Y-Option: College Football with Yogi Roth

Yogi Roth
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Y-Option: College Football with Yogi Roth

A college football podcast through the lens of the West Coast. Yogi Roth brings a uniquely expert, curious, and western take on the game we love. Facts first, opinions second. www.y-option.com

  1. MAY 13

    A Night with Cougar Athletics & Jimmy Rogers

    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 leadership of Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould. The message? The Cougs can win and will lead in a conference that’s bold, aggressive, intentional, and open-minded. I think Cougs everywhere will love hearing from Coach Rogers. He’s already instilled his culture and leadership style into the program. And yes, while the team will feature nearly 70 new faces when the season kicks off, don’t sleep on this squad. Washington State has a chance to make serious noise in this final transitional year before the Pac-12 returns to a full conference slate in 2026. 🎧 In This Episode Jim Thornby and I kick things off with: * A deep dive into the 2025 Cougs * Cam Rising’s impact at Utah * A fresh take on NIL * Who needs to join Trump & Saban regarding college football governance 🎉 72 Episodes of Season 1 – Thank You!This episode marks our 72nd podcast of Season 1, a milestone we’re incredibly proud of. It’s been a season filled with late-night edits, production calls, and newsletters like this one. And we couldn’t have done it without your support. As we head into a brief offseason to regroup, we’d love to hear from you. Take 30 seconds to fill out our 2025 Listener Survey - tell us what you loved, what you want more of, and how we can continue to grow together. 🙏 Special ThanksTo our brilliant editor, Victor Ren—you are a STAR. Thank you for sharing your time and talent. Here’s to many more West LA brunches! Much love and stay steady,Yogi This episode was executive produced by Jim Thornby & edited by Victor Ren. This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    1h 16m

  2. MAY 6

    The Humanity Behind the Headset: Lincoln Riley’s Journey

    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 talk about what it means to now call Los Angeles home and what he enjoys when he finds time off the field. When I first started coaching at USC in 2005 under Pete Carroll, one of the most fascinating dynamics I noticed in L.A. was the tension between external vs. internal reality. Players are often told by the outside world that they’re elite, destined to dominate. Internally, though, they may be struggling - learning the playbook, adjusting to a demanding environment. That’s natural in a sport as developmental as football. But at USC, that disconnect can be amplified, especially in the current landscape of college football. Coach Riley and I explored when he first noticed that, and how he helps his players deal with it and the lessons learned early on at USC. Finally, we delve into his quarterback room. He’s coached a range of personalities, and there’s no single way to mold them. Think about it: from Baker to Kyler to Spencer to Caleb to Miller to the current room at USC. It’s full of such dynamic personalities and all so different. So I had to ask: How do you actually talk to that position? If you’ve followed my podcast, you know my only rule: ask questions I don’t already know the answers to. And this episode taught me a lot - about Lincoln Riley the small-town kid with principled parents, Lincoln Riley the head coach at USC, and Lincoln Riley the human being. I hope you enjoy getting to know him as much as I did. Much love, and stay steady,Yogi Executive produced by Jim Thornby, field produced by McKenna Keil, filmed by Liam Brennan, edited by Victor Ren. 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

    31 min

  3. MAY 1

    NFL Draft Recap & the Dawgs After Dark

    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 and now Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan. * UCLA’s defense turning out pros under Ikaika Malloe - it's time to give them their due. * The growing power of the B1G and SEC in the draft — plus, what this year’s NFL Draft might have looked like before conference realignment. Finally, I’m off to Seattle for Dawgs After Dark. After completing my deep dive on UW, I believe the 2025 Huskies could be a sleeper in the Big Ten. Year 2 under Jedd Fisch features a roster with over 70 players who have only ever played for him. While 2024 was a tough season, the return of dynamic QB Demond Williams Jr. gives the Dawgs a shot at making real noise. Yes - I said it. Plenty more to come this weekend, and be sure to tune into Big Ten Network on Friday night — it’s going to be an electric evening on Montlake. Much love and stay steady,Yogi This episode is executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren. This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    51 min

