The Portal - Daily College Recruiting and NIL Podcast

Locked On Podcast Network, Brian Smith
  • 4.6 (56)
  • Football

The Portal is hosted by Brian Smith as he takes you through the biggest college football stories, College football recruiting, transfer portal, and NIL. Tune in for daily insights that will have impact at the local and national level. Brian Smith, a life-long recruiting fanatic, will break down the latest college football recruiting rankings, intel, commitments, evaluations from 7-on-7 and camps, and what’s next from coast to coast. He will be on the road covering what matters. That’s why Locked On College Football Recruiting is your dialed-in source for the latest news and insights! The Portal is presented by the Locked On Podcast Network.

  1. 17h ago

    TRANSPARENCY: College Football Playoff Committee Faces PRESSURE to Explain Rankings & Biases

    The College Football Playoff faces a crisis of confidence as inconsistency and a lack of transparency cloud the selection process. Can public disclosure of committee votes and clear criteria restore fans’ trust? Brian spotlights Hunter Yurachek’s role as chair, the committee’s ongoing bias concerns, and why early, transparent communication is crucial as the season ramps up. Recruiting’s high-stakes evolution takes center stage, with powerhouse programs like USC, Texas, and Georgia targeting prospects as young as 14. NIL deals, family vetting, and early offers reshape the landscape—are schools moving too fast? The conversation expands to playoff proposals like the 20+4 format, debate over home-field advantage, and the AP poll’s surprising snubs, fueling speculation about Texas, Miami, Indiana, and Clemson’s playoff hopes. Will this season mark a turning point for college football’s most controversial committee? Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    TRANSPARENCY: College Football Playoff Committee Faces PRESSURE to Explain Rankings & Biases

  2. 1d ago

    IMPACT: Transfer Portal Players to Know, Oregon vs Boise State Matchup & AP Poll Reaction

    Brian Smith and Spencer McLaughlin break down several outstanding Transfer Portal impact players for top programs, changing the perspective of the College Football Playoff chase. Then it’s time to discuss the Oregon Ducks. Oregon’s talent and depth should overwhelm Boise State, but what should people take from the game? How will Oregon’s offensive line perform? Will Dante Moore and the receivers live up to the hype? To finish, debating how the SEC contenders received no first place votes in the AP Poll. Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 1d ago

    PLAYOFF BOUND: Indiana, Ohio State, USC & Oregon—Notre Dame WILL NOT Join Big 10

    The Big Ten football storms into the spotlight with a bold prediction: four playoff spots are up for grabs as Ohio State, Indiana, USC, and Oregon headline a loaded, quarterback-driven conference. Brian Smith breaks down why the Big Ten outpaces the SEC this year, spotlighting Hoosiers quarterback Josh Hoover, Buckeyes’ Julian Sayin, and the dynamic playmakers transforming the league’s speed and competitiveness. Brian Smith tackles whether Oregon finally finish the job and make a run at a national title, and will Washington or Michigan emerge as playoff dark horses? There’s also NIL’s sweeping impact, the rise of Big Ten recruiting in southern hotbeds, and the strategic shakeup in offensive schemes. The heated question of Notre Dame’s future is put to rest: despite constant rumors, the Fighting Irish aren’t joining the Big Ten anytime soon—unless a Super League emerges. With AP poll surprises and crucial analysis of contenders like Penn State and Illinois, this episode is essential for every college football fan. Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    PLAYOFF BOUND: Indiana, Ohio State, USC & Oregon—Notre Dame WILL NOT Join Big 10

  4. 2d ago

    CERTAINTY: Georgia Bulldogs WIN SEC, Gunner Stockton & Arch Manning SPARK Playoff Hype

    The SEC power shifts as Brian Smith unveils bold conference and Playoff predictions—can Georgia, led by Gunner Stockton, outpace high-powered challengers like Arch Manning’s Texas and Trinidad Chambliss-led Ole Miss? Quarterback battles, Heisman favorites, and playoff contenders come into focus as key returning stars clash with dynamic newcomers, all in pursuit of SEC dominance. Smith ranks the SEC’s top quarterbacks, highlights an incredible pass-rushing threat like Texas pass-rusher Collin Simmons, and assesses program trajectories with the coaching hot seat intensifying for names like Shane Beamer. From Alabama’s championship hopes under Kalen DeBoer to transfer portal wildcards and playoff selection controversies, this episode tackles the pivotal storylines shaping college football’s landscape. Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    CERTAINTY: Georgia Bulldogs WIN SEC, Gunner Stockton & Arch Manning SPARK Playoff Hype

  5. 3d ago

    BREAKOUT: San Diego State Freshmen Elijah Lash, Carson Diehl & Derek Stevenson IMPACT Pac-12

