July 18, 2024 • 48 mins
This week, Devin Stewart is joined by “Mad” Matt McCay, resident writer and analyst, as we bring you the longest-running podcast following WKU athletics, The RedOut Podcast!
On the latest episode, we update WKU fans on all of the recent offseason news: NCAA Football 25 (WKU rated #80 in the nation), WKU Baseball getting three pitchers drafted for the first time ever and the first time any three players were selected in the same draft since 2011, WKU Men’s Basketball schedule strength, Lady Topper basketball being huge, and Volleyball (surprise) looks to be projecting really good as always.
The fellas also break down WKU Football in depth, from basic replacement needs, to analyzing a little bit of the schedule, talking about the overall strength of schedule (much higher than last year), and giving people a range of expectations.
Basically Matt tries to talk reasonably and Devin just screws with Matt the entire time as per usual.
Stay tuned to the end for a surprise redheaded ball of cuteness with a surprise appearance, as well!
Thanks to Aura for sponsoring this episode, and make sure to check out Aura.com/RedOUT to save and save your information today.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Devin Stewart (00:02):
Yes, thanks again to Aura for sponsoring this episode. Welcome in, guys dev. And Matt. Here, we're coming at you on another summer episode.
It is hard for us to kind of
get our schedules lined up in the summer. We're kind of crazy. So, man, how's it been going for you, Buddy?
Matthew McCay (00:21):
Oh, it's good man! If you want an update on today, we sprung a lake in our office
and
don't know how long it's been sitting there. I'm not sure we went in that room
yesterday, but big old
staying in the middle of the floor. We've got to figure out. So I've relocated to our conference room.
(00:42):
so I can record because my office sounds like an airplane hanger.
Devin Stewart (00:46):
Leaks are like the worst thing, and it's worse when you find them. When my daughter was like a year or 2 old.
I went down into our basement, and it's a rare thing for me to go down there. So I go down in the basement, and I hear just this like.
and I was like, why does it sound like steam?
And I went around the corner and my hot water heater, one of the pipes coming off. It had been leaking a.
Matthew McCay (01:12):
No.
Devin Stewart (01:12):
PIN a pinhole size leak, which had put a hole about that big about the about size of a quarter in our dry wall behind it.
and I don't know how long they've been doing it. So yeah, of course. Then it starts the whole. I gotta figure this out, cause it's a weekend, and who's gonna be able to get a plumber on the weekend, you know. So.
Matthew McCay (01:32):
True.
Devin Stewart (01:33):
Without paying without paying a unreasonable amount. But anyway, I got some notes here.
I guess, like the biggest news for people of our age
is that
minutes go.
Is that Westerns our Ncaa
football games are back, which is the biggest thing for us right?
Matthew McCay (01:57):
Yes.
I mean, that's the most exciting.
Devin Stewart (01:59):
Thing for me. Yeah, not right.
Matthew McCay (02:03):
I'm working on the wife. I'm trying to convince her
that we must have it.
Devin Stewart (02:09):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (02:10):
Try the happiness
kind of angle I've tried, but it's.
Devin Stewart (02:14):
I'll leave you alone.
Matthew McCay (02:17):
I may. Maybe I need to emphasize that more right.
less of me.
Devin Stewart (02:23):
Yes, yes, you don't have to deal with me just as much
But for us, at least you know it kind of shows
the whole nil has actually saved in C to play football, you know, video games. And that's the greatest thing. I'm not a big fan of Ea sports in general because of their issues with
(02:45):
it's the term for it. Basically like everything. They're gonna nickel and dime you for.
Matthew McCay (02:49):
Oh, okay.
Devin Stewart (02:51):
So if you want the certain Western helmet, you got to pay for it, or something, you know. That's how they did some other games, and they actually ruined them. But hopefully they've learned their lessons, and everything's a lot better. But my brother, I did talk to him about it today. He's a big gamer.
and him and his buddy are really excited about it, and I told my course. My brother is excited about being able to play Western, who is actually ranked Number 80
(03:16):
in Ncaa. 25.
Is that a good preseason poll for Western? Is that a good? Is that a good gauge of Western strength. You think.
Matthew McCay (03:26):
I mean, maybe underselling it a little bit, but I don't think.
and I'm sure they could post that on the bulletin board if they want for a little bit of
material. But I think it's reasonable, like I feel like you don't know where we're at, and
there's a lot of. There's some questions within the roster, and you don't know
(03:46):
like we did lose some guys on the transfer portal stuff like that. So I mean, 80 is
close to right. I think I'd give a range on Western of
where it may end up is about 40 to 85. It just depends on
how the years go, but or how the year goes, but
I think 80 is within the range of reasonable. I think it's a little low.
Devin Stewart (04:10):
Okay, so this article comes from a fan of ours.
and I cannot remember the magazine off top my head. But they do a preseason of all the football of all the college football teams. I'll let you. If you want to pause. If you're on Youtube, you can pause it here and check out what this opposing conference USA assistant coach said about Western
(04:31):
basically, Western's biggest opponent this year is going to be liberty according to this
and then, like Matt said, you don't really know what to expect out of Western. Here is the depth chart. So far. It looks like about 8 seniors on offense and
8 to 10 on defense. There.
just pause it and look over those.
(04:53):
Some of those names are, gonna look a lot really familiar. Some of those may not
but
yes, just go through those real quick. I'm just kind of doing this really quickly, guys. So you can kind of see what
you know outside sources are saying for Western.
Like, I said, pause and read.
and then
(05:15):
you know, it's kind of like, Matt said, and then we have the schedule. I'll pull it up.
This is a 2024 schedule down here at the bottom, and then our 23 results outside that. But
it's kind of like, Matt said. We have a whole new quarterback. We've our receivers gone. I mean.
amazing receiver, you know, quarterbacks going, and we have other holes and offense and defense that we have to try and fill.
(05:40):
So you know, you kind of got to gauge that, Matt, what are you thinking? As far as
schedule?
You know. What's the what's the highlights? What's the low light, or should we do good, or should we do bad?
Matthew McCay (05:56):
Well, that 1st one's gonna be a tough one.
Devin Stewart (06:00):
Maybe maybe.
Matthew McCay (06:02):
Yeah, I mean, you know, maybe the the.
Devin Stewart (06:04):
No cause, you know he's got a new coach, and they got a new system, and maybe they pee down their leg. I don't know I'm hoping they do.
Matthew McCay (06:12):
Maybe he. He doesn't know how to talk to Southerners or something I don't know but
Devin Stewart (06:18):
Hey! Wait!
Matthew McCay (06:19):
He was in Washington, right? So I mean, who knows? Maybe.
Devin Stewart (06:24):
So.
Matthew McCay (06:25):
So, yeah, I mean, obviously, Alabama. It's exciting to play a team like that. Obviously, you get to see how good you really are right out of the gate.
But then again, you also get to see how good you really are, right out of the gate.
So there's that you know, I think it's actually an interesting schedule
(06:45):
stronger than some of these other years. We've had some years where there really isn't anything that fascinating on the schedule. Besides, some conference games.
That you think might be interesting, and they end up being pretty good games. But you don't look at it, and you're like, Oh, my gosh! This schedule is wonderful! Well, we've got 2 power 5 schools on schedule. You got Eastern, your old rival, even though it should be a blowout. It's still an old rival. And then Toledo's a really nice
(07:13):
like equal match up G 5 type of thing and
it should be.
Devin Stewart (07:19):
Mac.
Matthew McCay (07:21):
yeah. A Mac opponent. They're comparable to Western give or take. I mean, it's a nice.
a nice kind of juicy matchup for
for 2
pretty equal programs. You don't. Obviously you don't know until you get into the season like one of the teams could absolutely bomb, or they could have tons of injuries
(07:46):
by that point. But it's a game in Bowling Green
on a Saturday at
kind of nightish. It's at 6 o'clock, and
should be. That should be an interesting matchup. And then the
I think the main thing about the schedule just in general is, it's tough. I mean, the non conference is tough.
(08:08):
You've got
middle, which is a rivalry, and we have
sometimes have some trouble with them on the road. Not lately. But it happens.
I think Sam Houston's gonna be a lot better utep. Supposed to be decent
Kennesaw States. Kinda somebody that we should hand handle, but you never know they're brand new.
(08:32):
The Mexico State at the Mexico State. That's always hard at altitude.
Law tech could be good liberty. And then Jacksonville state like, where's the where's the respite? Where's the chance to take a break?
Kansas State other than that? It's like these are tougher games like, I think Western should absolutely win 6 games
(08:56):
as a bare minimum.
I think that's for sure the the minimum that you should expect below that you should probably be pissed.
If you're a wku fan. But don't be shocked if it's a little more ugly on the record side of things this year.
It could easily happen.
Devin Stewart (09:17):
Yeah. And I think that could go one or 2 ways. I think you're right in a way. You know, we could have a pretty referent record, but
last year's record was a lot better than I think. We thought it was going to be.
Matthew McCay (09:29):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (09:30):
You know, we started at the end. We're like, oh, this is a you know. We're gonna do a New England patriots go undefeated and do all this great stuff, and then it we did not whatsoever. And then
we had some games where we really skidded past the finish line, and we shouldn't have won. But we had some games that we lost, that we should have won
But I think we actually do have a bi-week after just looking at the calendar after Boston College
(09:56):
and after Sam Houston is got our. It's not marked on Espn. But a lot of the times that you mentioned weren't marked on Espn, either. They're just Tbd, so
I'm
but you know Alabama's marked for sure. Eastern and middle Omar and Youtube, I'm basically all the games that are on Espn are gonna be marked, cause they're like, yep, we know you're gonna play this time, and you're gonna like it.
(10:28):
but yeah, Eastern is Coach Wells still at Eastern Walter Wells.
Matthew McCay (10:35):
Yeah.
unless he was
released or quit within last couple of months. He's still there.
Devin Stewart (10:42):
Okay.
I mean, course, love coach Wells. Great guy.
he did. He's did a great job at Western, and he's doing a great job at Eastern, and I hope he's all having the best health, and everything's going great for him.
as far as schedule goes. Alabama is gonna be a tough game Eastern, I don't think
(11:05):
which Wells could get his guys in shape and ready. That could pull. That could be a
that could be a South Florida from last year.
or that could be a
trying to think of the other one from last year that we struggled with that we shouldn't have
Never mind, anyway. But
(11:27):
you know, when you just have those those just moments where you're just kinda like
it'll kind of up in the air, as far as I'm concerned.
