In the opening take, Lee hits on Trejan Bridges and Seth McGowan being suspended and how we'll handle that situation moving forward. Then Grant joins to discuss a potential Justin Broiles resurgence (4:00)? The last OU DB to be drafted in the First Round was Andre Woolfolk in 2003. Has Brent Venables produced a lot of First Round DBs at Clemson (13:30)? Grant gives his thoughts on the Bridges/McGowan situation. Lee also looks back at the Will Sunderland situation from 2017 to get an idea of a possible timeline for this current matter (19:05). We move on to more unserious issues as Lee goes over the things that have stood out to him in the last week, beginning with Lincoln Riley and Spencer Rattler (33:20). Moving on, Marvin Mims is playing in the slot, Mikey Henderson is looking good, Rattler said an interesting thing about Eric Gray, and Lee thinks it's weird that Caleb Williams and Billy Bowman are still taking high school courses (44:30). Defensively, Calvin Thibodeaux told us that Josh Ellison has been running with the 1's this spring, Isaiah Coe sounds like he's super strong, and is D-Line depth going to be insane this year (56:05)? When you watch football on TV, what are you watching specifically on each snap? And we talk about Quentin Griffin (1:06:00). We move on to Saturday's spring game. The guys go over each position group/players they're most interested to watch this Saturday (1:09:10). Which position group/player would you be most disappointed in, if they don't play very well this weekend (1:20:35)? Bold prediction time: Which random player or position group is going to surprise us this Saturday (1:24:15)? This is stupid, so we make the dumb joke about what's actually going to happen on Saturday (1:29:00). Stick around for some random NFL Draft talk. Is all the pre-Draft talk boring this year? Also we revisit the QBs from the 2018 class (1:32:00). Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 190 - Suspended Players Precede OU's Spring Game

In the opening take, Grant gives you an update on the current state of the Sooners and tells you why he's optimistic heading into the summer. Then Lee joins to briefly talk about a ridiculous college football local news story in Minneapolis. After that, Grant gives his updated thoughts on Trejan Bridges and Seth McGowan. And since the football related aspects of this story have been resolved, Lee can finally give you his full take (4:00). ESPN released a post-spring Top 25 that had OU ranked No. 1. Lee shares his biggest concerns surrounding this poll. Grant isn't quite as worried. Plus they hit on some other teams in the top 25 that are interesting to talk about including Georgia, Texas A&M and North Carolina (13:15). Time to unveil our post-spring OU depth chart. We project what the depth chart will look like before Week 1 against Tulane. First up is the offense, beginning with the running back group and the H-Backs (30:40). The guys have a different order for wide receivers 1-through-6 (37:55). Switching to the offensive line going from left to right (44:15). Talking TEs and pass catchers (54:30). Over to the defense beginning with defensive line and a position that was occupied by Isaiah Thomas in 2020 (56:10). Nik Bonitto is going to start at the Rush LB spot. Who's going to be behind him? Plus we go through the rest of the LB positions and we decide that we're not even sure which position some guys technically play (1:05:00). Finally we get to the secondary where we agree on the starting corners. At safety and nickel is where it gets interesting (1:20:00). How many more years do we have left of Alex Grinch as OU's defensive coordinator? And when he leaves, will the Sooners hire from within (1:35:20)? Before we go, we both have to eat crow because Tre Norwood got drafted. Plus Creed Humphrey went to a great situation. We think Ronnie Perkins will be alright in New England, but we're not as excited about Rhamondre Stevenson's future with the Patriots (1:41:25). Trey Sermon was a 3rd round draft pick and he went to a great situation in San Francisco. Plus how did a random Iowa State running back get drafted ahead of Rhamondre (1:53:30)? Grant is trying to figure out what the Ravens are doing by drafting Rashod Bateman and Tylan Wallace? Are those WRs doomed to play in a poor passing offense (1:58:15)? Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 192 - ESPN Ranks OU No. 1 And We Make Depth Chart Projections

