The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima

The only place to talk about the Cleveland sports scene is with Ken Carman and Anthony Lima. The two guide listeners through the ups and downs of being a fan of the Browns, Cavaliers, Guardians and Ohio State Buckeyes in Northeast Ohio. They'll help you stay informed with breaking news, game coverage, and interviews with top personalities.Catch The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima live Monday through Friday (6 a.m. - 10 a.m ET) on 92.3 The Fan, the exclusive audio home of the Browns, or on the Audacy app. For more, follow the show on X @KenCarmanShow.

Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate the career trajectories of Donovan Mitchell and Jalen Brunson, questioning if Brunson has surpassed the Cavs star. They shift to how Big Ten expansion has revitalized Ohio State’s regular season coverage and the rare loyalty shown by star receiver Jeremiah Smith in the NIL era. 02:23 - Mitchell Versus Brunson 08:12 - Big Ten Expansion 15:04 - Jeremiah Smith Loyalty 20:09 - Julian Sayin Outlook
Ken and Anthony reflect on the Cleveland Guardians' recent struggles and whether the season is effectively over following a string of losses to the Tigers. The focus shifts to a hypothetical 2025 Cleveland Browns quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, evaluating Todd Monken's coaching strategies and roster depth. The segment also includes a division-wide AFC North update and an interview with Ryan Wilson regarding future NFL draft prospects. 01:55 - Guardians Season Over Debate 07:10 - Team Lack Of Identity 12:00 - Callers Defend The Guardians 19:20 - Tom Hamilton Injury Update 27:55 - Browns Quarterback Competition Realities 33:45 - Todd Monken Honeymoon Over 41:50 - Shedeur Sanders Blister Rumors 53:55 - Move The Ball Drills 58:00 - Ohio State Michigan Rivalry 01:05:35 - National Media Watson Perspective 01:11:20 - Two-Second Trivia Game 01:22:45 - Around The AFC North 01:33:35 - Ranking Merged QB Rooms 01:44:15 - Carrying Four Quarterbacks 01:53:10 - Todd Monken Preseason Plan 02:03:35 - Ryan Wilson Scouting Report 02:16:10 - QB Developmental Problems 02:28:45 - Desperation In QB Drafting 02:36:10 - Guardians First Blood Analogy
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss whether the Cleveland Guardians' season has hit a breaking point after a series of disappointing losses and a lack of offensive identity. They analyze a sobering injury report on José Ramírez and transition into the Browns' quarterback competition involving Shedeur Sanders and Todd Monken. 02:18 - Guardians Season Outlook 07:11 - Team Identity Crisis 11:51 - Fan Call Reactions 15:25 - Stephen Vogt Ejections 20:34 - Ramirez Injury Update 27:49 - Browns QB Competition 35:31 - Todd Monken Honeymoon
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Shedeur Sanders' camp performance and the viral reports of him throwing through blisters. They debate the local and national perspectives on Deshaun Watson's future in Cleveland while exploring the intensity of the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry. 01:51 - Freiermuth and AFC North Update 02:57 - Shedeur Sanders' Hand Blisters 10:52 - Deshaun Watson Camp Performance 13:43 - Sherrone Moore and Rivalry Hate 19:04 - Urban Meyer's Rivalry Legacy 25:16 - National View on Deshaun Watson 33:13 - Two-Second Trivia Game 39:41 - NFL Broadcast Media Changes
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima explore the AFC North landscape with insights from Ken Weinman, Tony Pike, and Chris Mueller. They address the polarizing quarterback competition in Cleveland between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. Todd Monken's evaluation of the roster on 92.3 The Fan sparks a heated debate about the team's long-term future and fan frustration. 02:03 - Ravens Training Camp Update 05:49 - Bengals Defensive Upgrades 09:01 - Steelers Camp Autograph Fights 12:51 - Quarterback Power Rankings 18:58 - Worst Division Coach Debate 23:20 - Evaluating Deshaun Watson 29:57 - Monken Discusses Quarterbacks 39:21 - Fan Base Rejects Watson
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima welcome CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson to discuss Shedeur Sanders' draft prospects and the ongoing quarterback questions surrounding the Cleveland Browns. They evaluate whether the roster is truly a "quarterback away" from contention and analyze the impact of losing Myles Garrett on the defense. Additionally, they explore the NFL's broader quarterback developmental crisis and the recent struggles of the Cleveland Guardians. 02:11 - Ryan Wilson Joins 05:54 - Browns Roster Depth 10:14 - Front Office Dynamics 13:44 - NFL QB Crisis 19:53 - Browns Roster Transition 24:46 - QB Overdrafting Issues 35:16 - Guardians Scoring Struggles
Using a Rambo "First Blood" analogy, the show digs into whether the Guardians' season is truly finished, pointing to a young, retooled roster's struggles with runners in scoring position as Chase DeLauder admits players are pressing instead of just taking their normal at-bats. Comparisons to last year's veteran-laden club that overcame a 15.5-game deficit highlight why this year's lineup, overhauled by call-ups and trade deadline moves, lacks the same identity and clutch numbers, even leaving nine runners on base in one recent game. The hosts wrestle with how much of this is simply what happens when a team leans this heavily on inexperienced players, while noting Jose Ramirez's rough season has coincided with Steven Kwan finally salvaging his own year.
Ken Carman pushes back on Ryan Wilson's claim that the Browns are just one quarterback away from 10-11 wins, arguing the roster is still going through a genuine transition with unproven offensive line depth, thin linebacker and secondary rooms, and only one trusted tight end. He runs a thought experiment imagining Baker Mayfield still on the roster to show that even a franchise quarterback would be dealing with the same structural questions right now. The conversation shifts into a broader breakdown of why NFL quarterback busts keep happening, with Ken and Anthony agreeing that teams overdraft quarterbacks out of desperation since missing on a passer means punting the rebuild another year, and that the position simply doesn't allow the same kind of in-season development other sports do.
CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson joins the show and argues the Browns' roster outside quarterback is good enough to contend in the AFC North, comparing it to Houston's turnaround with C.J. Stroud and predicting whoever wins the QB job only needs to play "out of their minds" to hold it beyond 2026. He backs Todd Monken as the right coaching hire, praises the rookie wide receiver duo of Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion, and says the defense should still be the AFC North's best despite losing Myles Garrett, though he flags the loss of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz as a bigger concern. On the blister debate, Wilson notes he's never seen Shedeur Sanders throw such tight spirals in two years of watching him at Colorado, leaving open whether the issue is new or just more visible.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima play sound of Todd Monken praising all four Browns quarterbacks, including Deshaun Watson, but Ken pushes back hard, arguing nobody in Cleveland actually believes Watson can rediscover his old form after six years of decline. Ken admits his own bias openly: he'll extend Shedeur Sanders more patience while comparing Watson not just to Sanders but to the MVP-caliber quarterback the Browns traded three first-round picks for. Callers Jeffrey and Dan add fuel to the fire, with Dan predicting Watson starts the first two games only to be benched after an embarrassing 0-2 start, and Ken and Anthony debating just how well Watson would need to play this year for anyone to want him back in 2027. They land on the idea that Monken, unlike a rookie coach who might just hand the job to Sanders, is trying to win now and genuinely believes he can get more out of Watson.
Ken Carman openly admits he's straddling the fence on the Browns' quarterback competition, caught between wanting long-term stability and sympathizing with keeping a likable fourth quarterback like Tyler Huntley Green around, while Anthony Lima counters that roster spots need to go to players who can actually help win games. The two dig into Chris Mueller's point that raw stats like completions and interceptions don't capture context, using Shedeur Sanders' touchdown throw to Harold Fannin and his performance in the Tennessee loss as examples of how emotion and results can distort honest evaluation. Ken concedes he was too easy on Sanders in the moment because he was celebrating in the stadium with beer in hand, and both agree Todd Monken deserves a fair shake this year since last year's QB competition was legitimately mishandled while this year's hasn't been. They close by noting Monken's first show as head coach airs tonight and teasing a Guardians segment built around the movie First Blood.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima swing around the AFC North with radio hosts previewing preseason week one. Baltimore's Ken Weinman details Nate Wiggins' knee scare and picks Mike McCarthy as the division's worst coach. Cincinnati's Tony Pike is bullish on the Bengals' upgraded defensive line and Joe Burrow's health as the swing factor, tabbing Todd Monken as the weakest coach by process of elimination. Pittsburgh's Chris Mueller delivers a chaotic quarterback power ranking that puts 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers at number one over Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel, while naming Zac Taylor the division's worst coach and sparring with Ken over stolen "power rankings" bits and Youngstown's surprising 49ers fanbase.
This week's Two-Second Trivia round covers the AFC North preseason ahead, with callers racing the clock on questions ranging from J.J. McCarthy being named the Vikings' starter to Michigan's head coach and the Guardians player whose dad went after Ken Carman on social media. A caller's joking Tony Romo DUI answer, referencing his leaving a golf course to visit dead grandparents, gets debated for whether it counts before Bryant from Parma wins the free Mr. Hero combo meal on a Kyle Whittingham answer. The segment closes with Ken and Anthony riffing on whether new broadcaster Ross Tucker will ever shout out Cleveland radio hosts Nick and Jonathan during a Browns broadcast, name-checking other local sports-radio personalities across the AFC North in the process.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima open by dissecting the Michigan-Ohio State hate rivalry, debating whether Kyle Whittingham's measured comments about Ohio State are genuine or a "Trojan horse" compared to Jeremiah Smith's raw hatred of Michigan, with Albert Breer's warning that Whittingham's words will haunt him if he loses in November. The conversation pivots hard to the Browns, where Ken reveals that despite no one in local media wanting Deshaun Watson to win the starting job, he increasingly believes Watson will be "given" it out of camp over Shedeur Sanders. They play Mike Tannenbaum's blunt take that the Browns should cut ties with Watson entirely given his injury history and poor play, which Ken says just "preaches to the choir" of how locals already feel. Anthony notes the stark gap between local and national coverage, pointing out that national pundits barely mention Shedeur or the Browns at all, dismissing Cleveland's quarterback room as one of the league's worst regardless of who starts.
Ken Carman digs into a claim from someone in Shedeur Sanders' inner circle that a blister on his throwing hand may explain why some of his passes have looked shaky, arguing the Browns need to confirm it publicly for the QB competition to feel fair. Anthony Lima pushes back on urgency, noting camp throw volume is unusually high for every quarterback this time of year and questioning whether a blister even rises to the level of a real injury. The two also weigh in on Zach Jackson's report that Deshaun Watson has outperformed Sanders specifically in "move the ball" game-simulation reps, which Ken says matters more to a new coach than raw drill throws.
Ken Carman clarifies his "honeymoon is over" comment about Todd Monken isn't necessarily a criticism, using an extended marriage/honeymoon analogy (with some personal ribbing about his own wedding) before pivoting to the real question: do quarterback competitions ever actually produce a franchise QB? Ken argues historically almost none do, name-checking Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy, Derek Anderson and Baker Mayfield as evidence that these battles usually just mean neither guy is great. Anthony Lima pushes back that Shedeur Sanders may still be developmentally raw from a chaotic setup at Colorado and last year's limited Browns run, floating a best-case scenario where Deshaun Watson starts early before Sanders takes over once the offensive line and rookies gel.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima play sound of Guardians legend Tom Hamilton explaining that Jose Ramirez's hamate bone surgery means fans won't see the "real" Ramirez again until next season, sparking a mix of denial and grief on the show. Ken admits he doesn't want to accept the season is over, arguing the team's identity of clutch hitting and manufactured runs simply isn't who this roster is anymore. A caller pushes back that what fans are watching is essentially minor league baseball given 10-11 rookie call-ups, while the hosts note that's not new for this era of Guardians teams.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima wrestle with whether it's time to declare the Guardians' season over after a 6-4 loss to the Tigers dropped them to four games under .500 and extended a brutal 2-8 stretch. They debate José Ramírez's injury-hampered "season from hell," a thin bullpen beyond the closer, and how a lineup overhauled with rookies has lost its "Guards ball" identity of manufacturing runs. Caller Tommy argues the weak division keeps hope alive but warns the Guardians are basically out of it if they don't turn things around within a week.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the ongoing quarterback competition and roster construction for the Cleveland Browns. They discuss the perceived leadership vacuum, the pressure on rookie additions, and reflect on past organizational shifts while evaluating local fan sentiment. The conversation also shifts to sports media legends, upcoming NBA schedules, and personal anecdotes about youth hobbies. 05:33 - Browns QB Decision 10:23 - Watson Play Vs Injury 15:55 - Firing Kevin Stefanski 22:47 - Building The Roster 27:58 - Wiping The Slate 32:22 - Chris Berman Pants 38:10 - Aging And Wardrobe 45:10 - Social Media Hyping 51:10 - Preseason Starting Decisions 57:43 - Spencer Fano Pressure 01:03:42 - Rebuilding Offensive Line 01:12:30 - Tim Anderson Retirement 01:20:41 - Cavs Season Opener 01:27:43 - Music Instrument Debate 01:32:42 - Zac Jackson Interview 01:44:40 - QB Competition Update 01:55:10 - Organizational Pick Theory 02:04:10 - Todd Monken Explanation 02:19:10 - Ohio State Rivalry 02:34:15 - Final Preseason Thoughts
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima breakdown the Cleveland Browns quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders under hypothetical coach Todd Monken. They also discuss viral videos of Chris Berman’s wardrobe issues during Hall of Fame weekend in Canton. 03:35 - Todd Monken’s Presser 07:46 - QB Competition Delays 12:30 - Watson vs Sanders 19:16 - Monken's Honeymoon Ends 24:00 - Earning Cleveland's Trust 29:15 - QB Redshirt Theory 34:22 - Berman's Wardrobe Malfunction 40:00 - Chris Berman’s Pants
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the narrative surrounding Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, questioning whether the team's social media strategy influences public perception of the quarterback battle. They also examine the high expectations for rookie Spencer Fano and how his performance impacts General Manager Andrew Berry's legacy. The conversation wraps up with a look at Tim Anderson's retirement and the impact of his altercation with Jose Ramirez. 01:20 - Shedeur Sanders Narrative 06:47 - Preseason Starting Strategy 13:02 - Spencer Fano Pressure 20:31 - Andrew Berry Planning 30:48 - Tim Anderson Retirement 34:30 - Williams Brothers And ABS
Anthony Lima and Ken Carman talk with Zach Jackson from The Athletic about the ongoing quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They analyze Todd Monken's messaging and the implications of Dylan Gabriel being an organizational draft pick. 01:50 - NBA Schedule Release 04:33 - Cavs Malaise and WNBA 07:18 - Musical Instrument Debate 14:05 - Zac Jackson Interview 17:40 - Monken's QB Messaging 20:21 - Evaluating Wide Receivers 22:00 - Dillon Gabriel's Status 27:37 - Sanders vs Watson 30:14 - Joint Practice Memories 35:44 - Drafting Career Backups
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze recent comments regarding the quarterback competition and address fan concerns about the process being rigged. They also discuss the intense pressure on Ryan Day as the Ohio State rivalry looms and react to the leaked Cleveland Cavaliers schedule. 02:13 - Monken on QB Competition 06:46 - Addressing Rigged Rumors 12:41 - Lessons from 2007 Browns 20:02 - Whittingham on Ohio State 26:54 - Ryan Day's Hot Seat 38:00 - Cavs Schedule Leak Frustration
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to the (still unconfirmed) news that the Cavs may open their season October 22nd on the road against LeBron James and the 76ers, calling it the one marquee moment on an otherwise flat schedule. They vent about the offseason malaise, revisiting the James Harden and Donovan Mitchell trades and questioning whether LeBron ever seriously considered returning to Cleveland, per Rich Paul's comments suggesting he preferred New York/Philadelphia. The two also gripe about the NFL cannibalizing Christmas Day and diminishing the final weeks of the regular season with playoff seeding largely decided early.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dig into Utah coach Kyle Whittingham's comments downplaying the significance of rivalry hate, arguing that emotion and hatred have historically decided big games like Ohio State-Michigan and that Whittingham's measured tone concerns them. The conversation shifts into a broader college football preview, with the two debating Ryan Day's hot-seat status entering the season given his 2-4 record against Michigan and Ohio State's brutal fall schedule against USC, Indiana, and Oregon. They also share old stories from their sports-media pasts, including run-ins with Charlie Weis and John Harbaugh, and close by hyping the September 12th Ohio State-Texas primetime showdown as a potential "Browns Bowl" distraction.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima revisit Todd Monken's explanation for Saturday's rep swap between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, with Lima admitting he found Monken more convincing than expected. They riff on the freedom of finally reaching a career position where you don't owe anyone an explanation, comparing Monken to Bill Belichick and contrasting it with Kevin Stefanski's inability to ever wield that kind of authority. The hosts push back hard on fans calling the competition "rigged" for Watson, arguing Monken's rep-counting story sounds too granular and fair to be fabricated, while acknowledging ownership privately wants Shedeur to succeed.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dig deeper into Zac Jackson's claim that Dillon Gabriel was an organizational pick rather than Kevin Stefanski's, questioning why Andrew Berry would spend a top-100 pick on a player immediately labeled a career backup on a three-win team. They debate whether that framing will haunt Berry if Gabriel never develops, drawing a parallel to the pressure on Spencer Fano and the front office's uneven draft history at wide receiver and offensive line. The two also predict the Browns will use at least three quarterbacks this season, referencing the Myles Garrett trade as evidence the front office already knows this year isn't a real Super Bowl window.
Zac Jackson of The Athletic joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to break down Todd Monken's confusing QB messaging, calling the whole situation "madness" but predicting Deshaun Watson starts the opener since he needs preseason reps after two years away. Jackson pushes back on trade speculation, clarifies Dillon Gabriel was an organizational pick (not Kevin Stefanski's) and remains firmly the No. 3 quarterback, and predicts multiple QBs will start games this season given the team's overall lack of depth. He also shares his gut read that Shedeur won't start Week 1 but will ultimately start the most games in 2026, and the group closes reminiscing about chaotic joint-practice moments from years past, including Troy Hill's fight with Sterling Shepard.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the NBA's official schedule release, highlighting the Cavaliers' October 22nd home matchup against LeBron James and the Sixers, plus a Cup Play group-stage game against Philadelphia. They vent about the Cavs' quiet, GM-less offseason, still unresolved James Harden contract situation, and no Christmas Day game as a sign of the league's diminished expectations for Cleveland. The conversation drifts into a lengthy, unrelated tangent where Ken debates his son's sudden interest in learning trumpet versus continuing with piano, roping in stories about grade-school band classes and instrument peer pressure.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima bring in producer John to react to Tim Anderson's retirement by revisiting how Jose Ramirez's 2023 fight with him seemingly derailed Anderson's career, noting his stats craterered afterward despite prior All-Star form. They also break down Quinnen Williams' massive new contract extension and needle each other over which Williams brother (the NFL All-Pro or his younger brother Quincy) is more impressive given their size and draft-position gap. The segment wraps with a light debate on MLB's ABS (automated ball-strike) system, noting it won't be used in the upcoming Field of Dreams and Little League Classic games for logistical reasons, with both hosts admitting they've come around on liking the challenge system.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima argue that Spencer Fano, not Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson, is the player carrying the most organizational pressure this season, since most fans already view the Browns' QB future as sitting in college rather than on the current roster. They tie Fano's success directly to Andrew Berry's job security, revisiting the franchise's rough recent history at offensive line (Jedrick Wills, Jack Conklin, Zach Zinter) and arguing this offseason's total O-line overhaul was the product of years of poor planning finally coming to a head. They also touch on Titus Howard and Dawand Jones' positional flexibility as pieces of that puzzle.
A fan named Alex sparks debate by arguing the Browns themselves promoted Shedeur Sanders as QB1, prompting Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to dig into whether that's actually true versus a perception built by social media and fan sentiment. They contrast the muted, almost begrudging promotion Deshaun Watson got last year (down to lukewarm "happy birthday" posts) with the sense that any casual outside observer would assume Shedeur is the starter. The conversation shifts into whether Watson is now the "leader in the clubhouse" given his healthier physical traits, before pivoting to debate which preseason game each QB would rather start, weighing the tougher Bills joint-practice week against an easier matchup with Chicago's backups.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima (with producer Owen chiming in) spend the segment dissecting a viral video of Chris Berman's ill-fitting khakis at the Hall of Fame festivities in Canton, debating whether he forgot to pack pants, borrowed a wrong size, or is simply "vain" about his measurements. They riff on suspenders, the over-the-belly versus under-the-belly styling debate, and compare his silhouette to Mike Wazowski, all while insisting they still love Berman as a broadcasting legend. The bit turns briefly reflective as they wonder if ill-fitting pants are everyone's inevitable future before snapping back into jokes.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima continue the "honeymoon is over" conversation, arguing most Browns fans aren't panicking about the QB competition but are being realistic given the team's recent history. They share how genuinely reasonable golf-course fans were the day before, and pivot into a broader point that fans want players to earn support rather than have it handed to them, using Shedeur Sanders as the example. A caller, Michael, weighs in defending Monken's decision-making process while still expressing skepticism toward Deshaun Watson.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Todd Monken's press conference walking back his earlier comments about the QB competition, with Monken essentially admitting he doesn't owe anyone the truth as head coach. They compare it to Urban Meyer's blunt honesty at Ohio State and debate whether Monken's "honeymoon" with media and fans is over. The two agree that if the QB battle is truly close, Monken will likely start Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders as the veteran, which they find frustrating but understandable given roster and business dynamics. They also push back on trade/cut speculation around Watson, arguing it makes no sense this late in camp, and note Jackson Dart has reportedly started sliding to protect himself in Giants camp.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the fallout from Todd Monken's contradictory statements regarding the Browns' quarterback rotation. They discuss the growing tension with Shedeur Sanders fans and the reality of Deshaun Watson likely starting Week 1. 02:30 - Browns Quarterback Exhaustion 06:23 - Todd Monken's Practice Contradiction 10:45 - Spencer Fano Skirmish Analysis 15:48 - Mary Kay Cabot Reporting 24:00 - Ian Rapoport QB Update 28:11 - Shedeur Sanders Fan Tensions 34:40 - Viral Field Goal Story 39:10 - Deshaun Watson Logic Discussion 49:40 - Front Office Talent Evaluation 56:15 - Potential Shedeur Sanders Trade 01:02:30 - Reasonable Shedeur Fan Call 01:12:10 - Guardians Bullpen Recent Struggles 01:16:05 - Akron Zips Rivalry Sabotage 01:22:40 - Bills New Stadium Issues 01:32:40 - Daryl Ruiter Joins Show 01:42:00 - Quarterback Competition Fair Play 01:54:25 - Out Of Town Callers 02:01:30 - Anthony Castrovince Guardians Analysis 02:15:40 - Re-evaluating Monken's Credibility
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the drama surrounding Todd Monken's conflicting reports on quarterback repetitions between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They examine insights from Mary Kay Cabot and Ian Rapoport regarding who will ultimately lead the offense heading into the preseason. 02:13 - Monken QB Rep Controversy 05:33 - Weekend Trip To Vermilion 09:34 - Evaluating Young Roster Talent 17:23 - Cabot’s Rep Timeline Report 22:40 - Rapoport on Watson Edge 26:21 - Monken Preseason Strategy 33:32 - Sanders Fan Base Backlash 37:13 - Billy Cundiff Field Goal
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the ongoing quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, questioning the Cleveland Browns' front office strategy. They also address the online discourse from various fanbases and the recent struggles of the Cleveland Guardians' bullpen following a Jose Ramirez injury. 01:50 - Browns Quarterback Competition 06:36 - Evaluating Shedeur Sanders 11:05 - Critique Of Browns Front Office 15:35 - Potential QB Trade Markets 24:06 - Sanders Fans Versus Watson 33:05 - Guardians Bullpen Performance Issues 37:44 - NFL Hall Of Fame 41:10 - MGK Day Rain Delays
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima examine the design flaws and obstructed views at the Buffalo Bills' new stadium, warning the Cleveland Browns to avoid similar mistakes. Daryl Ruiter joins the program to provide insights on the quarterback competition, suggesting that Deshaun Watson currently has the edge over Shedeur Sanders. They also recap a recent outing with the Lake Erie Crushers and analyze why much of the social media support for Sanders comes from outside of Cleveland. 01:32 - Bills Stadium Design Flaws 11:40 - Daryl Ruiter Joins 17:43 - Browns Quarterback Competition 24:35 - Training Camp Fight Recap 30:48 - Lake Erie Crushers Outing 34:46 - Analyzing Browns Fan Sentiment
Anthony Castrovince breaks down the Cleveland Guardians' recent slide, the struggles of the bullpen, and the long-term outlook for Jose Ramirez. Ken Carman and Anthony Lima also tackle the drama surrounding the Browns' quarterback reps and whether Todd Monken was being transparent about the depth chart. 02:12 - Castrovince On Guardians Struggles 05:30 - Steven Vogt Management Critique 08:52 - Roster Surprises And Disappointments 13:10 - MLB Lockout Economic Impact 18:22 - Todd Monken Rep Controversy 23:54 - Watson Vs Sanders Competition 33:15 - Jimmy Haslam Business Strategy
After a quick Cavs update touching on James Harden's offseason drama and the roster's EuroLeague pickups, the show turns back to the Browns when caller Tony argues Jimmy Haslam won't let Shedeur Sanders start Week 1 because keeping him in reserve preserves fan intrigue and ticket sales for a season the team doesn't expect to win. Ken pushes back that Haslam is likely deferring to Todd Monken's football judgment rather than dictating the decision himself, but agrees with the business logic Tony lays out if neither quarterback is considered good long-term. Ken argues there's still more curiosity left in Sanders than in Deshaun Watson, so holding him back keeps something in reserve for later in a lost season either way.
Ken pushes back on fans branding Todd Monken a liar, arguing it's hard to accuse someone of lying about a football opinion, though he acknowledges the media was told one thing about first-team reps and reality played out differently, with Mary Kay's report that Watson knew about the switch beforehand adding to the suspicion. He and Anthony debate whether the various "quarterback trackers" mean anything, noting Dillon Gabriel throws the prettiest spiral of the group even if his accuracy is shaky, while Watson has looked sharper the last two practices despite mostly unpadded reps. Ken argues Monken has been under self-imposed pressure to name a starter since promising back at the combine he'd have one picked by camp, and floats that today's press conference gives him an easy out by simply framing this as "Watson's start" for game week.