They've had horrible years, and they've had good years, and I think the rival.
Matthew McCay (11:39):
We have a new coach.
Devin Stewart (11:40):
Yeah. Well, the rivalry just kind of makes it.
You know. Are they gonna show up, or they not gonna show up.
Matthew McCay (11:48):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (11:49):
I mean.
Matthew McCay (11:49):
I mean the the thing with middle like I would.
I have respect for Derek Mason. I think he knows what he's doing, especially defensively. I mean it was at Vanderbilt, and they were decent, you know. For a little bit respectable. And then things didn't go well. Main thing was their offense kind of sucked
but their defense was excellent. You know. I think we with the dowdy offense and force lamp at tackle.
(12:18):
I can't remember if he played against Vanderville. But anyway, whatever
I maybe got rolled up on and didn't play part of the game doesn't matter
I think it was like 14 to 12. We beat them, but barely, and
you know their defense was solid.
But the offense I question, and also middle, was a mess, and stock still kept middle standing stock still for over a decade, and
Devin Stewart (12:46):
We were there.
Matthew McCay (12:47):
Mason comes in. He's been impressive. He's saying the right things. All that stuff
you definitely don't. It's an unknown how good they're gonna be. But for us
little tiny program like Middle.
It gives them a lot of momentum heading into to the New Year. So bless their hearts, they might actually win something eventually.
(13:09):
but I don't.
I think it's it should still be a game. The Western wins, but who knows? They may be one of the best teams in the conference immediately.
Devin Stewart (13:19):
They could.
I know, like I said in that little article, that it was pointing to liberty to be the team to beat this year.
I'm imagining that they lost a lot. A lot of players, as far as their schedule goes.
Matthew McCay (13:33):
A.
Devin Stewart (13:33):
For
go ahead!
Matthew McCay (13:35):
They on the Liberty front. They
they lost
a few guys I lost. I think they lost an offensive line to transfer, and some stuff like that. They bring back the quarterback, and they bring back a lot of people. They send them feel good about their defense.
So I think liberty is expected to be far and away. The best team in the conference.
(13:57):
I think it's Wku or Jacksonville State is kind of like the 2 A and 2 B to kind of compete for that last spot on the championship game. And then you never know. Once you get in championship game
you never know in a head to head match up. Maybe liberty doesn't match up like they did last year, maybe
the quarterback takes a big step back. Maybe
(14:19):
TJ. Finley, who, I,
I believe, is probably your starter for the tops
I don't know, could be Cadenville Kent. Sorry South Warren fans, but it's probably Tj. Finley.
and.
Devin Stewart (14:33):
Matt Matt picked Finley Overville Camp because he went to Greenwood just to be clear.
Matthew McCay (14:39):
Oh, Lord! Which turned into South Warren. So I mean whatever. But
yeah, I I don't.
Devin Stewart (14:46):
But up to me.
Matthew McCay (14:47):
I don't care about the high school stuff. Yeah, whatever. But
whatever man, whatever Allen County, who's your favorite Allen County player, buddy whatever.
Oh.
Devin Stewart (14:59):
Self.
Matthew McCay (15:03):
Yeah, the you were the.
Devin Stewart (15:05):
Davis.
Matthew McCay (15:06):
But no, I mean seriously.
I'll cover the subject now, because I know we're gonna get questions about it. Why? Well can
plan, and he might. He still, I guess, could win the job like you gotta get all the way through. Camp.
Finley could crap his pants all the way through camp, and they'll camp.
Devin Stewart (15:26):
I mean. Look at, I mean, look at Doge, or whatever his name was, went to, ended up at Troy.
Matthew McCay (15:31):
Thank you. Yeah, thanks.
Devin Stewart (15:32):
Going. Everything that ended up
going into camp. Everybody was like, well, he's the man he's the man. And then wasn't it? Read him out for that one.
Am I not mistaken in that?
Sorry? Everything starts to run.
Matthew McCay (15:45):
Was exactly.
Devin Stewart (15:46):
And years.
Matthew McCay (15:47):
Am I been zapping.
Devin Stewart (15:49):
Was that Zappy or Reid cause I thought
but anyway,
let's see if I can. Google, it.
Matthew McCay (15:58):
Honestly, I I forgot, man, I think, to look at some of this stuff in the background.
I didn't know he'd be coming up either.
Devin Stewart (16:07):
Yeah. But anyway,
But you're talking about
Wku football and everything. You know. Finley could be the man for the job. He may not be the man for the job. I mean Coach Hilton. Yeah, he's he's done a great job as far as the only speed bump he's really had was piggy, and I think he was locked in on that one. He didn't have any.
Matthew McCay (16:28):
Only 2.
Devin Stewart (16:29):
Voice.
Matthew McCay (16:29):
I guess it was Austin Reid. It was Austin Reed's 1st year.
Devin Stewart (16:33):
Yes.
Matthew McCay (16:34):
Okay.
Devin Stewart (16:34):
I thought it was.
Matthew McCay (16:35):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (16:35):
But Zappy was it? But it was.
Matthew McCay (16:36):
I bet y'all I'm sorry I know y'all go ahead.
Devin Stewart (16:40):
Has.
Matthew McCay (16:40):
Rip us apart.
We don't know what we're talking about. I'm sorry we picked up some random fact from 2 years ago I got a job.
Devin Stewart (16:50):
No, we don't. We don't.
Matthew McCay (16:51):
I have a line.
Devin Stewart (16:52):
You're at all.
Matthew McCay (16:54):
Well.
Devin Stewart (16:54):
But anyway,
anyway. So yeah, I mean, like, I said you'd never know going into camp how things are gonna work out. How some some kids are gonna work better with systems over others.
And you know, we've got the new system coming in with the fields. Am I not mistaken in that
(17:15):
in the new office of Coordinator? What's this.
Matthew McCay (17:17):
Yeah. Will. Will, friend.
Devin Stewart (17:19):
Friend. I'm sorry, friend.
Matthew McCay (17:20):
That's alright. We're he's from Mississippi State. So he's kind of that Mike leach air raid kind of
coaching tree and a re a well known name. I've heard of him actually before, and a lot of people probably have heard his name and a lot of good circles. I mean, he's he's a solid like. Why is this guy here at Western time of hire?
Devin Stewart (17:45):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (17:45):
And that's that's the kind of splash that you want. I mean, the guy should know what he's doing. He's got a lot of really good things on his resume. So I I think it's it'll be interesting to see
how much control he has and does help him try to take control of some things, or let him just completely do his own thing. But
(18:08):
that's a really nice hire, and and
year that we could have some shaky O line question marks.
I think you I think you'll have some stability there.
You know we've lost several alignment last few years. And you gotta feel good about the online and and hopefully, the offense. In general, we've had some offense that were a little young, that we're basically
(18:34):
gas that got offensive coordinator jobs.
And so I think this is a really nice
piece to put in on the coaching staff that hopefully will pay some dividends. We'll see.
Devin Stewart (18:49):
Yeah, you know, summer times. It's just a lot of predicting and a lot of assumptions. And you know, come September first, st or was it?
I'll say, yeah. September first, st cause that'll be the day after Alabama, you know, we're probably gonna be made asses on our predictions, and that's fine.
(19:10):
you know. That's the dangers of assumptions but
with the Westerns
I'm I'm kind of looking forward to Finley and Belt camps battle western's gonna win either way.
and we got Dalvin Smith's gonna be catching for him. So
I think that the Western could definitely be. I think Western could easily. And I won't say easily. I'll say Western could slide into 1st place and conference U.S.A. I think Western could beat liberty. I do believe Western has the upside potential to go that way.
(19:41):
And then, you know, we could have the upside potential to end up. 4, th
you know, we could, you know, just waste our potential, so to speak, and just not perform like we should.
you know, it's it's just a lot of wait and sees at this point. But, Matt, what are you thinking as far as Westerns going to finish out this year?
Matthew McCay (20:03):
Well, I think my honest
prediction is 8 and 4
I'm not sure.
Devin Stewart (20:08):
Dishonest.
What's your dishonest position.
Matthew McCay (20:12):
Oh, well, it depends on if I'm being.
Devin Stewart (20:15):
If I'm there.
Matthew McCay (20:15):
Negative that day. I might say that we'll go
We'll go 6 and 6 and have some unexpected losses, or if I'm feeling good. And Pollyanna like I've been accused of being before. I mean you could. I think the potentials up there for 11 and one. I don't think I don't think you're gonna beat 2 power 5 teams, including Alabama.
(20:38):
That would be I. I would absolutely
beyond Cloud 9, and it would be the most amazing time at Wku ever in our lifetime.
If wk was to go undefeated against the schedule. But that ain't happening. You're gonna drop one or 2.
And that's okay.
Devin Stewart (20:58):
Take a 10,
I think a 10 and one is possible.
I don't. Honestly, I don't think but.
Matthew McCay (21:04):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (21:05):
Boston College has been good since the nineties.
Matthew McCay (21:08):
No, but I mean and I have. I have not done a lot of research on Boston College. I don't know Jack about it.
Devin Stewart (21:15):
Why not?
Matthew McCay (21:16):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (21:16):
Why not? I mean.
Matthew McCay (21:18):
Because I haven't needed it, Devin. I haven't needed it. I'll know my stuff about Boston College when we get to, you know, freaking camp or something like, and we're not even there yet. So how about you? Just cool your jets, and it'll be okay if we don't know Jack shit about Boston college. Okay.
Devin Stewart (21:36):
Being your homework is Boston college film. I'm gonna have to make some calls and get some Boston college film for you.
Matthew McCay (21:41):
You can
jump off a cliff and
pretend like you.
Devin Stewart (21:48):
That's our.
Matthew McCay (21:49):
But
Devin Stewart (21:52):
Play in the street right?
I think I think it's possible. I think 9 and 2 is a possibility 8. And what I say. 9 and 2. So 8 and 3, I mean, all of these are definitely possibilities.
Matthew McCay (22:04):
Buddy, there's 12 games.
It's the same one double a Bro.
Devin Stewart (22:09):
11. What did I miss? 1, 2, 3, 4.
Matthew McCay (22:12):
There's 12 games in the Fbs schedule, but.
Devin Stewart (22:15):
Yes, yes, I've got a call.
my bad.
Matthew McCay (22:20):
For y'all at home. Devin stuck in the 2,000 sixes.