In the opening take, Grant provides more thoughts on OU-Tulane after completing his re-watch. Then Lee joins as Grant calls Jalen Hurts underrated, which leads to a debate about Hurts' effectiveness at OU -- which then leads to a discussion about Spencer Rattler's play so far at OU (4:30). Lee thinks the Tulane game is part of a trend of Rattler underestimating teams that aren't supposed to pose much of a threat to OU (12:40). Lee goes through what he likes about Rattler, and then what he doesn't like about Rattler (14:10). Lee's not sure if Rattler has the full "buy in" from his teammates after listening to a recent comment from Lincoln Riley about leadership (18:20). Riley said his team may have bought in to the preseason hype. The main goal now is to play a full 60 minutes and Lee asked Riley how they can work on that in practice (24:30). Over to the defense. Riley and Alex Grinch explain why they played so many guys on defense Saturday. Upon review, the guys didn't think the mass substitutions and constant rotation was that big of deal. Also, we found out which players Grinch believes are the true starting 11 (32:00). Tulane's offensive gameplan will likely be mimicked by other teams this season. Get the ball out quickly, neutralize OU's pass rush. What can OU do to prevent teams from hitting the quick passing game (40:20)? Lee noticed some inconsistencies in defensive messaging after the Tulane game. Lee questions Grinch's messaging strategy. Also, this strategy directly leads to David Ugwoegbu being hung out to dry when he was answering questions from the media. Lee hopes we are not about to embark on a season where the defense tells us they're really good, but the evidence on the field does not show that (43:25). It sounds like the Shane Whitter hype was a bit premature (56:20). Grant wants a lot more from DaShaun White. Grinch said he believes the play of the linebackers will get much better (58:00). Grant briefs us on Western Carollina (1:00:00). The guys say what they want to see from the Sooners on Saturday (1:05:50). We go to the "West of Everest" Facebook page for comments and questions (1:09:00). Let's take a look at the Big 12 schedule this week and comment where appropriate about how these teams played in Week 1, and what to expect in Week 2 (1:20:20). We get to the 5 biggest games of the week and make our picks. Ohio State-Oregon/Iowa State-Iowa/Texas-Arkansas/Washington-Michigan/Utah-BYU and Grant has some thoughts on that UCLA-LSU game (1:28:10).  | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 203 - Spencer Rattler, Playing 4 Quarters, and a Mixed Message on Defense

In the opening take, Lee was impressed by the scene Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Then Grant joins to describe Week 2 of college football "take a breath Saturday". Then the guys give their biggest takeaways from OU-Western Carolina on the offensive side of the ball (3:30). Over to what the defense looked like Saturday (16:20). We check out "3 word reviews" (27:25). Grant explains in depth why he's calling Saturday "Take a breath Saturday" (34:00). Finally, Lee gives Grant the floor so he can gloat about Iowa beating Iowa State yet again (42:20). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 204 - OU Keeps Its Word, Crushes the Catamounts

No opening take today. Both guys have had an unusual week of podcast prep but we bring you the best we've got of OU-Nebraska preview coverage beginning with our thoughts on the Nebraska offense facing off against OU's defense. Lee is much higher on Adrian Martinez than Grant (3:00). Is Lee crazy for thinking Adrian Martinez would be a great fit in the Ravens offense (13:40)? Grant's got some interesting stats that highlight Nebraska's offensive line problems. OU's D-Line is a distinct advantage in the trenches (17:45). The Huskers have a limited amount of weapons on offense (21:25). Will Adrian Martinez and Scott Frost have answers for Alex Grinch's defense? Is OU's defense predictable for opponents (25:35)? Will Billy Bowman play? Woodi Washington is "doubtful" to play. What will the Sooners' secondary look like (30:00)? Grant says Nebraska's defense is the strength of their team. But OU's offense has more talent and Lee says running the football well is simply the key to winning this game without much problem (35:00). The Huskers are aggressive on defense and have the potential to get physical and make Spencer Rattler uncomfortable early on, just like Tulane did (41:05). Grant tells you what he wants to see happen Saturday (44:45) then Lee tells you what he wants to see beginning with something he liked from Jeremiah Hall this week. And will OU's "GT Counter" play work against Nebraska (47:40)? Lee tells you what he thinks the film tells us will happen Saturday, and Grant also gives his game predction (56:35). What's the deal with West Virginia being favored over No. 15 Va Tech? K-State hosts Nevada this week. Big 12 play begins for Baylor and Kansas. Do you have the guts to take the Jayhawks (1:04:00)? The Casey Thompson era begins for Texas. Grant's got some thoughts on Steve Sarkisian and Texas (1:07:25). OSU's at Boise State and will this be one of those games where Mike Gundy surprises a bunch of people as an underdog? And Iowa State's playing in Vegas (1:11:30). We finish up with some picks on the biggest games of the week. Michigan State-Miami/Alabama-Florida/Auburn-Penn State/Arizona State-BYU/Tulane-Ole Miss (1:14:00) | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 205 - Will OU Be Fully Prepared and Focused For Nebraska?