MLB.com's Anthony Castrovince joins the show and pushes back on blaming manager Stephen Vogt for the Guardians' collapse, arguing he's made the most of a young, thin roster and that the recent struggles come down to performance and injuries rather than in-game decisions. He points to bullpen meltdowns, a lack of league-average offense, and a run differential suggesting the team is actually worse than its record shows. Castrovince also explains Jose Ramirez's power outage as a direct result of a recent hamate surgery rather than age decline, and breaks down Steven Kwan's inconsistent season, urging him to stop chasing power and lean back into his get-on-base, elite-defense identity.
Ken notes that when he tracks where callers and tweets about the Watson-Sanders quarterback fight are coming from, it's overwhelmingly Texas, Atlanta, and other out-of-state areas rather than Cleveland itself, arguing local Browns fans are far more accepting of whatever decision the coaching staff makes. Before getting into that, the hosts recap a fun weekend appearance at a Lake Erie Crushers game, including botched first pitches, a T-shirt toss lesson, and running into longtime Cleveland broadcaster Bob Karlovic. Ken reiterates his stance that he's willing to accept Deshaun Watson as the starter since fans got the coaching change they wanted, and predicts the Browns will end up using multiple quarterbacks over the course of the season regardless of who opens it. He pushes back on the idea that Shedeur Sanders fans have been "lied to" again, distinguishing this year's situation from last year's admittedly fake quarterback competition.
Daryl Ruiter joins the show and lays out why he believes Deshaun Watson will be the Browns' Week 1 starter, pointing to Todd Monken's comments about pre-snap processing and Shedeur Sanders still needing to learn when to throw the ball away rather than force a play. Ken presses him on whether Monken lied to fans, and Daryl says he's giving the coach some latitude given his track record of honesty, while still finding the personnel-grouping explanation for Saturday's switch a little shaky. Daryl insists the competition has been fair and Sanders hasn't been a victim of favoritism, arguing some fans can't accept that if Watson hasn't been great, Sanders simply hasn't been good enough to beat him out either
Ken and Anthony run through Lima Likes with John filling in, covering the Guardians' bullpen meltdown and Jose Ramirez's injury-plagued "lost season" that still might produce solid numbers, plus a recap of the station's charity softball night in Canton highlighting Anthony's surprisingly hard fastball. They rip Robert Morris fans reportedly buying up Akron Zips season tickets to sabotage a raffle promotion, then dig into Hall of Fame weekend, including Pat McAfee's awkward speech line about his wife and the snub of Bill Belichick.
Ken and Anthony argue that despite fans calling for the Browns to trade or cut Shedeur Sanders after Deshaun Watson took the majority of first-team reps, there's no real trade market for him and no logical reason to move on this late in camp. A caller named Jeff claims Sanders competing with a "pro bowl caliber" Watson is itself a win, which Ken and Owen push back on given Watson's uneven camp performance. Another caller, Cedric, offers what Ken calls the most reasonable pro-Sanders take of the segment, predicting Watson starts this year before the Browns draft their true quarterback of the future next spring, with Sanders developing behind him.
Ken argues that the Myles Garrett trade already revealed the Browns' real plan for this year, so he's stopped stressing over who gets first-team reps and is instead bracing for what it means if Deshaun Watson wins the job outright. Callers weigh in on both sides: Jack says fans should trust the process and let Shedeur Sanders develop on his own timeline, while Paul argues the front office can't be trusted at quarterback evaluation and that playing Watson over Sanders again would prove something is systemically broken. Ken pushes back on parts of both callers, noting he still likes GM Andrew Berry's recent drafting but won't fully trust the quarterback decision-making until it's proven right.
Ken opens by noting the fan reaction was intense, especially from Shedeur Sanders backers who feel misled, while Anthony argues the truth won't matter either way — only wins and losses will decide if starting Deshaun Watson was the right call. Ken admits he made peace with Watson getting the job back in January once the trade happened, insisting his real emotional investment is in whichever quarterback the Browns eventually draft out of college. The two banter about the recurring "crying on camera" bit from a past Browns-Jaguars reaction video before circling back to football, with Ken bluntly suggesting Watson may simply not be cut out to start in the NFL if he can't hold off Sanders
Ken and Anthony unpack the fallout after Todd Monken said Shedeur Sanders would get first-team reps Saturday, only for Deshaun Watson to take them instead, with reports suggesting Watson knew the switch was coming before Monken even spoke to the media. Ian Rapoport's report that Watson has "the leg up" in the competition adds fuel, and Ken notes he called this outcome months ago and isn't shaken by the online reaction. Anthony argues Sanders' fan base already feels burned by how the draft process was covered and now sees this as one more example of being misled.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dig into the fallout from Todd Monken's press conference, where reports suggest Deshaun Watson knew he'd get first-team reps 45 minutes before Monken told reporters Shedeur Sanders would get them. Ken vents about the exhausting daily cycle of QB controversy content flooding his phone, while both hosts debate whether Monken owes the media the full truth or was simply trying to protect a competitive advantage. They pivot to genuine optimism about the young receiving corps, singling out Denzel Boston, KC Concepcion, and a healthy Harold Fannin.
Featuring Chelsea Janes, Mary Kay Cabot, Nathan Zegura, and Myles Simmons.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan break down the Cleveland Guardians' recent struggles and trade deadline moves, highlighting the arrival of top prospects like Angel Genao alongside the steady leadership of Jose Ramirez. They also debate Stephen Vogt's managerial tactics and reflect on iconic franchise moments as the Guardians push to stay atop a competitive AL Central race.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan break down the Cleveland Browns' complex quarterback battle, debating whether head coach Todd Monken favors Shedeur Sanders while ownership pushes to start Deshaun Watson, and whether Dillon Gabriel has vaulted himself into contention. The crew also analyzes the long-term outlook of the quarterback room, discussing the team's options and how the depth chart will take shape as the preseason unfolds.
It's the first week of August, and Ken and Anthony are back together after some recent vacation time. The guys do their weekly spin around the AFC North to check in on the Browns' division rivals; discuss why WNBA players are constantly asked about their politics; and break down an extremely unfortunate rendition of the national anthem. Plus, Ken reveals his dread of throwing out the first pitch at a minor league; and how a mistake by Anthony's son cost him nearly $50 at a farmer's market.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the shifting dynamics of the Browns quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They speak with insiders Daryl Ryder and Nathan Zegura about training camp standouts like Jared Verse and the status of the offensive line. Additionally, Akron head coach Joe Moorhead addresses the viral promotion allowing a fan to call plays. 02:24 - Traffic Report 07:17 - Browns QB Battle 12:53 - Practice Recap Highlights 23:20 - Akron Fan Promotion 32:18 - Guardians Midseason Slump 46:35 - Joe Moorhead Interview 58:55 - Hall Of Fame 01:07:30 - Future QB Prospects 01:18:03 - NBA Investigation News 01:24:15 - Lima Halloween Mishap 01:30:16 - Joe Thomas Role 01:36:28 - Daryl Ryder Interview 01:42:04 - Shedeur Sanders Progress 01:53:45 - NFL Preseason Opening 02:06:17 - Nathan Zegura Interview 02:11:47 - Jared Verse Leadership 02:17:51 - Wide Receiver Battle 02:24:07 - Miles Garrett Trade 02:36:00 - Fan Cash Friday
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate the Browns' quarterback situation following Mary Kay Cabot's report on Deshaun Watson’s first-team snaps. They also vent about the Guardians' frustrating sweep by the Mets and field listener critiques of Stephen Vogt's managerial performance. 02:24 - Traffic and Weather Report 07:17 - Browns Quarterback Battle 12:16 - Mary Kay Cabot’s Notes 19:28 - Todd Monken On Offense 26:00 - Adam Schefter QB Update 34:31 - Guardians Struggle In New York 42:24 - Debate Over Stephen Vogt
Akron head coach Joe Moorhead discusses the viral "Play Caller for a Day" fan promotion and the complexity of his offensive system. Lima and Ken Carman weigh the Browns' future under center, comparing Shedeur Sanders and Carson Beck while questioning Todd Monken's influence. Additionally, they cover the Guardians' recent loss and an NBA investigation into Kawhi Leonard. 02:20 - Joe Moorhead Interview 06:45 - Fan Play-Calling Promotion 13:00 - Akron Promotion Discussion 20:40 - Shedeur Sanders Debate 25:45 - Browns Draft Hypotheticals 33:15 - Guardians and NBA Recap
Daryl Ruiter joins to discuss the ongoing quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, advocating for the young signal-caller to start the season opener. They also analyze the team's current injury report and whether the front office's roster moves constitute a full rebuild or a strategic retool. Additionally, they debate the value of preseason wins and preview the upcoming exhibition schedule. 01:50 - Lake Erie Crushers Night 04:10 - The $47 Halloween Mistake 10:10 - Joe Thomas Coaching Future 15:30 - Daryl Ruiter Injury Update 21:05 - Starting Shedeur Sanders Week 1 25:45 - Browns Rebuild Versus Retool 32:50 - Hall Of Fame Game 37:50 - Do Preseason Games Matter
Nathan Zegura joins the show to evaluate the ongoing competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, noting Sanders' consistency and Watson's operational strengths. They also analyze the impact of Jared Verse as a culture-changing leader following the hypothetical departure of Miles Garrett. Discussion covers the offensive line configuration, standout training camp performers, and the intense coaching style of Todd Monken. 01:12 - Browns Quarterback Battle 04:56 - Offensive Line Depth 06:35 - Jared Verse's Impact 08:38 - Preseason Standout Players 18:33 - Garrett And Verse Comparison
Ken makes the case that Myles Garrett was never a true locker room leader despite his elite talent, and argues the Browns actually benefit from swapping him for Jared Verse, who's already shown willingness to mentor teammates like Spencer Fano in ways Ken doesn't believe Garrett ever would. He praises Verse's energy and buy-in since arriving in Cleveland, contrasting it with his own preseason fear that a player traded from a Super Bowl contender to a rebuilding team would visibly check out. The conversation veers into a nostalgic detour about crying over emotional Browns and Cavaliers sports moments, and closes with a Fan Cash Friday giveaway segment crowning a $100 winner named Mark.
Nathan Zegura joins the show from the road to break down the Browns' quarterback battle, saying Shedeur Sanders has been the most consistent once the ball is snapped while Deshaun Watson's pre-snap operation and arm talent remain the best of the group, though his accuracy has been inconsistent. He also maps out his best-guess starting offensive line, flagging real uncertainty at center and right guard depending on how Wyatt Teller or Brailsford win that battle. Zegura raves about Jared Verse's leadership already rivaling what the Rams reportedly mourned losing in Myles Garrett, and names Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion as his top training camp standouts at receiver.
Ken rips into Anthony for claiming he won't be locked into the Hall of Fame game or Shedeur Sanders' preseason debut because he'll be too busy socializing at the Feast with friends, accusing him of "half-assing" his Browns fandom in public. Anthony pushes back weakly before the two pivot into a heated debate about whether preseason wins actually matter, with Ken doubling down on his years-old stance that meaningless-looking preseason games build winning culture, citing the Hue Jackson-era 4-0 preseason as proof. Ken also defends Todd Monken's insistence that this isn't a rebuild, arguing a first-year coach can't afford to frame it that way regardless of the roster's actual state.
Daryl Ruiter joins Ken and Anthony from Browns camp, where 16 players missed practice, including a scary cart-off for Sam Kamara, though Ruiter notes Todd Monken stays tight-lipped on injury details. He breaks down the quarterback competition, saying he'd start Shedeur Sanders in Week 1 given his marked improvement since spring, even as he expects the Browns to go a different direction. Ruiter also argues the Jared Verse-for-Myles Garrett trade makes the Browns better positioned long-term, pointing to their lopsided Patriots loss as proof sacks alone don't win games, and calls the current rebuild talent-driven rather than asset-driven. He closes by raving about rookie receivers Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion, the most excited he's been about a Browns receiver duo since Odell Beckham and Jarvis Landry.
Anthony tells the story of his two-year-old son Mason ripping the nose off a $47 Halloween decoration at the Bay Village Farmers Market, forcing him to buy it on the spot rather than negotiate with the vendor. Ken and the crew debate whether Anthony should have tried to work out a deal since it wasn't a retail store, arguing farmers market prices are more negotiable than a chain store's. Talk then shifts to Joe Thomas, with Ken saying he doesn't want a rough offensive line season to spark fan pressure for Thomas to become a coach, comparing that scenario to the old "Bernie Kosar for GM" calls the station used to get. The crew closes by weighing the mixed track record of ex-players turned executives, name-checking John Lynch's success and Mike Mayock's flop in the same role.
The crew recaps a rough 13-6 Guardians loss to the Mets, with Foster Griffin struggling in his first start after the trade, and John declaring the season effectively over if Cleveland gets swept by the White Sox this weekend. They also break down the Kawhi Leonard situation, with a Pablo Torre report alleging Leonard had an undisclosed sponsorship deal with Daktronics as another possible way to circumvent the salary cap, on top of the ongoing Aspiration investigation. The guys debate whether Clippers fans should actually be mad at owner Steve Ballmer for allegedly bending the rules to pay Leonard more, given how much worse the franchise's previous ownership was.
Ken and Anthony follow up on the Akron promotion talk before pivoting to the Browns, with Ken conceding he was won over but firmly telling fans he won't chase any more "diamond in the rough" quarterback prospects like Carson Beck, Malik Willis, or Brennan Soresby if the position stays unresolved into next year's draft. He argues this season already counts as a developmental year and next year the team needs to commit fully to a top quarterback prospect rather than gambling on mid-round names again. Ken and Anthony debate a hypothetical where Todd Monken reunites with Beck, his former Georgia and Miami quarterback, while also raising the uncomfortable point that two different Browns coaching staffs, with very different philosophies, still haven't fully bought into Shedeur Sanders
Akron head coach Joe Moorhead joins Ken and Anthony to explain the viral season-ticket promotion letting one lucky fan help script the Zips' opening drive against Robert Morris, admitting he thought it was ridiculous at first before buying in once he saw the potential exposure and revenue for a program with the lowest operating budget in FBS football. Moorhead insists it will be a true collaboration rather than a gimmick, walking through how he builds his actual game plan and stressing he addressed it with players immediately so it wouldn't undercut the team's focus. He also admits he'd feel differently if he weren't the primary play-caller himself, which helps ease some of Ken's skepticism. By the end of the interview, Ken concedes Moorhead fully won him over on a promotion he walked in ready to rip apart.
Ken and Anthony process a gut-wrenching Mets sweep that left the Guardians looking disinterested on the field, with Ken openly wondering whether Steven Vogt's recent fiery outbursts are motivation tactics or signs he's cracking under the losing. Owen offers a shaky silver lining, pointing out the division-leading White Sox also got swept and that Cleveland's remaining schedule is still relatively soft. A caller named Geo rips into Vogt as an over-tinkerer who can't leave a good lineup alone, using the Kyle Manzardo demotion and limited at-bats for young hitters as evidence of an organization that doesn't trust its players.
Ken and Anthony dig into Mary Kay Cabot's take that Deshaun Watson looks like the QB1 right now, while pointing to Adam Schefter's report suggesting Watson could start the season but Shedeur Sanders may end up playing the most snaps overall. They debate whether it's actually beneficial for Sanders to sit early behind a brand-new offensive line rather than get thrown to the wolves in Week 1, especially given Watson's declining mobility and injury history. A caller named Mike pushes the theory further, suggesting the front office may be using Watson as a "sacrificial lamb" to protect their real long-term investment in Sanders.
After a brutal, flooded commute for both hosts, Ken and Anthony dig into whether Todd Monken tipped his hand toward Deshaun Watson getting first-team reps, per Mary Kay Cabot's report from practice. Ken argues that ownership desperately wants Shedeur Sanders to succeed given the fanbase's reaction and that money is never the deciding factor for Jimmy Haslam, meaning if Watson does start, it's a real sign Sanders simply wasn't ready. They preview next Saturday's preseason opener in Chicago as a de facto referendum on the quarterback competition, predicting a wave of overreactions no matter how it plays out.
Ken and Anthony analyze Deshaun Watson’s standout performance at training camp and debate whether he or Shedeur Sanders should lead the offense. Mary Kay Cabot joins them to discuss the rust factor and the importance of leadership from newcomers like Jared Verse. Plus, Cleveland Sirens President Allison Howard details the vision for the city's new WNBA franchise. 02:08 - Radio Bar Experience 06:10 - Crushers Night Preview 13:04 - Stephen Vogt Ejection 19:47 - Watson Practice Performance 26:40 - QB Competition Debate 34:30 - Jared Verse Leadership 43:00 - Building Team Culture 55:42 - Allison Howard Interview 01:09:58 - Guardians Mets Recap 01:18:00 - Akron Zips Promo 01:22:30 - Dylan Gabriel Analysis 01:34:31 - Mary Kay Cabot 01:51:01 - Jerry Jeudy TikTok 02:01:00 - QB Decision Hierarchy 02:20:56 - Personal Chef Story 02:34:40 - First Pitch Anxiety
Ken and Lima examine the controversial decision-making in the Guardians' recent loss, specifically focusing on Stephen Vogt's ejection and a questionable bunt. They pivot to Browns training camp to debate whether Deshaun Watson’s impressive practice session secures his starting spot over Shedeur Sanders. The segment wraps up with a deep dive into Jared Verse's impact on team culture compared to the high-level stats provided by Myles Garrett. 02:33 - Guardians Loss Breakdown 06:00 - Hotel Bar Game Struggles 13:04 - Vogt Ejection Analysis 21:14 - Watson’s Impressive Camp Day 26:37 - Quarterback Competition Debate 34:58 - Jared Verse Leadership Impact
Ken and Lima discuss the balance between leadership and statistics for the Cleveland Browns while focusing on prospect Jared Verse. They speak with Allison Howard, president of the Cleveland Sirens, about the new WNBA franchise's independent identity and massive merchandise success. The segment wraps up with a look at the Guardians' recent slide and Akron's unique season ticket promotion. 01:50 - Browns Leadership Theory 06:42 - Browns Fan Reaction 16:01 - Allison Howard Interview 30:21 - Guardians and Akron Updates 39:31 - NFL Australia Trip
They debate the ongoing quarterback battle in Cleveland following Deshaun Watson's recent standout practice performance. Mary Kay Cabot joins to discuss Shedeur Sanders' growth and whether Jared Verse's leadership provides more value than Myles Garrett's production. The conversation also covers Jerry Jeudy's viral social media video and insights from a listener who claims to cook for the players. 01:55 - Dylan Gabriel Camp Performance 05:20 - Shedeur Sanders Starting Debate 11:15 - Player Cook Shares Intel 16:40 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 20:15 - Deshaun Watson Practice Evaluation 24:40 - Offensive Line Position Battles 28:10 - Jared Verse Leadership Value 33:45 - Jerry Jeudy Video Explanation 38:20 - Browns Front Office Influence
Ken and Lima evaluate whether Todd Monken or Browns ownership will ultimately decide the starting quarterback, specifically debating Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also examine how rookie Jared Verse is transforming the team's culture and vocal leadership dynamics compared to past veterans. Finally, they react to a surprising caller claiming to be a personal chef with inside knowledge on players' eating habits and depth chart standing. 01:50 - Todd Monken’s QB Choice 06:36 - Jared Verse Leadership Analysis 09:57 - Hypothetical NFL Trade Talk 18:30 - Mary Kay Cabot’s Report 21:35 - Chef’s Insider Update 32:23 - Ken’s College Injury Story 36:00 - Crushers First Pitch Prep
Ken and Anthony trade old sports injury stories, including Ken recounting a wild college jump off a staircase at Akron that still affects his throwing motion today, before getting to the real topic: Ken's nerves about throwing out a ceremonial first pitch at tomorrow's 92.3 The Fan night at the Crushers. He insists he won't pull any viral stunt like other media members have done and just wants to get the ball to the plate cleanly, while debating with Anthony over pitch order and whether the mound is even dirt anymore. The guys also preview the fan night's promotions, including the grape race, and Ken jokes about signing every autograph if fans want one. A quick aside touches on the Cavs and Sirens sharing the spotlight this offseason after Cleveland didn't make a real run at LeBron.
Ken and Anthony revisit a call from a self-proclaimed Browns "personal chef" named Joe, who insisted Deshaun Watson is the clear starter based on insider knowledge of the players' eating habits, including a sweet potato and ice cream cheat meal. The guys poke fun at the absurdity of the claim while noting it lines up with what Mary Kay Cabot and most reporting suggest anyway. A caller named Michael makes a serious case for why Jared Verse's vocal leadership style is exactly what this Browns locker room needs compared to Myles Garrett's lead-by-example approach, especially with so many players who didn't grow up as Browns fans. Ken reiterates that Verse's real value will show up in 2027 and 2028, not necessarily in the win total this season, while bracing to be held accountable if the team gets blown out along the way.
Ken and Anthony debate whether ownership or Todd Monken truly controls the Browns' quarterback decision, with Ken drawing on the Johnny Manziel era to argue that this front office has learned from past mistakes of letting fan pressure override coaching judgment. Ken insists money isn't a factor for Jimmy Haslam and that if Monken wants Deshaun Watson, it's genuinely his call, while predicting ownership would be thrilled if Shedeur Sanders earned the job instead. The conversation shifts back to Jared Verse and the emotional reaction from Rams players, with Ken doubling down that culture and leadership matter more long-term than raw sack totals, even if it means a rough 2026. He again braces for backlash in December if the win total doesn't back up his "long game" theory on Verse's value.
Ken and Anthony revisit Jerry Jeudy's viral clip where he held up four fingers when asked about the QB competition, which many fans read as a not-so-subtle nod toward Deshaun Watson. They debate whether the video was edited out of context, ultimately deciding it isn't a smoking gun even if Jeudy's friendship with Watson makes his real preference obvious. A regular caller named Deshaun jumps in to argue Todd Monken should just give fans what they want by naming Shedeur Sanders the starter, sparking pushback from Ken about whether ownership, not the coach, actually controls that call. The segment also touches on last year's similar viral moment involving broadcaster Sciarrino, reinforcing the guys' skepticism about trusting out-of-context internet clips during camp.
Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken and Anthony to break down Deshaun Watson's strong practice, saying it shifted momentum back toward him after he drew Jared Verse offside twice using elite cadence. She explains why the QB competition has felt uneven so far, noting Watson only recently got full first-team reps with weapons like KC and Denzel Boston, and lays out a scenario where Dawand Jones could start at left tackle while Spencer Fano continues developing. Cabot also predicts a resounding yes when asked whether Jared Verse's leadership matters more to this year's Browns than Myles Garrett's sack production would have, calling Verse a "unifier" and "force multiplier" that fits exactly what Todd Monken wants. She closes by outlining the expected preseason plan for splitting starts between Watson and Shedeur Sanders before the presumptive starter takes over Week 3 against the Patriots.
Ken lays out a theory that if Dillon Gabriel proves he can be a reliable career backup, it could take pressure off starting Shedeur Sanders since the team wouldn't be as worried about a drop-off if Sanders struggles. He also rips into "Shedeur superfans" online for attacking anyone who dares add context to praise of Deshaun Watson's practice, while admitting Watson's one good day in years shouldn't erase four seasons of disappointment. A caller named Joe stirs the pot claiming personal knowledge of the quarterbacks, including their diets, before Ken and Anthony jokingly worry he just blew up his own spot at work.
Ken and Lima look on as producer John recaps another Guardians heartbreaker, a 6-5 extra-innings loss to the Mets that drops Cleveland below .500 for the first time since April, despite Angel Genao going 4-for-5 in his debut and Nathaniel Lowe driving in two. They point out the lineup now features seven players who weren't there on Opening Day, and debate whether it's finally time to panic given a recent history of Guardians runs that always seem to follow doubt. The conversation detours into Akron Zips football, where a promotion letting one season ticket holder script the opening drive helped sell out suites for the first time ever, and John shares Shawshank Redemption trivia about the Mansfield, Ohio prison where it was filmed. They close wondering if the Rams have any shot against the 49ers in their Week 1 trip to Australia.
Cleveland Sirens president Allison Howard joins Ken and Anthony to explain how a year-long community listening tour led to the Sirens name over bringing back the Rockers, and why the team intentionally broke away from Cavs colors and branding to build its own identity. She reveals the franchise topped 10,000 season ticket members and six figures in merchandise sales within hours of the reveal, with a fan fest planned for Saturday at Edgewater Beach. Howard also touches on the business case for investing in women's sports, partnerships with Cleveland Clinic to help players handle online scrutiny, and the road ahead before the Sirens actually take the court in 2028.
Ken sticks to his guns on the leadership-over-stats debate, admitting he's nervous but insisting he's "playing the long game" that culture and veteran presence from guys like Jared Verse will pay off for the Browns down the road, even if it means a rough 2026. Callers push back hard, with one pointing out Joe Thomas led plenty of 1-31 seasons and leadership alone never saved those Browns teams. Ken and Anthony also debate whether the "glorification" of one star player (a dig at last year's Myles Garrett sack chase) actually helped or hurt team building, and whether Rams players truly understand what they're getting in Garrett. Ken braces for listeners to replay this segment against him in December if the record doesn't back up his theory.
Rams cornerback Trent McDuffie describes the emotional reaction in the Rams' locker room when Jared Verse was traded for Myles Garrett, revealing just how beloved Verse was there. Ken and Anthony highlight Verse's early impact in Cleveland too, including Todd Monken's story about Verse mentoring rookie Spencer Fano on footwork and hand technique after practice. That leads into a bigger debate over whether Verse's leadership matters more for this rebuilding Browns team than the raw sack production Garrett brought last year. Ken pushes the idea that 2026 is about culture and building blocks rather than win totals, while acknowledging the team still needs to show real progress on the field.