Devin Stewart (22:25):
Yeah, it's 12. Sorry. Yeah. Western could definitely go 10 and 2, 11 and one it depends on how things fall. I think injuries are going to play into that too. We do have liberty towards the end of the season, so
at least with it, being towards the end of the season. We don't have the excuse of. They didn't know the system, you know. Western, you know, hasn't really gotten offense down the defense down. Yada Yada! Yada!
(22:52):
At that point in the season. Either we're dealing with injuries. If we're losing that one or they're a better team.
Yeah, I know. I probably won't admit that at the time I'll blame the reps. But I don't know how that's gonna age, but you know
Matthew McCay (23:06):
I admire your self awareness, Devin, and also a calculated risk, because
everyone will forget. You said that 4 months ago, so it'll still work out, you could still blame the reps.
Devin Stewart (23:19):
Yeah, that's what I plan to do, anyway. So
Matthew McCay (23:22):
Good for you.
Devin Stewart (23:22):
Horrible calls play calling what's atrocious? What's wrong?
But
like you said, I think Liberty Jacksonville state Sam Houston?
As long as we don't have the debacle the lady tops did in New Mexico. State that'll be should be a pretty good game. No fighting and arguing with ourselves.
Matthew McCay (23:44):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (23:45):
A tech is usually tough. You Lotte's usually a tough game.
We will be playing them at Western at noon and November 16.th
logic usually comes to play with those.
They're not usually a team that backs down. It's usually a tough game, even if they're not quote good that year.
It's usually a tough game.
(24:07):
and it's a noon game. So
you know, depending on how the team's playing. Hopefully, we can get some fans in the stands, and
kind of pack the house on that one, especially with Cbs sports network.
I don't know much about Kansas State.
Matthew McCay (24:23):
They they should be.
they should be somebody that we handle. They're they're definitely
a true Fcs transition like Sam Houston. Sam Houston last year was different. They had a really really good defense, and they just had no offense.
They could have easily won
half their games if they had an offense.
(24:45):
But they they were so terrible start the year.
Devin Stewart (24:50):
I think that was a game that Reid tried to carry too much.
If I'm not mistaken, it's been over a year, or almost under a year, but
long enough that I don't remember the full details, but I think it was what 1710, or was that Jacksonville state we lost, or we won.
Matthew McCay (25:07):
Jacksonville State was low scoring and they came back
we didn't lose. To Sam Houston would be Sam Houston 28 to 23. It was close.
so I mean.
Devin Stewart (25:22):
Yeah, I got it right here.
Matthew McCay (25:23):
Not along the thing about Sam Houston. They were.
Devin Stewart (25:29):
Yeah, we lost Jacksonville state. Sorry. Yeah, you're right.
Matthew McCay (25:31):
See. We led the whole time against Sam Houston, except for they took the lead in the 3rd quarter, and then we.
Devin Stewart (25:38):
And then.
Matthew McCay (25:39):
Kind of took it back, but.
Devin Stewart (25:40):
And then, and then logic was one that we won 35, 28. I think we came from behind on that one, too.
Matthew McCay (25:47):
No, they didn't. They almost came back. It was 35.
Devin Stewart (25:50):
Right.
Matthew McCay (25:51):
We were merging.
Devin Stewart (25:52):
Right.
Matthew McCay (25:53):
We allowed them to nearly tie it.
Devin Stewart (25:57):
Oh, yeah, that's right. Cause everybody went home.
Matthew McCay (26:01):
Yeah. Well, remember, last year it seemed like, yeah, everybody went home. Last year. It seemed like we couldn't put 2 halves together offensively, like we'd have an incredible half, and then completely just
crap the bed in the second half, or there'd be like a huge second and 3rd quarter chunk where nothing happened, and the other team kinda got a foothold. So
(26:25):
hopefully, that's resolved.
you know.
we'll see how that works out. I mean, as far as like if you're talking about roster questions and stuff like that.
There are some. There are question marks kind of everywhere, and that's the way it is
in the modern era. With the transfer portal. But I think Hilton's built up enough. Trust that you can feel pretty good that they've got
(26:53):
enough that something will work out at most positions.
Last year your problem was you had so many injuries. We had an injury at every position.
At 1 point where people actually missed at least one game at literally every position group.
So who knows?
(27:15):
Obviously like, where where could wku have been if we didn't have all those injuries like
you had
at 1 point early in the year. You had, like the top 6 receivers, unable to play
for one game, you know you had
some guys that never saw the field on defense
(27:37):
you had Upton Stout, who thankfully, is back.
But he was injured. Anthony Johnson was another guy that missed 3 games last year, and he was.
I think, it was the leading tackler, despite missing 3 games like
there was. There was a lot of missed opportunity just because of the injury issues Austin Reed was hurting all year and finally set out for the ball game, and he got.
Devin Stewart (28:03):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (28:04):
Kind of crucified for that.
but he was beat up all year, and he warriored through until the very last game, and then
it was a kind of a business decision, and then we found out about Caden Velcamp.
So it all worked out but there was, and and we had a great year, especially for all those injuries. But, my goodness.
(28:25):
it, it just kind of makes you.
I don't know if it makes you sick, cause it's kinda like, Gosh! We
bit about what we were supposed to, despite the injuries. But and liberty may have won
anyway, but if if Western was healthy it would have been a heck of a game against liberty.
Devin Stewart (28:43):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (28:43):
Toe, to toe.
Devin Stewart (28:44):
And that's yeah. I think Western
well.
missed an opportunity last year with that one. But, like you said injuries kind of played into it.
Now.
there are some basketball news that you wanted to talk about.
Matthew McCay (29:02):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (29:03):
Get into that real quick.
Matthew McCay (29:05):
Yeah, some quick footnotes on some stuff.
I think the well, 1st of all, wk, basketball, other roster and all that. So there's a lot of excitement there. Hank Flown is taken over, and all that they do. They have.
Either
that's been announced by them or by
(29:26):
you know, kind of cobbling together information from other schools releasing their schedules.
Western has.
we believe, most of it's non-conference pretty much figured out. There may be a couple late additions, but they should be announcing a schedule
anytime.
So what we know of
(29:47):
for the non-conference for basketball.
and this is quite improved, and you'll see that as I go through here.
but last year it was not as strong the end of Stanza's tenure wasn't a strong. This will be a legitimate schedule that wk you could possibly flirt with an at large type of opportunity if they can execute.
(30:11):
So wku plays Wichita state at home
at Grand Canyon.
which is generally gonna be a top 100 matchup
lips coming home. Nice? You know, 60 mile
local interest type of matchup. Jackson stayed at home.
then at Kentucky.
(30:34):
And those.
Devin Stewart (30:35):
So.
Matthew McCay (30:35):
Games, and.
Devin Stewart (30:36):
I couldn't get that one at home.
Matthew McCay (30:39):
Well, you know they call on the pussy cats for a reason.
So.
Devin Stewart (30:45):
They're gonna yeah. They're gonna I think, sidebar, I think. I think Cal has really put the crank on them this year with taking all the players from
are getting players
siphoning players from Kentucky to Arkansas. Let me say that.
Matthew McCay (31:00):
Yeah, it's interesting saying all that stuff. But those are all the games in November. Kind of spread out throughout the month.
And you can.
They'll officially announce all this stuff.
In a release sometime soon. I would, I would think.
Then, getting into December after finals week, we're at Evansville. That'll be an interesting, kinda
(31:23):
sneaky, tough matchup on the road. Never really do well at Evansville, Tennessee stayed at home.
Murray stayed at home. Nice to have Murray back in, so we can
slap that as
Seattle you at home. That's a another kind of sneaky top, 101 50 type of matchup even though you don't know much about them. And at Michigan, which is
(31:51):
really interesting, kind of juicy.
interesting match up there and then also Kentucky, Wesleyan will be played sometime. We don't know exactly what date
really at all. So
that's what we.
Devin Stewart (32:06):
Just full.
I'm sorry I don't want to catch off, but these are still up in the air under negotiations
so.
Matthew McCay (32:13):
And they're not completely official, but most of those are pretty pretty locked in.
so we'll we'll see it. I mean, that's a heck of a schedule and so definitely mentioned, people know in case they haven't seen
cause. Wku hasn't announced
all that they have announced. The
(32:33):
the conference schedule. And it, you know. Obviously, it's a conference schedule like you're playing everybody and
you know, Kennesaw State is added, which is a good
currently good basketball program. So
I think coverage U.S.A. overall a lot of sports is is improved.
(32:53):
So
yep.
Devin Stewart (32:55):
That was good.
And I know you had a volleyball note you wanted to mention as well.
Matthew McCay (33:01):
Well, volleyball, I mean
again it it looks like Western should be good again. A lot of lot of good players coming back, and everything.
I believe I'm pretty sure they've announced their schedule.
yes, they have, and a lot of good games on tap.
(33:22):
We play the Kentucky tournament. So it's all
Kentucky schools, including the University of Kentucky.
The same day that the football team plays Alabama. So
we will have a powerful way.
Power. 5 win on that day.
And then
(33:43):
they're also playing at
a tournament
at Michigan State. So that's a that's an interesting one and they play some other. They play marist, and they play loyalist Chicago. I play Tennessee at Diddle. So that's a that's a good one. They they play Tennessee in the Ncaa tournament
(34:05):
believe that was this last year. So that's an interesting.
Devin Stewart (34:08):
Right.
Matthew McCay (34:09):
Yeah. Marquette, that's another
nice matchup. Dayton, Illinois.
I mean, these are some big
potential matchups. I think Dayton was good last year. I think we played them
and this is actually, we've got all 3 of those teams coming into diddle for the hire place. Invitational like this is a super nice
(34:32):
schedule.
You've got the Alyssa Kavanaugh classic.
May she rest in peace. They're playing Arkansas State Eastern Illinois, Austin. P. Those should be pretty
winnable matchups, and then you get into your conference. I believe Kennesaw state is a really good addition. And women's volleyball. So yeah should be
(34:55):
and and ever improving comcha women's volleyball. But Western once again
should be the dominant team, and
you know, maybe they'll break through the sweet 16 elite, 8 kind of run and
or more, and really announce themselves on the national stage, but definitely wanted to mention volleyball. It's coming up very soon.
(35:15):
Their 1st game is
August
30.th
So.
Devin Stewart (35:23):
I was. Gonna say, another volleyball is kind of I won't say handy like handcuffed to football, so to speak, because it's a faller fallish sport. But
I think I think it like you said a successful season is definitely breaking through. Suite 16.