No opening take today as the guys jump right in and give their first thoughts about OU being in danger of losing to Kansas Saturday. Grant says OU's defense is back at square one -- and he may be correct. Lee was stunned by OU's inability to adjust to what KU was doing in the 1st qtr. The Jayhawks were running 2 plays and OU could not stop them. Have you lost all confidence in Alex Grinch? Why have other Big 12 teams absolutley dominated Kansas, but OU could not (5:55)? After all this, OU could bounce back and play better against Tech -- but how many points are the Red Raiders going to score on this defense (19:30)? Grant continues his hot criticism of Alex Grinch and it's stunning how quickly this thing has fallen apart. OU's 8-0, but it doesn't feel like it. Lee can't get past that everybody else had no problems with Kansas, but OU did (24:00). Is there anything OU can do to fix the defense? Lee can't believe how bad the secondary looks. Why does it look like zone defense for OU is just blindly running to vacated space (31:00)? Caleb Williams came back down to earth a bit vs. Kansas, but he made some incredible plays that won OU the game (41:05). Grant bottom lines it: OU has to figure out the defense because the Sooners cannot waste Caleb Williams. Yes, we have the "should Grinch be on the hot seat?" talk (47:20). What has OU fans done to deserve this? The guys disagree on the degree with which the injuries have impacted the team (58:50). Lee needs to remember to not listen to anything the coaches tell us in the offseason. We talk more about Texas Tech (1:04:35). One 3rd & 5 play stood out to Grant. Lee goes over his notes from that play before we wrap things up (1:10:40). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 216 - Has the OU Defense Regressed Back to Square One?

It's back-to-back blowout losses for the Sooners as we are now forced to talk all about it. It's perfectly reasonable to be way down on this team (like Grant), but Lee is not quite there because of one specific reason. We also read your "3 Word Reviews" (there were a bunch of them). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 258 - OU Gets Blown Out Again. This Time at The Cotton Bowl

Four first half turnovers (3 INT, 1 TO on downs) effectively was the difference in OU's 38-35 loss to Baylor Saturday. The guys jump around to what bothered them, what they liked, and as always we read your "3-Word Reviews" (there's a lot of them). And to all of those people who did not enjoy the TV broadcast of the Iowa State game, we totally understand where you're coming from after watching the most recent game on TV. | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 264 - First Half Mistakes Doom OU in Loss to Baylor

Lee opens the show by sharing some news about his evening plans that nobody will surely care about. But then we jump into our takeaways from Jeff Lebby's Monday press conference. What did we want to hear from OU's offensive coordinator? Lebby said he learned after the Bedlam game that OU's offense needs to stay aggressive. What do we make of that (1:50)? We got a brief glimpse into when Lebby thinks it's best to manage the clock in games. Grant rails on OU's tempo offense yet again. Is the tempo designed to cover up a simple offense (9:00)? Lebby addressed OU's 3rd down struggles of late. Lee still wants some Wildcat answers (17:30). We get Brent Venables' take on all the clock management issues. Do we sense a bit of a disconnect between Venables and Lebby (22:55)? OU's a small road favorite at Texas Tech. It's weird to feel good about the Sooners' defense going into a game while we are all left wondering what to make of the offense as they prepare to go to Lubbock (27:40). Is it possible we see Woodi Washington and C.J. Coldon return next season (44:00)? We take a look at the Big 12 slate in the final week of the regular season (46:10) before making our weekly picks and lamenting the possibility that USC will make the Playoff (53:45). Lee wants to talk about a random listener review from iTunes that was posted back in 2020 (1:15:45). And finally, we do our yearly rant against Thanksgiving food (1:21:40). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9

Ep. 269 - Will the Good Version of OU's Offense Show Up in Lubbock?