Joe Thomas and Daryl Ruiter rave about Deshaun Watson's standout Tuesday practice, calling it his sharpest day of camp with quick decisions and touchdowns all over the field in 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 drills. Ken and Anthony debate whether one great practice should shift momentum in the QB race, with Anthony pushing back on the "stat tracker" hype while Ken pokes at his defensiveness. ESPN's Mike Garofalo weighs in too, saying he's believed since February that Watson will be the Week 1 starter over Shedeur Sanders. Ken admits he wants Sanders to win the job but still expects Watson to be the one taking snaps when the season begins.
Ken and Anthony break down the Guardians' extra-innings gut punch to the Mets, capped by Steven Vogt getting ejected and a botched Steven Kwan bunt attempt that fans are still furious about. The bigger story is Lima stuck at a hotel bar full of out-of-town radio convention guests who wouldn't put the game on, showing WNBA and even an old Guardians-Reds replay instead. The guys debate whether hotel bartenders anywhere actually care about the hometown team, with some fun detours into bunting discourse and Ohio State football memories from Chicago. Lima also admits to a costly mistake buying rounds for the whole convention crowd on an expensive tab.
Ken and Lima analyze Mike Sando’s sobering quarterback rankings, noting the lack of league-wide respect for Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Former coach Stump Mitchell joins to discuss Todd Monken’s offensive install and the physicality of camp. They also address the Guardians' roster shuffle and a unique play-calling promotion for Akron Zips fans. 03:10 - Mike Sando's QB Tiers 15:15 - Shedeur Sanders Debate 31:15 - Guardians Roster Shuffle 42:00 - Stump Mitchell Interview 01:01:50 - Todd Monken's Offense 01:14:10 - Cleveland Sirens Reveal 01:22:30 - Ravens Training Camp 01:26:40 - Bengals Season Outlook 01:33:10 - Steelers Quarterback Hunt 01:42:40 - Training Camp Dimes 01:52:50 - Akron Zips Promotion 02:06:00 - Play-Calling Logistics 02:15:15 - Watson's Camp Struggles 02:27:10 - Denzel Ward Leadership 02:35:15 - Final Tier Recap
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Mike Sando’s latest NFL quarterback tiers, which place Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders near the bottom of the league. They discuss the harsh anonymous feedback from NFL executives regarding Sanders' mechanics and Watson's ongoing training camp struggles. The conversation also covers Cleveland Guardians news, including the promotion of Angel Martínez and injury concerns for Jose Ramirez. 03:06 - Mike Sando QB Tiers 06:30 - Watson And Sanders Rankings 10:45 - NFL Criticism Of Sanders 21:21 - Browns Camp Update 25:15 - Deshaun Watson Camp Struggles 33:50 - Angel Martinez Call Up 37:00 - Jose Ramirez Injury Concerns 42:00 - Sanders Leading QB Race
Former running backs coach Stump Mitchell evaluates the controversial practice hit by Quinshon Judkins and discusses the offensive transition under Todd Monken. They also break down the quarterback competition involving Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders while reviewing the new Cleveland Sirens WNBA identity. 01:50 - Stump Mitchell Interview 06:50 - Monken Offensive Scheme 10:15 - Quarterback Competition Analysis 15:45 - Offensive Line Struggles 19:45 - Mitchell Coaching Update 23:30 - Deshaun vs Shedeur 33:25 - Cleveland Sirens Reveal 36:40 - Guardians And Buckeyes Update
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate a controversial promotion by the University of Akron that allows a fan to script an offensive drive. They also examine the AFC North quarterback landscape, weighing in on Deshaun Watson and a hypothetical future with Shedeur Sanders. 02:43 - Ravens Training Camp Update 06:36 - Joe Burrow Tier Rankings 11:10 - Steelers Baker Mayfield Rumors 18:52 - Shedeur Sanders vs Watson 32:33 - Akron Zips Play-Calling Debate
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to training camp reports regarding Deshaun Watson's performance and the media's portrayal of the team. They critique an interview with Denzel Ward from the afternoon show, labeling overly positive coverage as 'kiss-ass' radio while discussing Shedeur Sanders' potential future. 01:20 - Joe Moorhead Play-calling 05:35 - Watson Camp Struggles 10:40 - Browns QB Competition 17:00 - Ward Interview Critique 21:05 - Media Integrity Debate 26:00 - Garrett Trade Hypotheticals 32:25 - Sando's QB Tiers 38:20 - Guardians Roster Moves
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Mike Sando's annual quarterback tiers, focusing on the stark disconnect between Shedeur Sanders' supporters and the way NFL coaches and executives view him. With Sanders ranked last among the 35 veteran quarterbacks evaluated, Carman argues that Cleveland represents the rookie's best possible opportunity to win a starting job and establish himself in the league. The hosts contend that the Browns' unsettled quarterback situation, combined with Deshaun Watson's struggles in camp, gives Sanders a legitimate path to playing time that may not exist elsewhere in the NFL. The conversation also touches on the realities of quarterback development, why league-wide perceptions matter, and the uncertainty surrounding the Guardians after Angel Genao's promotion raised new concerns about José Ramírez's health.
Ken Carman reacts to comments made during Afternoon Drive's interview with Denzel Ward, taking issue with what he views as overly positive coverage and "feel good" expectations surrounding the team. Carman argues that his skepticism about Cleveland's outlook comes from evaluating the roster honestly, especially after the organization traded away Myles Garrett and still lacks clarity at quarterback. The hosts discuss the difference between supporting a team and providing objective analysis, while also revisiting the ongoing debate surrounding Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. Carman maintains that Sanders deserves a chance to prove himself, but says optimism alone won't solve the Browns' biggest questions heading into the season.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima continue their Browns quarterback debate, arguing that the biggest story of training camp may be Deshaun Watson's inability to clearly separate himself from Shedeur Sanders. Carman questions how a veteran quarterback with years of NFL experience can still appear uncomfortable operating the offense, while Sanders is at least showing signs of growth in a new system. The hosts discuss why experience should matter at this stage of camp and whether Watson's struggles are making the quarterback competition much closer than expected. They also take listener calls, with several fans echoing the belief that Cleveland should simply play the quarterback who earns the job, regardless of contract size or draft status.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Akron Football's viral promotion that gives one season-ticket holder the chance to help script the team's opening drive against Robert Morris. While Lima views it as a creative way for a MAC program to generate buzz and engage fans, Carman argues it diminishes the work of coaches and highlights the growing challenges facing non-Power Four football programs. The conversation expands into a broader discussion about the future of the MAC, the widening gap in college football, and what smaller schools must do to stay relevant in the NIL and superconference era. What starts as a quirky promotion quickly turns into a passionate debate about respectability, survival, and the state of college football's middle class.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dive into the growing debate over Browns training camp quarterback evaluations, questioning whether fans and media are overhyping routine completions as highlight-reel throws. The hosts argue that execution, command of the offense, and decision-making matter more than a handful of impressive passes, especially as Cleveland's quarterbacks continue adjusting to a new system. Carman maintains that Shedeur Sanders has earned the edge in the competition because Deshaun Watson has failed to clearly separate himself, while Lima pushes for more context before declaring a winner. The conversation ultimately centers on a simple question: who gives the Browns the best chance to run the offense competently right now?
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima go around the AFC North with guests from Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh, getting updates on the Ravens, Bengals, and Steelers as training camps ramp up. The most revealing moment comes when all three division insiders are asked who should start for the Browns, with Deshaun Watson receiving the nod over Shedeur Sanders despite Cleveland's ongoing quarterback uncertainty. The hosts also discuss Joe Burrow's place among the NFL's elite quarterbacks, Aaron Rodgers' outlook in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers' long-term quarterback plans. Back in Cleveland, the conversation turns into a spirited debate over whether Sanders' training camp highlights are being overhyped and if anyone in the Browns' quarterback room has truly separated from the pack.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima bring in producer John to react to the unveiling of the Cleveland Sirens as the city's new WNBA franchise, praising the team's branding, logo, and unique identity while discussing the overwhelmingly positive response from fans. They also break down the Guardians' latest roster moves, including Angel Genao's promotion and the growing concern surrounding José Ramírez's health as Cleveland fights to stay in the playoff race. The conversation then shifts to college football, where the hosts examine Ohio State's No. 1 ranking in the preseason coaches poll and debate whether the Buckeyes' demanding schedule could lead to multiple losses despite remaining a legitimate national title contender. With the expanded playoff format in place, they argue that a few regular-season losses may no longer carry the same weight they once did.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to former Browns assistant coach Stump Mitchell’s glowing praise of Todd Monken, with Mitchell predicting both Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson will play their best football under the new offensive coordinator. The hosts debate whether Mitchell was subtly criticizing past Browns leadership while emphasizing Monken’s no-nonsense coaching style and ability to develop quarterbacks. They also break down the latest quarterback battle, arguing that Sanders appears to be gaining ground largely because Watson has yet to separate himself during camp. The discussion explores whether Dylan Gabriel deserves more opportunities and what Monken may be thinking as Cleveland’s offense continues to struggle through the early stages of training camp.
Former Browns running backs coach Stump Mitchell joined Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to share his thoughts on Cleveland's revamped offense, the quarterback competition, and Todd Monken's impact on the team. Mitchell praised Monken's no-nonsense coaching style, predicting both Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson will benefit from the new system while emphasizing that patience is needed as the offense comes together. He also criticized Quinshon Judkins' controversial practice hit on Mike Hall, saying players must protect their teammates in non-live settings. The interview provided insight into Monken's leadership, the challenge of rebuilding an offensive line, and why Mitchell remains optimistic about the Browns' season.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to the Guardians calling up top prospect Angel Genao, but the excitement quickly turns to concern over José Ramírez’s health. The hosts debate whether Genao is simply replacing struggling infielder Gabriel Arias or if Cleveland is preparing for another stint on the injured list for its franchise star. They discuss how much the Guardians' playoff outlook hinges on a healthy Ramírez, while also expressing frustration with Arias’ recent performance and effort level. The conversation later shifts to Browns camp, where the hosts argue that Shedeur Sanders may be emerging as the leader in the quarterback competition, even if it's partly because Deshaun Watson has failed to seize the job.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima continue their discussion of Mike Sando’s quarterback tiers, arguing that the NFL’s perception of Shedeur Sanders is far lower than many Browns fans realize. While the hosts acknowledge Sanders appears to be gaining ground in Cleveland’s quarterback competition, they stress that beating out Deshaun Watson is only the first step and does not guarantee long-term success. The conversation focuses on Sanders’ uphill battle to change league-wide opinions and prove he can be the Browns’ answer at quarterback. They also discuss the realities of training camp, the importance of development under Todd Monken, and why Sanders’ opportunity in Cleveland may be his best chance to establish himself as a starter.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Mike Sando’s annual NFL quarterback tiers, focusing on the surprisingly low ranking of Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders. The hosts dissect anonymous comments from NFL executives and coaches, many of whom questioned Sanders’ readiness, processing ability, and overall upside after his rookie season. They argue that the rankings provide a sobering look at how the league truly views Sanders compared to the optimism of some Browns fans. The discussion ultimately centers on whether Cleveland is the best opportunity Sanders will get to prove he belongs as an NFL starter.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan weigh in on the Guardians' surprisingly busy trade deadline, which saw them add Jo Adell, Foster Griffin, and Nathaniel Lowe. Chris Antonetti seemed to stun everybody with a series of moves that no one saw coming, but is it enough to push the Guards into the posteason yet again in a newly competitive AL Central?
The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima examines the Cleveland Guardians' surprising aggression at the trade deadline, highlighted by acquisitions like Jo Adell and Foster Griffin. They analyze the Browns' quarterback competition and the coaching philosophy of Todd Monken alongside guests Matt Dery and Daniel Oyefusi. Additional segments cover the leaked names for Cleveland’s WNBA expansion team and the debate over stadium playing surfaces. 02:42 - Guardians Trade Deadline Activity 09:51 - Jose Ramirez Injury Struggles 19:22 - Manzardo And Fry Options 28:49 - Mets Spending Versus Guardians 34:21 - Todd Monken On Reps 45:40 - Cleveland WNBA Team Names 53:02 - Browns Quarterback Battle Discussion 01:00:16 - Matt Dery Trade Analysis 01:11:50 - Roster Moves And Development 01:19:08 - Brook Park Stadium Turf 01:26:25 - Daniel Oyefusi Camp Observations 01:34:05 - Quarterback Processing And Decisions 01:45:30 - Browns Success And Backlash 01:53:10 - Crediting Guardians Ownership Performance 02:00:32 - Jason Stanford On Additions 02:12:13 - Comparing Guardians To Steelers 02:23:50 - Evaluating Todd Monken's Role 02:28:46 - Building For Playoff Future
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Guardians' aggressive moves at the trade deadline and how they impact the American League landscape. They also weigh in on the Browns' quarterback situation following comments regarding competition and earned reps during training camp. 02:42 - Guardians Trade Deadline Reaction 07:35 - Evaluating New Hitting Additions 13:34 - Ownership and Payroll Decisions 19:59 - Roster Changes and Prospects 25:09 - Guardians Versus Mets Strategy 36:23 - Browns Quarterback Competition Debate
Carmen and Lima examine the Cleveland Guardians' active trade deadline following acquisitions of Jo Adell and Nathaniel Lowe. They also dive into the Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel while speculating on the upcoming WNBA team name announcement. Matt Derry joins to offer a grade for the roster upgrades and discuss Jose Ramirez's recent performance. 01:50 - Cleveland WNBA Name Rumors 07:49 - Browns Quarterback Competition Debate 18:30 - Matt Derry Analyzes Guardians Moves 28:10 - Future Of Manzardo And Fry 36:25 - Buster Olney Guardians Power Ranking 37:27 - Browns Stadium Turf Versus Grass 39:45 - Aaron Rodgers Pat McAfee Appearance
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback battle as Daniel Oyefusi shares why Shedeur Sanders stands out over Deshaun Watson. They explore training camp highlights and address the intense internet criticism surrounding their evaluations of the roster. Finally, the discussion shifts to the Cleveland Guardians’ latest roster additions and how these moves might shift the American League Central race. 01:49 - Lake Erie Crushers Event 05:12 - Browns Quarterback Room 09:24 - Shedeur Sanders Potential 17:40 - Addressing Internet Trolls 21:45 - NFL Quarterback Expectations 29:41 - Guardians Trade Deadline
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate the impact of the Cleveland Guardians' trade deadline acquisitions and compare their organizational style to the Pittsburgh Steelers. They also engage in a deep dive into the Browns' quarterback concerns and the validity of training camp observations. 01:00 - Guardians Trade Deadline Moves 06:41 - Cleveland Pitching Rotation Outlook 11:10 - Guardians and Steelers Comparisons 16:44 - Browns Quarterback Room Debate 23:50 - Todd Monken Offensive Analysis
Ken and Anthony count down to the 10:30 reveal of Cleveland's new WNBA team name, questioning why every WNBA player and coach seems obligated to weigh in on political topics compared to other leagues, and defending Caitlin Clark's choice to stay focused on basketball rather than take public stances. They run through the finalist names again, including Breakers, Waves, Crown, and Riveters, before settling on the Sirens as the likely pick based on social teasers, with Ken diving into the mythological meaning of sirens as deadly lures on rocky coasts. The conversation turns to lingering frustration with the Guardians' branding, particularly the disliked logo, before Ken closes out the show insisting he's sleeping fine despite online criticism over his quarterback takes.
Ken and Anthony push back on the accusation from listeners that they're not applying critical thinking to the Browns, arguing that recognizing the quarterback room and rebuilt offensive line as real question marks isn't a lack of nuance but an honest read of the roster. Ken makes the case that if this exact situation belonged to the Jets, national media would have no problem predicting a three-win season, and argues Browns fans should hold the team to the same standard. He draws a line between accepting Deshaun Watson as the current starter based on present performance versus dwelling on the franchise's painful history, and predicts the team should be a playoff contender by 2028 given the young talent accumulated through high draft picks.
Ken and Anthony react to former player Jason Stanford's measured praise of the Jo Adell trade before Ken checks himself on whether he's overrating a deadline he's genuinely starved for after years of inactivity. They argue the additions directly address the Guardians' warning-track-power and runners-in-scoring-position problems, and break down a five-man rotation anchored by Foster Griffin that Ken calls one of the best in baseball. A caller praises ownership for empowering the front office, prompting Ken to draw a parallel between the Guardians and the Steelers as quietly run, consistently competitive organizations whose fans have grown numb to just making the playoffs.
Ken pushes to give Paul Dolan credit for greenlighting the Guardians' trade deadline additions, acknowledging his past criticism of the owner while arguing it's notable he didn't just sit on his hands with a young, uncertain roster. Anthony pushes back, saying the credit belongs to Chris Antonetti and Mike Chernoff since the team gave up almost nothing and took on no real salary, which makes it hard to call this a real financial commitment from ownership. They speculate whether new investor David Blitzer's growing involvement could explain the Joe Adell pickup as a long-term play rather than just a rental, and debate whether these moves actually shift the Guardians from Central-favorite to real AL contender.
Ken vents about the backlash he and Daniel Oyefusi got just for discussing Dillon Gabriel as a hypothetical option in the Browns' quarterback competition, insisting he's a Shedeur Sanders supporter but refuses to pander to fans who can't handle any other name being mentioned. He draws a comparison to Tebow-mania, arguing that die-hard Shedeur backers online don't represent the average Browns fan, and reiterates his loyalty is to the team and to Todd Monken's judgment, not to any single quarterback. Ken and the crew acknowledge the roster's real issues, from a rebuilding offensive line to a defense-first outlook, while stressing that pointing those out isn't an attack on Shedeur.
Ken and Anthony welcome Daniel Oyefusi to break down the Browns' crowded quarterback competition, with Oyefusi noting Dillon Gabriel has looked sharp but mostly against second and third stringers, while Shedeur Sanders has been the most consistent at taking care of the ball and pushing it downfield. Pressed on who he'd start in a must-win game right now, Oyefusi picks Shedeur, citing Deshaun Watson's slower processing and hesitation, though he flags a rough situational-drill rep from Shedeur alongside a sharp two-minute-drill touchdown as proof it's still early. The three also touch on the still-gelling offensive line with five new starters and rave about rookie receiver Denzel Boston's strong start to camp.
Ken and Anthony bring in producer John to celebrate Buster Olney ranking the Guardians number one in his AL power rankings after their trade deadline haul and joke about how much that national validation means to Paul Dolan and frustrated fans. They react to news that the Browns' new Brook Park stadium will have turf instead of grass, with Ken lamenting the loss of real grass while Anthony argues turf is just about the only realistic option for a domed stadium. They also break down Aaron Rodgers' fiery Pat McAfee Show appearance ripping ESPN's coverage of Dianna Russini, agreeing he has a point about the conflict of interest, before a tangent about Ken using Anthony's F-bombs to score points with his wife.
Matt Dery joins Ken and Anthony to break down the Guardians' deadline haul, praising the low cost of adding Jo Adell, Nathaniel Lowe, and Foster Griffin while noting the Angels' dysfunction as reason for optimism on Adell's untapped potential. He grades the deadline a B-plus, well short of the franchise's Andrew Miller-level moves but a clear step up given how little Cleveland gave up in return. The conversation covers what the additions mean for Kyle Manzardo and David Fry's demotions, whether Jose Ramirez can find his form again now that he has more protection in the lineup, and how the Guardians stack up against surging AL threats like the Red Sox and Rays.
Ken and Anthony debate potential WNBA Cleveland team names ahead of the 10:30am reveal, leaning toward the Sirens over options like Waves, Crown, and a nostalgic push from Ken for the Bulldogs, while poking fun at how the branding teasers may have already given away the colors. Ken then doubles down on his stance that Todd Monken was right to praise Dillon Gabriel's effort in the open quarterback competition, insisting he won't cater a show to fans dead set on Shedeur Sanders regardless of performance. He and Anthony also review camp reps from Shedeur and Deshaun Watson, debating ball security and huddle communication, and gripe about the overuse of the word "dime" to describe unremarkable camp throws.
Ken and Anthony field a caller praising the Guardians' deadline activity before Ken doubles down on comments that drew backlash, backing Todd Monken's remarks that Dillon Gabriel has "earned" more reps in the Browns' open quarterback competition. They debate whether Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson have actually separated themselves through training camp, with Ken arguing neither has taken control and that fans should stay open-minded rather than demand the job be handed to their favorite. The discussion turns to how dug-in some Shedeur fans are, including a caller who claimed to have watched him since peewee football, and both hosts stress they want whoever wins the job to truly earn it.
Ken and Anthony dig deeper into the trade deadline fallout, wrestling with what the JoA dell and Nathaniel Lowe additions mean for Kyle Manzardo and David Fry's roster spots. A caller and some outside intel help unpack Adell's shaky defense versus his raw power and athleticism, plus how much credit Paul Dolan deserves for signing off on the moves. The bigger debate turns to whether Cleveland fans secretly envy the Mets' willingness to spend big, with Ken arguing the Guardians' model is smarter even without the star power.
Ken and Anthony break down a Guardians trade deadline that stunned them, with Cleveland landing Joe Adell, Nathaniel Lowe, and pitcher Foster Griffin while giving up relatively little. They dig into how the new bats fit as a lefty/righty platoon, praise Foster Griffin's unlikely path to the majors, and note the ripple effect on the rotation, including Gavin Williams potentially sliding to the bullpen. The two also wrestle with crediting ownership for finally being aggressive, weighing the Luis Castillo trade as a contrast, and ask callers whether the Guardians can now be taken seriously as an American League contender.
On The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, they analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback race, questioning whether Dillon Gabriel deserves a legitimate chance alongside Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. They also break down the Guardians' series, the unwritten rules of baseball, and a viral national anthem performance by Martha Reeves. 02:35 - Baseball Unwritten Bunt Rules 09:45 - Gavin Williams Pitching Performance 24:06 - Jimmy Haslam Over-Under Prediction 34:00 - Shedeur Sanders Training Camp 43:22 - Dillon Gabriel Reps Discussion 56:00 - Browns Quarterback Competition Logic 01:06:00 - Deshaun Watson Accuracy Struggles 01:17:44 - Cleveland WNBA Name Trademarks 01:29:04 - Dodgers And MLB Spending 01:38:00 - Daryl Ruiter Training Analysis 01:49:00 - Jared Verse Leadership Impact 01:57:16 - Browns Rookie Offensive Line 02:07:52 - Shedeur Sanders Fan Expectations 02:16:47 - Todd Monken Offensive Installation 02:26:35 - Browns Quarterback Accuracy Issues 02:39:12 - Training Camp Evaluation Period 02:47:00 - Motown Legend Anthem Reaction
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the ethics of bunting to break up a perfect game following Tim Tawa's attempt against Gavin Williams. They also discuss Steven Vogt's leadership during the ensuing bench-clearing incident before shifting focus to the Browns' outlook. The duo analyzes Jimmy Haslam's win total expectations and a potential quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 02:35 - Baseball Unwritten Rules Debate 07:55 - Steven Vogt Managerial Reaction 12:25 - Vogt's Brilliant Leadership Move 18:35 - Guardians Broadcast Booth Discussion 22:40 - Jimmy Haslam Win Expectations 26:45 - Rejecting A Clowney Return 32:15 - Ken's Training Camp Observations 38:45 - Watson Versus Shedeur Sanders
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the current state of the Cleveland Browns quarterback room, questioning if Dillon Gabriel should be considered for the starting role alongside Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also review the Lima Likes segment, covering Gavin Williams' pitching success and the latest candidates for the Cleveland WNBA team name. 01:50 - Browns QB Competition Debate 05:15 - Dylan Gabriel's Camp Performance 09:11 - Open Mind On Starters 13:20 - Caller Feedback On Quarterbacks 19:36 - Fan Response To Gabriel 26:16 - Analyzing Training Camp Accuracy 32:10 - Lima Likes Sports Update 37:28 - WNBA Cleveland Name Search
Daryl Ruiter joins the program to provide an update from Browns training camp and explain why Deshaun Watson appears to be losing ground in the quarterback competition. They also discuss the impressive emergence of rookie receiver Denzel Boston and the immediate leadership impact of Jared Verse. Finally, the conversation shifts to the structural frustrations in Major League Baseball and the growing necessity for a salary cap. 01:50 - Lake Erie Crushers Night 04:42 - MLB Structural Reform Debate 09:54 - Small Market Baseball Issues 16:52 - Daryl Ruiter Joins Program 20:10 - Deshaun Watson Losing Battle 23:10 - Denzel Boston's Training Camp 28:21 - Jared Verse Leadership Role 37:00 - Cleveland QB Room Concerns
Ken Carman defends his integrity against "clickbait" labels while discussing the potential for an open competition in the Browns' quarterback room. They examine Jimmy Haslam’s tempered win total expectations and the media's role in evaluating training camp practices. Hayden Grove also joins to provide a musical critique of Martha Reeves' recent national anthem performance. 01:50 - Carman Rebuts Troll Accusations 05:45 - Browns Quarterback Competition Analysis 09:38 - Deion Sanders Visit Reaction 14:14 - Practice Evaluation Debate 23:54 - Watson Versus Sanders Discussion 27:23 - Jimmy Haslam Expectations Analysis 40:36 - Martha Reeves Anthem Breakdown
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the merits of Shedeur Sanders compared to Dillon Gabriel and the expectations for the upcoming season. Cleveland's Crooner Hayden Grove joins the conversation to analyze Martha Reeves' recent viral national anthem performance and the technical difficulties she faced. They also discuss the legacy of aging performers like Frankie Valli and Barry Manilow. 01:02 - Shedeur Sanders QB Debate 05:37 - Martha Reeves Anthem Fail 06:56 - Hayden Grove Interview 12:15 - Aging Performers Discussion
A caller named Brandi pushes back on the "nobody's playing well" narrative surrounding the Browns' quarterback competition, arguing that Deshaun Watson's reported six interceptions in practice, compared to zero from Shedeur Sanders, makes it disingenuous to treat the race as a toss-up. Ken agrees the numbers favor Shedeur but stands by his open-minded stance, noting he's simply relaying reports rather than pushing an agenda, and points out specific instances where other Cleveland media members (Jason Lloyd and Mary Kay Cabot) have publicly favored handing Watson the job outright. The conversation shifts to Jimmy Haslam's preseason comments, with Ken defending Haslam's "take the over" answer on 5.5 wins as a reasonably cautious, non-committal way to manage expectations rather than an outlandish claim.