I mean, that's more than a success, obviously. But
Matthew McCay (35:45):
Make the tournament win again. That's kind of the standard now, you know. After that
like, it would feel disappointing to to lose in the round of 64
Devin Stewart (35:55):
Well.
Matthew McCay (35:56):
It's not unacceptable either.
Devin Stewart (35:58):
Knock, knock on the wood, so to speak. You know Travis Hudson is definitely not a coach that's gonna go anywhere.
he's been here long enough, I think we should, I won't say, get comfortable with him, but
because it everybody's got a price.
But at least Travis Hudson has a dynasty dynasty, so to speak, built up, and he's allowed Western to, you know. I mean Western's thriving
(36:26):
volleyball wise, I mean.
at least, in my opinion, if you're a girl that is good at volleyball in the State of Kentucky, I think you come to Western.
Matthew McCay (36:36):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (36:37):
That's my opinion.
some Louisville Uk. Volleyball coaches, but disagree. But you know
we've made it further than you, so
I don't know if you get it.
Matthew McCay (36:48):
We argue
definitely argue that Wk is just
about equal to those programs. I mean that Western is definitely a power. I mean, it's a top 25 program and has been.
We're better.
Devin Stewart (37:01):
We're better than you. So.
Matthew McCay (37:03):
I just.
Devin Stewart (37:03):
And we know it.
Matthew McCay (37:05):
Years.
Devin Stewart (37:05):
We.
Matthew McCay (37:06):
Are toppers.
Devin Stewart (37:08):
Yes, we talked too.
Matthew McCay (37:10):
All you need to do.
Devin Stewart (37:14):
West, side, east side whatever, anyway? Don't have gang signs of the available podcast how's it going guys?
What kind of podcast do you listen to? Do you listen to a Western podcast that throws up the
west side? Yeah.
Matthew McCay (37:28):
By the way, they have, like some weird like a this.
Devin Stewart (37:31):
I don't even I don't even know. I don't even know how they do all this like.
Matthew McCay (37:35):
I was gonna say on the Ncaa. Football like, apparently they think that we make W's in the stands, or something.
Devin Stewart (37:42):
Right? That's right.
Matthew McCay (37:43):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (37:43):
Remember I remember seeing something about that, and I was like.
What is this? What.
Matthew McCay (37:47):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (37:48):
Woo, woo, yeah, when are we happy? Yeah.
Matthew McCay (37:51):
The Happy Hands Club from Napoleon. Dynamite.
Devin Stewart (37:54):
It's
all I remember is like, I don't remember if you remember this, the L. 7 new Zer. But that's yeah.
That's what I remember those? Yeah. So evidently, that's what we do. So just so, you all know, now, we have to start doing this because the game told us to.
But
yeah, I I don't have a lot else. I've been living under a rock, so I just came up for air, and I figured I'd do a.
Matthew McCay (38:19):
More.
Devin Stewart (38:20):
So
I'll.
Matthew McCay (38:21):
Yeah, a couple more for you. 2 more sports real quick, just to make sure he's updated and all that stuff
baseball. Mlb draft. He had 3.
Devin Stewart (38:30):
Yeah, let's just talk with them first.st
Matthew McCay (38:32):
That's alright, that's alright.
I forgive you.
Mlb draft. 3 guys got drafted. It was
Jacob Bimb Mason Burns.
and Grant Burlson,
Burlson was drafted by the Astros in the 18th round.
(38:53):
Mason Burns was drafted in the 14th round by St. Louis
and Jacob Bimby was taken by the pirates in the 11.th This is the 1st time.
Say what you don't have tomorrow.
Devin Stewart (39:06):
R.
Matthew McCay (39:10):
But yeah, they were. Let's say, it's 1st time since 2,011. Then we had 3 draft picks. You throw me on.
Devin Stewart (39:18):
I know I did. I know I did.
Matthew McCay (39:20):
But anyway, yeah, 1st time since 2,011 which is freaking 13 years that we've had 3 draft picks, and they were all pictures. I don't believe we've had 3 pictures drafted ever. I don't know for sure. But that's
pretty. It's a huge turnaround from the Pulaski era, where we couldn't
(39:43):
save our lives on the pitching mound. So
Devin Stewart (39:47):
I mean, I mean, I was really happy to see that we had 3 baseball players drafted, I mean, even after that great season they had
you, I mean, it sounds bad, but I kind of expected a somebody to get drafted, you know. As that sounds. You know, we had the players. The talent and
hopefully, coach will keep, you know, having success like this, and you know no issues off the field or anything like that. So.
Matthew McCay (40:12):
Yeah, he he was, I guess, in the other major off season thing with baseball was, he was rumored to be a finalist for the Ohio state job.
So a it's it's nice to be in the running for that. But be hopefully this next year. He he breaks through before he takes off to somewhere else, which couldn't blame him at all. He's done a heck of a job at Western, and hopefully if and when he leaves, which
(40:39):
maybe he won't. But if he does indeed, leave
hopefully, we we make a good hire
for the for the next coach and kind of keep the thing rolling like
Westerns really put itself in a completely different position in baseball. And it's really nice
to
to have a program that we can
(41:01):
truly feel good about and be proud of and feel like.
you know, if you put together a little stronger schedule you could possibly flirt with like an at large type of deal, and
up.
you know, win a few more of those games and
you could have options at the end of the year, instead of hoping that you win your conference tournament and get one of the lower seats.
Devin Stewart (41:24):
Yeah. Yeah.
Yeah. We'll see.
Matthew McCay (41:27):
The.
Devin Stewart (41:29):
we'll we'll talk about.
Matthew McCay (41:31):
Basketball, real quick.
Devin Stewart (41:32):
You go right ahead, Buddy.
Matthew McCay (41:33):
Okay, man. Alright. I'm just making sure everybody knows
when was basketball.
Devin Stewart (41:39):
I'm Danny
Crocker. Good!
Can you help her from Transylvania? I'll help her in a little bit.
You can go. You can go. I'll be right there, go ahead.
You been eating chocolate?
No. Are you sure.
Matthew McCay (41:55):
Hey!
Devin Stewart (41:55):
Sure you haven't been eating, so
you sure.
Matthew McCay (41:59):
Hey, girl! Brian.
how are you? I'm Mr. Matt.
Devin Stewart (42:04):
Item, Mr. Man, yeah, she can't hear you. I got you in my ear.
Matthew McCay (42:08):
And say, Yeah.
okay, gosh, she's growing up. Man. So where is basketball?
women's basketball? All I was gonna say with women's basketball they have. They've really focused on getting a lot of players, and they should be, I think, the biggest team.
Size-wise
(42:29):
since we were kids.
Devin Stewart (42:33):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (42:33):
Early 2 thousands. I mean, they're they should be huge. And you know, Alexis Main decided to stay, and all that. So I think they should finally have the depth. There's really no excuse that Collins can.
you know, make that jump and and be.
if not in the tournament. We better be right there.
(42:53):
At in the championship game, going toe to toe with middle or liberty. So just want to mention that on the women's basketball side. Just couple of updates there, and I'm sure their schedule will be coming out soon, and we'll be covering that as it comes out.
Devin Stewart (43:12):
Sorry I was trying not to be
distracting with you. Go on downstairs. They got Transylvania. Go, go, go, go, go!
Go watch your show. I'll be there in a second. Shut the door, please.
So anyway.
Yes, it's good to see Westerns girls doing well. Always excited about that.
(43:33):
and we'll be talking more about.
Matthew McCay (43:35):
You sound like it? Yeah.
Devin Stewart (43:36):
And football season
do what.
Matthew McCay (43:39):
I said, you sound like it.
Devin Stewart (43:42):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (43:42):
Always excited about women's basketball.
Devin Stewart (43:46):
Women's basketball, and I mean men's basketball
is so far away. It's like talking about
college football in spring.
Matthew McCay (43:55):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (43:56):
A lot can happen between now and then. And yeah, I know everybody gets excited about schedules and stuff like that. I just don't get as excited as when it's time for it is that I mean, if that makes sense
so on that note.
No, just shut it. I'll be there. I'll be down in just a second here.
(44:19):
So anyway.
Matthew McCay (44:20):
To see. Now, man, 2, 5.
Devin Stewart (44:21):
She's 4. She'll be 4.
Matthew McCay (44:23):
4, okay.
Devin Stewart (44:24):
Agree.
Matthew McCay (44:24):
Okay, I got it.
Devin Stewart (44:25):
Start school next August. So but yeah, appreciate you all watching, listening. Make sure to do all of the Youtube pleasantries like share and subscribe. It always helps us out, maybe comment. Tell us which game you're more excited to see this year for Western which games you may be going to basketball football, you know which ones you gonna try and get tickets to the most. And we do appreciate our sponsor aura
(44:52):
they are a new sponsor, and I think it'll actually be good for us, you know, definitely
with the new Vpns. It does help out a lot of people do track you. So a lot of companies get paid for that. Now, if you don't believe me, check Google.
but we will get out of here. We will be back, maybe try and do like a mid-camp episode before the season starts, and kind of let you all know what we're finding out on things. But we will be back and we'll be talking to you all. And we'll soon be starting our 8th season with the red out podcast
(45:24):
so.
Matthew McCay (45:25):
Well.
Devin Stewart (45:25):
Big, old, big old snowman this year last year was 7. So that's the one that comes after. That's what I learned in high school. So.
Matthew McCay (45:33):
Did you get that in Allen County at A. CSHS. HS.
Devin Stewart (45:37):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (45:38):
Hey? Chance. Yeah.
Devin Stewart (45:38):
Yes.
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (45:40):
Hey, Jess.
Devin Stewart (45:41):
Yeah, but yeah, we. That's what we learned in school. So anyway,
yeah. But we will be back. We'll talk some more sports we'll be. We'll give you some more updates. Don't check Wku. Sports is basketball page for the schedule, because it's not there.
It is all.
Matthew McCay (45:58):
2,099 right? And it's wrong.
Devin Stewart (46:01):
Yeah, it's 2,099. There's exhibitions that aren't there? I think one of them was the 5 Star guests exhibition. I don't know
it, said Marathon oil. But anyway
yeah. So who knows? It's not correct some intern. Or
I mean, it's not like Western has a computer science department
just saying.
Matthew McCay (46:21):
Right.
Devin Stewart (46:22):
I won't.
Matthew McCay (46:22):
Right, yeah.
Devin Stewart (46:23):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (46:24):
Media mass media broadcasting.
Devin Stewart (46:28):
No, no, they don't have any of that.