Brent Venables opened up practice for quite a long time to the media this week. Plus many players conducted interviews, including Jovantae Barnes. We begin the show by jumping into Barnes and what the heck is going on with his foot and his potential availability for the 2024 season. Lee goes through the timeline of his foot injury dating back to last spring and we try to figure out if he's ever going to be healthy--or maybe Barnes just simply isn't very good (3:00). Grant points out that the two players atop the RB depth chart are injury prone, so potentially all RBs have a chance to get some run this year. We relitigate the final quarter of the Kansas game and ask why Barnes was in the game and not Gavin Sawchuk? We also continue to question DeMarco Murray's management of that room (17:20). We move over to Jackson Arnold and what he's working on this spring. Is he really off of social media? Grant is expecting a big season from Arnold, but Lee can't help but think of the worst case scenario. What if Jackson Arnold plays as well as Spencer Rattler played in his RS-Freshman year? Would we take that (30:15)? I think we continue to get evidence the TE room is much better than it was a season ago. Thoughts on Davon Mitchell and Kaden Helms (40:45). David Stone and Jayden Jackson are making really good first impressions (47:40). I think we learned a lot from Dasan McCullough's availability this week. Grant's afraid he does not have a true position anymore, while Lee is hoping that maybe Will LB is a spot that can allow McCullough to contribute and make plays (53:40). Woodi Washington is repping at basically every secondary position. Lee's not sure this is a good thing for Woodi. Grant wants to remind everybody that while OU's secondary looks to have a lot of depth, the pass defense was still bad in 2023 (1:00:30). All we're getting is good vibes from Zac Alley and it sounds like he's simplifying the defene for everybody. Does that sound too much like Alex Grinch's Speed D (1:12:00)? Thoughts on Justin Harrington and his recovery from injury. Grant wants to make sure he brings up Deion Burks and the rave reviews he's been getting. Plus there were reports that Troy Everett suffered some sort of an injury this week (1:17:00). Lastly, Lee doesn't care at all to hear about Casey Thompson right now. Grant defends Casey (1:24:50). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 315 - What the Heck is Going on With Jovantae Barnes and His Foot?

Oklahoma picked up its 5th win of the season beating Maine 59-14 Saturday. Lee talks about the offensive explosion, this new version of Jovantae Barnes, Jackson Arnold continued his solid play, and a big picture look at OU's defense that doesn't bode well for Brent Venables. Plus we read your "3-Word Reviews". | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 357 - Barnes Continues Hot Play as OU Gets Back in Win Column

OU's loss to Missouri was more of the same as the Brent Venables era looks to be coming to a close. The only question is, "When?" | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 359 - It's Over. We Just Don't Know When it Will Be Made Official.

The guys discuss OU's 37-17 loss at LSU to close the regular season at 6-6 (2-6). It does appear the Alabama game was indeed an outlier outcome as the Sooners reverted back to what they've been for most of 2024. Grant has some historical analytical stats that show where the program is now compared to the 90s. After much big picture discussion, the guys jump into the actual game and go through all the big moments (and bad moments) that led to OU losing at LSU. At least one listener disagrees with our thoughts on Brent Venables and Lee brings up one coach who may be the best case scenario comp to Venables if he's going to succeed at OU. Plus we read your "3-Word Reviews". | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 364 - OU Fails to Build Off Stunning Win as Sooners Lose at LSU