Ken Carman fires back at online criticism accusing him of trolling or pushing an "anybody but Shedeur" agenda, pointing out that his track record actually skews pro-Shedeur and arguing he'd have more credibility to lose than gain by floating Dillon Gabriel as a legitimate option. He and Anthony go back and forth on whether it's fair to judge the quarterback competition this early, with Ken maintaining he's simply relaying what beat reporters like Zac Jackson, Daryl Ruiter, Scott Petrak, and Mary Kay Cabot have all independently described as a mediocre room. A caller named Deshawn challenges the media's ability to evaluate practice reps without pads, sparking a heated exchange with Ken about whether reporters can fairly assess the offensive line or Todd Monken's coaching this early in install. The segment also touches on Deion Sanders' presence at Browns training camp to support his son, with Ken and Anthony agreeing there was nothing wrong with him being there as a fellow head coach.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima argue Jared Verse is the ideal candidate to become the Browns' new vocal leader, contrasting his outspoken style (which reportedly drew pushback in Los Angeles) with Myles Garrett's quieter, more cynical presence during his final years in Cleveland. They frame this year as less about wins and more about rebuilding goodwill with the fanbase, and argue Verse could be a "safe" jersey to buy alongside Carson Schwesinger, Grant Delpit, and Denzel Ward. The conversation shifts into more quarterback debate, with Ken again defending his stance that Dillon Gabriel deserves an open mind given how uniformly reporters like Zac Jackson, Daryl Ruiter, and Scott Petrak have described the quarterback room as underwhelming. Ken pushes back on Shedeur fans who think he should be named the starter outright, noting he's personally only seen three of Deshaun Watson's practice throws and has to go off of others' reporting.
Daryl Ruiter tells Ken and Anthony he'd start Shedeur Sanders tomorrow if the Browns played a game today, saying Shedeur has been more consistent and thrown fewer interceptions than Deshaun Watson through the first four practices, and he frames the race as Watson losing the job more than Shedeur winning it. Ruiter also gives credit to Dillon Gabriel for a strong camp so far, even while working with the third-teamers, and says he's unimpressed with quarterback play overall heading into pads this week. He lays out what it would take for the Browns to consider a new contract for Watson, mostly just needs him to play at a genuinely high level, not compile empty stats, and notes rookie receivers Denzel Boston and Casey Concepcion have been standouts early.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima argue that the only way to stop the Dodgers' spending advantage and force real change in baseball is a salary cap and floor, and he says fans frustrated with small-market limitations should root for the Dodgers to keep dominating until the sport is forced to fix itself. He compares the Dodgers' approach to George Steinbrenner's Yankees in the late '90s and early 2000s, arguing they're just exploiting the same loopholes every team would use given the chance. Anthony pushes back some but largely agrees, and both admit they'd rather endure a lockout and lost season than keep watching Guardians-level payrolls compete against a $400 million-plus Dodgers roster.
Lima and Ken run through their weekly likes and dislikes, praising Gavin Williams' strikeout streak (10-plus strikeouts with no more than one walk in five straight outings, tied for the second-longest such run since 1900) while lamenting David Fry's monthlong hitless drought. They also note Steven Kwan's rebound from a .209 slump to .258 and the Guardians holding steady despite a quiet trade deadline. Elsewhere, Lima approves of Donovan Mitchell's wedding to Coco Jones while Ken teases Wednesday's Cleveland WNBA team name announcement, with the Sirens seen as the frontrunner over options like the Crown and Founders. The segment closes on a lighter note about Motown legend Martha Reeves catching flak for a rough national anthem performance at age 85.
Ken Carman continues to argue that if reports from camp hold true and no one has clearly separated from the pack, Dillon Gabriel deserves genuine consideration alongside Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, though he insists he's not calling for Gabriel to start Week One. Anthony and callers push back with mixed reactions: several agree with Ken given the quarterback room's overall struggles, while others argue the comparison is unfair since Gabriel has mostly faced third-teamers.
Ken Carman argues that if reports out of camp are accurate and no one has clearly seized the starting quarterback job, he'd have to keep an open mind about Dillon Gabriel getting real consideration alongside Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, even though he admits it goes against his own preseason instincts. Anthony pushes back, noting Ken started the segment saying the job would likely default to Watson if it's close, and calls out the inconsistency in floating a three-way race days into camp. Ken acknowledges the show and much of the fanbase were unfair to Dillon Gabriel last year, pointing to how he was thrown to third-teamers and unfairly booed after coming back from a concussion.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate whether Todd Monken will lean toward Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders if the Browns' quarterback competition stays muddled through camp, with Ken arguing a veteran coach will default to the veteran quarterback unless Watson is completely inept. Tony pushes back hard, questioning how the tie could go to Watson given how he looked the last time he played, but Ken maintains that preseason snaps against real opponents (starting with the Bears in 12 days) will matter more than camp buzz or reporter hearsay. The segment opens with Ken recapping a nerve-wracking day chaperoning kids at training camp, where Shedeur drew the biggest crowd reaction and Dillon Gabriel earned praise for stopping to sign autographs. They also touch on Zac Jackson's reporting that the whole quarterback room, Shedeur especially, has shown uneven arm strength and consistency early in camp.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to reports the Browns showed interest in re-signing Jadeveon Clowney after trading Myles Garrett, and they're genuinely relieved he ended up in Houston instead. Ken argues bringing Clowney back would have undone the locker room progress the team has made, pointing to his disastrous second stint and the well-documented dysfunction that followed. He also pushes back on the narrative that Garrett was somehow the source of past locker room problems just because the Browns showed interest in Clowney. The show opens with a lighter aside: reaction to Al Pulaski calling the Guardians' no-hitter instead of regular announcer Matt Underwood, plus Jimmy Haslam's preseason comments taking the over on 5.5 wins and praise for Denzel Ward's extension and Grant Delpit.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the unwritten rule of bunting to break up a no-hitter, sparked by Tim Tawa's bunt attempt in the sixth inning of a Guardians game with Gavin Williams throwing a perfect game. Ken argues there's a specific inning cutoff where it becomes "Bush League," while Tony leans toward it being fair game earlier than Ken thinks, and callers weigh in with their own dividing lines (sixth okay, seventh not; others say any time is fair). The segment also covers the benches-clearing incident that followed, with Steven Vogt getting ejected, Rougie Odor visibly enraged and held back by teammates, and Vogt's postgame comments defending his response as a way to rally a scuffling team. Gavin Williams himself downplayed the whole thing postgame, saying he didn't have much of a reaction and was just focused on getting outs.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of interviews and guest appearances from during the past week with The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Baskin & Phelps, and The Afternoon Drive. Featuring Andrew Siciliano, Sam Monson, Chris Fedor, and Anthony Castrovince.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan react to the news of LeBron James choosing to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers over returning home to Cleveland. They analyze the fallout for GM Koby Altman and debate how the Cavaliers should pivot their roster strategy moving forward around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan break down the Cleveland Guardians' trade deadline strategy, analyzing whether the team should buy or sell as they push for the AL Central crown. Plus, The Athletic's Zack Meisel stops by to critique the Guardians' offensive lineup, while Columbus Clippers play-by-play announcer Ryan Mitchell provides an insider look at the top Triple-A prospects.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan react to the highly anticipated contract extensions for Browns defensive stalwarts Denzel Ward and Grant Delpit. Do these high-dollar deals for two veteran players signify that the Browns consider their rebuild phase to be over? Or is the possibility of trading either or both players the same as it was before? Plus, has Andrew Berry proven himself capable of leading this rebuild, and are the Browns now too good to tank in 2026?
This week, the guys evaluate Baker Mayfield's contract situation and competitive mindset while reflecting on former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski's apparent lack of interest in acquiring Dillon Gabriel with the Falcons. Plus, the hosts react to a viral WNBA gambling incident involving players wagering on a game and the league's swift social media cleanup.
Anthony Lima and Coach Lance Reisland analyze the first two days of Browns training camp and the evolving quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They discuss the impact of Todd Monken’s leadership style and the potential return of Jadeveon Clowney to bolster the defense. The segment also covers national stories, including Baker Mayfield's contract situation and Kirk Cignetti’s recent comments about the SEC. 03:19 - Coach Lance Reisland Joins 09:46 - Andrew Berry on Naming a Starter 17:33 - Evaluating Past QB Competitions 22:36 - Riseland Picks Watson for Week 1 33:58 - Deion Sanders Observes Browns Camp 44:40 - Andrew Berry on Roster Flexibility 51:01 - Debate on Playing Younger QBs 59:42 - Baker Mayfield's Contract Struggles 01:09:40 - LeBron James Documentary Rumors 01:15:23 - Kirk Cignetti Slams SEC Hype 01:20:11 - Harrison Bader's Scooter Incident 01:27:54 - Comparing Watson and Sanders Reps 01:41:17 - Daryl Ryder's Training Camp Report 01:52:03 - Potential Reunion with Clowney 01:59:46 - Jared Verse and Berry on Monken 02:09:45 - Nathan Zagura on O-Line Depth 02:19:53 - Zagura on Clowney and Rookies 02:25:45 - Baker Mayfield's Future in Tampa 02:36:00 - Noah Kahan Concert and Costumes 02:48:00 - Farewell to Video Producer Joey
Coach Lance Reisland joins the conversation to provide an old school perspective on the early days of training camp and the increased emphasis on special teams. He evaluates the ongoing competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, noting that Watson's veteran experience currently gives him the advantage. They also discuss Deion Sanders' presence at practice and how his respectful demeanor as a father stood out. 03:18 - Lance Reisland Joins 06:53 - Monken's Old School Approach 10:18 - Evaluating The Quarterback Competition 15:20 - Comparing Roster Depth And Talent 19:53 - Watson vs. Shedeur Sanders 24:23 - Naming A Week 1 Starter 33:56 - Deion Sanders Visits Training Camp 40:18 - Deion's Role And Impact
Andrew Berry discusses his evolving leadership style and draws a unique comparison between Todd Monken and the protagonist of the show Landman. Daryl Ruiter provides a skeptical evaluation of the ongoing quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also weigh the pros and cons of a Jadeveon Clowney reunion and the high expectations surrounding rookie Jared Verse. 02:19 - Coach Riz Joins 05:32 - Watson And Sanders Competition 09:23 - Potential Clowney Reunion 16:51 - Daryl Ryder Joins 22:35 - Browns Offensive Weapons 26:30 - Andrew Barry Reconciliations 31:57 - Baker Mayfield Outlook 39:37 - Monken Versus Stefanski
Nathan Zegura joins Lance Reisland to analyze the early days of Cleveland Browns training camp and the offensive shifts under new coordinator Todd Monken. They discuss the progression of Shedeur Sanders, the team's pursuit of Jadeveon Clowney, and standout rookie performances. Additionally, Owen shares his unique costume plans for a Noah Kahan concert before the crew bids farewell to a departing producer. 02:45 - Nathan Zegura Interview 08:25 - Offensive Line Development 12:05 - Rookie Receiver Impressions 18:20 - Baker Mayfield Discussion 23:45 - Shedeur Sanders Analysis 29:20 - Noah Kahan Concert 41:45 - Producer Joey Tribute
The show closes the week by reviewing surveillance footage of producer John slamming his fingers in a door and taking a hard fall, with Lance Reisland breaking down the "footwork" of his tumble in mock coaching analysis while Anthony Lima recaps the fallout, including a torn shoe and mangled fingers. The tribute shifts to a genuine sendoff for video coordinator Joey, who is leaving the station to become a wide receivers coach at Kenyon College, with Reisland offering him career advice about embracing the always-on lifestyle of coaching and treating every job like his last. Lima and Reisland reminisce about Joey's contributions to the show before wishing him well, name-checking Brandon Staley's rise from John Carroll to the NFL as an example of what's possible.
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland first recap Nathan Zegura's praise for Shedeur Sanders' progress, with Reisland emphasizing that throwing the ball away and avoiding catastrophic sacks are the unglamorous stats that actually matter for a young quarterback's development, drawing parallels to Deshaun Watson's own past struggles with pocket presence. The show shifts into a lighter segment as producer Owen details his upcoming eight-hour drive to St. Louis with his daughter and wife for a Noah Kahan concert, including the "bug season" costume theme that has him assigned to dress as a caterpillar. Lima and Reisland pile on, insisting Owen has to commit to the full costume for both the drive and the show, while Owen tries to negotiate a compromise outfit.
Browns Radio Network's Nathan Zegura joins Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland to break down the differences in Todd Monken's practice structure, noting the two-huddle system is maximizing reps for young players at linebacker and quarterback while exposing procedural penalties Shedeur Sanders still needs to clean up. Zegura is impressed by Sanders' improving footwork and timing, praises Deion Sanders' low-key presence at camp watching his son, and singles out Denzel Boston as the standout receiver early on while expecting a rotation among Boston, Jerry Jeudy, KC Concepcion, and Isaiah Bond. He also weighs in on the interior offensive line battle, calls a potential Jadeveon Clowney reunion an easy win given his fit with Todd Monken, and closes by defending Baker Mayfield's contract frustration in Tampa as classic "chip on his shoulder" Baker.
Anthony Lima, and Lance Reisland rave about Jared Verse after meeting him in person, with Ruiter calling him a physical "unit" and pushing back on fans who think Andrew Berry got fleeced in the Myles Garrett trade. They note Verse has publicly rejected comparisons to Garrett, wanting to set his own standard, while Reisland cautions that Verse still has to earn the respect that forces offenses to game-plan around him the way they always did for Garrett. The conversation shifts to Berry's comparison of Todd Monken to Billy Bob Thornton's character in "Landman," with the group agreeing Monken's authenticity and communication skills feel like a refreshing departure from the more guarded Kevin Stefanski.
Browns beat reporter Daryl Ruiter joins Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland and pumps the brakes on the optimism around Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, saying he's not impressed by either quarterback through two padless practices and needs another week or two before the competition comes into focus. He praises the health and explosiveness of running back Quinshon Judkins and receivers KC Concepcion and Jerry Jeudy, noting whichever quarterback works with Cleveland's top skill players simply looks better that day. Ruiter is lukewarm on a potential Jadeveon Clowney reunion given how his exit unraveled, but lights up describing Jared Verse's disruptive presence and natural leadership stepping into the void left by Myles Garrett.
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland walk back the "Deshaun Watson has the edge" narrative, agreeing his early advantage is more about veteran experience with a new offense than actual performance, while praising Shedeur Sanders' improving footwork and decision-making through two padless practices. They dig into Andrew Berry's comments on a potential Jadeveon Clowney reunion, with Reisland framing it as valuable run-stopping help up front after the Myles Garrett trade, while Lima notes how much more comfortable and reconciliation-minded Berry sounds as a leader compared to years past. A clip of Jared Verse gushing about wanting Clowney in the room for his veteran presence further sways Reisland, who admits he went in skeptical given how the Clowney era ended in Cleveland.
In the "About Last Night" segment, Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland bring in producer John to react to Curt Cignetti's Big Ten Media Day comments taking a shot at the SEC, crediting NIL money and closing recruiting gaps for helping teams like Indiana compete for and win national titles. They also dig into the odd situation of Karl Ravech, laid off by ESPN but still calling Braves-Nationals and set to broadcast the Little League World Series, plus the news that his son Sam also works at the network. The segment wraps with the bizarre story of Giants outfielder Harrison Bader injuring his foot in a late-night e-scooter accident, leading to a tangent about the dangers and lawlessness of e-scooters in general.
Lance Reisland breaks down Baker Mayfield's contentious contract interview with Jeremy Fowler, agreeing Mayfield has a right to feel disrespected by Tampa Bay's offer but warning that going public with contract gripes during camp is a mistake that lets outsiders control his story once the losses start. Reisland argues Mayfield hasn't changed since entering the league, thrives when he feels disrespected, and risks alienating teammates by making camp about his money instead of winning. The conversation pivots to reports that LeBron James is nearing a "Last Dance" style documentary deal with ESPN, with Anthony Lima and Reisland debating whether a nine-plus-year victory lap after Jordan's series can recapture that same magic, or whether audiences are simply fatigued. They land on it depending heavily on how LeBron's stint in Philadelphia actually goes.
Andrew Berry tells reporters the Browns are staying flexible in the quarterback room and won't commit to a "quarterback of the future" plan this early, while Lance Reisland pushes back hard on the popular notion that ties should default to the younger player. Reisland breaks down real growth he's seeing from Shedeur Sanders, pointing to him throwing the ball away instead of taking sacks and stepping up in the pocket as signs of maturation, while noting Deshaun Watson is still just 30 and making his own strides. Anthony Lima admits it's tough to fully buy into the quarterback competition after the Myles Garrett trade, wondering aloud if the front office is quietly building toward drafting a QB next year regardless of who wins the job now.
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland spend the segment reminiscing about Deion Sanders' legendary NFL career and cultural influence before diving into his visit to Browns camp to watch Shedeur Sanders practice. Reisland pushes back on any notion Deion was "meddling," describing him as sitting quietly in the stands the entire practice, shaking hands and staying out of the way rather than seeking attention. Jared Verse also weighs in on what it meant seeing Sanders on the practice field, and Reisland notes Todd Monken wasn't fazed by the star power, treating it as business as usual.
Anthony Lima presses Lance Reisland to name a starting quarterback with no pads on, and Reisland doesn't hesitate, picking Deshaun Watson because of his ten years of experience and command of offensive concepts, while noting that's subject to change once real competition begins. He explains Dillon Gabriel and Taylor Green were actually the best quarterbacks in yesterday's practice, but stresses context matters since Shedeur Sanders and the young receivers were going against Denzel Ward and Mason Graham. Reisland and Lima also debate the meaning of a "fair" QB competition, using Joe Flacco and Philip Rivers as examples of veterans outperforming younger passers once real games start.
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland break down the first two days of Browns camp, with Reisland praising Todd Monken's heavy emphasis on special teams and a grind-it-out, 11-on-11-focused practice structure that echoes old-school football. Reisland notes Denzel Ward and Tyson Campbell shut down the offense on day two, giving Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel a tough but valuable learning experience against elite corners. The conversation shifts to GM Andrew Berry's comments on naming a starting quarterback before Week 1 and his insistence that Cleveland is building to win now, not tanking or rebuilding. Lima and Reisland debate whether that optimism is warranted given the Browns' history, while praising the depth at receiver (Isaiah Bond, Jamari Thrash, Jerry Jeudy) as a sign the roster can properly evaluate its quarterbacks.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone break down the rocky start to Browns training camp, focusing on Deshaun Watson's back-to-back interceptions and the ongoing competition with Shedeur Sanders. They debate whether the organization is truly exiting its rebuild following extensions for Denzel Ward and Grant Delpit. The discussion also covers the potential return of Jadeveon Clowney and the double standards applied to the Guardians and Cavaliers. 02:40 - Training Camp Kickoff 07:00 - Watson Interception Reaction 13:00 - Cleveland Sports Town 18:45 - Defensive Contract Extensions 23:30 - Rebuild Or Tanking 33:15 - Clowney Reunion Rumors 41:51 - Watson Defense Argument 50:00 - National QB Rankings 01:00:30 - Sunk Cost Fallacy 01:07:00 - Guardians Ohio Cup 01:19:30 - Rivalry Expansion Talk 01:26:51 - Ward Trade Comments 01:35:48 - Mary Kay Interview 01:46:30 - Clowney Return Logic 01:53:15 - Rebuild Status Debate 02:02:47 - Analyzing QB Mistakes 02:13:41 - Shedeur Sanders Potential 02:18:55 - Cleveland Management Debate 02:34:01 - Todd Monken Influence 02:41:01 - WNBA Gambling Scandal
Anthony Lima and Nick Padone analyze the rough start to training camp for the Browns, focusing on Deshaun Watson's back-to-back interceptions during practice. They debate the team's rebuild strategy following Grant Delpit's extension and react to news of Jadeveon Clowney visiting Berea. The discussion highlights a divide between optimism for the new season and the reality of the current quarterback room. 02:40 - Training Camp Begins 06:00 - Watson's Interception Woes 10:02 - Positivity Versus Reality 14:47 - Cleveland Sports Standards 20:12 - Grant Delpit Extension 24:16 - Browns Rebuild Analysis 33:38 - Jadeveon Clowney Visit 41:55 - Defending Deshaun Watson
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone analyze Deshaun Watson's struggles and the Browns' commitment to his contract compared to other NFL quarterback situations. They shift focus to the Cleveland Guardians' recent success in the Ohio Cup and the necessity of making a roster move at the trade deadline. They also discuss how an expanded College Football Playoff affects historic rivalries like Ohio State versus Michigan. 02:04 - Deshaun Watson Debate 05:54 - Browns Quarterback Blueprint 09:03 - Judging Shedeur Sanders 13:11 - NFL Quarterback Rankings 20:17 - Sunk Cost Fallacy 24:30 - Guardians Win Ohio Cup 30:54 - Guardians Trade Deadline 37:28 - College Football Playoff
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone debate whether the Browns are exiting a rebuild following extensions for Denzel Ward and Grant Delpit. Mary Kay Cabot joins to analyze the training camp quarterback competition and reports on a possible Jadeveon Clowney reunion. They also discuss Shedeur Sanders' leadership and the team's long-term strategy ahead of a new stadium opening. 02:27 - Denzel Ward Extension Talk 05:45 - Browns Salary Cap Discussion 09:05 - Shedeur Sanders' Camp Leadership 16:05 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 19:40 - Offensive Line Rotation Analysis 24:15 - Jadeveon Clowney Reunion Rumors 27:35 - Browns Rebuild Status Debate 38:00 - Caitlin Clark WNBA Watch
Anthony Lima reacts to Deshaun Watson's training camp struggles and the growing fan pressure to start Shedeur Sanders. He critiques the double standard Cleveland fans have for the Browns compared to other local teams while also covering a WNBA gambling controversy involving Angel Reese. 01:50 - Watson Struggles In Camp 07:18 - Jeudy And Gabriel Debate 10:28 - Shedeur Sanders Fan Mania 17:20 - Cleveland Sports Double Standard 25:27 - Trusting Local Front Offices 39:16 - WNBA Gambling Scandal News
The show recaps listener reaction on the double-standard debate before pivoting to a WNBA controversy: Angel Reese revealed in a postgame presser that she and Paige Bueckers had a $400 side bet on a Wings-Dream game, prompting the league to quickly delete a since-viral promotional video of the wager. "Private Eye" John lays out that the CBA explicitly bans players from betting on league games, with penalties ranging up to outright dismissal, while the hosts debate whether transparent, legalized player wagering could actually be good marketing rather than a scandal.
Anthony Lima calls out what he sees as a double standard in Cleveland sports talk, contrasting the afternoon show's plea to "embrace" a Browns team Vegas has at just 5.5 wins with the same show's harsh criticism of a Cavs team that made the Eastern Conference finals. He argues the Cavs and Guardians have actually earned trust through sustained team-building and results, while the Browns haven't earned blind optimism, pointing to the Houston Texans making the playoffs nine times in 16 years as proof bad quarterback situations don't have to doom a franchise for a decade. A caller, Nicholas, offers simple faith in Todd Monken's winning pedigree, while another caller, Rob, argues Shedeur Sanders deserves real benefit of the doubt this year given how unprofessionally and unpreparedly the Browns threw him into his rookie start. Lima largely agrees with Rob, conceding the fanbase's remaining optimism is tied almost entirely to Sanders winning the job, and worries what happens to it if he doesn't.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone relay Coach Riz's one-word verdicts from Browns training camp — "solid" for Shedeur Sanders, and Lima's own blunt "bad" for Deshaun Watson — before spiraling into harsher descriptors like "unplayable" while noting Watson still hasn't finished a full season since before COVID. A caller argues Jerry Jeudy and Dylan Gabriel should both be cut, prompting Pedone to walk back a potential Gabriel-to-Atlanta trade rumor after the Falcons signed veteran Cooper Rush. Another caller, Trent from Buffalo, delivers a passionate defense of Sanders, arguing the Browns are unfairly saddling a fifth-round pick with "savior" pressure just because Watson is owed $230 million, and accuses ownership of dodging real accountability. Lima agrees he's rooting for Sanders to win the job outright but notes the bar is brutally high for a fifth-rounder, before the hosts tease a gambling scandal in another league and a "double standard" segment on Cleveland sports coverage.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone hash out whether the Browns are still rebuilding or signaling they're done with it, with Pedone pointing to the Myles Garrett trade for Jared Verse and three picks as the "final move" of the rebuild and the Ward/Delpit extensions plus Clowney interest as proof they're now trying to win. Lima pushes back that the Browns bailed on Travis Hunter and this year's top receiver/tackle prospects in favor of extra picks, calling those clear tanking moves, while both agree Mary Kay Cabot's point about needing to sell PSLs and premium seating now, ahead of the 2029 stadium, undercuts the "they don't care until 2029" theory. They briefly detour into Caitlin Clark free-agency speculation and a WNBA Cleveland team before circling back to the core tension: strong young talent across the roster undercut by a genuinely shaky quarterback situation, with Lima reiterating Vegas's 5.5-win total feels right given how bad Watson looked in the first practice
Cleveland.com Browns Beat Reporter Mary Kay Cabot joins Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone to push back on the notion that Shedeur Sanders "won" the quarterback competition after one padless practice, explaining Watson's picks came in a low-stakes install period built for quarterbacks to be aggressive and make mistakes. She reveals DeJuan Jones unexpectedly split first-team left tackle reps with Spencer Fano, calls it a genuine surprise, and lays out how the fifth offensive line spot could hinge on whether the Browns want more veteran protection around a still-developing Sanders. Cabot also reports real momentum on a Jadeveon Clowney reunion, noting Todd Monken's familiarity with him from Baltimore and that his issues in Cleveland were specifically with Myles Garrett, not the locker room as a whole, and reads the Ward and Delpit extensions as a clear signal the Browns are trying to win now, not rebuild.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone play a clip of Denzel Ward, just one day after signing his extension, acknowledging he understands he could still be traded since his new deal has no no-trade clause, which they contrast with Nick Wilson's afternoon-show claim that trading Ward is no longer a conversation. Pedone explains he'd rather the Browns retain homegrown, drafted talent like Ward and Grant Delpit than chase free agents, even if it sends mixed signals about whether the team is rebuilding, and the two point to Myles Garrett's own extension-then-trade saga as proof nothing is ever truly settled. They pivot to Shedeur Sanders staying after practice to work with rookie Tyler/Dillon-adjacent QB Tayson Green, with Lima praising Sanders' habitual positivity and pushing back on critics who claim the Browns never did the same for him as a rookie.
