington Capitals' historic win over the Las Vegas Golden Knights (Pete's hometown team vs his new town team) and the New York Mets' injury woes. We're back next week with better sound quality for more of your favorite sports talk! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It's the Roadtrip Diaries Micropod Part 3! As Pete's roadtrip continues, this time from an undisclosed location in Yellowstone National Park en route to Salt Lake City, Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) talk about bison burgers, mosquitoes, Bryan Colangelo's burner accounts, LeBron in the finals, Terrell Owens turning down the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, and Julian Edelman's looming suspension. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It's the Roadtrip Diaries Micropod Part 2! As Pete's roadtrip continues, this time from Billings, MT to an undisclosed location in Yellowstone National Park, Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) talk about spelunking, NCAA scandals, the Eagles getting disinvited from the White House, Oliver Luck's move to the XFL, and Bryce Harper's disappearing act. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It's the Roadtrip Diaries Micropod Part 1! In the middle of Pete's roadtrip from North Dakota to Las Vegas, Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) talk about Phil Jackson's boyhood hometown in North Dakota, the rugged beauty of a Dakota sunset, Terrell Owen's comeback bid, Jerry Jones vs. Bruce Allen, and Gabe Kapler's Phillies. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede)break down the Supreme Court’s sports gambling decision just before Pete moves to the gambling capital of the world, preview the unlikeliest Stanley Cup in history, and talk about the Amazon’s newest show, All Or Nothing: The Dallas Cowboys). Be sure to tune in next week for our NBA Finals preview! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen), Ishan (@shouldakeptJB) and Taylor (@TheTYoung) discuss the Celtics-Cavs and Rockets-Warriors matchups, talking about key players, coaching decisions, defensive ratings, Brad Steven's ingenuity, and LeBron's case for the GOAT (🐐). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) take fifteen minutes to break down the latest NHL action (Pete's beloved Caps are going to their first conference finals in twenty years) and talk about the Sixers' future and LeBron's case for the GOAT. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete highlight some key takeaways from the NFL draft last weekend (Josh Allen is Christian Hackenberg, the Giants are dumb, the Saints must have accidentally traded away next year's first rounder), answer a listener question about the Denver Broncos, talk about key surprises in MLB so far this season--including the breakout of Didi Gregorius--and talk about how they're driving the tractor that is pulling the Las Vegas Golden Knights bandwagon. (Seriously, Pete has been a Las Vegas Golden Knights homer since the beginning.) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac (@ZacCrippen) and Pete (@Pete_Laclede) run a mock draft, posing as the GMs of the Browns, Giants, Jets, Broncos, Colts, Bucs, Niners, and Raiders. Zac drops a surprise first overall pick and Pete starts the run on quarterbacks early. What do you think? Drop us a line on Twitter or in the Anchor app! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac, Pete, and Ishan sit down and talk about some of the surprising and totally expected events of the NBA playoffs so far. Is LeBron in danger of not making the playoffs for the first time since Pete was in college? Are the Sixers for real, like Zac thinks? Can the Pelicans upset the Warriors in round 2? Ishan says it hinges on Steph. It's all here--and more--on 3rd String! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Get Ready for the NBA playoffs with 3rd String! In this episode Zac and Pete talk with Taylor Young, a long time Pounding the Rock contributor and die-hard Spurs fan, about Kawhi Leonard’s tumultuous season and some of the NBA’s most exciting matchups this April. Also find out if the guys are all in agreement on Rookie of the Year voting (spoiler: they’re not), whether the Greek Freak will get the help he needs to propel the Bucks, and what the most popular baby name in Philly will be when 2018 comes to a close! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete are back, one emergency surgery and one trip to Sin City down, to talk about the week in sports. The guys debate Dez Bryant landing spots, the Ohtani hype train (spoiler, one host yells “whoot whoot”), and bench-clearing "brawls" in baseball. Get ready for a great weekend with 3rd String! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete briefly give a nod to Philadelphia's latest championship team, the Villanova Wildcats (0:37) before talking about Chance Sisco's bunt against the Twins' shift in the 9th inning (5:02). Zac also comes out as a bat flip supporter (9:18) and the two guys discuss the Phillies' management woes (13:42), the Cubs' rotation issues (20:30), and the new-look Los Angeles Rams (25:49). In closing, they reveal the NFL-winning strategy for the Browns to employ during the upcoming draft (33:45). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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On this bonus pod, Zac and Pete welcome “Uncle Saw” back to the show, fresh off his trip to the Mecca of college hoops betting: Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The guys discuss what it’s like watching the Round of 64 in a major casino, some interesting winners/losers, and what lines to watch for in this weekend’s Final Four. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In the final episode of our MLB preview trilogy, Zac, Pete, and Ishan discuss over/under predictions for each team in the American League and National League West. Will Shohei Ohtani overcome his spring blues? Will Wade Davis be enough to support the Rockies Bullpen? Are the Giants going to be the comeback story of the year? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In this episode of 3rd String we break down some of the biggest things you need to know about the American League and National League central divisions. What is Byron Buxton's ceiling? Are the Indians a lock over the Twins? Will Jose Quintana dominate the Cardinals?.Will the Cubs regret letting Arrieta go to Philly? Zac, Pete, and Ishan break down all of these questions and more! It's a great episode, and the perfect thing to get you pumped for Opening Day next week! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It's been a crazy NCAA so far. We have First Four teams taking out Final Four favorites, #1 seeds falling to schools whose websites can't handle the traffic, and some traditional blue bloods slowly creeping their way back up to the top. This week the guys have the biggest UVA fan they can find, Josh Goldman, on the show to talk about his experiences in the wake of the historic upset. They also pick out their matchups to watch this weekend, and even debate a little on what the selection committee should be thinking about next year. Get ready for the Sweet 16 with 3rd String! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In the midst of Madness and travel, Zac and Pete are back with an emergency pod to talk about the crazy week in sports. From the disappointment of the PAC-12 to the Yankees, to the biggest NFL Free Agent moves, it’s an episode filled with hot takes and predictions! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In this episode, Zac, Pete, and Ishan break down the results of Selection Sunday and provide initial thoughts on the field of 68 teams that made it to the tournament. Will Kansas be the first 1 seed to fall in the first round? Will Virginia make it through its gauntlet? Will Oklahoma be able to win more than once? We break it all down and more. Follow us on Twitter @3rdStringPod, @ZacCrippen, @Ishan_Nath, and @Pete_Laclede. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In part one of our MLB preview trilogy, we break down the American League and National League East, looking at offseason acquisitions, storylines that will determine the direction of the 2018 season, and over/unders for win totals. We also chat briefly about March Madness (full tournament episode is dropping next week!) and the NFL draft combine. We're also announcing our fantasy baseball league--the first dozen listeners to respond get to play with us this year! Reach out on Twitter @3rdStringPod or to 3rdstringpod@gmail.com. Special thanks to Dodgers ballpark organist Helen Dell for our intro/outro music! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete provide instant reax to the new details emerging from Yahoo Sports with respect to the NCAA basketball corruption scandal. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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We're Back! After taking 2 weeks off, Zac was finally able to stop celebrating long enough to sit down with Pete and Ishan to discuss all things basketball. This week, the guys talk about some of the surprises in the NCAA, debate the pending sanctions that could shock the world, and give quick reactions to NBA All-Star Weekend. Finally, the guys talk about what's going on with Team USA after one week of competition in South Korea and whether they are taking the bait on Tim Tebow making it to The Show. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It was the Empire vs. the Rebels. Darth Vader vs. Obi-Wan. Good vs. Evil. And the good guys won, 41-33. In this brief emergency pod, Zac and Pete provide rapid reactions to the the Eagles' riveting victory over the Patriots in the Super Bowl. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In this episode, Zac, Pete, and Ishan break down some key matchups in Super Bowl LII, make their score predictions, and then pivot to the basketball world where Trae Young is getting a lot of draft buzz, the Cavs are falling apart, and there's whispers of LeBron going to play for the Lakers. It's a fun conversation and you should let us know what you think! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete take ten minutes to quickly break down the Alex Smith trade, which is particularly devastating for Pete. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete are at it again! After their bad NFL Wild Card and Divisional picks, the guys bring in an expert this episode, “Saw” LaMonaca, to give his own Super Bowl prediction, as well as break down the gambling scene around it. Saw talks through the line, his favorite prop bets, and even the Music City Miracle. Take the safe bet and listen to this episode to get ready for the Super Bowl! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In this episode of 3rd String, Zac and Pete talk about Alabama’s 451st consecutive championship title, Wild Card Weekend surprises, the crazy Divisional games this past weekend, and the upcoming AFC and NFC championships. Along the way, the guys talk about Nick Saban’s new Corvette, Seth Wickersham’s palace intrigue, and Georgia Tech’s Josh Pastner. Subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete ring in 2018 by going all in on football. The guys start off with bowl game reactions by talking about surprises and disappointments, before moving on to disagree about draft stocks and what teams should look for going forward. 3rd String also welcomes Jamie Appletoft, an expert on FCS play, to talk about this weekend’s highly anticipated FCS national championship between the NDSU Bison and JMU Dukes. As always, send the guys your questions, comments, and beer recommendations! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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‘Twas the day after Christmas and all through the land, not a sports fan was unhappy, except for the 385,000 people in Cleveland. Zac and Pete talk about assembling children’s Christmas presents, the sorry state of NFL replay, the new early signing period for college football, and the always exciting Las Vegas Golden Knights. They also tackle some great (and some hurtful) listener questions. As always, send us questions, comments, and beer recommendations! Follow Zac and Pete on Twitter. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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We have Salad Bowls, Hype Train Bowls, Bad Boy Mower Bowls, and everything in between! In this week’s bonus show, Zac and Pete sit down with former Ball State defensive tackle and 2-time bowl game alum Joel Cox to talk everything about bowl game season from prep, to swag to NFL hopefuls in the locker room. Zac quizzes Pete and Joel on absurd college bowl names, and then the guys make some interesting predictions on the CFP that may surprise you. It’s a week full of hot takes and is sure to be a fun list Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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It has been one week since the Empire (who some might know as the Yankees) signed Giancarlo to a huge deal, sending shockwaves through baseball. Not to be outdone, the rebels from a moon base in Anaheim signed Ohtani and baseball's best infield. Have they won the offseason? Not to be forgotten in the outer rim, the NBA is heating up with the Return of the Jedi Kawhi Leonard and the brilliance of his coach, Greg "Yoda" Popovich. Can the plucky Spurs challenge for Best in the West? Time will tell... Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Zac and Pete talk about the changing NFC landscape in the wake of the Nick Foles injury, Philadelphia's chances to weather losing Carson Wentz's left knee, the 2018 AL champions (with Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge batting back-to-back), Russia cheating at life, and college basketball being great again. Like it? Leave us a review on https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Fresh off of Turkey coma recovery week, Zac, Pete, and Ishan get into the week's biggest news: Alabama's selection over Ohio State for the College Football Playoff. The guys take opposing viewpoints on the committee's decision, but agree on Tiger's return, the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes' excitement, and that Jimbo and the Aggies are not a match made in heaven. I Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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Pete and Zac dissect the upcoming menu of Turkey Bowl games this weekend, including the Miami-Pittsburgh showdown, Ohio State taking on Michigan in the Big House, and the Iron Bowl. We also talk about Baker Mayfield's Heisman campaign, the unstoppable New England Patriots, the recent MLB MVP awards, and Pete (once again) brings up Lane Kiffin. It's a fun conversation and you don't want to miss it!