The guys open the show briefly talking a little bit about Grant's upcoming trip to Europe, before getting into more important topics like Ben Arbuckle being hired as OU's offensive coordinator. We give our initial thoughts and go over some positive numbers. We also compare some of Arbuckle's numbers to Lincoln Riley and Seth Littrell (2:40). Venables announced that he will retain the offensive staff. Will that actually hold into 2025 (29:30)? Jackson Arnold is going to enter the transfer portal. Will Wazzu's John Mateer come to OU (42:50)? OU's going to need a lot of help on offense in 2025. Nic Anderson is entering the transfer portal as well. OU's injuries plus running back talk (53:30). Where do you stand on Deion Burks (1:02:50)? OU held on to Michael Fasusi, but the 2025 recruiting class is the lowest ranked for the Sooners in more than a decade (1:06:00). We read some comments from the WoE Facebook page (1:12:45). Discussing the College Football Playoff rankings. Grant's okay with Alabama being in line to get in. Lee thinks Miami is being under ranked. Grant was way out ahead of one very obvious problem with the current playoff system and Lee apologizes for going over the odds on who will win the National Championship (1:23:30). We finish up with our picks for Conference Championship Weekend (1:36:40). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 365 - Sooners Hire Intriguing Up-and-Comer Arbuckle to Fix Offense

Grant is back from Rome. Deion Burks is returning to OU. Grant is hoping OU is not breaking the bank for him. Lee struggles to care about all the money stuff (2:30). BREAKING: John Mateer commits to OU in the middle of the pod. Will/can OU now go get a top tier WR out of the portal? The tight end room looks to be a mess and an unknown (13:10). Is OU bargain shopping in the portal? Will Joe Jon Finley and DeMarco Murray be on staff after the bowl game (33:25)? OU got commitments from a tackle from Stanford and a punter from Kennesaw State. Grant goes over some defensive targets for OU (41:45). What's going to happen with Damonic Williams (46:50)? Jackson Arnold is off to Auburn and LSU is taking two of OU's offensive players. Kalib Hicks will look to get some playing time at OSU and Makari Vickers is off to Colorado (55:15). Alex Grinch is the new DC at UCF and Bill Belichick is going to be a head coach in college football (1:03:30). We make our Playoff picks against the spread and randomly also pick the Hawaii Bowl (1:11:20). Grant predicted almost exactly how the 2024 season would play out (1:26:00). Some parting thoughts about OU-Navy in the Armed Forces Bowl (1:27:00). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 367 - Great News as Mateer Commits to OU

The first 10 minutes is Grant announcing this is now a basketball podcast, Lee asking Grant a pressing question about Colosseum in Rome, and the history of humans consuming combat sports. To OU football and the news that John Mateer received a call from Baker Mayfield. Lee wonders if Brent Venables is trying to recreate the Jeff Lebby/Dillon Gabriel recipe? Looking at OU's transfer portal additions, Grant wants to know what the goal is for next season (9:45)? Lee wonders if OU has a chance to get an offensive tackle from Washington State? Plus we talk about more former OU players finding homes at new places (30:15). We move our attention to the Armed Forces Bowl matchup against Navy. The betting line has moved significantly against OU. We talk about the interesting storylines and what we want to see in this game. Can this one bowl game mean anything for the future (37:00)? Grant did a great job predicting the first round of the CFP games. We have thoughts on people complaining about Indiana and SMU being a part of the tournament (54:10). We make some picks in random bowl games this week (1:08:15). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 368 - What to Make of the Portal Additions & Armed Forces Bowl Preview

OU closed out the season with a 21-20 loss to Navy in the Armed Forces Bowl. The Sooners finish 6-7 for the second time in the last three years. Join us as we go over all the ups and downs of another OU loss, read your 3-word reviews, and try to figure out what's going to happen next in the world of OU football. | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 369 - Bad Bowl Loss Clinches Another OU Losing Season Under Venables

In the opening take, Lee gives his thoughts on Zac Alley's departure from OU's coaching staff. Then Grant joins to give his take on the matter and what it may mean (7:40). Who's going to be hired as the next defensive coordinator? What will it tell us, if anything (17:00)? OU has gotten some good news lately with some important players announcing their returns in 2025. What's up with that cryptic R Mason Thomas post? Plus we look at what you can hope for if things are going to go well for OU in 2025 (29:25). Lewis Carter entered the portal and OU has not made any staff changes. Plus we go over some other news and notes after OU adds some more random guys from the portal (48:20). Some College Football Playoff talk as Grant laments Texas and their path. Plus it's clear the seeding format needs to be tweaked (56:00). The guys make their picks for the CFP Semifinals (1:03:10). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 370 - Zac Alley Leaves & OU Does Get Some Good News for 2025