Anthony Lima and the crew recap the Guardians' 6-1 win over the Reds, floating whether it's time to trade a red-hot Steven Kwan (.347 over his last 30 games) before poking fun at Kyle Manzardo's deadpan reaction to being named Ohio Cup MVP. They debate whether Cincinnati or Pittsburgh is Cleveland's real rival, noting Pirates fans overran the stadium on a recent visit while Reds fans have leaned classless in their trash talk, and wonder if realigned divisions (an "AL North" with Pittsburgh) could manufacture better rivalries. The conversation shifts to Big Ten Media Day, where USC's Lincoln Riley pushed for playoff expansion, and the hosts lament how the current 12-team format has already cheapened Ohio State-Michigan by proving a regular-season loss no longer dooms a title run. They close by griping that nobody actually wants an 18-game NFL season or a bloated college playoff, but both are coming anyway, before teasing a supposed positive, leadership-driven Browns moment from after practice.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone open by defending their "worst quarterback room in the league" take with actual rankings, noting CBS and Bleacher Report both slot the Browns near or at the bottom alongside Miami, Atlanta, Arizona, and the Jets. A caller, James, argues the Browns are creating their own confusion by not simply committing to Shedeur Sanders over a Deshaun Watson they agree is a "sunk cost fallacy," while another caller pushes back that rookie quarterbacks develop through games, not practice reps. The hosts then pivot to the Guardians' 6-1 win and reclaiming the Ohio Cup before diving into Zack Meisel's Athletic column calling Cleveland's lineup a "self-inflicted liability," debating whether the team's refusal to add impact bats mirrors the same stuck-in-neutral frustration they've been venting about the Browns.
Lima and Nick Pedone dissect fallout from the previous caller's defense of Deshaun Watson, correcting his claims that the Bengals game was rained out and that Nick Chubb's injury cost them a win (Watson actually opened that game with a pick-six). Lima reiterates he wanted the Browns to stick with Baker Mayfield back in 2022 and says he feels no personal animosity toward Watson, just genuine disbelief that a quarterback with 19 starts in three years and multiple serious injuries is still being treated as a real Week 1 option in 2026. A second caller, Jack, pushes back by comparing Watson's and Shedeur Sanders' similar win percentages and arguing the Browns' QB room isn't even the league's worst, name-checking Minnesota, Arizona, and Miami as comparably bad.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone react to Jadeveon Clowney showing up in Berea for a visit, with the Browns reportedly strongly considering re-signing him despite how his tenure ended in 2022 amid complaints he was overshadowed by Myles Garrett. They needle the irony of fans once ripping Clowney for "mercenary" behavior now welcoming him back now that Garrett is gone, and debate whether his four-teams-in-four-years pattern signals a culture fit issue or just a productive pass rusher cashing in every summer. A caller, Thomas, pivots the conversation into a full-throated defense of Deshaun Watson's Browns tenure, arguing his 2023 stretch was better than remembered and pushing back hard against the hosts' skepticism.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone dig into Grant Delpit's contract extension and use Pedone's own SI.com headline (arguing it proves the Browns aren't tanking or rebuilding) as a jumping-off point. Lima pushes back, noting the Browns still traded away Myles Garrett and lack a clear answer at quarterback, and recalls years of the front office insisting it wasn't tanking while quietly stripping the roster down. Pedone counters that back-to-back strong drafts have given Cleveland real starting-caliber talent, and that retaining players like Ward and Delpit signals the front office believes it's exiting the rebuild. A caller named Peter chimes in that the QB competition barely matters since neither Watson nor Sanders is a long-term answer, and the real story is whether the young core keeps developing, before the hosts tease Andrew Berry's 11:15 press conference and a possible controversial reunion in Berea.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone break down day one of Browns training camp, where Deshaun Watson threw back-to-back interceptions with the first team while Shedeur Sanders flashed a nice throw working with the twos. The hosts clash over tone: Lima argues for honest, unforgiving coverage given Watson's track record, while Pedone pushes to "embrace the quarterback battle" and have fun with a lost season. The debate spirals into a broader argument about Cleveland's fan culture and double standards, with Lima questioning why the Browns get a pass for "fun" losing while the Guardians (playoff regulars) and Cavs get trashed.
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone react to Denzel Ward becoming the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history and the fallout of LeBron James choosing the 76ers. Zac Jackson joins to explain why he views the Ward move as a continuation of a spending-first culture, while Chris Fedor provides details on a secret meeting between the Cavaliers and James in Akron. They also break down the brewing training camp quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 01:50 - Denzel Ward Extension 06:02 - Rival Quarterback Evaluation 11:07 - Zac Jackson Analysis 17:43 - Reacting To LeBron James 25:59 - Sixers Recruiting LeBron 34:13 - Success Of Rich Paul 41:25 - Browns QB Battle Begins 51:10 - Watson Performance History 59:12 - Baker Mayfield Reunion Debate 01:06:11 - Deshaun Trade Fallout 01:12:43 - Sports Update: Guardians Split 01:23:21 - Zac Jackson Interview 01:32:20 - Training Camp Reps 01:42:30 - Monken vs Stefanski Style 01:53:00 - Falcons Quarterback News 02:02:41 - Chris Fedor Interview 02:16:55 - Mario Hezonja Status 02:25:48 - Rich Paul Podcast Discussion 02:37:23 - Preseason Decision Timeline 02:45:34 - Tony Romo OVI Footage
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone react to Denzel Ward becoming the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history and evaluate how it fits the Cleveland Browns' roster construction. They also debate Lima’s controversial stance on booing LeBron James after he reportedly chose to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Finally, they discuss the start of training camp and the optimism surrounding the team’s new offensive identity under Todd Monken. 02:14 - Berry's Aggressive Office Style 05:25 - Todd Monken's Quarterback Competition 08:26 - Ward's Record-Breaking Extension 12:20 - Jackson Critiques Browns Spending 18:51 - Lima Plans To Boo LeBron 24:23 - Why LeBron Chose Philadelphia 33:02 - Possible Baker Mayfield Return 40:17 - Pedone Likes Rocket Sanders
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone break down the start of Cleveland Browns training camp and the high-stakes quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also weigh the possibility of a Baker Mayfield reunion in Cleveland and recap the Guardians' recent split with the Reds. Finally, they discuss news regarding Kyle Shanahan's recent car accident and the latest on Mario Hezonja. 01:50 - Browns Quarterback Competition 05:11 - Shedeur Sanders Potential Impact 08:49 - Deshaun Watson Health Update 16:28 - Baker Mayfield Reunion Debate 24:45 - Organizational History With Mayfield 34:00 - Guardians Reds Doubleheader Split 37:20 - Kyle Shanahan Accident Details
Anthony Lima and Nick Pedone evaluate the Browns' decision to extend Denzel Ward during a complex rebuilding phase. They explore the quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders while reviewing LeBron James' recent decision regarding a Cleveland return. 02:13 - Denzel Ward Extension Debate 06:22 - Browns Rebuilding Timeline Surprise 11:20 - Watson vs Sanders QB Battle 17:10 - LeBron's Cleveland Decision Fallout 24:00 - Monken's Coaching Style Tone 33:55 - Falcons News Dylan Gabriel 38:55 - Training Camp Fight Expectations
Chris Fedor joins to break down rumors of a secret meeting between the Cavaliers front office and LeBron James prior to his decision to join Philadelphia. They also discuss the ongoing Browns quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders while reviewing recent dashcam footage of Tony Romo. 01:50 - Cavs LeBron Rumors 06:20 - LeBron's Legacy Move 11:00 - YouTube Appearance Discussion 16:45 - Mario Hezonja Update 22:30 - Browns Quarterback Battle 28:25 - Trading Jarrett Allen 35:55 - Preseason QB Momentum 41:45 - Tony Romo Arrest
Lima and Nick Pedone dig into why Todd Monken's original plan to name a starting quarterback before camp fell apart, speculating that both Deshaur Watson and Shedeur Sanders showed enough good and bad moments in spring practice that the staff couldn't confidently settle the job early. They predict the real answer won't come until after the lone joint practice against Buffalo, arguing that joint practices against a real opponent offer a more honest measuring stick than the relentless optimism of solo camp reps. The conversation then shifts to Tony Romo's DUI arrest following a rough round of golf, breaking down dash cam audio of the traffic stop and debating whether his familiar on-air cadence will help him avoid public backlash or a CBS suspension.
Lima and Nick Pedone break down a widely-mocked exchange between Rich Paul and Shams Charania in which Charania appeared to reveal, and Paul appeared caught off guard by, a previously undisclosed in-person meeting between LeBron James and the full Cavaliers front office and Gilbert family in Akron in early July. The hosts mock the exchange as poorly acted and argue it makes the LeBron snub sting even more, since the Cavs reportedly had access no other suitor got, yet still lost him to Philadelphia. They pivot to roster construction, agreeing the Cavs likely need to trade Jarrett Allen to add a perimeter defender like Jonathan Kaminga and create spacing for Evan Mobley and their guards, while noting the front office remains thin on tradable assets and draft picks.
Cavs reporter Chris Fedor joins Lima and Nick Pedone to unpack new reporting that LeBron James's camp met with Cavs ownership and front office in Akron in early July, and explains why Shams Charania chose to keep that meeting private. Fedor argues the decision ultimately came down to basketball fit, since LeBron would have been a non-shooting third option playing heavy defensive minutes alongside Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, while Philadelphia offered a cleaner roster fit and a shot at becoming the first player to win championships with four different franchises. He also addresses the Cavs' quiet offseason, confirming the Mario Hezonja signing is still expected to go through despite Real Madrid interest, and says the front office's refusal to trade Evan Mobley has limited their ability to make a bigger splash, though moves involving Jonathan Kaminga or Peyton Watson remain possible.
Lima and Nick Pedone react to news that Kevin Stefanski's Atlanta Falcons signed veteran Cooper Rush rather than pursuing a trade for Dillon Gabriel, whose rocky rookie year included a concussion and fan backlash over off-field TikTok drama involving his fiancée. They push back on the popular narrative that drafting Gabriel was solely Stefanski's decision, noting it's never been formally confirmed and conveniently shifts blame now that he's gone. The conversation turns lighthearted as they joke about dueling documentary film crews following Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson at camp, debate when the right moment for an inevitable "camp fight" would be, and needle producer Jonathan for pulling up Rocket Sanders' modest four-game stat line after the team's earlier on-air infatuation with him. They close by teasing Chris Fedor's upcoming appearance to discuss the Cavaliers' quiet offseason moves involving Koby Altman.
Lima and Nick Pedone continue their reaction to Zac Jackson's take, debating whether the Browns' Denzel Ward extension undercuts a tanking strategy, with Lima arguing there's no real organizational upside to starting Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders in 2026 beyond helping Todd Monken's own track record as a first-year head coach. They revisit Watson's disastrous 2024 season as the clearest evidence he's not the answer, and preview how Monken's hands-on, demanding coaching style will contrast sharply with Kevin Stefanski's approach once camp opens. A caller, Marcus from Aurora, credits Andrew Berry for last year's under-the-radar tank job and asks how fans would react if the Browns start hot with Watson at quarterback, prompting Lima to argue Cleveland's win streak last year was fueled by Myles Garrett and Rocket Sanders rather than good quarterback play.
Zac Jackson joins Lima and Nick Pedone to unpack his "same old Browns" take on the Denzel Ward extension, explaining he expected the team to keep tearing down toward next year's quarterback draft rather than commit long-term money to a 29-year-old cornerback. Jackson argues Ward leveraged the Myles Garrett situation perfectly to force a pay-or-trade decision, and while he still believes the defense can be good under new coordinator Mike Rutenberg and rookie Jared Verse, he's skeptical it can be a truly elite unit without Garrett. On the quarterback competition, Jackson says he's not optimistic about Deshaun Watson regaining anything close to his old form and predicts the real tell of who's winning will be whether one quarterback starts pulling ahead in first-team reps rather than any grainy practice video.
Producer John recaps the Guardians splitting a day-night doubleheader with the Reds, highlighting a controversial hit-by-pitch call turned grand slam for Kyle Manzardo and a wasted elite outing from Gavin Williams in the nightcap loss, while Lima and Nick Pedone debate whether the team's inconsistency bodes well heading into next week's trade deadline, including chatter about a possible Steven Kwan trade. They also cover new details on 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan's car accident, including reporting that he was at fault and is still dealing with concussion symptoms like difficulty concentrating and making decisions. Lima uses the Shanahan news to revisit an old debate about drafting him among any coach or player in football, and John closes with a tease about Mario Hezonja's Cavs deal possibly falling through due to interest from Real Madrid.
Lima and Nick Pedone react to Nick Wilson floating a Baker Mayfield reunion if the Browns land in the seven-win range next season and miss out on a top quarterback prospect, debating whether Todd Monken's arrival makes that fantasy any more realistic. Lima argues the Browns already told the fanbase how they felt about Baker in 2022, calls the recent nostalgia revisionist history, and points out Tampa Bay would only be able to let him walk if he plays poorly, since a strong season likely means a $55 million franchise tag. Both hosts trace the Baker saga back through Nick Chubb's contract holdout regret and the Myles Garrett tension that preceded the Deshaun Watson trade, with Lima declaring himself "out of the Baker business" while still craving any quarterback who gets the franchise off its current carousel.
With Browns training camp underway, Lima and Nick Pedone dig into the quarterback competition after Joel Bitonio said it looks from the outside like Deshaun Watson has the early edge over Shedeur Sanders. They argue Watson's own comments about just wanting to make it through a full season, plus inconsistent spring practice throws mixed in with the highlight-reel plays, suggest he's still a shell of his pre-trade self. Lima lays out the stakes for both quarterbacks, saying a strong Shedeur camp performance could be the best-case scenario for the franchise's long-term roster building, while a Watson-led start risks reigniting national scrutiny and pushing the Browns back into a quarterback search come next year's draft.
Fresh off Friday's news that LeBron James chose Philadelphia over Cleveland, callers Rick and Dan debate whether LeBron would have ever considered Cleveland at all if the 2003 draft lottery hadn't landed him there, with both agreeing his character and legacy remain untouchable even as they say they'll boo him. Lima and Nick note LeBron, at 41, is still an elite player who averaged 27 and six last season, and lament what his star power and playoff storylines would have meant for the Cavs and for talk radio. The conversation shifts to Browns training camp optimism, spotlighting an afternoon-show segment where analyst Nick Wilson praised nearly every player on the roster, including a surprising shoutout to running back Rocket Sanders despite his modest 27 carries last season.
Anthony Lima and Nick Padone dig into Lima's stance that he'll boo LeBron James upon his return to Cleveland with the 76ers, arguing this free agency snub feels different than 2010 because Cavs fans felt genuinely led on. They point to Draymond Green's one-year deal with Golden State and reports that LeBron's camp was stringing along multiple teams, including Cleveland, while Philadelphia's owner personally recruited Joel Embiid to ease LeBron's health concerns. Padone shares his own conflicted history as a lifelong LeBron fan, recalling his dad refusing to take him to a Cavs-Heat game as a kid, but ultimately says he understands the frustration this time even if he won't boo himself.
The Browns opened training camp by signing Denzel Ward to a two-year, $62.2 million extension, making him the NFL's highest-paid cornerback for the second time in his career. Hosts and guest Nick Padone debated whether this contradicts the team's youth movement after trading Myles Garrett, ultimately agreeing the Browns lack proven depth at cornerback and need veteran leadership. They also read a Zach Jackson take calling it "Same Old Browns" for spending big without winning, pushing back that keeping a top corner is different from the team's past panic moves like the Deshaun Watson trade.
Anthony Lima and guest host Lance Riseland analyze the Cleveland Browns quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders as training camp begins. They review LeBron James’ decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers and examine Koby Altman’s roster strategy for the Cavaliers. The segment also explores why Guardians second-round draft pick Logan Schmidt failed to sign with the team. 02:45 - Morning Show Intro 08:43 - LeBron James Philadelphia Move 19:22 - Training Camp Preparation 27:14 - Watson vs Sanders Battle 36:41 - Monken Offensive Identity 45:33 - Cleveland Athlete Loyalty 58:05 - Professional Athlete Connections 01:09:12 - Browns Defensive Outlook 01:15:51 - About Last Night 01:21:30 - Belichick UNC Controversy 01:28:17 - Cavaliers Roster Rumors 01:39:01 - Jason Lloyd Interview 01:50:47 - LeBron Cavs Return Debate 01:58:00 - Evan Mobley Expectations 02:09:36 - Addressing Quarterback Nonsense 02:19:32 - Caller QB Development Talk 02:23:46 - Starting Youth Quarterbacks 02:33:51 - Watson Extension Debate 02:42:04 - Guardians Draft Failure
Anthony Lima is joined by Lance Riseland to analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation as training camp approaches. They discuss the potential for cap circumvention involving LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers. The discussion explores how Todd Monken’s offensive philosophy might cater to the strengths of both Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 03:13 - Coach Riz Introduction 09:06 - LeBron To The Sixers 13:14 - Alleged NBA Cap Circumvention 21:11 - Browns Quarterback Battle Begins 25:15 - Ross Tucker On Browns 32:52 - Watson Training Camp Hype 41:31 - Monken's Player Led Offense
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland explore whether fans should remain emotionally invested in star athletes who view sports strictly as a business. They discuss LeBron James' rumored interest in Philadelphia and the defensive hurdles the Browns face in a hypothetical future without Miles Garrett. The conversation shifts to NFL news regarding Vita Vea and the mounting controversy surrounding Mike Lombardi at UNC. 01:55 - Crushers Night Preview 05:02 - Cynical Athlete Bonding Views 10:01 - Do Athletes Love Cleveland? 17:55 - Phony PR and Loyalty 27:12 - Browns Defense Post-Garrett 34:33 - Vita Vea Trade Rumors 40:01 - Belichick and Lombardi Controversy
Lima and Lance discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' offseason and the necessity of adding athletic wings to the roster. Lloyd provides a blunt assessment of the Browns' quarterback situation, stating he has no interest in seeing Deshaun Watson return to the field. They also analyze the growth of Evan Mobley and the team's decision to retain him over potential trades for stars like Jaylen Brown. 01:50 - Event And Sports Update 06:20 - Kuminga And Athletic Wings 14:33 - Jason Lloyd Interview Begins 21:34 - Dan Gilbert Organization Expectations 29:46 - Browns Quarterback Competition Issues 36:12 - Trading Mobley For Jaylen Brown 41:53 - Caller Discusses Donovan Mitchell
Coach Rizzo and the team explore the brewing quarterback controversy in Cleveland, debating whether Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders gives the franchise the best chance to win now. They evaluate Todd Monken’s influence on the offense and reflect on Kevin Stefanski’s track record with quarterbacks. The conversation concludes with an investigation into the Guardians' failure to sign second-round draft pick Logan Schmidt. 02:51 - Browns Quarterback Competition 06:45 - Deshaun Watson's Baggage 10:01 - Monken's Coaching Philosophy 12:35 - Stefanski's System Success 17:15 - Carson Wentz's Career 20:15 - Ross Tucker's Take 24:23 - Watson's Trade History 30:03 - Analyzing Offensive Schemes 35:44 - Logan Schmidt Draft Scandal
Lima laments buying a jersey for second-round pick Logan Schmidt only to learn the left-hander went unsigned after switching agents right before the draft and reportedly seeking $3-4 million against a $1.6 million slot value. Producer John, the in-house investigator, lays out how Schmidt's stock slid due to poor pre-draft interviews despite elite tools, and that his likely next stop is a JUCO program to re-enter next year's draft rather than LSU. Lima and Lance debate whether the gamble was worth it, with Lance putting the blame on the player for turning down a team renowned for developing pitching, while Lima notes the Guardians do get a compensatory pick at 60 next year.
Lima and Lance debate a Ross Tucker take suggesting Deshaun Watson should start the year with a short leash before handing the job to Shedeur Sanders, with Lima admitting he's already bracing for a wave of excuses if Shedeur struggles behind a rebuilt offensive line. Lance calls that thinking confirmation bias, insisting good coaches don't assume injury or failure and that whoever plays best wins the job, full stop, regardless of past baggage. Lima presses on whether any real Browns fan wants Watson to play well enough to earn a contract extension, and Lance admits it wouldn't bother him personally since he only cares about wins. A caller suggests intentionally starting Watson to "get his butt kicked" so Shedeur can take over on a settled line, which Lance rejects outright before breaking down how Todd Monken's run-first, man-versus-zone approach could help Shedeur take his next developmental step.
Lima presses Lance on why he refuses to just hand the starting job to the younger Shedeur Sanders, and Lance argues that judging Deshaun Watson based on his past struggles ignores that he's never taken a live snap in Todd Monken's new scheme, calling it confirmation bias in action. They debate whether draft status should earn a quarterback more leash, with Lance insisting Monken only cares about winning games in Jacksonville, not protecting a former first-round investment or appeasing a front office. Caller Chuck defends Shedeur's rough rookie stats by pointing to a shredded offensive line and a nonexistent receiving corps, and Lance agrees, saying he's not writing Shedeur off based on seven ugly games and expects him to take a real step forward this year. The two also praise Monken as an uncompromising, non-puppet coach who won't let front-office politics dictate who starts.
Lima and Lance revisit Jason Lloyd's comments and admit they went back and forth on whether the Cavs should have traded Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown, with Lima arguing Oklahoma City's pursuit of Mobley signals real belief in his trajectory rather than a finished product. They debate how much more growth is realistic for Mobley entering year six, agreeing he still lacks a reliable go-to bucket in late-game playoff situations and questioning whether fans are expecting him to be something he's not. A caller named Josh pushes back on LeBron nostalgia, praises Donovan Mitchell for publicly embracing Cleveland unlike LeBron's repeated exits, and pitches Herb Jones or Cam Johnson as realistic trade targets if Denver looks to shed salary. The segment closes by teasing a Jason Lloyd quarterback comment that left Lima visibly stunned.
Jason Lloyd of The Athletic joins Lima and Lance to explain why the Cavs have no realistic offseason moves left, calling Jonathan Kuminga their best remaining option while cautioning it's the end of July with nothing great on the market. He argues Evan Mobley now faces unfair pressure as the "you could've had Jalen Brown or LeBron instead" comparisons pile up, and that Jaylon Tyson needs a full training camp to find his fit alongside Harden, Mitchell, and Mobley. Lloyd shoots down the idea that keeping Darius Garland would've changed LeBron's decision, calling that framing unfair to the Cavs, and says he doesn't buy any cap-circumvention conspiracy around LeBron's Topps deal. He closes by ripping the Browns' quarterback situation as exhausting "nonsense," saying he has zero interest in watching Deshaun Watson play again and expects Cleveland to draft a quarterback in 2027.
Lima and Lance react to Shams' report linking the Cavs to DeMar DeRozan and Klay Thompson, but Lima argues neither move addresses the real problem exposed in the playoffs: a lack of athletic wings, using OG Anunoby's ability to smother ball-handlers as the example of what Cleveland is missing. They debate whether Jonathan Kuminga is worth chasing despite two teams giving up on him, with Lima insisting his freak athleticism and playoff scoring upside outweigh his shooting limitations. The conversation turns to team-building philosophy, questioning whether Jarrett Allen still fits alongside Evan Mobley and whether the Cavs deserve more credit for how far they got despite a late-season shakeup with James Harden.
Lima and Lance bring in producer John to run through a rapid-fire news roundup, starting with Vita Vea's trade request and whether he'd actually fit alongside Myles Garrett in a stacked L.A. defensive front, with Lance arguing the scheme mismatch makes it less ideal than it looks on paper. They mock Texas A&M's new $562,500 off-site luxury suites and use it to riff on college football's booster-driven arms race, pointing to Indiana's roster of older, well-paid players as the new blueprint for buying a championship. The two dig into the UNC chaos surrounding Bill Belichick, including GM Mike Lombardi's administrative leave over an HR complaint and the program's rocky transition from NFL legend to college also-ran.
Lima and Lance debate whether star athletes ever truly love the city they play in, with Lance arguing the loyalty is real "while they're there" but never runs deeper than that, and Lima recalling a Gary Baxter interview as proof of how hollow the "dog pound" talk really is. They dig into Philadelphia's notoriously brutal fanbase and question whether LeBron's arrival there, and Myles Garrett's in L.A., will get the same manufactured sentimentality Cleveland once got. The two also warn Philly fans not to expect the 26-year-old high-flying LeBron, pointing to his still-impressive dunk numbers but declining defense and scoring at 42.
Lima and Lance preview the Lake Erie Crushers ticket giveaway and debate whether Ken can actually throw a strike before diving into the LeBron and Myles Garrett fallout. Lima argues both stars are all-time Cleveland greats who left or forced their way out, and asks callers whether that soured their willingness to bond with future athletes the way Jose Ramirez's loyalty never will. Lance says aging and years of watching Guardians stars walk have made him a "team guy" over a "player guy," pointing to Joe Thomas as proof that even beloved legends would've been just as happy playing elsewhere
Lima and Lance riff on Deshaun Watson's hype video before Reisland breaks down what he's actually seen from Watson in camp: clean movement, extending plays, and a noticeably different spin on the ball, though he cautions none of it matters until there's live contact. They debate whether Shedeur Sanders "earned" his starts last year given he only played due to a chain of injuries and trades up the depth chart, with Lance grading his rocky, gutsy, inconsistent 2024 tape. Reisland explains Todd Monken's new offense is player-driven rather than system-driven, favoring both quarterbacks' ability to extend plays and get the ball to Judkins and Fannin.