They don't build buildings 3 or 4 buildings a year.
Sure.
Matthew McCay (46:35):
Intercollegiate athletic administration that you advertise as being the only one in the country. You know, whatever.
Devin Stewart (46:41):
No, no, no, no, nothing like that. But yeah, just check back. I know we keep Philip bustering here at the end. But yeah, just check back with us. We will
talk to you all again. And as always, guys go tops.
Matthew McCay (46:55):
No tops.
Yes, thanks again to Aura for sponsoring this episode. Welcome in, guys dev. And Matt. Here, we're coming at you on another summer episode.
It is hard for us to kind of
get our schedules lined up in the summer. We're kind of crazy. So, man, how's it been going for you, Buddy?
Matthew McCay (00:21):
Oh, it's good man! If you want an update on today, we sprung a lake in our office
and
don't know how long it's been sitting there. I'm not sure we went in that room
yesterday, but big old
staying in the middle of the floor. We've got to figure out. So I've relocated to our conference room.
(00:42):
so I can record because my office sounds like an airplane hanger.
Devin Stewart (00:46):
Leaks are like the worst thing, and it's worse when you find them. When my daughter was like a year or 2 old.
I went down into our basement, and it's a rare thing for me to go down there. So I go down in the basement, and I hear just this like.
and I was like, why does it sound like steam?
And I went around the corner and my hot water heater, one of the pipes coming off. It had been leaking a.
Matthew McCay (01:12):
No.
Devin Stewart (01:12):
PIN a pinhole size leak, which had put a hole about that big about the about size of a quarter in our dry wall behind it.
and I don't know how long they've been doing it. So yeah, of course. Then it starts the whole. I gotta figure this out, cause it's a weekend, and who's gonna be able to get a plumber on the weekend, you know. So.
Matthew McCay (01:32):
True.
Devin Stewart (01:33):
Without paying without paying a unreasonable amount. But anyway, I got some notes here.
I guess, like the biggest news for people of our age
is that
minutes go.
Is that Westerns our Ncaa
football games are back, which is the biggest thing for us right?
Matthew McCay (01:57):
Yes.
I mean, that's the most exciting.
Devin Stewart (01:59):
Thing for me. Yeah, not right.
Matthew McCay (02:03):
I'm working on the wife. I'm trying to convince her
that we must have it.
Devin Stewart (02:09):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (02:10):
Try the happiness
kind of angle I've tried, but it's.
Devin Stewart (02:14):
I'll leave you alone.
Matthew McCay (02:17):
I may. Maybe I need to emphasize that more right.
less of me.
Devin Stewart (02:23):
Yes, yes, you don't have to deal with me just as much
But for us, at least you know it kind of shows
the whole nil has actually saved in C to play football, you know, video games. And that's the greatest thing. I'm not a big fan of Ea sports in general because of their issues with
(02:45):
it's the term for it. Basically like everything. They're gonna nickel and dime you for.
Matthew McCay (02:49):
Oh, okay.
Devin Stewart (02:51):
So if you want the certain Western helmet, you got to pay for it, or something, you know. That's how they did some other games, and they actually ruined them. But hopefully they've learned their lessons, and everything's a lot better. But my brother, I did talk to him about it today. He's a big gamer.
and him and his buddy are really excited about it, and I told my course. My brother is excited about being able to play Western, who is actually ranked Number 80
(03:16):
in Ncaa. 25.
Is that a good preseason poll for Western? Is that a good? Is that a good gauge of Western strength. You think.
Matthew McCay (03:26):
I mean, maybe underselling it a little bit, but I don't think.
and I'm sure they could post that on the bulletin board if they want for a little bit of
material. But I think it's reasonable, like I feel like you don't know where we're at, and
there's a lot of. There's some questions within the roster, and you don't know
(03:46):
like we did lose some guys on the transfer portal stuff like that. So I mean, 80 is
close to right. I think I'd give a range on Western of
where it may end up is about 40 to 85. It just depends on
how the years go, but or how the year goes, but
I think 80 is within the range of reasonable. I think it's a little low.
Devin Stewart (04:10):
Okay, so this article comes from a fan of ours.
and I cannot remember the magazine off top my head. But they do a preseason of all the football of all the college football teams. I'll let you. If you want to pause. If you're on Youtube, you can pause it here and check out what this opposing conference USA assistant coach said about Western
(04:31):
basically, Western's biggest opponent this year is going to be liberty according to this
and then, like Matt said, you don't really know what to expect out of Western. Here is the depth chart. So far. It looks like about 8 seniors on offense and
8 to 10 on defense. There.
just pause it and look over those.
(04:53):
Some of those names are, gonna look a lot really familiar. Some of those may not
but
yes, just go through those real quick. I'm just kind of doing this really quickly, guys. So you can kind of see what
you know outside sources are saying for Western.
Like, I said, pause and read.
and then
(05:15):
you know, it's kind of like, Matt said, and then we have the schedule. I'll pull it up.
This is a 2024 schedule down here at the bottom, and then our 23 results outside that. But
it's kind of like, Matt said. We have a whole new quarterback. We've our receivers gone. I mean.
amazing receiver, you know, quarterbacks going, and we have other holes and offense and defense that we have to try and fill.
(05:40):
So you know, you kind of got to gauge that, Matt, what are you thinking? As far as
schedule?
You know. What's the what's the highlights? What's the low light, or should we do good, or should we do bad?
Matthew McCay (05:56):
Well, that 1st one's gonna be a tough one.
Devin Stewart (06:00):
Maybe maybe.
Matthew McCay (06:02):
Yeah, I mean, you know, maybe the the.
Devin Stewart (06:04):
No cause, you know he's got a new coach, and they got a new system, and maybe they pee down their leg. I don't know I'm hoping they do.
Matthew McCay (06:12):
Maybe he. He doesn't know how to talk to Southerners or something I don't know but
Devin Stewart (06:18):
Hey! Wait!
Matthew McCay (06:19):
He was in Washington, right? So I mean, who knows? Maybe.
Devin Stewart (06:24):
So.
Matthew McCay (06:25):
So, yeah, I mean, obviously, Alabama. It's exciting to play a team like that. Obviously, you get to see how good you really are right out of the gate.
But then again, you also get to see how good you really are, right out of the gate.
So there's that you know, I think it's actually an interesting schedule
(06:45):
stronger than some of these other years. We've had some years where there really isn't anything that fascinating on the schedule. Besides, some conference games.
That you think might be interesting, and they end up being pretty good games. But you don't look at it, and you're like, Oh, my gosh! This schedule is wonderful! Well, we've got 2 power 5 schools on schedule. You got Eastern, your old rival, even though it should be a blowout. It's still an old rival. And then Toledo's a really nice
(07:13):
like equal match up G 5 type of thing and
it should be.
Devin Stewart (07:19):
Mac.
Matthew McCay (07:21):
yeah. A Mac opponent. They're comparable to Western give or take. I mean, it's a nice.
a nice kind of juicy matchup for
for 2
pretty equal programs. You don't. Obviously you don't know until you get into the season like one of the teams could absolutely bomb, or they could have tons of injuries
(07:46):
by that point. But it's a game in Bowling Green
on a Saturday at
kind of nightish. It's at 6 o'clock, and
should be. That should be an interesting matchup. And then the
I think the main thing about the schedule just in general is, it's tough. I mean, the non conference is tough.
(08:08):
You've got
middle, which is a rivalry, and we have
sometimes have some trouble with them on the road. Not lately. But it happens.
I think Sam Houston's gonna be a lot better utep. Supposed to be decent
Kennesaw States. Kinda somebody that we should hand handle, but you never know they're brand new.
(08:32):
The Mexico State at the Mexico State. That's always hard at altitude.
Law tech could be good liberty. And then Jacksonville state like, where's the where's the respite? Where's the chance to take a break?
Kansas State other than that? It's like these are tougher games like, I think Western should absolutely win 6 games
(08:56):
as a bare minimum.
I think that's for sure the the minimum that you should expect below that you should probably be pissed.
If you're a wku fan. But don't be shocked if it's a little more ugly on the record side of things this year.
It could easily happen.
Devin Stewart (09:17):
Yeah. And I think that could go one or 2 ways. I think you're right in a way. You know, we could have a pretty referent record, but
last year's record was a lot better than I think. We thought it was going to be.
Matthew McCay (09:29):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (09:30):
You know, we started at the end. We're like, oh, this is a you know. We're gonna do a New England patriots go undefeated and do all this great stuff, and then it we did not whatsoever. And then
we had some games where we really skidded past the finish line, and we shouldn't have won. But we had some games that we lost, that we should have won
But I think we actually do have a bi-week after just looking at the calendar after Boston College
(09:56):
and after Sam Houston is got our. It's not marked on Espn. But a lot of the times that you mentioned weren't marked on Espn, either. They're just Tbd, so
I'm
but you know Alabama's marked for sure. Eastern and middle Omar and Youtube, I'm basically all the games that are on Espn are gonna be marked, cause they're like, yep, we know you're gonna play this time, and you're gonna like it.
(10:28):
but yeah, Eastern is Coach Wells still at Eastern Walter Wells.
Matthew McCay (10:35):
Yeah.
unless he was
released or quit within last couple of months. He's still there.
Devin Stewart (10:42):
Okay.
I mean, course, love coach Wells. Great guy.
he did. He's did a great job at Western, and he's doing a great job at Eastern, and I hope he's all having the best health, and everything's going great for him.
as far as schedule goes. Alabama is gonna be a tough game Eastern, I don't think
(11:05):
which Wells could get his guys in shape and ready. That could pull. That could be a
that could be a South Florida from last year.
or that could be a
trying to think of the other one from last year that we struggled with that we shouldn't have
Never mind, anyway. But
(11:27):
you know, when you just have those those just moments where you're just kinda like
it'll kind of up in the air, as far as I'm concerned.
They've had horrible years, and they've had good years, and I think the rival.
Matthew McCay (11:39):
We have a new coach.
Devin Stewart (11:40):
Yeah. Well, the rivalry just kind of makes it.
You know. Are they gonna show up, or they not gonna show up.
Matthew McCay (11:48):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (11:49):
I mean.
Matthew McCay (11:49):
I mean the the thing with middle like I would.
I have respect for Derek Mason. I think he knows what he's doing, especially defensively. I mean it was at Vanderbilt, and they were decent, you know. For a little bit respectable. And then things didn't go well. Main thing was their offense kind of sucked
but their defense was excellent. You know. I think we with the dowdy offense and force lamp at tackle.