Grant opens the show with some recent news that required a visit to urgent care. We get past that to get to the great news that R Mason Thomas is coming back and FSU transfer Marvin Jones Jr. will join him on the defensive line (3:20) OSU transfer Kendal Daniels is joining the roster as well. What will be his role? Grant seems to think he could play more linebacker than DB (11:20). Lee saw a tweet that caught his eye that leads to a major hypothetical situation that involves OU's defensive coordinator opening (19:15). Joe Jon Finley and DeMarco Murray continue to be on staff. Is it possible Ben Arbuckle can improve the offensive staff as a whole (27:00)? We answer a listener question about the types of players OU has gotten out of the transfer portal so far. Brent Venables' formula for 2025 is looking more and more clear (34:20). We wrap it up with our final thoughts on the CFP semifinals and how the first year of the 12-team playoff has not been as fun as we had hoped (43:40). |  Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 371 - Great News for the Defense & Discussing a Dream Hypothetical

The guys are back to talk about the latest Jim Knowles rumors (2:00). Curtis Lofton stepped down as OU's GM recently (27:10). We begin our season-long watch of John Mateer and Ben Arbuckle at Washington State. First up is Wazzu's Week 1 win over Portland State (36:00). The guys give their thoughts on Ohio State winning the National Championship and Grant is still not enjoying the expanded playoff now that we're through the first year (57:40). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 372 - Jim Knowles Rumors & Mateer's First Collegiate Start

The guys are back to talk about Jim Knowles leaving Ohio State, but not taking the OU job. Grant's not happy that OU may have lost a head-to-head battle with Penn State. Could OU have matched Penn State's offer and chose not to? Was this all about Knowles getting closer to home? We think the ceiling for 2025 could have been much higher with Jim Knowles on staff. Plus more comparisons to the 90s (1:15). We continue our breakdown of John Mateer's 2024 season at Washington State by providing our thoughts on Wazzu's 37-16 win over Texas Tech in Week 2. Mateer was not very sharp through the air, but was dazzling with his legs running the football. We saw some good from Ben Arbuckle... and some bad (36:45). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 373 - Knowles to Penn State & Mateer's Elite Running vs. Tech

Grant opens the show by reminding everybody that DeMarco Murray and Joe Jon Finley continue to be on staff and presents a new conspiracy theory. We transition smoothly to OU bringing on Nate Dreiling and Wes Goodwin to coach linebackers. Brent Venables also announced that he will be calling plays in 2025 (7:45). Ben Arbuckle is going to make $1.5M per year (25:05). Thoughts on John Mateer and Ben Arbuckle in Washington State's win in Week 3 over Washington. There's a lot of good with this duo through three games (28:10). Brian Hartline is going to be the next OC at Ohio State. Grant really likes this guy (1:04:45). Obligatory thoughts on the upcoming Super Bowl matchup (1:07:05). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 374 - OU Adds Two New Coaches + Mateer & Arbuckle Looking Good

The guys jump right into the news that DeMarco Murray was a candidate for the Penn State running backs coach job, but will stay at OU after all. Lock in for another DeMarco Murray/OU running backs discussion (1:30). Lee did not quite realize how lowly ranked OU's 2025 signing class is. This takes us on a journey of OU's previous recruiting classes. The 2017 class was incredible (28:05). Over to the John Mateer/Ben Arbuckle 2024 watch as Washington State won a 54-52 2OT shootout against San Jose State. Mateer and Arbuckle continued to show a lot of promise, while Mateer also provided two massive lowlights. Through 4 games we are still very much pleased about what we've seen from both Mateer and Arbuckle (41:20). Jalen Hurts and the Eagles dominated the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, it was a very poor game (1:14:00). The guys inexplicably close the show with thoughts on the OU men's basketball team (1:23:35). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 375 - DeMarco Murray Still on Staff After Interest from Penn State