  4. APR 24

    Betting on Himself: Will Stein’s Rise from Walk-On to Elite Play Caller

    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 family. Those traits earned Will a starting role at quarterback for the Cardinals and led to him becoming a 2023 Broyles Award finalist as the Ducks' OC. What’s stood out most to me in getting to know Will, is his deep commitment to family, his passion for the craft, and the discipline that keeps him fully present each day. This episode will resonate with every athlete chasing a dream and every coach grinding before sunrise. His wisdom inspires belief, and his football IQ is a masterclass in growth mindset and high-performance leadership. Draft Day + QB Thoughts Speaking of success—the NFL Draft kicks off tonight, and we’ve got you covered at Y-Option. I’ve been calling it the “Elite Backup QB Draft,” and I think that label will prove true by Friday and Saturday. One prediction: Tyler Warren is my pick for the most consistent playmaker and the closest thing to a sure thing. And when Cam Ward hears his name called as the #1 overall pick, let’s give him a standing ovation. Just six years ago, his father, Calvin, was cold-calling Division III schools looking for an opportunity for his son. Talk about inspiration. How Great Is Ball indeed! Portal Mayhem & College Football Talk What’s going on in college football? The portal has opened, chaos has ensued, and it feels like jerseys are being retired far too soon. In today’s opening segment, Jim Thornby and I bring thoughtful takes to three major storylines lighting up the airwaves: * Nico Iamaleava and what might be college football’s first-ever trade. We dive into why it’s a win for UCLA and what it means for DeShaun Foster’s roster. * Cal Bears, Ron Rivera, and the Portal – Somehow Berkeley is both chaotic and calm. And both can be true. * Retiring Jerseys in Boulder – There’s been plenty of debate around Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. While both are incredible talents, the timing of retiring their jerseys might actually do them a disservice. We explain on today’s podcast. I’m headed to Eugene for the Ducks spring game, live on Big Ten Network, alongside Y-Option alums Guy Haberman and Kenjon Barner. Dan Lanning’s squad has lost plenty of talent to the NFL, but this roster still boasts future stars. Tune in at 1 PM PST as we break it all down. As always—much love, and stay steady. — Yogi This episode was executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren. This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    1h 16m

  5. APR 23

    Mastering the Mental Game with Dr. Michael Gervais

    "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 later, during the 2011 NFL Lockout, we shared stages around the country alongside leaders like then-Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll, Nike Executive Matt James, and author Kevin Carroll. We traveled the nation, speaking to high school coaches about building a philosophy. We made memories. Hopefully, we made an impact. But there’s one moment I’ll never forget. Dr. Gervais would ask a question we’d all heard before: “How much of the game is mental?” No matter the region, the answer was the same: “90%.” Then he’d follow up: “How much time do you spend training the mental game?” Again, the answer was consistent—and disappointing: “Less than 10%.” Fast forward to today: Dr. Gervais is the leading voice in high performance psychology. He’s spent decades coaching the best in sport, business, science, and the arts. His work with the Seattle Seahawks is legendary, he’s been an integral part of our Elite 11 quarterback development for the past 18 years with his company and podcast Finding Mastery is a must listen for all seeking to unlock their potential within. Since 2016, he’s joined my podcast once a year. Every time, I walk away a better man - a more connected father, an inspired husband, a more present broadcaster, and hopefully, a better friend. My hope? This conversation lands with you too. And helps you get just 1% better, especially when it comes to your mental game. Much love and stay steady,Yogi P.S. This week we will take a deep dive into the Oregon Ducks with their Offensive Coordinator Will Stein in advance of broadcasting their spring game, as well as share thoughts on the current college football transfer portal, the turnover at Cal and retiring numbers in Boulder. Be sure to subscribe to the Y-Option newsletter and share it with a friend as we bring you thoughtful dialogue in College Football from the West Coast. This episode is executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    1h 7m

  6. APR 9

    From Elite 11 to the Horseshoe: Tavien St. Clair

    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 hometown kid who grew up less than an hour from Ohio State’s campus. Now he’s living his dream, wearing scarlet and gray this spring. Tavien and I sat down last summer at the Elite 11 Finals in Los Angeles, and in today’s episode, you’ll hear that conversation—his journey, his mindset, and the legacy he hopes to build. Reflecting on that conversation reminded me of how special the Elite 11 experience has been for me over nearly two decades. Back in 2009, my first year on the Elite 11 staff, the MVP was Jake Heaps. That class also featured Devin Gardner, Chandler Whitmer, Blake Bell, Nick Montana, and others. Meeting those athletes when they were 17 years old gave me a window into the unique world of top-tier quarterback prospects - a world filled with pressure, passion, and unpredictable journeys. Now heading into my 17th year with Elite 11, we’ll share the same message with this year’s class that we gave to the ‘09 group and that we spell out in the best-selling book 5-Star QB: “The only thing that’s guaranteed is that your path won’t go exactly as you envision it.” Looking back on that 2009 class, that truth has played out in so many ways: * Jake Heaps transferred three times before a run in the NFL and is now a head coach in high school & the head coach of Elite 11. * Devin Gardner played both wide receiver and quarterback at Michigan and now shines as a broadcaster with FOX Sports. * Chandler Whitmer played at Illinois and UCONN and now serves as the QB coach at Indiana and in my eyes, is a rising star in the coaching ranks. * Blake Bell won three Super Bowls - as a tight end. * Nick Montana went from Washington to Tulane and today, he’s the co-founder and CEO of his own company. Every one of them, like every Elite 11 QB since, imagined a long NFL career. And while not all had the career of Tom Brady or Jared Goff, they each carry incredible stories, filled with grit, growth, and perspective. It’s a reminder that behind every 4 or 5-star ranking is a real human story. And here at Y-Option, we’re committed to telling those stories and shining a light on who these young athletes are vs who they are told they should be. Hope you enjoy today’s episode featuring Buckeye signal-caller Tavien St. Clair - and as we evaluate their talent this Saturday in their spring game, let’s all remember that each of the players also have a story worth sharing. Much love, and as always… Stay Steady, Yogi This episode was executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    40 min
  7. Maalik Murphy, Oregon State & the QB Journey