(12:18):
I can't remember if he played against Vanderville. But anyway, whatever
I maybe got rolled up on and didn't play part of the game doesn't matter
I think it was like 14 to 12. We beat them, but barely, and
you know their defense was solid.
But the offense I question, and also middle, was a mess, and stock still kept middle standing stock still for over a decade, and
Devin Stewart (12:46):
We were there.
Matthew McCay (12:47):
Mason comes in. He's been impressive. He's saying the right things. All that stuff
you definitely don't. It's an unknown how good they're gonna be. But for us
little tiny program like Middle.
It gives them a lot of momentum heading into to the New Year. So bless their hearts, they might actually win something eventually.
(13:09):
but I don't.
I think it's it should still be a game. The Western wins, but who knows? They may be one of the best teams in the conference immediately.
Devin Stewart (13:19):
They could.
I know, like I said in that little article, that it was pointing to liberty to be the team to beat this year.
I'm imagining that they lost a lot. A lot of players, as far as their schedule goes.
Matthew McCay (13:33):
A.
Devin Stewart (13:33):
For
go ahead!
Matthew McCay (13:35):
They on the Liberty front. They
they lost
a few guys I lost. I think they lost an offensive line to transfer, and some stuff like that. They bring back the quarterback, and they bring back a lot of people. They send them feel good about their defense.
So I think liberty is expected to be far and away. The best team in the conference.
(13:57):
I think it's Wku or Jacksonville State is kind of like the 2 A and 2 B to kind of compete for that last spot on the championship game. And then you never know. Once you get in championship game
you never know in a head to head match up. Maybe liberty doesn't match up like they did last year, maybe
the quarterback takes a big step back. Maybe
(14:19):
TJ. Finley, who, I,
I believe, is probably your starter for the tops
I don't know, could be Cadenville Kent. Sorry South Warren fans, but it's probably Tj. Finley.
and.
Devin Stewart (14:33):
Matt Matt picked Finley Overville Camp because he went to Greenwood just to be clear.
Matthew McCay (14:39):
Oh, Lord! Which turned into South Warren. So I mean whatever. But
yeah, I I don't.
Devin Stewart (14:46):
But up to me.
Matthew McCay (14:47):
I don't care about the high school stuff. Yeah, whatever. But
whatever man, whatever Allen County, who's your favorite Allen County player, buddy whatever.
Oh.
Devin Stewart (14:59):
Self.
Matthew McCay (15:03):
Yeah, the you were the.
Devin Stewart (15:05):
Davis.
Matthew McCay (15:06):
But no, I mean seriously.
I'll cover the subject now, because I know we're gonna get questions about it. Why? Well can
plan, and he might. He still, I guess, could win the job like you gotta get all the way through. Camp.
Finley could crap his pants all the way through camp, and they'll camp.
Devin Stewart (15:26):
I mean. Look at, I mean, look at Doge, or whatever his name was, went to, ended up at Troy.
Matthew McCay (15:31):
Thank you. Yeah, thanks.
Devin Stewart (15:32):
Going. Everything that ended up
going into camp. Everybody was like, well, he's the man he's the man. And then wasn't it? Read him out for that one.
Am I not mistaken in that?
Sorry? Everything starts to run.
Matthew McCay (15:45):
Was exactly.
Devin Stewart (15:46):
And years.
Matthew McCay (15:47):
Am I been zapping.
Devin Stewart (15:49):
Was that Zappy or Reid cause I thought
but anyway,
let's see if I can. Google, it.
Matthew McCay (15:58):
Honestly, I I forgot, man, I think, to look at some of this stuff in the background.
I didn't know he'd be coming up either.
Devin Stewart (16:07):
Yeah. But anyway,
But you're talking about
Wku football and everything. You know. Finley could be the man for the job. He may not be the man for the job. I mean Coach Hilton. Yeah, he's he's done a great job as far as the only speed bump he's really had was piggy, and I think he was locked in on that one. He didn't have any.
Matthew McCay (16:28):
Only 2.
Devin Stewart (16:29):
Voice.
Matthew McCay (16:29):
I guess it was Austin Reid. It was Austin Reed's 1st year.
Devin Stewart (16:33):
Yes.
Matthew McCay (16:34):
Okay.
Devin Stewart (16:34):
I thought it was.
Matthew McCay (16:35):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (16:35):
But Zappy was it? But it was.
Matthew McCay (16:36):
I bet y'all I'm sorry I know y'all go ahead.
Devin Stewart (16:40):
Has.
Matthew McCay (16:40):
Rip us apart.
We don't know what we're talking about. I'm sorry we picked up some random fact from 2 years ago I got a job.
Devin Stewart (16:50):
No, we don't. We don't.
Matthew McCay (16:51):
I have a line.
Devin Stewart (16:52):
You're at all.
Matthew McCay (16:54):
Well.
Devin Stewart (16:54):
But anyway,
anyway. So yeah, I mean, like, I said you'd never know going into camp how things are gonna work out. How some some kids are gonna work better with systems over others.
And you know, we've got the new system coming in with the fields. Am I not mistaken in that
(17:15):
in the new office of Coordinator? What's this.
Matthew McCay (17:17):
Yeah. Will. Will, friend.
Devin Stewart (17:19):
Friend. I'm sorry, friend.
Matthew McCay (17:20):
That's alright. We're he's from Mississippi State. So he's kind of that Mike leach air raid kind of
coaching tree and a re a well known name. I've heard of him actually before, and a lot of people probably have heard his name and a lot of good circles. I mean, he's he's a solid like. Why is this guy here at Western time of hire?
Devin Stewart (17:45):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (17:45):
And that's that's the kind of splash that you want. I mean, the guy should know what he's doing. He's got a lot of really good things on his resume. So I I think it's it'll be interesting to see
how much control he has and does help him try to take control of some things, or let him just completely do his own thing. But
(18:08):
that's a really nice hire, and and
year that we could have some shaky O line question marks.
I think you I think you'll have some stability there.
You know we've lost several alignment last few years. And you gotta feel good about the online and and hopefully, the offense. In general, we've had some offense that were a little young, that we're basically
(18:34):
gas that got offensive coordinator jobs.
And so I think this is a really nice
piece to put in on the coaching staff that hopefully will pay some dividends. We'll see.
Devin Stewart (18:49):
Yeah, you know, summer times. It's just a lot of predicting and a lot of assumptions. And you know, come September first, st or was it?
I'll say, yeah. September first, st cause that'll be the day after Alabama, you know, we're probably gonna be made asses on our predictions, and that's fine.
(19:10):
you know. That's the dangers of assumptions but
with the Westerns
I'm I'm kind of looking forward to Finley and Belt camps battle western's gonna win either way.
and we got Dalvin Smith's gonna be catching for him. So
I think that the Western could definitely be. I think Western could easily. And I won't say easily. I'll say Western could slide into 1st place and conference U.S.A. I think Western could beat liberty. I do believe Western has the upside potential to go that way.
(19:41):
And then, you know, we could have the upside potential to end up. 4, th
you know, we could, you know, just waste our potential, so to speak, and just not perform like we should.
you know, it's it's just a lot of wait and sees at this point. But, Matt, what are you thinking as far as Westerns going to finish out this year?
Matthew McCay (20:03):
Well, I think my honest
prediction is 8 and 4
I'm not sure.
Devin Stewart (20:08):
Dishonest.
What's your dishonest position.
Matthew McCay (20:12):
Oh, well, it depends on if I'm being.
Devin Stewart (20:15):
If I'm there.
Matthew McCay (20:15):
Negative that day. I might say that we'll go
We'll go 6 and 6 and have some unexpected losses, or if I'm feeling good. And Pollyanna like I've been accused of being before. I mean you could. I think the potentials up there for 11 and one. I don't think I don't think you're gonna beat 2 power 5 teams, including Alabama.
(20:38):
That would be I. I would absolutely
beyond Cloud 9, and it would be the most amazing time at Wku ever in our lifetime.
If wk was to go undefeated against the schedule. But that ain't happening. You're gonna drop one or 2.
And that's okay.
Devin Stewart (20:58):
Take a 10,
I think a 10 and one is possible.
I don't. Honestly, I don't think but.
Matthew McCay (21:04):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (21:05):
Boston College has been good since the nineties.
Matthew McCay (21:08):
No, but I mean and I have. I have not done a lot of research on Boston College. I don't know Jack about it.
Devin Stewart (21:15):
Why not?
Matthew McCay (21:16):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (21:16):
Why not? I mean.
Matthew McCay (21:18):
Because I haven't needed it, Devin. I haven't needed it. I'll know my stuff about Boston College when we get to, you know, freaking camp or something like, and we're not even there yet. So how about you? Just cool your jets, and it'll be okay if we don't know Jack shit about Boston college. Okay.
Devin Stewart (21:36):
Being your homework is Boston college film. I'm gonna have to make some calls and get some Boston college film for you.
Matthew McCay (21:41):
You can
jump off a cliff and
pretend like you.
Devin Stewart (21:48):
That's our.
Matthew McCay (21:49):
But
Devin Stewart (21:52):
Play in the street right?
I think I think it's possible. I think 9 and 2 is a possibility 8. And what I say. 9 and 2. So 8 and 3, I mean, all of these are definitely possibilities.
Matthew McCay (22:04):
Buddy, there's 12 games.
It's the same one double a Bro.
Devin Stewart (22:09):
11. What did I miss? 1, 2, 3, 4.
Matthew McCay (22:12):
There's 12 games in the Fbs schedule, but.
Devin Stewart (22:15):
Yes, yes, I've got a call.
my bad.
Matthew McCay (22:20):
For y'all at home. Devin stuck in the 2,000 sixes.
Devin Stewart (22:25):
Yeah, it's 12. Sorry. Yeah. Western could definitely go 10 and 2, 11 and one it depends on how things fall. I think injuries are going to play into that too. We do have liberty towards the end of the season, so
at least with it, being towards the end of the season. We don't have the excuse of. They didn't know the system, you know. Western, you know, hasn't really gotten offense down the defense down. Yada Yada! Yada!
(22:52):
At that point in the season. Either we're dealing with injuries. If we're losing that one or they're a better team.
Yeah, I know. I probably won't admit that at the time I'll blame the reps. But I don't know how that's gonna age, but you know
Matthew McCay (23:06):
I admire your self awareness, Devin, and also a calculated risk, because
everyone will forget. You said that 4 months ago, so it'll still work out, you could still blame the reps.
