NBC Sports' Big Ten Country

In this episode of the Big Ten Country Podcast, host Kenneth Davis is joined by Mike Straw of Insider Gaming to dive into the highly anticipated EA Sports College Football 25. They discuss their favorite teams to play with (0:48), address issues with the Ultimate Team mode (3:30), and break down the Road to Glory mode (6:16). Mike shares insights on how player ratings are determined and makes a bold statement about Shedeur Sanders' rating (12:05). They debate the top player in the game (14:21) and the best QBs (14:53), and analyze college team rankings (17:55). Stay tuned for the latest news and updates on the game (21:20). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With football season drawing closer, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis break down their Big Ten football power rankings. The guys dive into the significant changes at Maryland and Rutgers and debate whether Dylan Raiola can vault Nebraska up the ranks this season. Later, the duo evaluates how the new West Coast schools will fare and whether Lincoln Riley’s USC program can thrive in its first Big Ten season. Finally, they tackle the big question as Oregon and Ohio State take center stage. Which team reigns supreme in the Big Ten, and which has a better shot at making a deep playoff run? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a jampacked Big Ten Country, Kenneth Davis and James Neveau round up all the latest happenings from the NBA Draft and free agency period. The guys react to Memphis taking Zach Edey at No. 9 and evaluate whether he'll be a starter or reserve in his rookie year. The guys also praise the Miami Heat's pickup of Kel'el Ware and discuss the Timberwolves' decision to snag Terrence Shannon Jr. in the first round. Ken and James evaluate some of the undrafted free agents, including Boo Buie heading to the Phoenix Suns and Marcus Domask landing with the Chicago Bulls, and toss in a sprinkle of NHL talk as the Chicago Blackhawks land Michigan State's Artyom Levshunov with the No. 2 overall pick. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s Big Ten Country, Kenneth Davis and James Neveau welcome SB Nation Draft Expert Ricky O’Donnell to the program. They take a deep dive into the draft stock of Zach Edey, the limitations and the strengths that could either make or break his NBA career, and what teams may be the best fit for his skillset. Later, Ricky breaks down Kel’El Ware’s potential to be a lottery pick, and the skills that could help make Terrence Shannon Jr. an attractive option, or the downsides that could see him slide down in the order. Finally, they break down Cam Christie, and whether his game at Minnesota will translate to the NBA. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the latest Big Ten Country Podcast, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis discuss if Caitlin Clark is learning as she goes as the Indiana Fever beat the Chicago Sky again. They go in-depth into former Fighting Illini Coleman Hawkins' offseason ending with a major NIL deal after transferring to Kansas State, was that the best move for him? Later, the duo also discusses Hawkins' former Illini teammate Terrance Shannon Jr. being found not guilty of sexual assault and what will be next for his career in the NBA. Make sure you don't miss the insights and discussion. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's Big Ten Country, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis take a look at the hardest football schedules in the Big Ten, as ranked recently by The Sporting News (2:45). The guys examine the gauntlet defending champion Michigan will have to go through (3:30), and how Lincoln Riley and USC are being welcomed into the conference. The guys also evaluate Penn State and Wisconsin's chances of crashing the playoff party, with Drew Allar poised to potentially take a leap forward (14:00). Finally, the guys discuss Caitlin Clark's omission from the USA Olympic roster, whether it was the right decision and how the media has covered the story (26:52). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's Big Ten Country, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis are joined by Assistant Majority Leader Kam Buckner, who represents Illinois' 26th House district. Rep. Buckner weighs in on budget negotiations and his legislative priorities in Springfield, and on the confluence of sports and politics as the Chicago Bears seek stadium funding. Later, Rep. Buckner discusses his time as a lineman for the Illini under Ron Zook, which culminated in a Rose Bowl appearance, and how his time as a player influenced his work to codify NIL payments and his criticisms of the NCAA's handling of student athletes. Finally, he reveals the biggest lesson he took from his time at Illinois as he launched his career in politics. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's edition of Big Ten Country, Kenneth Davis and James Neveau have the very latest updates about College Football 25 from EA Sports (1:40). They delve into how the game captures the traditions of college football while also integrating incredible new gameplay features, including wear-and-tear and football-accurate tackling, playcalling and more. The guys break down Kasparas Jakucionis coming to Illinois and Ben Humrichous agreeing to stay in Champaign, and they also discuss how Brad Underwood's roster is taking shape (15:38). Finally, James and Ken share their feelings on the death of Bill Walton, whose impact was felt far beyond the basketball court (32:53). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In an absolutely jampacked Big Ten Country, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis break down Northwestern's narrow loss to Boston College in the women's lacrosse title game. Later, the guys delve into the landmark House v. NCAA case, with a settlement paving the way for athletes to be paid directly by schools amid a new revenue sharing plan. Finally, the guys react to the Big Ten's robust Friday night schedule, discussing its impact on athletes and on the world of high school football. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join hosts James Neveau and Kenneth Davis on the Big Ten Country Podcast as they team up with gaming reporter Mike Straw to dissect the highly anticipated return of EA Sports' College Football 25. From discussing the unexpected revival of the game (5:55) to analyzing gameplay mechanics and features (17:07), the trio delves into all aspects of this upcoming release. They explore topics such as player name and likeness, gameplay differences, and the absence of certain fan-favorite features (27:40), offering insightful commentary and lively debate along the way. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of college football gaming. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join hosts James Neveau and Kenneth Davis on the Big Ten Country podcast for a thrilling episode packed with highlights and hot takes from the world of college sports. They kick things off with the Illini's stunning victory over Purdue in baseball, boosting their chances for an at-large bid in the NCAA tournament (4:00). They dive into their bracket predictions for the NCAA baseball tournament (9:00) and they go in-depth on women's softball as the season heats up (17:00). Celebrate the success of two Big Ten teams heading to the lacrosse final four: Northwestern's women's team and Maryland's men's team (23:20) and finally, wrap up with reactions of the EA Sports NCAA 25 cover athletes (30:15). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Big Ten Country Podcast, hosts James Neveau and Kenneth Davis dive into the monumental retirement of Iowa's legendary coach, Lisa Bluder, after 24 years and the promotion of her longtime assistant, Jan Jensen. They also discuss Iowa's addition of Villanova's star, Lucy Olsen. The duo gets into Caitlin Clark's challenging WNBA debut. They also preview an exhilarating final weekend of Big Ten baseball, with Illinois leading the Big Ten with a 15-6 record and facing Purdue in a crucial series. Tune in for all the latest Big Ten action and expert analysis! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a packed episode of Big Ten Country, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis discuss Lauren Derkowski and the Michigan Wolverines capturing the conference softball title. They evaluate the Wolverines' chances in the NCAA tournament, and whether a team like Indiana or Northwestern could potentially make some noise as the postseason looms. Later, the guys break down stories by Yahoo's Ross Dellenger about potential revenue-sharing and scholarship changes in college athletics, examining whether the proposed split will work and the factors that could keep it from reaching the finish line. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's Big Ten Country, Ken Davis and James Neveau discuss the hierarchy of the conference's football teams after a new ranking from CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli drops (0:40). Did Drew Allar and Penn State get disrespected by being placed at No. 4 (1:34), and are the reigning champion Michigan Wolverines ranked too highly in the third spot (11:00)? The guys then delve into the titans of the conference, praising Will Howard and all the incredible transfers the Buckeyes landed while also wondering how smoothly Dillon Gabriel will fit into Oregon's offense (15:45). Finally, the guys pick out their favorite Big Ten women's hoops matchups of the coming season, with the USC Trojans prepared to embark on a nationwide tour de force and reigning conference champion Iowa's tough road back to the Final Four (35:55). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a special Big Ten Country podcast, James Neveau and Kenneth Davis take a break from the usual coverage of current events and instead debate some burning questions. Which football team has the best helmets in the Big Ten, and should teams like Ohio State get rid of helmet stickers? If Ken and James could add one team to the conference, who would it be? If the Big Ten were to add two more teams, should they explore the idea of relegation? The guys debate these topics and more, including which rivalry in the conference has the coolest trophy. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode of Big Ten Country, Kenneth Davis and James Neveau talk about the ongoing talks surrounding lawsuits filed against the NCAA over alleged antitrust violations, and how the Big Ten and SEC are taking the lead on revenue-sharing talks that could settle those cases (2:00). The guys talk about expansions of the College Football Playoff and NCAA basketball tournaments and how they're affecting those conversations (10:00). Illinois basketball then becomes the focus, with Coleman Hawkins entering the transfer portal and with a slew of new players coming to Champaign as Brad Underwood looks for a follow-up to an Elite Eight campaign (18:34). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In our post-NFL Draft edition of Big Ten Country, Ken Davis and James Neveau break down Michigan's dominance of the proceedings, with JJ McCarthy and Blake Corum among those finding new homes. Penn State also carries its weight with Olu Fashanu headed to the Big Apple and Chop Robinson hitting South Beach, but could another Nittany Lion make the biggest impact? The guys discuss their biggest surprises from the Big Ten in the draft, focusing on one fascinating move by the Chicago Bears. Finally, the guys detail some massive news in women's hoops, as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft will now call Big Ten Country home. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Big Ten Country and the Under Center Podcast team up to break down the Big Ten's top prospects and the Bears' 2024 NFL Draft plans. James Neveau and Kenneth Davis are joined by Josh Schrock to break down the hottest draft rumors on the even of the event. They dissect the buzz surrounding the Bears and top prospect Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State (1:13), and discuss what it would take to trade up to secure him (7:00). The trio the delivers unfiltered takes on Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy's curious draft rise and unclear NFL potential (21:30). Plus, get the inside scoop on left tackle Olu Fashanu (29:55) and other potential Big Ten first-rounders (34:08). Don't miss out on the ultimate draft breakdown - it's all right here on the Under Center Podcast! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James Neveau and Kenneth Davis are feeling draft-happy in this edition of Big Ten Country. The guys break down the WNBA Draft, with Caitlin Clark and Celeste Taylor set to make big things happen for the Indiana Fever (12:56) and Kate Martin allowing the rich to get richer as she heads to Las Vegas (11:00). Later, Ken and James hold their own unique NFL Draft, picking players that they think will have the best careers at the next level. Marvin Harrison Jr., Cooper DeJean and JJ McCarthy take center stage as the guys debate the futures of the conference's biggest stars from 2023 (25:28). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James Neveau and Kenneth Davis take a look around the Big Ten as spring football hits its crescendo. The guys start with Ohio State's ongoing quarterback competition, with Will Howard and Devin Brown both getting shots to land the starting role for the Buckeyes. Attention then turns to Penn State, where Drew Allar has new weapons at his disposal and where the Nittany Lions are looking to replace key contributors on defense. Finally, the guys check in on Michigan star Frank Nazar's contract with the Blackhawks and revisit Claire's Corner for an NCAA Gymnastics title week preview See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.