    APR 3

    Maalik Murphy, Oregon State & the QB Journey

    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 country, only to leave with a 33-31 loss and the sound of chainsaws ringing in our ears. That game wasn’t my first introduction to the Beavs, though. I had already faced them as a player in the 2002 Insight Bowl while starting for Pitt. We won, and freshman Larry Fitzgerald became a household name that night. But what stuck with me was Oregon State’s identity - tough, disciplined, and relentless. Fast forward to today, and the man leading the Beavers is a familiar name. Bray was a linebacker on that 2002 team and now holds his dream job as Oregon State’s head coach. And this offseason, he might have landed his dream quarterback. When the Pac-12 reshaped itself last season, skeptics doubted whether the Beavers could land an elite quarterback in the transfer portal. But Beaver Nation proved them wrong. Coach Bray, offensive coordinator/QB coach Ryan Gunderson, and the Oregon State staff made their pitch, and one of the hottest names in the portal chose them. As Maalik shared with me on Y-Option, he’s never been happier, or more confident. Hearing that was special. Maalik Murphy is the type of leader young quarterbacks should look up to - a model of resilience and perseverance. We hope you enjoy today’s conversation. And to those of you in our Y-Option paid community - thank you for your continued support. Back to spring ball film study! Much love and Stay Steady, Yogi This episode is executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    35 min

  8. APR 1

    2025 NFL Draft Preview with Daniel Jeremiah

    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 Sticks and Y-Option, sharing a passion for football and the people who make the game great. In today’s episode, we take a trip down memory lane, break down this year’s QB class, and discuss why adversity often leads to success. We also dive into the NFL Draft prospects of Cam Ward, Travis Hunter, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, Tetairoa McMillan, and Ashton Jeanty. Plus, DJ shares powerful insights from 49ers QB Brock Purdy, on the toughness of Justin Herbert, and handicaps the AFC West - aka the Pac-10 from the early 2000s - under Pete Carroll, Chip Kelly, and Jim Harbaugh. I have no doubt you’ll enjoy today’s conversation and I bet you’ll walk away feeling like you just hung out with one of the coolest and most insightful football minds in the game. While DJ is the elite voice of the NFL Draft, what I admire most is his humility, discipline in chasing what truly matters, and ability to elevate those around him. Be sure to catch him and his colleagues live from Green Bay on April 24-26 as the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off on NFL Network. As spring football heats up across the country, there’s some big news to report: * Coach Prime’s Historic Extension: Deion Sanders has signed a five-year, $54 million extension to stay at Colorado through 2029. While his 13-12 record may not seem extraordinary, his impact is undeniable. He has sparked a national - and even global - resurgence of the Buffs brand. The proof? Colorado’s season ticket revenue jumped from $13M in 2022 to $31.2M in 2023, they trend every time he has a press conference and this April the Buffs will, once again, pack Folsom Field for their spring game. Coach Prime continues to redefine what’s possible in college football. And I’d imagine he will be in the news a little on NFL Draft night as well. * Syracuse & Colorado Joint Spring Practices Denied: Not surprisingly, the NCAA shut down the idea of Syracuse and Colorado holding joint spring practices. While denied for now, expect the landscape to evolve as we move toward 2026, with more teams looking to collaborate. Jim Thornby and I discuss this during the preamble to my conversation with DJ and make a case for joint practices, just not like you might imagine. * Stanford Makes Big Moves: The Cardinal have named Frank Reich as interim head coach for the 2025 season. Given Stanford’s unique recruiting challenges, this hire brings immediate stability. While they could have pursued a long-term solution, GM Andrew Luck likely prioritized continuity, choosing a coach he knows well—Reich coached Luck in 2018 with the Indianapolis Colts. Did they get it right? Let us know @Y-Option on social media as we had a long discussion about this strategy as well on today’s podcast. I met Coach Reich at a Super Bowl event a few years ago and he left a lasting impression. I imagine Stanford’s roster will feel the same way and I do not anticipate a mass exodus to the portal. Additionally, Stanford hired Alden Mitchell as the interim Athletic Director. Having known Alden for over a decade from our time at the Pac-12 Networks, I can say this: she’s competitive, sharp, and fully committed to this role. The next 4 months will shape Stanford’s football program for the next 5 years. Their success in adapting to the modern college football landscape hinges on the decisions they make now, and with Andrew Luck steering the ship, I’m optimistic they’ll get it right as a good Stanford squad is a great thing for college football. As always, much love to all of you for supporting Y-Option. Enjoy spring ball. Stay steady,Yogi This episode is executive produced by Jim Thornby and edited by Victor Ren. This podcast is a Best Coast Media production 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

    1h 17m
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A college football podcast through the lens of the West Coast. Yogi Roth brings a uniquely expert, curious, and western take on the game we love. Facts first, opinions second. www.y-option.com

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