Anthony Lima and Lance Reisland dig into how Reisland will actually cover Browns training camp, with Reisland arguing that stat-line graphics and charted throws mean nothing without practice context, since scripted reps, defensive coverage, and drill type all skew the numbers. They warn against confirmation bias shaping the Shedeur Sanders vs. Deshaun Watson quarterback battle before pivoting to a Ross Tucker soundbite calling the Browns' young core promising but still unproven at quarterback. Reisland pushes back on "future is bright" framing, insisting Todd Monken's only real focus is winning in Jacksonville, not age, draft capital, or 2027 quarterback prospects.
Anthony Lima and fill-in Lance Reisland open the show reacting to LeBron James signing with Philadelphia, with Lima vowing to boo him for chasing a ring at Cleveland's expense. The two also trade jabs about morning energy levels and Lima's ongoing frustration with his struggling lawn and a lack of rain. The bulk of the segment centers on a Dan Le Batard rant alleging LeBron may have picked Philadelphia partly over a lucrative Topps/Fanatics deal tied to owner Michael Rubin, with talk of potential cap circumvention. Lance pushes back that he's emotionally checked out this time around, citing LeBron's age and history of leaving, while Lima insists true Cleveland fans should still care.
The fallout and reaction to Cavs legend LeBron James choosing to signing with the Philadelphia 76ers continued for the hosts of 92.3 The Fan on Monday. The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima explores who is to blame for this disappointment. Baskin & Phelps wonder whether it was Philly all along for LeBron, and the guys from The Afternoon Drive ask whether Cavs fans are beginning to turn on LeBron after he snubbed them for a third time in his career.
Anthony Lima and Daryl Ruiter analyze the fallout of LeBron James signing with the Philadelphia 76ers and how Koby Altman should pivot the Cleveland Cavaliers roster. They also discuss the Cleveland Guardians' recent slide and the budding drama surrounding Jerry Jeudy and the Cleveland Browns' quarterback room. 05:43 - LeBron Joins Philadelphia 11:54 - Decision Logic Breakdown 24:07 - Harden Trade Defense 37:09 - Jonathan Kuminga Rumors 46:22 - NBA Cup Pool Play 58:23 - Danny Cunningham Interview 01:16:02 - Guardians Losing Streak 01:22:12 - Paul Hoynes Honored 01:24:20 - Jerry Jeudy Drama 01:34:34 - TikTok Video Investigation 01:45:32 - Shedeur Sanders Branding 01:59:31 - Cavs Myth-Busting Segment 02:11:18 - Philadelphia Fan Misery 02:15:03 - Dan Gilbert Letter Impact 02:25:51 - Todd Monken Coaching Intensity 02:40:55 - Cavs 2024 Reunion Photo
Anthony Lima and Daryl Ruiter analyze the news of LeBron James signing with the Philadelphia 76ers and what it means for the Cleveland Cavaliers. They discuss the influence of agent Rich Paul on the NBA landscape and debunk various myths surrounding the superstar's free agency process. The conversation also explores potential roster upgrades for Cleveland, specifically regarding Jonathan Kuminga. 02:58 - Mario Hezonja Joins Cavaliers 06:00 - LeBron James Joins Sixers 10:10 - Rich Paul Reporting Contradictions 16:40 - LeBron's Next Career Purpose 21:30 - Rich Paul's Agency Power 27:35 - Misreading Free Agency Clues 32:00 - Anthony Lima Booing LeBron 39:10 - Jonathan Kuminga Trade Intel
Anthony Lima and Daryl process the fallout of LeBron James choosing the Philadelphia 76ers over a Cleveland homecoming. They analyze the impact of Kobe Altman's decisions, interview Danny Cunningham on potential roster moves, and discuss the mounting pressure on Evan Mobley. 01:50 - Jonathan Kuminga Rumors 05:24 - Blaming Kobe Altman 08:43 - Evan Mobley's Development 15:30 - Danny Cunningham Interview 21:40 - Potential Trade Targets 26:37 - Mobley's Max Pressure 34:10 - Guardians' Losing Streak 39:48 - Paul Hoynes Recognition 42:23 - Jerry Jeudy Statement
Lima and Daryl Ruiter examine the social media controversy surrounding Jerry Jeudy and his cryptic TikTok videos. They dissect a viral Shedeur Sanders street interview while debating the impact of celebrity personas in the NFL. The segment concludes with a deep dive into LeBron James' legacy and why he ultimately bypassed a Cleveland return. 02:18 - Banana Ball At Wrigley 06:42 - Jerry Jeudy TikTok Drama 13:15 - Browns Training Camp Outlook 21:53 - Shedeur Sanders Viral Interview 33:11 - LeBron Cavs Myth Busting 38:01 - Evaluating The Harden Trade 43:30 - LeBron Legacy Debate
Lima and Daryl examine LeBron James' decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers and why the fit might turn into a disaster for the veteran superstar. They also preview Browns training camp in Berea, focusing on new offensive coordinator Todd Monken's intense coaching style. Finally, they discuss the Cavaliers' roster construction challenges under the new CBA and recent social media posts from current players. 02:10 - LeBron's Philadelphia Move 05:54 - LeBron's Knicks Plan A 09:14 - Cleveland's Post-LeBron Future 16:08 - Browns Training Camp Preview 19:25 - Todd Monken's Coaching Style 24:55 - Cavs' Offseason Trade Rumors 34:31 - Mocking Cavs Reunion Photos 39:45 - Comparing Altman and Gansey
Lima and Daryl Ruiter poke fun at a golf and wine country reunion photo of the 2024-25 Cavs playoff team, including Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Tristan Thompson, joking about who got snubbed from the invite list like Ty Jerome and Jalen Tyson. They argue fans got spoiled by how easy LeBron made deep playoff runs look from 2014 to 2018, which is why last year's seven-game grinds through the postseason felt unsatisfying by comparison. A caller named Brad puts the blame squarely on Koby Altman for being "outdueled" by his former assistant Mike Gansey in Philadelphia, sparking a debate about whether Dan Gilbert was truly upset on Friday given the business impact of frozen season tickets.
Lima and Daryl Ruiter pivot from previewing Todd Monken's blunt, no-filter coaching style in Browns training camp to breaking down why the Cavs' offseason has stalled, explaining that the new CBA's second apron makes signing Jonathan Kuminga to the money he wants nearly impossible without a sign-and-trade. They debate whether trading away Max Strus, whom Lima compares to a young Matthew Dellavedova and Anderson Varejao, is worth it to get a needed athletic upgrade, while acknowledging the roster desperately lacks explosiveness and defensive versatility. The two also work through their complicated feelings on Donovan Mitchell's max contract, agreeing he's a needed scorer but not a true number one, and lean on the idea that 41-year-old LeBron and 37-year-old James Harden wouldn't have solved the team's youth and athleticism problem anyway.
Lima and Daryl Ruiter argue that LeBron James already settled his debt to Cleveland by winning the 2016 championship, meaning his choice to sign with Philadelphia over the Cavs requires no further explanation or resentment toward him personally. They admit to fully "hate watching" LeBron going forward now that he's an Eastern Conference rival, while pushing back on the idea that Philadelphia fans, known for their misery, will actually make him happier than staying home would have. A caller ties the decision back to LeBron's 2010 Decision letter and his complicated relationship with Dan Gilbert, which the hosts largely dismiss as ancient history settled by the 2016 title.
Lima runs through a rapid-fire myth-busting list aimed at LeBron and Cavs narratives circulating over the weekend, shooting down claims that the Darius Garland trade or the James Harden pairing pushed LeBron away, and arguing the numbers actually favor the Cavs' roster moves. He pushes back hard on the idea Philadelphia's starting five is unbeatable given Joel Embiid's health, and dismisses the notion the Cavs "stink" by citing national analysts who still view them as conference finals contenders. Daryl Ruiter remains skeptical throughout, particularly on Donovan Mitchell's status compared to Tyrese Maxey, while the two debate whether a LeBron championship in Philadelphia would actually boost his GOAT case.
Lima and Daryl Ruiter react to a viral street-style interview of Shedeur Sanders showing off his jewelry and fashion, with Ruiter arguing he's premature calling himself "legendary" before accomplishing much in the NFL, sparking pushback from a caller named Maurice defending the young quarterback. The crew also riffs on Mario Hezonja officially joining the Cavs, jokes about frozen ticket prices thawing the moment LeBron chose Philadelphia, and needles each other over Croatian heritage and Daryl's weekend home painting project.
Producer John Colavita plays private eye for the crew, digging into a viral edited TikTok clip where Jerry Jeudy appears to flash a "four," seemingly signaling support for Deshaun Watson in the Browns quarterback competition. Daryl Ruiter and Lima debate whether Jeudy actually meant it or was chasing attention, pointing to his rocky 2025 season and sideline friction with Shedeur Sanders as reasons the Browns should have never traded for him in the first place. The segment opens with lighter banter about Banana Ball at Wrigley Field and the crew razzing each other about aging out of Gen Z slang before shifting into training camp optimism. They close by teasing more quarterback competition fallout and a return to LeBron/Cavs discussion later in the show.
Lima and Daryl Ruiter break down the Guardians' five-game losing streak, including a heartbreaking Parker Messick outing and a brutal series loss to Tampa Bay that dropped them two and a half games back in the AL East. They react with disbelief to news that second-round pick Logan Schmidt turned down signing with the organization, calling it a bizarre career decision given Cleveland's strong pitching development track record. On a lighter note, they celebrate Paul Hoynes being honored with the Baseball Writers' Career Excellence Award in Cooperstown, reminiscing about his old "hot call" bit in the press box.
Danny Cunningham joins the show and argues the Cavs share real blame for LeBron picking Philadelphia, since Cleveland never matched Miami's Giannis addition or Philly's Jalen Brown deal before he decided. He pushes back on some of the reported "reasons" leaking from LeBron's camp, especially the idea that Donovan Mitchell staying was a dealbreaker, calling that unbelievable given Mitchell's production. Cunningham also breaks down realistic paths forward for Koby Altman, including a potential Denver salary-dump trade for Cam Johnson and a renewed look at Jonathan Kuminga, while stressing the real pressure now falls on Evan Mobley to justify the front office's faith in him.
After a lighthearted debate ranking cups, from the NBA Cup to protective athletic cups, Lima and Daryl Ruiter open the phone lines and take calls squarely blaming Koby Altman's front office decisions rather than LeBron himself. One caller argues LeBron was always chasing Michael Jordan's legacy rather than a title, meaning only a historic championship drought like Philadelphia's 43 years could lure him, not Cleveland's 2016 win. The hosts add their own detail, recalling a golf outing weeks earlier where someone close to Mike Gansey insisted the Philly rumors were dead, even as the deal was quietly coming together.
Lima explains the seemingly contradictory stance that he doesn't blame LeBron for leaving but will boo him anyway, since LeBron is now trying to win a championship at the Cavs' expense in the same conference. He and Daryl Ruiter also air frustration over people in LeBron's camp allegedly toying with fans and manipulating prediction markets during the speculation. The conversation pivots into Cavs roster talk, with Ruiter making a strong case for pursuing Jonathan Kuminga as a needed athletic upgrade over Dean Wade, while crediting James Harden for delaying his extension to give Koby Altman cap flexibility.
Lima and Daryl Ruiter admit the "whiteboard" LeBron speculation was largely theater, joking that Rich Paul essentially controlled NBA business for four weeks by keeping the league on hold. They argue LeBron was likely never coming back to Cleveland, framing his decision to sign with Philadelphia as him chasing the "hero" narrative since Miami, Golden State, and New York were all off the table for that storyline. Ruiter also defends Kenny Atkinson's Darius Garland-for-James Harden trade against criticism, insisting it made the roster better regardless of the LeBron outcome. They tease Lima's plan to boo LeBron on his Cleveland return and set up calls from fans still processing the news.
Anthony Lima and Daryl Ruiter process the fallout after LeBron James signed with Philadelphia instead of returning to Cleveland, with Lima admitting he's genuinely devastated despite knowing LeBron owed the Cavs nothing. They needle each other over Ruiter's confidently wrong "we're getting LeBron" predictions all offseason, joking about erasing the Rich Paul whiteboard and calling Mike Gansey the offseason's real winner for landing him in Philly. Ruiter argues LeBron is the one to blame, not Rich Paul or the front office, framing it as LeBron chasing a new "purpose" after already conquering Cleveland, Miami, and LA.
Featuring Mary Kay Cabot, Zack Meisel, and Albert Breer.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan preview the upcoming Cleveland Browns training camp and the fierce quarterback battle between veteran Deshaun Watson and rookie Shedeur Sanders. They debate how head coach Todd Monken will handle the decision and examine how fans might react depending on who gets the Week 1 nod.
The hosts on 92.3 The Fan analyze how the Cleveland Guardians managed to stay afloat at .500 despite injuries to key stars like José Ramírez, while debating whether Steven Kwan's recent hot streak makes him a trade deadline target or an indispensable asset. Plus, they weigh in on the team's trade deadline strategy, first-base production struggles between Kyle Manzardo and Rhys Hoskins, and what it will take for Cleveland to win the AL Central.
Baskin & Phelps and The Afternoon Drive react to Friday's breaking news: LeBron James has signed a two-year, $8 million contract to join the Philadelphia 76ers. For a third time in his illustrious career, LeBron has chosen greener pastures over his home-state Cavs. Are you bothered by this decision, and is it an indictment of Koby Altman or simple pragmatism? Plus, thoughts from Joe Vardon on why LeBron chose the Sixers, and Anthony Lima reveals he is 'devastated' on The Afternoon Drive.
This past week Ken and Anthony unpack the Cleveland Browns' quarterback debate, discussing whether a healthy Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders gives the team the best chance to win. The guys also dissect the quarterback room and Mary Kay Cabot's insights into whether better play under center could have prevented the blockbuster Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams. Plus, more on the 2026 World Cup, crazy conspiracy theories triggered by the Miami Heat, and whether college football has lost its soul.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down their 2026 NFL quarterback tiers, placing Deshaun Watson in the journeyman category while debating Shedeur Sanders' potential future with the team. They also discuss blockbuster trade hypotheticals for the Cavaliers and evaluate Steven Kwan's resurgence for the Guardians. The discussion covers the media circus surrounding LeBron James' free agency and recent NCAA eligibility rulings. 02:03 - Guardians Frustrating Extra Inning Loss 06:10 - Baseball Small Ball Analytics Debate 10:24 - LeBron James Decision Speculation 15:45 - NBA News Dominating Football 21:43 - Blockbuster Cavs Trade Hypotheticals 27:33 - Donovan Mitchell Window Evaluation 32:55 - Gavin Williams Immaculate Inning Recap 37:13 - Miles Garrett's Home For Sale 44:21 - Ken Carman's 2026 QB Tiers 54:48 - Baker Mayfield And Deshaun Watson 01:01:13 - Shedeur Sanders Browns Starting Job 01:09:19 - Matt Derry On Guardians Deadline 01:19:04 - Steven Kwan Resurgence Evaluation 01:29:28 - Brady Quinn On Todd Monken 01:42:01 - Reuniting LeBron With Kyrie Irving 01:50:31 - LeBron's Potential NBA Retirement 01:55:02 - Travel Story With Detroit Strangers 02:12:41 - Shedeur Sanders Workout Video Debate 02:27:03 - NCAA Eligibility Rulings Controversy
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze a frustrating Guardians loss and debate whether manager Steven Vogt or the lineup deserves the blame. They react to Brian Windhorst's insights on LeBron James' future and evaluate a hypothetical blockbuster trade involving Jarrett Allen and Anthony Davis. The conversation also covers Gavin Williams' immaculate inning and Myles Garrett's recent home listing. 02:45 - Debating the Guardians Loss 06:30 - Bunting and Analytics Debate 10:47 - Brian Windhorst on LeBron 14:50 - Exhausted by LeBron Watch 22:11 - Anthony Davis Trade Scenario 27:00 - Jarrett Allen Versus AD 34:45 - Gavin Williams Immaculate Inning 38:24 - Myles Garrett Selling House
Ken Carman reveals his Kirk Cousins-themed 2026 quarterback tiers, placing only Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen in the elite category while questioning Joe Burrow’s durability. They debate whether Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson should lead the offense and analyze Bo Nix's potential under Sean Payton. Later, Matt Derry joins to discuss the Cleveland Guardians' trade deadline needs and Jared Goff's status in Detroit. 01:50 - Ken's 2026 QB Tiers 06:10 - Journeymen and Placeholder QBs 11:10 - CJ Stroud and Mayfield 16:20 - Burrow Availability Issues 22:40 - Shedeur Sanders Starter Debate 27:45 - Matt Derry Guardians Analysis 36:50 - Steven Kwan Resurgence
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Shedeur Sanders' potential fit in Todd Monken's offense and whether he or Deshaun Watson is the better long-term choice. They debate the feasibility of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers and potentially recruiting stars like Anthony Davis or Kyrie Irving. The conversation also covers a wild travel story involving a rental car ride from Detroit and recent NCAA eligibility decisions. 02:14 - Steven Kwan and Shedeur Sanders 07:05 - Shedeur Sanders and Todd Monken 10:53 - Adapting Systems to Players 14:00 - NCAA Eligibility and Personal History 19:12 - Chasing LeBron and Star Teammates 25:49 - LeBron James Decision Speculation 34:55 - Hitching Rides with Strangers
Anthony Lima and Ken Carman react to Adam Schefter mocking Shedeur Sanders for lifting thirty-pound weights during a workout. They also break down recent NFL quarterback tiers, placing Baker Mayfield on the "bubble," and discuss the absurdity of NCAA regulations regarding Cole Hutson's return to Texas. 01:08 - NFL Quarterback Tier Rankings 06:40 - Shedeur Sanders Workout Drama 18:13 - Ken's Childhood Memories 20:34 - Cole Hutson NCAA Case
Ken and Anthony dig into the bizarre case of Cole Hudson, a player who spent time in Browns and Cowboys rookie camps and got a court-ordered path back to play for Texas, using it to blast the current state of college eligibility rules. Both hosts argue the NCAA's chaos around NIL, transfer rules, and eligibility has effectively made fans and universities crave real regulation, floating ideas like binding multi-year agreements between players and schools and mandatory progress toward a degree. They debate whether college football is now just a professional minor league in disguise, pointing to stars like Jeremiah Smith as evidence some players are effectively one-man free agents.
Ken and Anthony revisit the backlash to Ken's QB tiers, with Baker Mayfield fans upset he landed in the bubble tier and Shedeur Sanders fans still accusing the show of trolling him despite Ken defending his tier five placement as fair. The conversation shifts to ESPN mocking a video of Shedeur lifting 30-pound dumbbells during rehab, with Anthony genuinely defending him, arguing quarterbacks come in different builds and that Shedeur shouldn't be judged for a lighter workout meant to protect his throwing shoulder. A caller named Dan backs Anthony up, saying he doesn't care what Shedeur does off the field as long as he can play when it counts.
Ken tells the story of a friend who got stranded in Detroit and rode three hours to Cleveland in a rental car with two women he'd just met on a delayed connecting flight, sparking a debate over whether that's a smart move or a reckless one. Ken argues it's an easy call if it saves a day of travel and money on a hotel, while Anthony pushes back that riding with strangers feels riskier than Ken lets on, even sharing his own story of choosing to wait out a flight delay in Seattle for four days rather than rush home. The two also riff on whether it's easier to talk politics with strangers than with people you know, with Anthony arguing baggage-free conversations are less fraught, before spiraling into a bit about using big vocabulary words to sound smart.
Ken and Anthony open with a lighthearted riff on Ken's rejected Ohio State law school application before pivoting to defend Ken's stance that Cleveland should be willing to trade for Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving if it helps land LeBron James, pushing back on critics who called the idea reckless. They argue LeBron has historically brought out the best in complicated teammates like Kyrie, J.R. Smith, and Matthew Dellavedova, and that a team desperate enough to want LeBron shouldn't suddenly balk at bold roster moves. The hosts also debate whether LeBron has already made his decision, siding with reporters like Brian Windhorst and Jason Lloyd who say even insiders don't know, while dismissing retirement or an Aaron Donald-style delayed decision as unlikely outcomes.
Ken and Anthony revisit their QB tiers bit, placing Jackson Dart alongside Shedeur Sanders in the unproven rookie category while pushing back on accusations that Ken is trolling Shedeur's fanbase by grouping him with unestablished names. They play cuts of Brady Quinn on Afternoon Drive arguing Watson is a better scheme fit for Todd Monken's offense than he was for Kevin Stefanski's, and that financial investment and experience make Watson the likely Week 1 starter, though Quinn leaves the door open for Shedeur if things go sideways. The hosts riff on the history of teams trying to fit a system to a player versus a player to a system, citing Tom Landry's two-quarterback experiment and Pat Shurmur's West Coast scheme as cautionary tales, and conclude Monken bears real responsibility for putting either quarterback in position to succeed.
Matt Dery joins Ken and Anthony to push back on the running bit that Angel Martinez and Jose Ramirez returning count as the Guardians' trade deadline moves, arguing the team genuinely needs another bat given Kyle Manzardo and Rhys Hoskins' inconsistency at first base and Gabriel Arias' shaky production. He credits the club for staying at 54-50 despite losing three of its best hitters for stretches, but calls Wednesday's 0-for-17 with runners in scoring position performance a symbol of a season full of near-misses, including the sloppy loss that wasted Gavin Williams' gem. Dery also notes Steven Kwan looks like himself again at the plate over the last few weeks and floats sending Manzardo down to Columbus to reset.
Ken defends dropping Joe Burrow from his elite quarterback tier after years of inclusion, arguing that injuries and a 9-8 season with the Bengals show he can no longer single-handedly carry the team, even while acknowledging Burrow's talent and blaming some of Cincinnati's struggles on Zac Taylor's coaching. He and Anthony then dig into the Browns' quarterback competition, placing Shedeur Sanders in the unproven bottom tier while praising his toughness in a rough rookie situation and keeping Deshaun Watson in the journeyman category. Both hosts admit they expect Watson to open the season as starter based on insider reporting and new head coach Todd Monken's likely preference for a veteran, even though they'd rather see Sanders get the job.
Ken unveils his annual five-tier NFL quarterback rankings, built around a running "Kirk Cousins" naming gimmick, placing only Mahomes and Allen in the elite tier while noting a record 15 franchise-level quarterbacks league-wide. He and Anthony debate where guys like Bo Nix, CJ Stroud, and Sam Darnold belong, with Ken defending Stroud as a franchise guy despite a down year and calling Nix a product of Sean Payton's system. The conversation inevitably swings back to Baker Mayfield, with both hosts revisiting Cleveland's quarterback saga and Ken taking ownership of not wanting Deshaun Watson while still questioning why Baker didn't get season-ending surgery when he needed it.
Ken and Anthony run through "About Last Night," with producer John starting with Gavin Williams' dominant seven-inning, 11-strikeout outing that included an immaculate inning, even though the Guardians still lost 3-1 in 12 innings to Minnesota. They debate whether an immaculate inning deserves more fanfare and swap little league pitching stories before shifting to Myles Garrett listing his Wadsworth home for $2.1 million, furniture, home gym, and Jurassic Park-themed media room decor included. The conversation turns into a broader riff on athletes decorating their homes with shrines to themselves, with Ken noting his own house keeps personal photos modest compared to guys like Garrett.
Ken and Anthony dig into the backlash Ken got for saying he'd be all-in on trading Jarrett Allen (and even Donovan Mitchell-adjacent pieces) if it meant landing Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving as part of a LeBron package deal. They argue the Cavs' contention window is tied to Mitchell right now, so bold roster gambles are worth the risk even if Davis's injury history and Draymond Green's public playoff criticisms of Allen complicate the case. Ken pushes back on fans who complain the Cavs can't compete but then balk at the kind of aggressive move it would actually take to get there, while both hosts stress they respect Allen's game and aren't trying to talk him down just to justify a trade.