    The Pac-12 football’s next wave is here: which freshmen will become breakout stars and reshape the conference landscape? Brian Smith and Christian Rowe spotlight rising talents like Elijah Lash (San Diego State edge), Carson Deal and Derek Stevenson (SDSU wide receivers), plus Boise State’s Rasean Jones and Keawe Brown as names to remember this season. Could these rookies fill major shoes and thrive in immediate roles? Key topics include recruiting victories over Texas schools, wide receiver depth at San Diego State, and Boise State’s physical newcomers who are already drawing hype from spring and fall camp. The hosts also debate Oregon State’s explosive punt returner Jesse Legree, Fresno State’s offensive lineman Alex Rivera, and whether Washington State’s Lance McGee can force his way into the linebacker rotation. Which teams are best positioned for a youth-driven resurgence in the Pac-12? Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    BREAKOUT: San Diego State Freshmen Elijah Lash, Carson Diehl & Derek Stevenson IMPACT Pac-12

  6. 4d ago

    ORANGE TURNAROUND: Steve Angeli and Syracuse AIM to SURPRISE Everyone in College Football

    The Syracuse Orange challenge low expectations as quarterback Steve Angeli returns to lead a revamped squad. Can Angeli’s leadership and a bolstered defense under new coordinator Vince Kehres make Syracuse the surprise team in college football this year? Jackson Holzer and Brian Smith break down Angeli’s recovery, the impact of key transfer additions like Chris D’Appolonia, and the urgency surrounding the Orange’s secondary depth with rising stars Chris Peal and Demetres Samuel. Major topics include the uphill battle against ACC rivals, predictions for pivotal matchups against Pitt, Louisville, and Notre Dame, and the importance of defensive improvements after last season’s struggles. Brian Smith offers strategic insight on the team’s potential bowl eligibility, trenches matchups, and whether Syracuse can capitalize on quarterback advantages as the schedule tightens. Will Fran Brown and the Orange pull off shock upsets and silence the oddsmakers? This episode delivers all the key analysis ahead of a make-or-break season. Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    ORANGE TURNAROUND: Steve Angeli and Syracuse AIM to SURPRISE Everyone in College Football

  7. 5d ago

    PROVE IT: BYU’s Offensive Line and LJ Martin POWER a Playoff RUN, But Notre Dame Game DEFINES Season

    BYU Cougars gear up for a high-stakes season with questions swirling around their wide receivers and a veteran offensive line—could these units be the key to a College Football Playoff push? Host Brian Smith teams up with BYU insider Jake Hatch to break down how the transfer portal, incoming freshmen like Legend Glasker, and experienced additions such as tight end Roger Saleapaga will impact Bear Bachmeier’s offensive options under center. Can Bear Bachmeier elevate the Cougars’ passing game behind a line anchored by Andrew Gentry, and will speed upgrades at receiver translate when facing elite Big 12 defenses? The conversation zeroes in on how the Cougars' physicality up front and playmaking threats like LJ Martin could make all the difference against top-tier programs like Notre Dame and Texas Tech. Don’t miss this breakdown of BYU’s strategy for competing at the highest level in college football. Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    PROVE IT: BYU’s Offensive Line and LJ Martin POWER a Playoff RUN, But Notre Dame Game DEFINES Season

  8. 6d ago

    PRESSURE: Dabo Swinney Will Ride With EXPERIENCED Quarterback, Clemson Must Win NOW

    The Clemson Tigers face a critical crossroads as Christopher Vizzina leads a high-stakes quarterback battle with true freshman Tate Reynolds ahead of a challenging schedule, including playing at LSU Week 1. Dabo Swinney almost always rides with the experienced quarterback, at least to begin a season, so look for Vizzina to get the nod at quarterback. Will Swinney’s loyalty to veteran players pay off, or will the pressure for improved clutch performances define the season? The arrival of impact transfers aims to shore up Clemson’s depth, especially in the secondary, but question marks linger over the defensive line and Vizzina’s ability to make game-changing plays after the Tigers went 7-6 in 2025. Brian Smith and Morgan Thomas break down Clemson’s transfer portal overhaul, the return of Chad Morris as offensive coordinator, and rising expectations in an ACC that demands more than mediocrity. Key discussions spotlight Elliott Washington’s potential in the secondary, Vic Burley’s underwhelming development, and the fanbase’s restless call for double-digit wins. Will adjustments in staff and roster be enough to restore Clemson to national prominence, or is another season of frustration leading to Swinney coming under fire from Clemson fans? Support us by supporting our sponsors! Poncho Outdoors Go to https://ponchooutdoors.com/[LOCKEDON] and enter your email to get $10 off and free shipping on your first order. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25. The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    PRESSURE: Dabo Swinney Will Ride With EXPERIENCED Quarterback, Clemson Must Win NOW
See All (502)

4.6
out of 5
56 Ratings

About

The Portal is hosted by Brian Smith as he takes you through the biggest college football stories, College football recruiting, transfer portal, and NIL. Tune in for daily insights that will have impact at the local and national level. Brian Smith, a life-long recruiting fanatic, will break down the latest college football recruiting rankings, intel, commitments, evaluations from 7-on-7 and camps, and what’s next from coast to coast. He will be on the road covering what matters. That’s why Locked On College Football Recruiting is your dialed-in source for the latest news and insights! The Portal is presented by the Locked On Podcast Network.

Information