We open the show with some brief talk about the upcoming segment breaking down Washington State's Week 5 game against Boise State. After that they jump into the news that Kevin Wilson has reportedly been added to the staff as an offensive analyst (2:50). The Washington State-Boise State game was a good watch and super interesting. John Mateer played pretty well against the best team he saw all season. He made one horrible mistake, but him and Ben Arbuckle continue to raise Washington State's offense (15:25). We take a look at OU's 2025 schedule and try to predict what OU's Vegas win total will be. What should be the expectation for number of wins in 2025 (50:40)? Grant jinxed the basketball team months ago. Yes, we finish up the show with our half-baked thoughts on the men's team being bad. Lee also has a quick plug for a separate podcast (1:00:55). Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 376 - Kevin Wilson Returns, Mateer vs. Boise State, & OU's Win Total

The guys are back and jump right into what Brent Venables said Wednesday at his pre-spring press conference. Venables had another incredibly long opening statement. He also announced players who will not be active during spring practice (2:05). Venables also confirmed that he did not call OU's defense in 2024 (16:30). OU will not have a spring game in 2025. Grant is not happy about college football slowly transitioning to more of a pro football model. Can the "Crimson Combine" be successful (19:10)? Thoughts on Jim Nagy being named OU's GM. What do we hope he's good at? Is the NFL front office model the future? Grant's open to this being a good hire, but the OU football program has not earned the benefit of the doubt the past three years (32:40). Grant takes a look at the preseason SP+ rankings. Let's all nervously laugh at OU's super hard schedule (50:45). Lee goes over some of the things John Mateer said at his first OU press conference. We finish up by breaking down Mateer's performance against Fresno St. during the 2024 season. Mateer did not play well (57:45). Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 377 - Spring Brings a New GM, the "Crimson Combine", & Injury Updates

After some brief basketball talk the guys get to talking about the ramifications of Jayden Gibson suffering a small setback in his recovery from his knee injury (1:50). Javonnie Gibson has a lot of people talking early in spring practice. Is this real (16:00)? We're all rooting for Jaren Kanak to be a good tight end (21:20). Who knows what's going to happen with the running back room (28:15)? Grant's excited about what he's heard about Troy Everett. Lee wants to know if it's okay to be positive about the offensive line again (32:50)? Let's talk about David Stone and what the defensive line could look like, but we must remind everybody that OU's secondary is a problem. And Grant wants to talk about Taylor Heim (41:15). Breaking down John Mateer's performance against Hawaii in Week 8 of the 2024 season. The stats were terrific (47:50). We give some love to the OU men's basketball team who looks to be on their way to the NCAA Tournament (57:45). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 378 - Javonnie Gibson Might Be Good & Can We Be Positive About the O-Line?

The show announces a new presenting sponsor, Lee gets bleeped, and then we finally start talking about OU football. The guys are back on the practice field following spring break. Is anybody else getting a clear Dillon Gabriel/Jeff Lebby 2022 feeling with Mateer/Arbuckle? Is the Mayfield/Riley 2015 analogy more fitting? Plus fun nostalgic MTV Spring Break thoughts (2:50)! OU released a mic'd up video of Arbuckle and Mateer. There's a couple of interesting takeaways, mainly regarding two apparently key WRs (14:00). Lee doesn't understand the unnecessary expectations that was thrusted on two promising young offensive linemen. Grant doesn't find it to be that big of a deal (21:00). More reactions to the Oklahoma Breakdown Podcast as they recently talked about OU's running back room. Why does that position group not have any difference makers at the moment (32:40)? Mike Gundy's Bedlam spring proposal (42:40). Breaking down John Mateer's play in Washington State's 29-26 win over SDSU in Week 9. This game showed us something about Mateer that hopefully is a very positive sign for the future (46:00). For basketball fans, we talk about OU's first round exit to UConn in the NCAA Tournament (1:13:55).

Ep. 379 - Unnecessary Expectations and Why No Difference Makers at RB?