Ken and Anthony dig into the Guardians' frustrating 12-inning loss to Minnesota, debating whether Steven Vogt's decision to have Patrick Bailey bunt cost them the game or whether the blame belongs squarely on a lineup that managed just three hits. Owen chimes in on the logic of not using Austin Hedges as a pinch-hitter, and the guys agree the team has overcome a thin offense all year to stay in playoff position. The conversation pivots to Brian Windhorst's ESPN comments on LeBron James' free agency, with Ken admitting he's exhausted by the endless speculation and drawing heat from staff for saying so on air.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down Andy Baskin's report that Adam Silver's interference delayed LeBron James' free agency announcement. They analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback dilemma with Brian Baldinger and Mary Kay Cabot, debating whether Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders gives the team a better chance to win. The conversation also explores the legacy of Cleveland sports figures and the evolving standards for professional athletes. 01:50 - LeBron's Decision Delay 07:10 - Return to Cleveland 2014 12:45 - The Steakhouse Analogy 19:10 - Kyrie and AD Rumors 25:40 - Andy Baskin’s Report 32:30 - LeBron’s Brand Titans 39:20 - Holding Up the League 45:30 - NBA Power Structures 54:50 - Brian Baldinger Joins 01:03:40 - Shedeur Sanders Work Ethic 01:09:20 - College Quarterback Prospects 01:14:30 - Jose Ramirez Returns 01:25:10 - Detestable Sports Movies 01:33:00 - Dual Interest Athletes 01:40:20 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 01:47:30 - Closing the Gap 01:53:15 - Alpha Defense Personalities 01:59:30 - Charting Camp Passes 02:09:50 - Minerva Football Banter 02:19:10 - Fan Call: Deshaun Watson
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the impact of LeBron James' delayed free agency decision on the Cleveland Cavaliers and the city. They examine reports suggesting Adam Silver may have caused the delay and explore potential roster moves involving Kyrie Irving or Anthony Davis. 01:50 - LeBron Decision Delay 05:31 - Ken Clarifies Reaction 09:47 - Evaluating Team Needs 16:16 - Dealing With Frustration 20:58 - Roster Trade Rumors 26:56 - Vacation Decision Ultimatum 36:15 - Baskin Rumor Report 40:12 - Superstar Economic Power
Brian Baldinger joins Ken and Lima to analyze the upcoming Cleveland Browns training camp and the quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also weigh in on the impact of offensive coordinator Todd Monken and the addition of rookie Jared Verse to the defense. Additionally, there is a debate regarding LeBron James' free agency delay and whether Jake Paul could actually compete in the NFL. 01:50 - LeBron James Free Agency Delay 13:21 - Baldinger Analyzes Browns Quarterbacks 20:51 - Shedeur Sanders Off-Field Branding 27:30 - Evaluation Of Browns Receiver Depth 34:13 - Jose Ramirez Returns To Guardians 38:05 - Jake Paul Proposes Joining Browns 42:15 - Debating Most Overrated Sports Movies
Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to discuss the intense quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They analyze the fan base's divide, Watson's off-season preparation, and the impact of offensive coordinator Todd Monken. The conversation concludes with a heated debate regarding the validity of charting pass statistics during training camp practices. 02:14 - QB Focus vs. Branding 08:44 - Monster Trucks Contest Update 13:11 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 19:18 - Watson vs. Shedeur Debate 24:12 - Browns Young Defensive Talent 31:14 - Value of Training Camp Stats
Anthony Lima and Ken Carman dive into a polarizing discussion about whether Deshaun Watson remains the best option for the Cleveland Browns over Shedeur Sanders. They also analyze the validity of training camp statistics and react to a speech delivered to the New York Giants. 02:10 - Training Camp Charting Debate 07:10 - Comparing LeBron James Expectations 15:05 - Watson Versus Shedeur Sanders 21:15 - Todd Monken Performance Outlook 26:15 - Evaluating Young Roster Talent 32:55 - Giants Training Camp Speech 37:05 - Ken Carman Past Comments
Ken and Lima break down a viral clip of new Giants head coach John Harbaugh's underwhelming first speech to his team, questioning why players showed so little visible enthusiasm for a Super Bowl-winning coach and debating whether it's a generational trust issue or just a rough speech. That leads into a callback to earlier caller Nick's claim that Ken has never said he'd bench Watson even if Watson were better, with Ken playing an old clip of himself to argue his position (kick the tires on Sanders, but defer to whoever's actually playing better) hasn't really changed, even as a colleague pushes back that his tone has shifted since OTAs. Ken lays out the one scenario that would make him truly turn on Todd Monken as an evaluator: benching a struggling Watson only to have Sanders come in and immediately look great
Ken pushes back on the idea that he's biased toward Shedeur Sanders, drawing a distinction between wanting someone to succeed and accepting that only the better player should actually start at quarterback, and predicts the competition won't stay close — one guy will just look clearly worse. A caller named Moe argues age and timeline, not the Myles Garrett trade, explain why Deshaun Watson isn't the automatic starter, sparking pushback with the Drake Maye/Patriots comparison and a debate over whether it's fair to call Sanders a fifth-round pick while giving first-rounders more leeway. The conversation also touches on the Browns' rebuild broader outlook, with Ken listing what he actually wants to see this year (Spencer Fano, Carson Schwesinger, Mason Graham development) regardless of the QB battle's outcome.
A caller named Nick challenges the show's pro-Sanders lean head-on, arguing Deshaun Watson is clearly the Browns' best quarterback right now and that benching a $41 million veteran for an unproven rookie makes no football sense, sparking a heated back-and-forth over whether "best player plays" should override contract size, history, or long-term upside. Ken counters that Watson's baggage and inconsistency matter more than a practice stat line, while producer Tone confirms even NFL coaches chart throws differently than fans online. The segment also swings back to LeBron James, with Ken joking he'd claim the earth is flat if it meant landing Kyrie Irving and getting LeBron back, while still insisting — again — that he won't match his 2014-level excitement if LeBron returns. It closes with a lighter tangent involving a whistle, a youth-football lion hat, and old "punch palace" scrimmage stories.
Fresh off Mary Kay Cabot's interview, Ken Carman pushes back on her read that Deshaun Watson faces less hostility from Browns fans than social media suggests, arguing her own comment about scheduling road games to shield Watson from home jeers actually proves his point. That spirals into a proposal to ban callers who cite training camp completion percentages and touchdown counts as evidence in the Sanders-Watson debate, with the crew mocking how meaningless "stats" from unpadded practices against non-tackling defenses really are. They debate whether the show's own audience has been conditioned to care about this shallow analysis anyway, trace the trend of charting practice throws back over a decade to Brian Hoyer and Baker Mayfield-era coverage, and wonder what directives Browns reporters like Daryl Ruiter are getting from their bosses. It closes with a plan to poll callers on both Watson's chances and whether stat-obsessed callers should get the boot.
Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot joins the show and lays out how Deshaun Watson has spent the offseason proving he's serious, from working out at the facility during his break to organizing a Miami passing camp, while cautioning that Shedeur Sanders' strong OTAs and minicamp performance is making the decision genuinely difficult for Todd Monken. She pushes back on the claim that fans overwhelmingly want Sanders to start, arguing the vitriol toward Watson is louder online than it is in the community, and predicts Watson will need strong early road games to build goodwill if he wins the job. Cabot also breaks down the Browns' young core, ranked fourth in the NFL for under-25 talent, and how the defense plans to distribute pass-rush production now that Myles Garrett is gone.
Ken and Lima debate whether Todd Monken would face Kevin Stefanski-level backlash if he names Deshaun Watson the Week 1 starter over Shedeur Sanders, agreeing he'd get "a nasty reaction" but noting Watson would actually get first-team reps this time, unlike last year's setup. They revisit Brian Baldinger's take that coaches want 24/7 football from their quarterbacks and wrestle with how fair it is to hold Sanders' outside interests against him if he struggles, drawing a comparison to how Myles Garrett's hobbies were scrutinized before the draft. There's also a debunking tangent on the Keanu Reeves-Ravens tryout rumor, plus a preview of camp's pass-charting culture, where fans will grade throws without knowing what the actual play call was.
Ken and Lima bring in producer John to run through the Guardians' win with Jose Ramirez back in the lineup, before spiraling into a joke-filled tangent about whether Sean McVay is on peptides. They dig into the fallout from a fake LeBron James "press conference" video that other sports orgs like the Winnipeg Jets and PGA Tour started riffing on, and react to Jake Paul's clip claiming he could make an NFL roster and specifically wants to try out for the Browns. That spins into a debate over which actors or athletes (Keanu Reeves, Brock Lesnar, Michael B. Jordan) could hypothetically get a tryout, and closes with a heated ranking of favorite versus most-hated football movies, including a fight over "Remember the Titans" and "The Blind Side."
NFL insider Brian Baldinger joins the show and admits he can't confidently predict whether Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson starts Week 1, pointing to the Browns' fully rebuilt offensive line as the bigger swing factor than either quarterback. He praises new pass rusher Jared Verse's work ethic while noting he's not on Myles Garrett's level yet, and pushes back on the idea that Sanders' outside ventures (music, modeling, reality TV) are compatible with what NFL coaches expect from a 24/7 quarterback. Baldinger also weighs in on the wide receiver battle between Jerry Jeudy, KC Concepcion, Isaiah Bond and Denzel Boston, flags Arch Manning as QB1 for the 2027 draft class, and says Brendan Sorsby's decision not to play this year will likely hurt his draft stock.
Ken and Lima reframe LeBron James' drawn-out free agency decision after Andy Baskin's report that the commissioner's office pressured his camp to hurry up, arguing Silver may have inadvertently opened the door for other teams like Miami to make a stronger push. They debate whether the Cavs are actually the most willing team to blow up their roster for a one-year rental, walking back an earlier take that there's little league-wide demand for LeBron once the Silver angle is factored in. The conversation broadens into LeBron's leverage as a 23-year veteran who could credibly threaten retirement over disrespect, and compares his situation to guys like Kawhi Leonard who've been accused of bending league rules.
Andy Baskin's latest report suggests LeBron James' camp was close to making an announcement last week during NBA free agency week but pulled back after feeling pressured by the league office, prompting a debate on the show about how much to trust the tip given Baskin's deep Cavs connections. The conversation turns into a broader case for LeBron's leverage, with the hosts arguing he may be the last American male superstar capable of single-handedly holding up a league and that he's still underpaid relative to the value he's generated. They also speculate on what comes next for Rich Paul and Maverick Carter as their business empires evolve alongside LeBron's decision, wondering if the delay is partly the group figuring out what's best for their broader interest
Ken and Lima push back on the idea that the 24-day-long LeBron James free agency wait has made Ken bitter, with Ken insisting he still loves LeBron and the Cavs and just wants clarity so the show can move on to substantive topics. The conversation shifts into reports that LeBron may be waiting to see if the Cavs can also land Kyrie Irving or Anthony Davis, with an initial instinct of skepticism about chasing moves for a 41-year-old star giving way to enthusiasm if either trade boosts their championship odds. Andy Baskin's social media check-in adds a running joke about LeBron's camp allegedly monitoring local sports talk reactions, with a threat to become insufferably smug if it turns out LeBron waited specifically for a Ken's vacation.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima call out John Fanta for showering them with praise during a broadcasting bootcamp panel, then turning around and "stabbing them in the back" shortly after — comparing it to a pro wrestling heel turn. The segment shifts into the show's real debate: how long LeBron James is taking to decide his free agency, with Lima and others accusing Ken of sounding increasingly bitter and Ken insisting he's only frustrated at being mischaracterized. The two spar over dueling analogies (a slow restaurant steak, "waiting for sex") that Ken dismisses as bad comparisons, while drawing a hard line between his emotional 2014 reaction to LeBron's return and how he'd feel now.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Miami Heat’s technical gaffe involving a LeBron James press conference link and its impact on the NBA landscape. They dive into a heated debate regarding whether the Cleveland Browns should start veteran Deshaun Watson or rookie Shedeur Sanders under head coach Todd Monken. The conversation also highlights the Cleveland Guardians' resilience and recent shifts in national sports media at ESPN. 02:00 - Cleveland Sports Roundup 08:45 - LeBron Heat Leak Reaction 17:10 - Broadcast Boot Camp Stories 26:40 - Browns QB Battle Analysis 35:20 - Guardians Season Trajectory 46:40 - Todd Monken Coaching Logic 56:10 - Shedeur Sanders Growth Potential 01:05:30 - Deshaun Watson Loyalty Debate 01:17:20 - ESPN Media News 01:26:15 - Ravens Training Camp Preview 01:36:30 - Bengals Joe Burrow Update 01:47:10 - AFC North Quarterback Tiers 01:55:40 - Media Leak Conspiracy Theories 02:06:30 - Nathan Zegura Browns Interview 02:15:20 - Browns Offensive Strategy Talk 02:26:10 - Fan Sentiment QB Poll 02:35:30 - Ken Panel Conduct Apology
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to a deleted Miami Heat post about LeBron James and debate if it was a social media gaffe or a calculated stunt. They explore the growing fatigue in Cleveland regarding the length of LeBron's decision-making process while praising the Guardians' resilience during recent injuries. The conversation also highlights potential drama within the Browns' coaching staff regarding Deshaun Watson. 02:38 - LeBron Press Leak 06:48 - Heat Conspiracy Theories 09:44 - LeBron Decision Fatigue 16:00 - Fanta's Broadcast Bootcamp 22:35 - Realistic LeBron Expectations 28:50 - Browns QB Controversy 34:05 - Guardians' Resilience Update 39:05 - Division Title Expectations
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback dilemma, weighing the experience of Deshaun Watson against the potential of Shedeur Sanders. They respond to listener feedback regarding their loyalty to certain players and discuss the impact of coaching decisions on the roster. Additional topics include the recent wave of ESPN layoffs and a surge in World Cup viewership. 02:41 - Browns Quarterback Battle 06:45 - Veteran vs Rookie Logic 12:20 - Fanta Broadcast Bootcamp 18:35 - Shedeur Sanders Upside 24:01 - Ken Defends QB Stance 31:08 - Guardians and ESPN Updates 37:54 - World Cup Ratings Surge
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima go around the AFC North with insiders to analyze Lamar Jackson's longevity and Joe Burrow's commitment to the Bengals. They also break down the quarterback situation in Pittsburgh and address the viral confusion regarding a potential LeBron James return to the Miami Heat. 02:14 - Around The AFC North 07:35 - Joe Burrow's Bengals Outlook 12:53 - Steelers Quarterback Room Analysis 20:35 - Evaluating Shedeur Sanders' Future 33:03 - LeBron James Miami Heat Rumors 36:04 - Sports Front Office Secrets
Nathan Zegura joins Ken to break down the Cleveland Browns' training camp battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They explore Todd Monken's influence on the offense and why the veteran might have the edge in a close competition. Ken also shares a story from a recent broadcasting boot camp and addresses social media backlash. 01:50 - Emotional Investment In LeBron 05:11 - Nathan Zegura On Browns 09:00 - Watson And Monken Offense 12:45 - Browns Wide Receiver Battle 18:42 - Quarterbacks Netflix Series Talk 22:10 - Deshaun Watson Starting Odds 27:30 - Fans Backing Shedeur Sanders 33:26 - Broadcasting Boot Camp Story 38:30 - Final Champions Pose Segment
One host confesses to feeling like a jerk for never getting the chance to introduce himself to fellow panelist Caleigh Griffin at a broadcasting boot camp, walking through the awkward mix-up of stairs, timing, and seating that caused the miss. The conversation shifts into some good-natured ribbing about ongoing feuds with other local media figures before closing out with a "champions pose" callback, revisiting an old take that Shedeur Sanders would already have the starting job locked up if Kevin Stefanski were still the head coach.
Ken doubles down on his belief that most Browns fans want Shedeur Sanders under center, defending himself against critics who came after him for saying he'd put Deshaun Watson on a franchise tag even if he leads the team to the playoffs. He argues Watson is a "bridge" no matter what happens this season, pointing to the Browns' two first-round picks as proof the front office is already planning to draft a quarterback regardless of how this year goes. Ken also lays out why he thinks a head coach in Todd Monken's position would naturally give the tie to the veteran in a close quarterback competition, even as he insists he won't turn on Monken if Watson gets the nod.
Browns radio analyst Nathan Zegura joins the show and gives Deshaun Watson a slight edge over Shedeur Sanders heading into training camp, though he's careful to note both quarterbacks have shown real improvement and it will come down to live reps once pads go on. Zegura breaks down why Todd Monken brought in Watson specifically, praises the revamped wide receiver room, and names Denzel Boston as the most impressive playmaker of the offseason. Ken also opens the segment defending himself against critics who say he's not emotionally invested enough in the LeBron saga anymore, arguing there's only so long anyone can stay fired up without a resolution.
The Heat's accidentally posted LeBron press-conference link gets picked apart in exhaustive, comedic detail, from prediction-market betting theories to a fully imagined scenario of how impossible it would be for a young webmaster to keep a leak like that quiet. The riff turns into a running bit about a mythical stack of team press releases for trades that never happened, and spirals into an absurd tangent about fake obituaries. It's a lighter, mostly jokey segment that pokes fun at how exhausted everyone is by the ongoing LeBron free agency wait.
Albert Breer's comparison of Shedeur Sanders to a young Patrick Mahomes staying late for extra reps draws pushback, with the argument being that Mahomes was behind an established, respected veteran while Shedeur is fighting for his career in a much different situation. The conversation turns into a broader defense of Shedeur juggling NIL and brand opportunities alongside football, arguing today's era of college stardom means comparisons to past quarterbacks don't really hold up. A poll of kids at a local broadcasting camp gets brought up as evidence that fans overwhelmingly want to see Shedeur get the start, with a few boos reserved for Deshaun Watson.
The weekly AFC North swing brings in local voices from Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh, with Ravens reporter Bob Haney downplaying any urgency around a Lamar Jackson extension despite his massive incoming cap number. In Cincinnati, Mo Egger frames this as a put-up-or-shut-up year for Joe Burrow now that the roster's been fully loaded around him, while also breaking down why analytics writers hated the Dexter Lawrence trade. Pittsburgh's Andrew Fillipponi digs into whether Aaron Rodgers ever really fit the city and previews a crowded Steelers quarterback room under new coach Mike McCarthy. Two of the three guests side with Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders when asked who should start for the Browns.
Steven Kwan's hot July has Ken and Lima rethinking earlier doubts about paying him long-term, with his average climbing from .206 to .239 while playing some of the best baseball on the team. The conversation shifts to the wave of ESPN layoffs, including Ryan Clark and Cam Newton, and the hosts push back on fans and rivals openly celebrating people losing their jobs. They close out with a look at the World Cup's record US viewership numbers and why they don't buy the idea that the Big Ten and SEC will ever break away into their own league.
A caller rips into Ken for supposedly being a secret Deshaun Watson guy, and Ken fires back with receipts on where he's really stood since the draft. He and Anthony get into whether Todd Monken will actually let the QB battle play out or default to the veteran no matter what, and Shedeur's toughness comes up as a point in his favor. Things veer off into a Carson Wentz "champions pose" flashback and a recap of John Fanta's broadcasting boot camp before they wrap.
Ken admits he's mentally preparing for Deshaun Watson to win the Browns' starting quarterback job over Shedeur Sanders, walking back some of his earlier optimism for the rookie after hearing from insiders like Albert Breer that no one is running away with the competition. He and Anthony debate whether an older head coach like Todd Monken naturally leans toward the veteran, and second-guess whether Cleveland made the right call passing on younger coaching candidates during the search. The two also touch on LeBron's ongoing free agency saga now stretching past three weeks, with the Heat's accidental press conference leak still the biggest "update."
Ken and Anthony break down how the Guardians managed to stay at .500 despite losing Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez to injury, including a brutally sloppy loss to the Twins that Ken calls some of the dumbest baseball he's seen in years. They debate whether winning the division a third straight year would even be enough for Guardians fans given the team's playoff track record, while praising rookies like Kahlil Watson for playing hard every night. Ken closes by admitting he's bracing himself for the Browns to name Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback, even though he doesn't want it to happen.
Ken lays out why the three-week LeBron decision saga has him ready to move on, arguing this isn't 2014 and the Cavs are still a good team with or without him. He and Anthony debate whether fans should temper championship expectations given LeBron's age, and Ken pushes back on criticism that he doesn't care by pointing out he's just tired of nothing new being said. The two also dig into the Heat's leaked press conference link, guessing it's likely a staffer's mistake rather than a real signal, and pivot to fresher storylines like the Browns' quarterback battle.
A since-deleted YouTube post from the Miami Heat teasing a "LeBron James Introductory Press Conference" set off a frenzy, and Ken and Anthony dig into whether it was a staffer's mistake, a stunt or something more calculated. They swap conspiracy theories about what the leak might really mean for LeBron's free agency decision, all while admitting the three-week wait is wearing thin. The guys also vent about being "inconvenienced" by the nonstop LeBron watch as football and baseball seasons heat up around them.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Guardians' recent scoring surge and debate whether Rhys Hoskins has redeemed himself. They dive into the ongoing LeBron James free agency watch, questioning if the delay in his decision suggests Cleveland is merely a secondary option. The conversation also features an interview with Cam Justice regarding the high-stakes quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 02:52 - Guardians Home Run Barrage 07:15 - Standings And Run Differential 12:45 - LeBron Decision Watch Frustrations 22:30 - Rich Paul Podcast Reaction 31:05 - Shedeur Sanders Brand Debate 41:45 - Online Fan Base Sensitivity 50:50 - Mahomes Vs Sanders Comparison 57:15 - Deshawn Quarterback Debate Call 01:14:05 - About Last Night Recap 01:19:45 - Ryan Clark ESPN Firing 01:26:15 - College Football Playoff Shifts 01:32:00 - Transfer Portal Reality Check 01:36:50 - Cam Justice Browns Interview 01:44:30 - Future Quarterback Draft Plans 01:55:15 - Sanders Vs Watson Comparison 02:03:25 - Cleveland As LeBron Fallback 02:14:50 - Miami Heat Odds Shift 02:24:55 - LeBron Legacy And Retirement 02:36:40 - Fans Prefer Shedeur Sanders
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the Cleveland Guardians' high-scoring victory and the statistical importance of run differential. They delve into the frustration surrounding the prolonged LeBron watch and analyze Rich Paul's podcast comments regarding the decision-making process. The conversation concludes with a heated debate about Shedeur Sanders' off-field brand management and his NFL future. 02:52 - Guardians' Seven Homer Victory 09:26 - LeBron Watch and Frustrations 13:16 - Rich Paul Interview Analysis 21:44 - Draymond Green on Schedule 25:43 - Comparing 2014 Return Hype 33:18 - Shedeur Sanders Business Debate 40:31 - Sensitive Fanbase Reactions
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima tackle the ongoing debate regarding Shedeur Sanders and the workload of modern athletes. They explore the mounting anxiety in Cleveland as LeBron James delays his free agency decision. Additionally, they recap the Guardians' massive offensive performance and react to Ryan Clark’s sudden firing from ESPN. 01:50 - Shedeur Sanders Trolling Debate 06:00 - Athlete Branding and Commercials 09:45 - Shedeur Sanders' ESPY Workload 15:10 - Lima’s Quarterback Future Outlook 19:40 - LeBron James Decision Anxiety 25:05 - Cavs Roster Referendum Fears 31:52 - Guardians Seven Home Run Game 35:13 - Ryan Clark’s ESPN Firing 39:31 - SEC Media Day Tensions
Cam Justice joins Ken and Tone to analyze the high-stakes quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They discuss the pressure on the Browns' roster, the impact of the transfer portal on college football, and concerns regarding the team's pass rush depth. 01:55 - Ohio State's Grueling Schedule 05:45 - Transfer Portal Player Movement 09:05 - Paying College Athletes Model 14:51 - Cam Justice Interview Begins 19:10 - Watson Versus Sanders Debate 23:45 - Character Development And Growth 27:35 - Browns Pass Rush Concerns 34:05 - Browns Future QB Plans
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima express frustration over the three-week wait for LeBron James' decision, questioning if Cleveland is being used as leverage. They analyze the Guardians' recent offensive surge and debate the polarizing dynamic between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. The discussion concludes with a look at modern athlete branding and reports of media changes at ESPN. 02:20 - LeBron Decision Delay Fallout 09:20 - Cleveland Legacy vs. Philly 13:45 - Guardians Home Run Surge 19:45 - Is Cleveland a Fallback? 27:55 - Retirement and Legacy Regrets 34:15 - Deshaun Watson vs. Sanders 38:15 - Modern Fanbase Branding Issues 41:40 - Karl Raveich ESPN Rumors
Ken reads an email pushback questioning his claim that almost no Browns fans want Deshaun Watson to start, prompting him to hold firm at "98 percent" while acknowledging Watson still looks like the real-time leader for the job. He compares the intensity of Shedeur's fanbase to that of Caitlin Clark and Tony Romo, arguing that hyper-loyal, brand-driven fandoms are simply the new normal in sports and something Anthony needs to get used to. Ken also draws a personal line, sharing a story about his late mother's fierce devotion to athletes like Bernie Kosar, to illustrate how logic rarely factors into this kind of fan loyalty. The segment closes with a brief, unconfirmed mention of a reported ESPN staffing change involving Sean McDonough's broadcast crew before wrapping the show.
After three weeks of waiting, Ken raises the uncomfortable question of whether LeBron actually wants to return to Cleveland or if the Cavs are simply the option left standing once other roster fantasies fell through. He and Anthony note that every other potential destination has been publicly ruled out at some point while Cleveland never has, which either means it was always the plan or that it's been used as leverage the whole time. The conversation shifts into a reflective take on why walking away from basketball is so hard for a 23-year veteran, drawing a comparison to Rusty Wallace's regret about retiring too early and Tom Brady's inability to let go of football. It closes on a lighter note bantering about the Paul brothers and old Vine videos before teasing the next segment on the Browns' quarterback battle.
Ken plays a clip of colleague Jake Vulinec, who admits the long LeBron wait has dulled some of the excitement even if he does come home, and Ken agrees the drawn-out process is souring what should be great news. He argues the roster is already good enough that there's no reasonable excuse for the delay, comparing how differently he'd feel about begging for LeBron if he were on a station in a city with no history with him. A caller pushes back that media speculation is fueling the frustration more than LeBron himself, sparking a debate about who's really responsible for how dragged out this has felt. The show closes on the news that Miami has overtaken Cleveland as the betting favorite to land him, leaving Ken visibly rattled.
Ken and Anthony break down how differently the Browns will judge each quarterback, arguing Deshaun Watson likely needs a Super Bowl-caliber run to avoid being cut loose, while Shedeur only needs a solid, winning-record season to stay in the conversation. They compare the situation to LeBron and the "circus" concern some teams reportedly have about taking on a high-profile personality, wondering if that same hesitation applies to Shedeur's film crew and other NFL teams' interest in him. Ken argues the draft slot creates a real double standard, since a first-round investment in Watson buys more patience than a fifth-round flier ever will for Shedeur. The segment ends by teeing up a phone poll asking listeners whether it might actually be better for Shedeur's long-term career if he doesn't win the starting job right away.
Cam Justice from News 5 Cleveland joins the show to break down the Browns' quarterback competition, calling Deshaun Watson the "leader in the clubhouse" mainly due to veteran experience, but noting Shedeur Sanders offers a higher ceiling if he can clean up his decision-making. She points out that Watson has struggled to play like a seasoned veteran under pressure, and that a rebuilt offensive line will be a major factor in how both quarterbacks perform in camp. Cam also weighs in on Shedeur's emotional short film about last season, calling it a possible sign of real character growth, and flags a retooled pass rush without Myles Garrett as her biggest concern heading into the year. She closes by naming the Steelers and Buccaneers games as key measuring sticks for a Browns team not expected to make the playoffs.
Ken and Lima dig into Ohio State's brutal schedule and whether the Buckeyes could realistically lose four games and still make the expanded playoff, before pivoting into a broader lament about how NIL and the transfer portal have changed the sport. Ken argues something has to give on regulation, pointing to real examples of players getting sued over buyouts, while Owen and Ken share personal stories about players and coaches leaving the moment a better opportunity appears. They also wrestle with how much big-money boosters now determine a program's success independent of tradition, culture, or coaching.
The show breaks down the Guardians' 13-4 blowout of the Twins, a seven-homer outburst including two from Rhys Hoskins, sparking a debate between Ken and producer John over whether one big game actually "redeems" a player who's still hitting under .200 for the season. The conversation shifts to Ryan Clark's on-air firing from ESPN, with the hosts calling the timing classless and debating whether an old comment about non-players not deserving a voice in sports media contributed to the fallout. They also dig into SEC commissioner Greg Sankey's comments about a possible breakaway from the NCAA, with Ken relishing the idea of the SEC losing ground to the Big Ten. The segment ends with a reflective moment on whether years of NIL and playoff expansion have made college football harder to love.
