The Yogi Roth Show

This past weekend, I found myself back in Seattle for the 10th straight year, hosting A Night with Cougar Athletics. While every year has its own unique vibe, this one stood out - it was truly unlike any of the previous 9.Welcome to this week’s episode of the Y-Option Podcast, presented by our founding partner, 76. We're thrilled to welcome new Washington State head football coach Jimmy Rogers, who joins the show to share his coaching philosophy, stories from his Arizona upbringing, and why he believes the Cougs have a real shot at the College Football Playoff.Coach Rogers and I sat on stage in front of 400 loyal Cougs, where he echoed a powerful message shared earlier in the evening by Athletics Director Anne McCoy and new university president Dr. Elizabeth Cantwell - this is the Next Chapter for Washington State.No longer just the underdog with a chip on its shoulder, WSU is now a face of the new Pac-12. Alongside Oregon State, Pullman is stepping boldly into this next era - guided by a clear vision and the

We all know Lincoln Riley: the head coach, the play-caller, the quarterback developer. But do you know how his work ethic was formed? How his father taught him that no detail is too small? Or why he’s savoring the small wins as he rebuilds USC?If not, today’s episode of the Y-Option Podcast, presented by our founding partner 76, is the perfect listen.I’ve been around college football for 25 years. As pressure mounts, revenue grows, and realignment dominates headlines, it’s easy to forget the human beings behind the programs - those who lead, call plays, and develop young athletes.And when it comes to head coaches and quarterbacks, it’s easy to focus on salary, job title, or recruiting rankings. But the truth is always deeper.Today’s conversation brings you into the “why” behind Lincoln Riley’s leadership - his upbringing in Muleshoe, Texas, the influence of Mike Leach, the lasting impact of his dear friend Dave Nichol and much more.As a fellow small-town transplant drawn to the big-city lights, Lincoln and I

As spring football heads to the final weekend, today’s episode of the Y-Option podcast - presented by our founding partner 76 - takes a deep dive into the 2025 NFL Draft plus a preview of the Washington Huskies' Spring Game.While Shedeur Sanders’ slide to the 5th round dominated headlines, we celebrate Cam Ward’s rise from the FCS to the #1 pick, breakdown Quinn Ewers’ journey from a “can’t-miss” high school prospect to the final QB selected, and weigh in on the dynamics in the Browns’ quarterback room.Also in this episode, Jim Thornby and I discuss:* Oregon’s school-record 10 draft picks and why after doing the Ducks’ Spring Game, I think Dan Lanning is just getting started when it comes to producing NFL talent* Ashton Jeanty’s fit in Las Vegas, why the Raiders are our new favorite NFL team, and why I was hoping Arizona Wildcat Jonah Savaiinaea would end up there too.* Tight end battle: Colston Loveland vs. Tyler Warren - who ya got?* The “Servite to the Top 10” pipeline, featuring now Browns DL Mason Graham

Imagine growing up dreaming of playing quarterback in college football, betting on yourself, and then turning that dream into reality. Fast forward a decade, and you're calling plays for one of the most explosive offenses in the nation, wearing the colors of one of the most iconic brands in all of sports and coaching two of the most experienced quarterbacks in the history of college football. That’s the 30,000-foot view of Will Stein’s football journey.Today on the Y-Option podcast, presented by our founding partner 76, Oregon Ducks offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Will Stein joins us to share the insights and lessons learned throughout his remarkable path in the game, as well as a breakdown on the 2025 Oregon Ducks offense.As someone who also walked-on in college football, I’ve always been drawn to others who’ve taken that same leap. Will’s story of walking-on at Louisville has become legend in Kentucky. His father was a walk-on too, and that grit and relentless work ethic clearly runs in the fam

"How much of the game is mental... and how much are you training it?"That simple question from Dr. Michael Gervais, the world’s leading high performance psychologist, rang in my ears back in 2011. Its impact has echoed through my life ever since.Today, Best Coast Media is proud to welcome back Dr. Gervais to the Y-Option podcast, presented by our founding partner 76.In a wide-ranging conversation, we dive into the heart of college football. From navigating the transfer portal to becoming a millionaire at 19, from what Athletic Directors should prioritize when hiring a head coach, to mastering the pressures of high performance as the stage gets bigger. We also have a powerful, heartfelt exchange about youth sports.Put simply: this episode is fire.If you believe in the mental game - or even if you're just curious - pull out your journal. There are gems worth capturing.Back in 2009, I met Dr. Michael Gervais. As the son of two therapists, I’ve always believed in the power of mindset and mental skills. Two years