Devin Stewart (23:19):
Yeah, that's what I plan to do, anyway. So
Matthew McCay (23:22):
Good for you.
Devin Stewart (23:22):
Horrible calls play calling what's atrocious? What's wrong?
But
like you said, I think Liberty Jacksonville state Sam Houston?
As long as we don't have the debacle the lady tops did in New Mexico. State that'll be should be a pretty good game. No fighting and arguing with ourselves.
Matthew McCay (23:44):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (23:45):
A tech is usually tough. You Lotte's usually a tough game.
We will be playing them at Western at noon and November 16.th
logic usually comes to play with those.
They're not usually a team that backs down. It's usually a tough game, even if they're not quote good that year.
It's usually a tough game.
(24:07):
and it's a noon game. So
you know, depending on how the team's playing. Hopefully, we can get some fans in the stands, and
kind of pack the house on that one, especially with Cbs sports network.
I don't know much about Kansas State.
Matthew McCay (24:23):
They they should be.
they should be somebody that we handle. They're they're definitely
a true Fcs transition like Sam Houston. Sam Houston last year was different. They had a really really good defense, and they just had no offense.
They could have easily won
half their games if they had an offense.
(24:45):
But they they were so terrible start the year.
Devin Stewart (24:50):
I think that was a game that Reid tried to carry too much.
If I'm not mistaken, it's been over a year, or almost under a year, but
long enough that I don't remember the full details, but I think it was what 1710, or was that Jacksonville state we lost, or we won.
Matthew McCay (25:07):
Jacksonville State was low scoring and they came back
we didn't lose. To Sam Houston would be Sam Houston 28 to 23. It was close.
so I mean.
Devin Stewart (25:22):
Yeah, I got it right here.
Matthew McCay (25:23):
Not along the thing about Sam Houston. They were.
Devin Stewart (25:29):
Yeah, we lost Jacksonville state. Sorry. Yeah, you're right.
Matthew McCay (25:31):
See. We led the whole time against Sam Houston, except for they took the lead in the 3rd quarter, and then we.
Devin Stewart (25:38):
And then.
Matthew McCay (25:39):
Kind of took it back, but.
Devin Stewart (25:40):
And then, and then logic was one that we won 35, 28. I think we came from behind on that one, too.
Matthew McCay (25:47):
No, they didn't. They almost came back. It was 35.
Devin Stewart (25:50):
Right.
Matthew McCay (25:51):
We were merging.
Devin Stewart (25:52):
Right.
Matthew McCay (25:53):
We allowed them to nearly tie it.
Devin Stewart (25:57):
Oh, yeah, that's right. Cause everybody went home.
Matthew McCay (26:01):
Yeah. Well, remember, last year it seemed like, yeah, everybody went home. Last year. It seemed like we couldn't put 2 halves together offensively, like we'd have an incredible half, and then completely just
crap the bed in the second half, or there'd be like a huge second and 3rd quarter chunk where nothing happened, and the other team kinda got a foothold. So
(26:25):
hopefully, that's resolved.
you know.
we'll see how that works out. I mean, as far as like if you're talking about roster questions and stuff like that.
There are some. There are question marks kind of everywhere, and that's the way it is
in the modern era. With the transfer portal. But I think Hilton's built up enough. Trust that you can feel pretty good that they've got
(26:53):
enough that something will work out at most positions.
Last year your problem was you had so many injuries. We had an injury at every position.
At 1 point where people actually missed at least one game at literally every position group.
So who knows?
(27:15):
Obviously like, where where could wku have been if we didn't have all those injuries like
you had
at 1 point early in the year. You had, like the top 6 receivers, unable to play
for one game, you know you had
some guys that never saw the field on defense
(27:37):
you had Upton Stout, who thankfully, is back.
But he was injured. Anthony Johnson was another guy that missed 3 games last year, and he was.
I think, it was the leading tackler, despite missing 3 games like
there was. There was a lot of missed opportunity just because of the injury issues Austin Reed was hurting all year and finally set out for the ball game, and he got.
Devin Stewart (28:03):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (28:04):
Kind of crucified for that.
but he was beat up all year, and he warriored through until the very last game, and then
it was a kind of a business decision, and then we found out about Caden Velcamp.
So it all worked out but there was, and and we had a great year, especially for all those injuries. But, my goodness.
(28:25):
it, it just kind of makes you.
I don't know if it makes you sick, cause it's kinda like, Gosh! We
bit about what we were supposed to, despite the injuries. But and liberty may have won
anyway, but if if Western was healthy it would have been a heck of a game against liberty.
Devin Stewart (28:43):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (28:43):
Toe, to toe.
Devin Stewart (28:44):
And that's yeah. I think Western
well.
missed an opportunity last year with that one. But, like you said injuries kind of played into it.
Now.
there are some basketball news that you wanted to talk about.
Matthew McCay (29:02):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (29:03):
Get into that real quick.
Matthew McCay (29:05):
Yeah, some quick footnotes on some stuff.
I think the well, 1st of all, wk, basketball, other roster and all that. So there's a lot of excitement there. Hank Flown is taken over, and all that they do. They have.
Either
that's been announced by them or by
(29:26):
you know, kind of cobbling together information from other schools releasing their schedules.
Western has.
we believe, most of it's non-conference pretty much figured out. There may be a couple late additions, but they should be announcing a schedule
anytime.
So what we know of
(29:47):
for the non-conference for basketball.
and this is quite improved, and you'll see that as I go through here.
but last year it was not as strong the end of Stanza's tenure wasn't a strong. This will be a legitimate schedule that wk you could possibly flirt with an at large type of opportunity if they can execute.
(30:11):
So wku plays Wichita state at home
at Grand Canyon.
which is generally gonna be a top 100 matchup
lips coming home. Nice? You know, 60 mile
local interest type of matchup. Jackson stayed at home.
then at Kentucky.
(30:34):
And those.
Devin Stewart (30:35):
So.
Matthew McCay (30:35):
Games, and.
Devin Stewart (30:36):
I couldn't get that one at home.
Matthew McCay (30:39):
Well, you know they call on the pussy cats for a reason.
So.
Devin Stewart (30:45):
They're gonna yeah. They're gonna I think, sidebar, I think. I think Cal has really put the crank on them this year with taking all the players from
are getting players
siphoning players from Kentucky to Arkansas. Let me say that.
Matthew McCay (31:00):
Yeah, it's interesting saying all that stuff. But those are all the games in November. Kind of spread out throughout the month.
And you can.
They'll officially announce all this stuff.
In a release sometime soon. I would, I would think.
Then, getting into December after finals week, we're at Evansville. That'll be an interesting, kinda
(31:23):
sneaky, tough matchup on the road. Never really do well at Evansville, Tennessee stayed at home.
Murray stayed at home. Nice to have Murray back in, so we can
slap that as
Seattle you at home. That's a another kind of sneaky top, 101 50 type of matchup even though you don't know much about them. And at Michigan, which is
(31:51):
really interesting, kind of juicy.
interesting match up there and then also Kentucky, Wesleyan will be played sometime. We don't know exactly what date
really at all. So
that's what we.
Devin Stewart (32:06):
Just full.
I'm sorry I don't want to catch off, but these are still up in the air under negotiations
so.
Matthew McCay (32:13):
And they're not completely official, but most of those are pretty pretty locked in.
so we'll we'll see it. I mean, that's a heck of a schedule and so definitely mentioned, people know in case they haven't seen
cause. Wku hasn't announced
all that they have announced. The
(32:33):
the conference schedule. And it, you know. Obviously, it's a conference schedule like you're playing everybody and
you know, Kennesaw State is added, which is a good
currently good basketball program. So
I think coverage U.S.A. overall a lot of sports is is improved.
(32:53):
So
yep.
Devin Stewart (32:55):
That was good.
And I know you had a volleyball note you wanted to mention as well.
Matthew McCay (33:01):
Well, volleyball, I mean
again it it looks like Western should be good again. A lot of lot of good players coming back, and everything.
I believe I'm pretty sure they've announced their schedule.
yes, they have, and a lot of good games on tap.
(33:22):
We play the Kentucky tournament. So it's all
Kentucky schools, including the University of Kentucky.
The same day that the football team plays Alabama. So
we will have a powerful way.
Power. 5 win on that day.
And then
(33:43):
they're also playing at
a tournament
at Michigan State. So that's a that's an interesting one and they play some other. They play marist, and they play loyalist Chicago. I play Tennessee at Diddle. So that's a that's a good one. They they play Tennessee in the Ncaa tournament
(34:05):
believe that was this last year. So that's an interesting.
Devin Stewart (34:08):
Right.
Matthew McCay (34:09):
Yeah. Marquette, that's another
nice matchup. Dayton, Illinois.
I mean, these are some big
potential matchups. I think Dayton was good last year. I think we played them
and this is actually, we've got all 3 of those teams coming into diddle for the hire place. Invitational like this is a super nice
(34:32):
schedule.
You've got the Alyssa Kavanaugh classic.
May she rest in peace. They're playing Arkansas State Eastern Illinois, Austin. P. Those should be pretty
winnable matchups, and then you get into your conference. I believe Kennesaw state is a really good addition. And women's volleyball. So yeah should be
(34:55):
and and ever improving comcha women's volleyball. But Western once again
should be the dominant team, and
you know, maybe they'll break through the sweet 16 elite, 8 kind of run and
or more, and really announce themselves on the national stage, but definitely wanted to mention volleyball. It's coming up very soon.
(35:15):
Their 1st game is
August
30.th
So.
Devin Stewart (35:23):
I was. Gonna say, another volleyball is kind of I won't say handy like handcuffed to football, so to speak, because it's a faller fallish sport. But
I think I think it like you said a successful season is definitely breaking through. Suite 16.
I mean, that's more than a success, obviously. But
Matthew McCay (35:45):
Make the tournament win again. That's kind of the standard now, you know. After that
like, it would feel disappointing to to lose in the round of 64
Devin Stewart (35:55):
Well.
Matthew McCay (35:56):
It's not unacceptable either.
Devin Stewart (35:58):
Knock, knock on the wood, so to speak. You know Travis Hudson is definitely not a coach that's gonna go anywhere.
he's been here long enough, I think we should, I won't say, get comfortable with him, but
because it everybody's got a price.