Grant's feeling a bit more hopeful about the 2025 season lately, while Lee talks about having reasonable hope compared to blind hope. Nevertheless the vibes coming out of spring ball have been pretty good, particularly surrounding the WRs. Grant says it's reasonable to be excited about many parts of the roster, but there are 3-4 position groups with serious questions (2:05). We watched practice video of pass catchers taking on DBs in 1-on-1s and we've got a lot of thoughts. Probably the most we've talked about the tight ends in a long time (18:20). We also got 1-on-1s of the O-Line taking on the D-Line. Several practice thoughts commence. It seems reasonable to expect David Stone to make a jump based on the evidence on hand (37:35). It appears Lee's conspiracy theory about Gentry Williams was wrong (50:05). Brent Venables appeared with Josh Pate in a recent interview. Lee has many thoughts-- most of them negative, but we did learn at least a couple of things (53:40). Trae Young is now the assistant GM for men's basketball, but what does that mean? Rants about players transferring all the time (1:10:20). Lamenting the death of the traditional spring game (1:19:30). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 380 - 1-on-1s Reaction & Venables Continues to be Long-Winded

We don't waste any time as Grant jumps into the news that Javonnie Gibson has been injured (1:15). Trejan Bridges (13:00)?! Davon Mitchell has entered the transfer portal. Grant is not surprised in the least bit, while Lee finally watched Mitchell's HS senior highlight tape and was not impressed (19:10). So, the Crimson Combine is this weekend (29:45). Grant absolutely hated watching Washington State-Utah State from November 2024. This game showcased perhaps the best Mateer high-level quarterback moment so far, but also included some head-scratching mistakes and decisions. Stay tuned for a cameo from DJ Graham (34:10)! Grant wants to talk about OU men's basketball picking up a terrific guard out of the transfer portal (1:01:50). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 381 - Javonnie Gibson's Injury Harshes the Buzz of the Crimson Combine

OU gets a big-time running back out of the transfer portal. Grant's super excited, while Lee is taking a more cautious approach (1:30). Jim Nagy has done an excellent job so far-- will he be able to bring in a tight end that actually helps (19:10)? Sam Franklin has entered the transfer portal. Grant thinks some other RBs will be out of here this spring (24:20). OU also brought in a solid interior offensive linemen who could challenge Troy Everett for the starting center job. What's the next position Jim Nagy is looking to fill from the portal (27:45)? Not much to take from the Crimson Combine. Is there any way to make a spring event, that's not the spring game, interesting (40:00)? Do you buy that Javonnie Gibson may be back for the start of the season (47:40)? We read some listener comments that are positive, pessimistic, and critical (52:35). The Nico Iamaleava saga (1:06:30). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25 | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonTweets

Ep. 382 - OU Upgrades Running Back Room as Spring Portal Opens

In the opening take, Grant sets straight yet another NFL "expert" who clearly hasn't watched much film on Baker Mayfield. Then Lee joins to discuss Lincoln Riley's presser that kicked off OU Spring Practice beginning with Riley's thoughts on the QB situation (9:00). How will Riley go about replacing Dimitri Flowers (18:30) and Orlando Brown (22:40)? Will Kenneth Murray switch positions? (28:00) Lee asks Riley if the idea of a depth chart is made public to the players during spring ball? (32:00) Moving to the NFL Combine, the guys discuss Orlando Brown's bad day (38:45) and disagree on Jordan Thomas (44:45). Dimitri Flowers had a poor showing (49:50), but Obo and Mark Andrews performed well in Indy (52:20). Baker Mayfield was fantastic at the Combine (55:45) and finally, we begrudgingly speak about the latest OU men's basketball loss (1:07:45). | Like the show on Facebook: @westofeverest | Email the show: westofeverest@gmail.com | Follow Lee on Twitter: @LeeBensonNews9 | Follow Grant on Twitter: @GrantBenson25

Ep. 44 - Spring Practice is Here

Opinion and analysis of Oklahoma Sooners football from the viewpoints of a local media member and an OU fan living outside The Sooner State. New episodes every Thursday during football season.

West of Everest: An Oklahoma Football Podcast

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