It’s Game Week!Okay, not a real game, but a spring game. And I’m on a flight to Columbus, Ohio to call my first ever game at The Horseshoe for Big Ten Network.Spring football always brings excitement. It’s a time of hope, opportunity, and fresh beginnings for every player on the roster.For the Ohio State Buckeyes, this spring is about the 2025 team beginning to write their own story following a thrilling College Football Playoff championship run. The energy around the program is electric, and this weekend gives us a first glimpse of what’s to come.On today’s Y-Option podcast, presented by our founding partner 76, we dive into a full preview of the Buckeyes. I break down critical position battles and explain why I believe Ryan Day’s squad is primed for another CFP run. And here’s a spoiler: it’s not just because of their talent-rich roster - it’s the competitive culture Day has built that could be the difference maker.One of the young men immersed in that environment is freshman quarterback Tavien St. Clair, a

In my 20 years living in Los Angeles, I’ve noticed a pattern. If you grow up on the West Coast, there’s always a pull to return to the Pacific time zone. For Oregon State quarterback Maalik Murphy, coming back West wasn’t what he initially envisioned as one of the top quarterbacks in the Class of 2022 out of Serra High School in Gardena, California. But after stops at Texas and Duke, the gifted QB has found his way back, now leading the Oregon State Beavers.With spring ball in full swing across the country, we’re excited to welcome Maalik to the Y-Option podcast for the first time, presented by our founding partner 76.Oregon State football has always been built on successful quarterback play complimenting a strong run game with a tough defense and an incredible fan base. Now, in Year 2 under Trent Bray, the Beavers are in position to make some serious noise out West.I still remember my first trip to Corvallis. It was 2006, my 2nd year coaching at USC. We rolled into Reser Stadium as the No. 3 team in the co

Ever met someone who just makes the room feel right? Someone who can blend into any crowd, be the ultimate teammate or wingperson, and put others at ease while making them better? I’m sure a few names come to mind as you read this. And as you listen to today’s episode of the Y-Option podcast with Daniel Jeremiah of the NFL Network, presented by our founding partner 76, you’ll get that same feeling.Daniel - or “DJ,” as he’s known in the industry - is a true master of his craft. As the lead voice on NFL Network during the NFL Draft, a constant presence in football media via his podcast Move The Sticks, and the LA Chargers radio analyst since 2018, DJ thrives in every environment.It makes sense. He was once a dual-threat quarterback who transitioned into media after an injury at Appalachian State set him on a new path. A chance encounter during that time changed his career trajectory, leading him to where he is today.DJ and I go way back - over a decade. We’ve done annual home-and-home podcasts on Move The Stic

Spring has officially arrived, and with it, most college football programs have kicked off or are about to begin spring practice. As I’ve often said, spring ball is one of the most critical times for an athlete. This year it’s even more pivotal, with the second transfer portal window opening in late April, giving coaches a crucial opportunity to evaluate their rosters and address key needs.For the Washington Huskies, this spring marks a significant phase in Jedd Fisch’s 2nd year at the helm. With new faces, young players stepping up, and 2 new coordinators, the program is rapidly evolving.Deep Dive on UW with Christian CapleNo one is more plugged into the day-to-day happenings at UW than Christian Caple, founder of On Montlake - the go-to Substack for in-depth, sourced reporting on Washington Huskies football. This week, Christian joins the Y-Option podcast, presented by our founding partner 76, to break down the latest from Montlake.Having covered the Huskies since his college days during the Tyrone Willingh

Tuesday morning, Stanford football GM Andrew Luck released the following statement:"Since beginning my role as General Manager, I have been thoroughly assessing the entire Stanford football program. It has been clear that certain aspects of the program need change. Additionally, in recent days, there has been significant attention to Stanford investigations in previous years related to Coach Taylor. After continued consideration it is evident to me that our program needs a reset. In consultation with university leadership, I no longer believe that Coach Taylor is the right coach to lead our football program. Coach Taylor has been informed today and the change is effective immediately."Y-Option: College Football with Yogi Roth is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.y-option.com/subscribe