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Zac, Pete, and Ishan examine the early returns of the NBA seasons, including the outcome of the Kyrie-Thomas trade and the unexpected impact of injuries, the Milwaukee Buck's fully-fledged superstar, and we discuss whether or not the Sixers were right to #TrustTheProcess. We also talk about the CFP, evaluating a weekend full of surprises, talking coach hirin Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In episode 5, Pete and Zac break down game 7 of the World Series, talk about George Springer’s MVP performance in the whole series, and discuss the new College Football Playoff Committee rankings, Lane Kiffin’s Twitter antics, why the CFP needs to include eight teams, and Pete’s frozen beer in North Dakota.

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In this World Series edition of 3rd String, Ishan, Pete, and Zac combine forces to provide commentary on the best moments of the World Series so far, the surprising offensive performances from both teams (Joc Pederson and Josh Reddick), Cody Bellinger's struggles at the plate, the game 4 pitching matchup, bullpen management, Yuli Gurriel's inflammatory gesture, and what will happen in games 4-7. It's a lot of fun and you should check it out!

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Zac returns after vacationing in California to welcome Pete Laclede onto 3rd String as a new co-host! They discuss Game 7 of the ALCS, the greatness of Jose Altuve, whether or not Aaron Judge is the most Jekyll-and-Hyde player of all time, Clayton Kershaw's chance at redemption, Dusty Baker's lack of a chance at redemption, the Eagles-Redskins Monday Night Football game of week 7, and the top 10 teams in college foo Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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In episode two, Ishan breaks down what to look for in the WNBA finals and lends his thoughts on the new-look Oklahoma City Thunder in the aftermath of the Carmelo Anthony trade. Zac & Ishan banter a bit about the NL MVP race and Zac brings on 3rd String guest Pete Laclede to break down the Hokies' upcoming battle with the Clemson Tigers.

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Who is the more deserving AL MVP?

Who is the more deserving AL MVP?

In the first episode of the newest podcast from Vernacular, Zac & Ishan break down the AL MVP race and debate whether Jose Altuve or Aaron Judge is more deserving. They also discuss why Heisman speculation is an exercise in futility and how our appreciation of football unfairly focuses on the quarterback rather than the people around him that make him excel. You'll also hear some of Zac & Ishan's more emotionally raw sports exp Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lineup/support

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3rd String, the newest podcast from Vernacular, is a weekly dissection of sports and news from two amateur, bench warming, 3rd string analysts named Zac & Ishan.

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