But at least Travis Hudson has a dynasty dynasty, so to speak, built up, and he's allowed Western to, you know. I mean Western's thriving
(36:26):
volleyball wise, I mean.
at least, in my opinion, if you're a girl that is good at volleyball in the State of Kentucky, I think you come to Western.
Matthew McCay (36:36):
Absolutely.
Devin Stewart (36:37):
That's my opinion.
some Louisville Uk. Volleyball coaches, but disagree. But you know
we've made it further than you, so
I don't know if you get it.
Matthew McCay (36:48):
We argue
definitely argue that Wk is just
about equal to those programs. I mean that Western is definitely a power. I mean, it's a top 25 program and has been.
We're better.
Devin Stewart (37:01):
We're better than you. So.
Matthew McCay (37:03):
I just.
Devin Stewart (37:03):
And we know it.
Matthew McCay (37:05):
Years.
Devin Stewart (37:05):
We.
Matthew McCay (37:06):
Are toppers.
Devin Stewart (37:08):
Yes, we talked too.
Matthew McCay (37:10):
All you need to do.
Devin Stewart (37:14):
West, side, east side whatever, anyway? Don't have gang signs of the available podcast how's it going guys?
What kind of podcast do you listen to? Do you listen to a Western podcast that throws up the
west side? Yeah.
Matthew McCay (37:28):
By the way, they have, like some weird like a this.
Devin Stewart (37:31):
I don't even I don't even know. I don't even know how they do all this like.
Matthew McCay (37:35):
I was gonna say on the Ncaa. Football like, apparently they think that we make W's in the stands, or something.
Devin Stewart (37:42):
Right? That's right.
Matthew McCay (37:43):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (37:43):
Remember I remember seeing something about that, and I was like.
What is this? What.
Matthew McCay (37:47):
Yeah.
Devin Stewart (37:48):
Woo, woo, yeah, when are we happy? Yeah.
Matthew McCay (37:51):
The Happy Hands Club from Napoleon. Dynamite.
Devin Stewart (37:54):
It's
all I remember is like, I don't remember if you remember this, the L. 7 new Zer. But that's yeah.
That's what I remember those? Yeah. So evidently, that's what we do. So just so, you all know, now, we have to start doing this because the game told us to.
But
yeah, I I don't have a lot else. I've been living under a rock, so I just came up for air, and I figured I'd do a.
Matthew McCay (38:19):
More.
Devin Stewart (38:20):
So
I'll.
Matthew McCay (38:21):
Yeah, a couple more for you. 2 more sports real quick, just to make sure he's updated and all that stuff
baseball. Mlb draft. He had 3.
Devin Stewart (38:30):
Yeah, let's just talk with them first.st
Matthew McCay (38:32):
That's alright, that's alright.
I forgive you.
Mlb draft. 3 guys got drafted. It was
Jacob Bimb Mason Burns.
and Grant Burlson,
Burlson was drafted by the Astros in the 18th round.
(38:53):
Mason Burns was drafted in the 14th round by St. Louis
and Jacob Bimby was taken by the pirates in the 11.th This is the 1st time.
Say what you don't have tomorrow.
Devin Stewart (39:06):
R.
Matthew McCay (39:10):
But yeah, they were. Let's say, it's 1st time since 2,011. Then we had 3 draft picks. You throw me on.
Devin Stewart (39:18):
I know I did. I know I did.
Matthew McCay (39:20):
But anyway, yeah, 1st time since 2,011 which is freaking 13 years that we've had 3 draft picks, and they were all pictures. I don't believe we've had 3 pictures drafted ever. I don't know for sure. But that's
pretty. It's a huge turnaround from the Pulaski era, where we couldn't
(39:43):
save our lives on the pitching mound. So
Devin Stewart (39:47):
I mean, I mean, I was really happy to see that we had 3 baseball players drafted, I mean, even after that great season they had
you, I mean, it sounds bad, but I kind of expected a somebody to get drafted, you know. As that sounds. You know, we had the players. The talent and
hopefully, coach will keep, you know, having success like this, and you know no issues off the field or anything like that. So.
Matthew McCay (40:12):
Yeah, he he was, I guess, in the other major off season thing with baseball was, he was rumored to be a finalist for the Ohio state job.
So a it's it's nice to be in the running for that. But be hopefully this next year. He he breaks through before he takes off to somewhere else, which couldn't blame him at all. He's done a heck of a job at Western, and hopefully if and when he leaves, which
(40:39):
maybe he won't. But if he does indeed, leave
hopefully, we we make a good hire
for the for the next coach and kind of keep the thing rolling like
Westerns really put itself in a completely different position in baseball. And it's really nice
to
to have a program that we can
(41:01):
truly feel good about and be proud of and feel like.
you know, if you put together a little stronger schedule you could possibly flirt with like an at large type of deal, and
up.
you know, win a few more of those games and
you could have options at the end of the year, instead of hoping that you win your conference tournament and get one of the lower seats.
Devin Stewart (41:24):
Yeah. Yeah.
Yeah. We'll see.
Matthew McCay (41:27):
The.
Devin Stewart (41:29):
we'll we'll talk about.
Matthew McCay (41:31):
Basketball, real quick.
Devin Stewart (41:32):
You go right ahead, Buddy.
Matthew McCay (41:33):
Okay, man. Alright. I'm just making sure everybody knows
when was basketball.
Devin Stewart (41:39):
I'm Danny
Crocker. Good!
Can you help her from Transylvania? I'll help her in a little bit.
You can go. You can go. I'll be right there, go ahead.
You been eating chocolate?
No. Are you sure.
Matthew McCay (41:55):
Hey!
Devin Stewart (41:55):
Sure you haven't been eating, so
you sure.
Matthew McCay (41:59):
Hey, girl! Brian.
how are you? I'm Mr. Matt.
Devin Stewart (42:04):
Item, Mr. Man, yeah, she can't hear you. I got you in my ear.
Matthew McCay (42:08):
And say, Yeah.
okay, gosh, she's growing up. Man. So where is basketball?
women's basketball? All I was gonna say with women's basketball they have. They've really focused on getting a lot of players, and they should be, I think, the biggest team.
Size-wise
(42:29):
since we were kids.
Devin Stewart (42:33):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (42:33):
Early 2 thousands. I mean, they're they should be huge. And you know, Alexis Main decided to stay, and all that. So I think they should finally have the depth. There's really no excuse that Collins can.
you know, make that jump and and be.
if not in the tournament. We better be right there.
(42:53):
At in the championship game, going toe to toe with middle or liberty. So just want to mention that on the women's basketball side. Just couple of updates there, and I'm sure their schedule will be coming out soon, and we'll be covering that as it comes out.
Devin Stewart (43:12):
Sorry I was trying not to be
distracting with you. Go on downstairs. They got Transylvania. Go, go, go, go, go!
Go watch your show. I'll be there in a second. Shut the door, please.
So anyway.
Yes, it's good to see Westerns girls doing well. Always excited about that.
(43:33):
and we'll be talking more about.
Matthew McCay (43:35):
You sound like it? Yeah.
Devin Stewart (43:36):
And football season
do what.
Matthew McCay (43:39):
I said, you sound like it.
Devin Stewart (43:42):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (43:42):
Always excited about women's basketball.
Devin Stewart (43:46):
Women's basketball, and I mean men's basketball
is so far away. It's like talking about
college football in spring.
Matthew McCay (43:55):
Oh, yeah.
Devin Stewart (43:56):
A lot can happen between now and then. And yeah, I know everybody gets excited about schedules and stuff like that. I just don't get as excited as when it's time for it is that I mean, if that makes sense
so on that note.
No, just shut it. I'll be there. I'll be down in just a second here.
(44:19):
So anyway.
Matthew McCay (44:20):
To see. Now, man, 2, 5.
Devin Stewart (44:21):
She's 4. She'll be 4.
Matthew McCay (44:23):
4, okay.
Devin Stewart (44:24):
Agree.
Matthew McCay (44:24):
Okay, I got it.
Devin Stewart (44:25):
Start school next August. So but yeah, appreciate you all watching, listening. Make sure to do all of the Youtube pleasantries like share and subscribe. It always helps us out, maybe comment. Tell us which game you're more excited to see this year for Western which games you may be going to basketball football, you know which ones you gonna try and get tickets to the most. And we do appreciate our sponsor aura
(44:52):
they are a new sponsor, and I think it'll actually be good for us, you know, definitely
with the new Vpns. It does help out a lot of people do track you. So a lot of companies get paid for that. Now, if you don't believe me, check Google.
but we will get out of here. We will be back, maybe try and do like a mid-camp episode before the season starts, and kind of let you all know what we're finding out on things. But we will be back and we'll be talking to you all. And we'll soon be starting our 8th season with the red out podcast
(45:24):
so.
Matthew McCay (45:25):
Well.
Devin Stewart (45:25):
Big, old, big old snowman this year last year was 7. So that's the one that comes after. That's what I learned in high school. So.
Matthew McCay (45:33):
Did you get that in Allen County at A. CSHS. HS.
Devin Stewart (45:37):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (45:38):
Hey? Chance. Yeah.
Devin Stewart (45:38):
Yes.
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (45:40):
Hey, Jess.
Devin Stewart (45:41):
Yeah, but yeah, we. That's what we learned in school. So anyway,
yeah. But we will be back. We'll talk some more sports we'll be. We'll give you some more updates. Don't check Wku. Sports is basketball page for the schedule, because it's not there.
It is all.
Matthew McCay (45:58):
2,099 right? And it's wrong.
Devin Stewart (46:01):
Yeah, it's 2,099. There's exhibitions that aren't there? I think one of them was the 5 Star guests exhibition. I don't know
it, said Marathon oil. But anyway
yeah. So who knows? It's not correct some intern. Or
I mean, it's not like Western has a computer science department
just saying.
Matthew McCay (46:21):
Right.
Devin Stewart (46:22):
I won't.
Matthew McCay (46:22):
Right, yeah.
Devin Stewart (46:23):
Yeah.
Matthew McCay (46:24):
Media mass media broadcasting.
Devin Stewart (46:28):
No, no, they don't have any of that.
They don't build buildings 3 or 4 buildings a year.
Sure.
Matthew McCay (46:35):
Intercollegiate athletic administration that you advertise as being the only one in the country. You know, whatever.
Devin Stewart (46:41):
No, no, no, no, nothing like that. But yeah, just check back. I know we keep Philip bustering here at the end. But yeah, just check back with us. We will
talk to you all again. And as always, guys go tops.
Matthew McCay (46:55):
No tops.
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