The Power of a Coaching SabbaticalYears ago, I learned that Nike offered sabbaticals to employees after 10 years of service. It made perfect sense - stepping away allowed them to recharge, gain new perspectives, and pour into their families. In the coaching profession, I’ve always believed sabbaticals should be the norm. Every coach I’ve met who has taken a year off, whether by choice or due to job circumstances, has experienced tremendous growth.Pete Carroll famously reinvented his coaching philosophy during his year off. Chip Kelly, Dan Mullen, Urban Meyer, and Bill Belichick all spent time in TV roles before returning to head coaching jobs. These high-profile examples highlight individuals that went from head coaching job to another.Today’s Y-Option Podcast, presented by our founding partner 76, is with Arizona State offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Marcus Arroyo. After an extensive coaching career in both college football and the NFL, Marcus found himself on an unexpected “sabbatical” in 2023

To believe in oneself is a powerful thought.We've seen it drive elite athletes for centuries.It's been the foundation of one of the most successful shows in recent history, Ted Lasso. And for over 25 years, I’ve heard quarterbacks use that word - belief - time and time again.At my core, I trust that the best coaches, players, and performers must face moments of adversity. Hundreds of them. They must stare it in the eye, welcome it, and compete through it. We all have our own moments to reference. And if you’re a quarterback, you likely have a few that stand out. It’s such a defining trait that we use it as a core pillar at the Elite 11 when evaluating QBs. Every single NFL coach or GM I’ve ever spoken with about a prospect asks about it.Bottom line: If you want to elevate in life - or under center - when adversity shows up, you better believe you can find a way through it.Former Minnesota Golden Gopher quarterback Max Brosmer is a blueprint of that mindset. He joined the latest episode of Y-Option, presented

If you love college football, you know the voice of Todd Blackledge - today’s guest on the Y-Option podcast, presented by our founding partner, 76.Growing up in Pennsylvania, a few things were constant: Friday night high school football, postgame pizza with the team, and Saturday afternoons in front of the TV watching college football. My friends and I dreamed of playing in massive stadiums at places like Pitt, Penn State, and Notre Dame. As life has unfolded and I’ve traveled the world, I’ve realized that wherever young athletes grow up, this ritual remains the same.The same was true for today’s guest, Todd Blackledge - college football analyst for Big Ten Saturday Night on NBC and Peacock.I grew up watching highlights of Todd’s career at Penn State, where he led his team to a National Championship over Herschel Walker’s Georgia squad in the Sugar Bowl. Later, as a fan of the game, I came to recognize his voice every Saturday in the broadcast booth. I’ve admired his work for decades, and when I learned he ha

It’s a B1G week here at Y-Option both with our guests and on the news front. Thanks to our founding partner 76, today’s guest is the founder of Breneman Media and host of the “Next Up” podcast, Adam Breneman. More on Adam in a moment, but first the big news…Last Friday, the Ducks made a statement - not just to the Big Ten, but to all of college football. Dan Lanning, along with coordinators Tosh Lupoi and Will Stein, signed well-deserved contract extensions, ensuring Oregon remains a powerhouse under their leadership.It got me thinking about the first time I met Dan. It was at Camp Tontozona, and he was a young graduate assistant with big dreams. We stood on the field before practice, talking about the team, his path, and mine. From that moment, I knew he was going places.Since arriving in Eugene, Dan has stood out—not just for his coaching acumen, but for his perspective on life. Family first, profession second. He’s a devoted husband and father who believes that elite programs can still find balance. Now,

This week, we sit down with Fox Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz for a conversation fueled by our founding partner 76. We cover football, family, fatherhood, and a news-packed week at the NFL Combine.Jordan, son of Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, shares how his upbringing shaped his career, work ethic, and journey to becoming an NFL insider. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to break news in the sports media world and the pivotal moments that led him to this career path.Beyond football, we dive into fatherhood. Jordan opens up about raising children while managing a demanding career, offering valuable insights for parents - especially those navigating youth sports. If you’re raising an athlete, this episode is a must-listen!Of course, we also break down the latest from the NFL Combine, including:

Hello from Tuscaloosa!Well, not today - but that’s where I recently sat down with Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer inside the Crimson Tide football facility.I’ve known Coach DeBoer since his days at Fresno State. I first met him in the Fall of 2021, when his Bulldogs visited the Rose Bowl to take on UCLA. That night, I was in the booth alongside Ted Robinson, calling what many would later dub the Game of the Year - a thrilling win led by Jake Haener and an unforgettable moment for Fresno State football. Even then, it was clear that DeBoer had a rare combination of confidence and humility, the kind of coach players rally behind.From there, he headed north to Washington, where he restored the Huskies to national prominence, culminating in a 2023 National Championship appearance. I remember interviewing him postgame after their loss to Michigan—their only defeat of the season. As expected, he was heartbroken.Leaving the stadium in Houston that night, I couldn’t help but wonder what 2024 had in store for his Huski

The NFL Combine is underway with players arriving and the on-field workouts beginning Thursday, and as always, the spotlight is on the quarterbacks. While Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders won’t be throwing, he’s still expected to be the talk of the week in Indianapolis.This week on Y-Option fueled by our founding partner 76, ESPN and SiriusXM broadcaster Roddy Jones joined me to break down the quarterbacks at the NFL Combine. We discussed his unique experience calling 4 Colorado games this season and his thoughts on how Shedeur Sanders will fit into an NFL locker room. Roddy also shared his insights on other top signal-callers, including Cam Ward, Jaxson Dart, and Dillon Gabriel.As a former dual-sport athlete growing up in Atlanta who was even drafted by the Chicago White Sox, Roddy brings a unique perspective on Deion Sanders and his impact. His approach as an analyst is equally distinctive, and what has always stood out to me is his humility, which was on full display in our conversation.If you’re craving more NF

I met Mark Sanchez in the fall of 2005. It was my first season at USC and our team was regarded as the best in the history of the game. Mark was a rising star in Southern California as a freshman quarterback with a rocket arm and an infectious personality. I was a 22-year-old transplant from Pennsylvania who fell in love with the Pacific, the USC football vibe and everything LA had to offer.As a young coach you are often seeking to find your way, and that way is usually through the lens of those mentoring you. At USC in 2005 those mentors included Pete Carroll, Steve Sarkisian, Lane Kiffin and others. And in the QB room, it was a Who's Who of college football. Matt Leinart was coming off a Heisman campaign, John David Booty was his heir apparent with Mark Sanchez waiting in the wings.He and I became close friends as we both found our footing at USC. From two different coasts it was clear from Day 1 that we had the same goals – compete to do things better than they had ever been done before, master this unique

Years ago, I was on the Elite 11 quarterback camp tour and kept hearing coaches talking about QBs having the “It Factor.” It was as though everywhere I turned that phrase was being thrown around. As time would pass, it felt as though that became the most overused and undefinable phrase in football. So in the summer of 2016, a few of us set out to truly understand what it meant to have the It Factor and I would direct the film titled The It Factory.We canvassed the nation, asking premiere coaches, players and broadcasters to share their explanation of that phrase. It was fascinating as the nuances behind that phrase were so unique.The conclusion: those that have the It Factor walk into a room and people feel their presence…AND they make everyone in that room better.Dillon Gabriel is exactly that.He joined the Y-Option podcast over the weekend in our Venice Beach studio where he reflected on his record breaking year in Eugene, the impact of the Oregon staff, how he is preparing to actualize a childhood dream, h

Fly Eagles Fly!The Philadelphia Eagles dominated the Kansas City Chiefs to win this year's Super Bowl. As a Pennsylvania native, I’ve seen the passion from Philly fans since I was a child. Watching them dominate this past Sunday, I had Randall Cunningham memories flooding my mind.For former Eagle and Oregon Ducks’ Hall of Famer Kenjon Barner, he too was going down memory lane this weekend. A member of the Super Bowl LII Champions in 2018, Kenjon holds a special place for Eagle fans and the City of Brotherly Love in his heart. He shared the impact of that team on the latest episode of the Y-Option podcast, sponsored by our founding partner 76.Barner, a 3-time Super Bowl champ, is one of two players in NFL history to have Super Bowl rings from 3 different franchises (along with Matt Millen) and each one was unique. From Philly when he was a return specialist to New England the following season when he was not even on the roster during the Super Bowl to being in Tampa Bay during the COVID season with Tom Brady,