The hosts dig into why LeBron's three-week free agency wait is starting to strain patience, wondering whether the delay is really about leverage, roster fit, or something more personal about wanting to come back at all. They explore the flip side of a "no," including how a snub could turn Evan Mobley, Donovan Mitchell and the current roster into scapegoats for missed trades like Giannis or Jaylen Brown. A charity golf outing the day before revealed real optimism among Cavs-connected people that LeBron is coming home, but there's also lingering fear he could pull a repeat of 2010 or 2018.
Anthony warns that Shedeur Sanders fans can see through the constant needling on the show, prompting a debate about whether pointing out his packed schedule is fair game. The conversation breaks down Shedeur's jam-packed ESPYs itinerary, brand deals, and reported workout routine, weighing whether any of it is actually affecting his play. The hosts land on the idea that none of it matters until there's real evidence it's hurting his football, since plenty of other athletes juggle similar workloads without issue. It closes by acknowledging quarterback evaluations are notoriously unpredictable, pointing to Baker Mayfield's up-and-down career as proof nobody really knows how this plays out.
Ken learns that Shedeur Sanders' inner circle and some fans are upset over comments questioning whether his off-field ventures could be affecting his focus on football, and pushes back hard, insisting he never said anything unfair. He and Anthony dig into whether it's normal for a young quarterback to juggle modeling, music and reality TV while fighting for a starting job, and question the oddly specific claim that Shedeur works out four times a day. The conversation also touches on the short film where Shedeur says old friends stopped reaching out once things got hard in Cleveland, with Ken arguing that reaction is understandable rather than mean-spirited. It closes with Ken standing by his takes and refusing to back down from the backlash.
Draymond Green reveals that Adam Silver is holding up the NBA schedule until LeBron picks a team, though Draymond warns the pressure might actually slow LeBron down rather than speed him up. Ken and Anthony riff on whether this is somehow a power move by LeBron before circling back to Rich Paul's comments about not overvaluing what looks good "on paper." The conversation shifts to why a return wouldn't match the emotional high of 2014, with Ken and Anthony agreeing it's simply impossible to recreate that moment no matter where he lands. They wrap by teasing the Browns' quarterback competition and a new report on Deshaun Watson.
Ken and Anthony break down the Guardians' four-homer beatdown of the Pirates, with Rhys Hoskins going deep twice to silence critics calling for him to be DFA'd. From there the show pivots to LeBron's still-unresolved free agency, now three weeks old, with Ken firing back at the afternoon show for mocking how often he brings it up. Rich Paul's comments on the Game Over podcast get dissected for clues on timing, with training camp roughly 70 days away. Ken makes his case that patience is wearing thin and the longer this drags on, the worse it looks if LeBron doesn't pick Cleveland.
They analyze the Cleveland Guardians' defensive struggles and the impact of Travis Bazzana's arrival. They also debate Rex Ryan's criticism of Shedeur Sanders' off-field focus and the high-stakes wait for LeBron James' free agency decision. 01:50 - Guardians Sloppy Performance 10:24 - Pittsburgh Rivalry Discussion 18:05 - World Cup Extra Time 26:16 - Global Soccer Culture 34:40 - Shedeur Sanders Film 41:36 - LeBron Free Agency Delay 55:39 - Danny Cunningham Interview 01:10:25 - Travis Bazzana Highlight 01:18:56 - Tom Brady Wrestling Drama 01:25:17 - Le'Veon Bell Arrested 01:36:52 - Daryl Ruiter Report 01:50:21 - Rex Ryan Criticism 02:02:51 - Brand Versus Football 02:13:31 - Fan Quarterback Debate 02:25:44 - Playoff Standards Discussion 02:33:14 - LeBron Potential Destination
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima breakdown the Guardians' recent "sloppy" play and the future of Gabriel Arias following a mistake-filled game. They also discuss the influx of Pirates fans in Cleveland, the World Cup final drama, and Shedeur Sanders' message to his critics. 02:41 - Vogt Critiques Sloppy Play 06:45 - Pirates Fans Infiltrate Cleveland 11:00 - Paul Skenes' Star Power 19:03 - World Cup Final Reflections 25:30 - Adopting Soccer As Fan 34:18 - Shedeur Sanders' Loyal Message
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima examine the ripple effects of LeBron James' delayed free agency decision on the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster and local schedule. Danny Cunningham joins 92.3 The Fan to discuss potential Jared Allen trades and the tightening competitiveness of the Eastern Conference. They also recap Travis Bazzana’s impact on the Guardians and Tom Brady’s recent WWE-style antics. 02:20 - LeBron's Decision Delay 05:56 - Austin Carr Outing 13:44 - Danny Cunningham Interview 21:56 - Jared Allen Trade Rumors 29:54 - Lima Likes: Guardians Recap 36:40 - World Cup Final Drama 38:28 - Tom Brady's Post-NFL Career
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to the news of Le'Veon Bell's arrest in Stark County and the enduring wait for LeBron James' free agency decision. They are joined by Daryl Ruiter to analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback dynamics and the controversy surrounding Shedeur Sanders' off-field branding. They also discuss the generational gap in how modern athletes manage personal business versus on-field performance. 01:30 - Monster Truck Giveaway 03:00 - Le'Veon Bell Arrested 07:15 - LeBron James Decision Delay 14:15 - Daryl Ruiter Interview 18:10 - Browns Quarterback Competition 29:45 - Shedeur Sanders Branding Debate
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima clash over whether Shedeur Sanders’ marketing brand interferes with his football focus. They also discuss the future of Deshaun Watson with the Browns and speculate on the impact of a potential LeBron James return to the Cavaliers. 01:50 - Todd Monken On Distractions 05:24 - Deshaun Watson Starting Debate 12:10 - Shedeur Sanders Brand Discussion 18:58 - Fighting Active NBA Players 24:05 - Browns Season Win Expectations 31:38 - LeBron James Decision Rumors 37:00 - Dan Gilbert's Next Move
Ken and Anthony work through the anxiety of another LeBron decision looming, debating how fans would react if he snubs Cleveland for a third time and whether the Cavs' current core is even worth blowing up if he walks. A caller offers Ken a comeback line for dealing with Anthony's constant interruptions, which briefly derails the show before they circle back to the real stakes. The segment wraps by tying the LeBron drama back to Browns quarterback talk, with Ken arguing Shedeur Sanders staying healthy in Cleveland all season may be the best case scenario given Deshaun Watson's injury history.
Ken and Anthony debate which NBA players they could actually take in a fight, landing on the conclusion that pretty much none of them stand a chance, before ripping into Chet Holmgren's frame and Anthony's own scrawny high school years. Callers weigh in on the Browns quarterback situation, with fans pushing win totals needed to keep Shedeur Sanders as the starter and Ken doubling down that he would franchise tag and draft another quarterback regardless. The segment also veers into a Guardians tangent about a kid getting blamed for Jose Ramirez's injury and wraps with a call debating whether Arch Manning will get the same leash Dillon Gabriel has been given.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima get heated debating whether Shedeur Sanders' off-field marketing and photo shoots could become a distraction once training camp opens, with Ken accusing Anthony of twisting his words to bait Browns Twitter. The argument spills into a caller segment where a fan pushes back on the "quarterback controversy" framing, prompting Ken to point out Shedeur isn't going anywhere given his popularity with kids at a youth camp. Talk turns to trade value, with the guys agreeing neither Shedeur nor Deshaun Watson has real market value right now, while floating Dylan Gabriel as the more tradeable arm behind Michael Penix Jr. and a "supercomputer" QB room in Atlanta. The segment ends with Ken storming off mid-bit, only half-joking about needing to escape to "hell."
Ken and Lima dig into Rex Ryan's criticism of Shedeur Sanders' off-field content (photoshoots, music, a short film), framing it as a generational divide—guys in Ryan's era don't get why every young quarterback with a fan base now runs a personal brand. They point out Todd Monken, despite being around Ryan's age, seems far more attuned to modern NIL-era players, while contrasting Shedeur with Arch Manning, who's deliberately avoided this kind of exposure. The two debate whether Shedeur's business ventures are actually costing him on the field, invoking Baker Mayfield's similar media-obligations criticism early in his Browns tenure as a precedent that ultimately proved irrelevant to his play. They close split on whether Shedeur is genuinely distracted or just an easy target because of his historically rough rookie season and fifth-round slide.
Browns reporter Daryl Ruiter joins Ken and Anthony Lima to break down the quarterback competition, saying Deshaun Watson remains the favorite to start Week 1 in Jacksonville since it's an easier transition from him to Shedeur Sanders than the reverse, though he stresses that Shedeur starting as QB2 wouldn't be a failure given the retooled line and new coaching staff around him. Ken pushes back a bit, arguing there's real pressure on Shedeur to play early since fans want to see what they have, while Ruiter counters that Deshaun's best days are likely behind him regardless of who starts. The conversation shifts to Shedeur's free youth football camp, which Ruiter says drew an outsized, electric reaction from about 500 kids, before the two dismiss Rex Ryan's recent shot at Shedeur's off-field ventures (music, photoshoots, a short film) as him complaining for the sake of complaining. Ruiter defends Shedeur's use of his offseason time as fair game as long as football stays the priority, noting Shedeur has put in real work with teammates this summer.
News breaks that Le'Veon Bell was arrested on a child-support warrant during an autograph signing at Belden Village Mall, prompting the crew to riff on his mugshot, his string of financial disputes—including reportedly stiffing his own high school on a turf deal—and his infamous career-stalling holdout in Pittsburgh. Talk shifts to LeBron's decision, now dragging into a third week, with Ken arguing it's starting to feel like LeBron is taking Cleveland's love for granted by making fans wait this long, even though he doubts anyone will hold a real grudge in 10 or 20 years. Ken and the crew speculate that LeBron's reported lukewarm relationship with Luka Dončić in L.A. suggests he never fully bought in there, wondering if that's part of why Cleveland—"the only place that really loves him"—makes more sense as his final stop. The segment closes teasing Daryl Ruiter's upcoming hit on Browns training camp and rookies.
Lima runs through his weekly likes and dislikes, giving a big thumbs up to Travis Bazzana's come-from-behind homer as a potential Guardians highlight of the year while trashing the sloppy weekend series overall, plus a thumbs up for the massive prize money still floating around pro golf despite the sport's post-Tiger decline. He rips the World Cup's Coldplay-curated halftime show and Argentina's post-final antics as embarrassing, while noting his family ended up rooting for Spain over Messi after learning about his reputation for dirty play. Ken and Lima also both express confusion and mild disdain over Tom Brady's WWE-adjacent scuffles with the Paul brothers, calling it beneath a legend of his stature. The segment wraps with a fun personal aside about Ken running into the Super Troopers cast at the Cleveland airport.
Danny Cunningham of Locked On Cavs joins Ken and Lima still without a LeBron decision three weeks into the wait, and argues the Cavs' offseason has gone from "LeBron would be nice" to "LeBron is now a necessity" given the team's lack of other moves. He pegs Miami as the only real threat to Cleveland, ruling out teams like the Warriors or Sixers since he thinks LeBron cares about legacy and won't wear a new jersey late in his career. Cunningham also breaks down how James Harden's actual salary depends on where LeBron lands, floats a Jarrett Allen trade as the Cavs' most realistic path to real roster change, and pushes back on the narrative that Cleveland stood still while the rest of the East improved. He closes by predicting LeBron plays two more seasons wherever he signs, likely on a one-year deal for cap reasons.
With LeBron's free agency decision now three weeks unresolved, Ken and Lima trade jabs over whose schedule is being more inconvenienced by the wait, with Lima accusing Ken of using youth football coaching commitments as an excuse and Ken firing back that Lima's just bored and looking for content. They debate whether fans should be angry at LeBron or at the Cavs' front office if he picks another team, with Ken saying he'd want proof the Cavs actually made a real pitch before getting mad at the organization. James Harden's public confidence about LeBron returning, plus chatter about LeBron's daughter's volleyball career and reluctance to live in Philadelphia, gets floated as intel on where things stand. The segment devolves into the two accusing each other of only caring about LeBron and Shedeur Sanders for the content payday, with neither actually copping to it.
Ken and Anthony Lima dig into a short film Shedeur Sanders released on YouTube where he gets introspective about people who "show support" online but never actually reach out, which Lima reads as a shot at fair-weather fans who bailed after his rough rookie season and fifth-round draft slide. Lima argues Shedeur's personal-brand hustle—music, photoshoots, behind-the-scenes content—is smart business regardless of what critics like Rex Ryan say, while Ken repeatedly accuses him of being facetious rather than taking it seriously. The two go back and forth needling each other over whether Lima is being sincere or sarcastic about the "legendary" photoshoot content. They close out still unsure who, if anyone, Shedeur's disillusioned hangers-on jumped ship to support instead.
Fresh off the World Cup final and Argentina's post-match brawl, Ken and Anthony admit they don't really understand soccer's rules—extra time, stoppage minutes, and all—and lean on the "everybody's watching, so there must be something to it" logic to justify their newfound interest. They debate flopping and embellishment as soccer's biggest flaw, arguing it's practically the only reliable way to manufacture scoring chances at the highest level. A caller named Geo pushes back on the sport's accessibility, sparking a tangent on how expensive youth soccer has become in the U.S. compared to other sports. The segment wraps with the guys floating the idea that the U.S. should just host the World Cup every time, since the stadium infrastructure is already sitting there unused otherwise.
A sloppy, mistake-filled loss to Pittsburgh—capped by Gabriel Arias getting doubled off second on a bizarre baserunning blunder—has the guys questioning whether Arias has any runway left once Jose Ramirez returns to third base. They contrast his four years of recurring gaffes with rookies like Cooper Ingle and Kahlil Watson, who they say deserve more slack simply because they're new. The conversation spins into frustration over Pittsburgh fans overrunning Progressive Field for the Paul Skenes start, with the crew arguing the Pirates—not the Reds—should be Cleveland's real interleague rival. They close out noting the tight AL Wild Card race, which they say makes a quiet trade deadline more likely than usual.
Featuring Chris Fedor, Chris Assenheimer, Andrew Brandt, Rick Bucher, and Mary Kay Cabot.
The hosts analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, focusing on how head coach Todd Monken will navigate their competitive dynamic. Additionally, they react to Miles Garrett's recent ESPY wins and reflect on the Browns' decision to trade him to the Rams for the future of the franchise.
The guys set the scene with the Guardians returning from the All-Star break. Are they poised to make any impact additions ahead of the trade deadline, and will the lineup wake up after several weeks of subpar production? Plus, what is to be done with the struggling Steven Kwan, and is Jose Ramirez the Guards' Patrick Mahomes? All that and more.
The conversation continues about the Cavaliers and a potential return of franchise icon LeBron James. As the waiting drags on, the guys wonder fatigue or apathy is beginning to set in for Cavs fans and fans of other teams. They also discuss whether the Cavs need LeBron more or if LeBron needs them more; and why Cleveland is the only place that makes sense for the future Hall of Famer.
A collection of top conversations from Ken and Anthony during the past week. The guys talk about the meaning of the MLB All-Star Game, the ever-evolving Home Run Derby, and whether Josh Allen has overtaken Patrick Mahomes in NFL QB rankings. Lima faces backlash from listeners after he said he would be 'devastated' if LeBron doesn't return to Cleveland. Plus, a semi-annual debate about daylight savings time.
Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima full show for Friday, July 17, 2026
Hour 2 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Hour 3 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Hour 4 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Ken tries to clarify earlier statements he made about LeBron.
Zack Meisel joined Ken and Anthony and discussed Steven Kwan's status, and whether or not the Guardians should trade him or pay him. He also talked about expectations for the team this year, what they should do at the trade deadline, and all of the fallout that could potentially come from the upcoming CBA negotiations.
Ken and Anthony do a deep dive into Steven Kwan's advanced stats and try to argue in favor of paying him.
Ken and Anthony bring up their annual discussion about trading or paying Steven Kwan.
Ken and Anthony debate whether or not Dillon Gabriel is one of the worst draft picks Andrew Berry has made in the last six years.
Lance Reisland joined Ken and Anthony to clarify the statement he made about Dillon Gabriel having a chance to win the starting job, and how we will know when he's truly out of the running. He also shared what he looks for during practices and training camps, and why certain metrics may not give you an answer you're looking for.
Ken and Anthony talk about what it would take to get a salary cap and floor in MLB, and if it's worth sacrificing the prime of players like Jose Ramirez with a lockout to get it.
Ken and Anthony react to Pat Riley's "landing the plane" comment regarding bringing Giannis to Miami and whether that addition makes them better than the Cavaliers.
Curtis Danburg joined Ken and Anthony live in studio to talk about player and fan safety during the wildfire smoke, what promotions and events are coming up with the Guardians this weekend, as well as when we can expect to see Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez back in the lineup.
Ken and Anthony discuss Donovan Mitchell's side of the LeBron story and how he would take it if the super star doesn't return to Cleveland.
Ken and Anthony voice their frustration over the fact that LeBron still hasn't announced where he'll be playing this upcoming season and decide whether or not there's anything left to say until the decision is announced.
All-Star Travis Bazzana joined Bradfo from the All-Star festivities to talk about the pressures and privilege that have come with being the first overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. The second baseman revealed how his mindset has shifted throughout his short journey as a pro ballplayer, and why landing as an All-Star is such a meaningful moment.
Full Ken Carmen with Anthony Lima show on July 16, 2026
Ken Carman expresses his growing frustration and exhaustion regarding the ongoing rumors of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers, noting that the current hype doesn't match the excitement of 2014. Anthony Lima counters by sharing local gossip and social media leaks, leading to a heated debate with a caller named Deshaun over the impact of a 41-year-old superstar. They also discuss the heavy smoke blanketing Northeast Ohio from Canadian wildfires and the importance of air filter maintenance. 01:50 - Media Content Hype 05:30 - Cleveland Wildfire Smoke 09:41 - LeBron Golfing Rumors 16:21 - Leaked Warriors Rumors 21:15 - Ken's Diminishing Interest 26:33 - Emotional Impact Debate 38:46 - Deshaun Calls In
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the heavy anticipation surrounding LeBron James' upcoming free agency decision and Ken's personal growth since the 2010 exit. They also react to Lance Reisland's suggestion that Dylan Gabriel could start for the Browns, while diving into potential collusion against Lamar Jackson. The segment wraps up with a recap of Jaylon Tyson's Summer League confidence and ESPY highlights. 01:51 - Netflix Quarterback Documentary Feature 05:00 - LeBron's Free Agency Decision 10:45 - Dylan Gabriel Starting Rumors 14:30 - Shedeur Sanders Draft Debate 19:35 - Lamar Jackson vs Bo Nix 23:05 - NFL Owner Collusion Talk 32:50 - Jaylon Tyson's Rookie Mentality 37:05 - ESPY Jokes and Soccer Update
Mary Kay Cabot joins to discuss the intensifying quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also debate the merits of Guardians owner Paul Dolan and analyze the impact of the Myles Garrett trade to the Rams. The conversation highlights the potential of Jerry Jeudy and the future of Dillon Gabriel. 01:20 - AQI and Fitness Metrics 05:04 - Guardians Ownership and Sale 08:08 - Evaluating Cleveland Sports Ownership 16:19 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 19:46 - Browns Quarterback Depth Evaluation 31:09 - Debating Myles Garrett Trade 39:09 - ESPYs and Ric Bucher
Rick Bucher joins the program to analyze LeBron James' elongated free agency process and why a return to the Cavaliers is his best legacy move. They also debate a hypothetical trade involving Miles Garrett and discuss the fame levels of Shohei Ohtani versus Mike Tyson. 01:54 - Miles Garrett and Shedeur Sanders 04:09 - Tyson vs. Ohtani Fame Debate 07:46 - LeBron James Decision Fatigue 14:26 - Rick Bucher on LeBron's Market 24:37 - LeBron and James Harden Fit
Ken and Anthony analyze the hypothetical scenario of Miles Garrett staying in Cleveland based on quarterback performance and the interaction between Garrett and Shedeur Sanders at the ESPYs. They also discuss the celebrity status of Shohei Ohtani compared to Mike Tyson and the growing fatigue surrounding LeBron James’ latest free agency decision.
The discussion centers on whether the Cleveland Browns would have traded Myles Garrett if Shedeur Sanders had performed at a higher level. They analyze Mary Kay Cabot's reporting on Garrett's desire for a larger market versus the team's strategic need to find a franchise quarterback. The segment also touches on fan reactions and highlights from the recent ESPY Awards.
Mary Kay Cabot analyzes the high-stakes quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders heading into Browns training camp. She also shares thoughts on Jerry Jeudy’s outlook and the future of depth quarterbacks Dylan Gabriel and Taylen Green.
After a roundup of Cleveland sports news and a discussion on local air quality, Anthony Lima recounts a debate with a student regarding the effectiveness of Guardians owner Paul Dolan. They evaluate the franchise's consistent success and long-term stability in contrast to the championship-or-bust mentality of fans.
Are the Kenny Atkinson jokes getting old? KAT doesn't think so...
Discussion dives into the controversial theory of NFL owner collusion regarding Lamar Jackson's contract and his lack of a traditional agent. The conversation also analyzes the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation and compares Dylan Gabriel to Shedeur Sanders. Local updates include LeBron James' upcoming appearance and the Guardians' All-Star break.
Ken and Tone analyze the Netflix "Quarterback" series and share their conflicting emotions regarding Baker Mayfield's time in Cleveland. They also discuss the heavy anticipation for LeBron James' free agency announcement and question a surprising take from Lance Reisland about Dillon Gabriel.
Ken Carman expresses his exhaustion with the ongoing rumors surrounding LeBron James and the Cavaliers, urging for a final decision. He later debates a passionate caller who maintains that the superstar's presence still guarantees a championship in Cleveland.
Ken and Anthony explore the exhaustion surrounding constant LeBron James rumors and the impact of fake social media reports. They reflect on how the current free agency cycle differs from the 2014 return before Jeff Thomas delivers a comprehensive sports update.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the legitimacy of LeBron James return rumors and whether Cleveland should be considered a championship contender regardless of his decision. They also discuss local air quality issues and the impact of social media 'leaks' on NBA free agency speculation.
Full show for The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima for Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Hour 1 of The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Hour 2 of The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Hour 3 of The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Hour 4 of The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Ken and Anthony talk about the current state of NFL offenses and whether or not a top 5 quarterback is necessary to win a Super Bowl.
Ken and Anthony revisit their conversation about whether or not the Cavaliers need LeBron to win, and ask if LeBron needs the Cavs more than they need him.
Ken and Anthony explain why Cleveland is the only destination LeBron can go and not tarnish his legacy.
Greg Swartz joined Ken Carman and Anthony Lima and discussed the latest news on the LeBron and his potential destinations for the 2026 season. He breaks every team that has been discussed as a front-runner for the super star and which destinations seem most likely, as well as what adjustments the Cavaliers roster will need to make if LeBron comes back to Cleveland.
Ken and Anthony talk about yet another team that has seemed to emerge as a front-runner for LeBron James and they talk about how serious this team could be.
Ken and Anthony debate whether or not the starting quarterback job should be Shedeur's to lose or if it belongs to Watson.
Ken and Anthony react to a clip from the Netflix show "Quarterback" where Joe Flacco makes fun of Shedeur Sanders for the visor he wears, and they talk about the idea of Shedeur and Deshaun having competing off-season quarterback camps.
Ken and Anthony try to figure out whether or not it's better to stay in permanent Daylight Savings Time, or if we should continue to change our clocks twice a year.
Ken and Anthony talk about the strength of the Cavs' roster and whether or not LeBron is necessary for them to be Eastern Conference contenders.
Ken and Anthony share their takeaways from MLB's All-Star game and Ken explains why he thinks Major League Baseball has the best All Star activities and game.
The Full Ken Carmen and Anthony Lima show from Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Ken Carmen and Anthony Lima evaluate the visibility of the Home Run Derby on Netflix and the difficulties fans face with fragmented sports streaming. They debate whether LeBron James will utilize the Fanatics FanFest to announce his highly anticipated free agency decision. On The Ken Carmen Show with Anthony Lima, they also analyze the Cleveland Guardians' offensive struggles heading into the postseason.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima address the backlash regarding Carman's claim that he would be devastated if LeBron James does not return to the Cavaliers. They also explore the emotional experience of the Big Boy steam engine's visit to Ohio and recap recent sports news including Alex Rodriguez's awkward interview with Justin Verlander.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the prospect of LeBron James joining the Philadelphia 76ers and how it affects his standing in Cleveland. They are joined by Mike Sielski to rank Philadelphia sports legends and discuss the city's potential to embrace the King. The conversation also explores the ongoing debate between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders and the high expectations for quarterback performance under Todd Monken.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss why LeBron James should prioritize his legacy by returning to Cleveland rather than chasing rings in other cities. They also analyze the Cleveland Guardians' offensive struggles and the team's long-term potential behind Jose Ramirez. Producer John Colavita checks in from the All-Star Game in Philadelphia with updates on Travis Bazzana.
John Colavita reports from the MLB All-Star festivities in Philadelphia, providing a recap of his conversation with top draft pick Travis Bazzana. He joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to discuss local LeBron James rumors and answer questions about a controversial nickname in his phone contacts.
Anthony explores why LeBron James should prioritize a Cleveland homecoming to cement his legendary status. They debate the 'ring chaser' label and suggest that even without a title, finishing where it all started provides the perfect documentary ending compared to a potential whimper in other cities.
Ken Carman examines the Cleveland Guardians' postseason potential and addresses concerns regarding their offensive production. He highlights the impact of Jose Ramirez on the roster's development and draws a comparison between the star third baseman and Patrick Mahomes.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Mike Sielski's comments about LeBron James potentially becoming a "god" in Philadelphia. They argue that returning to Cleveland offers a superior legacy narrative compared to joining other contenders like the 76ers or Heat.
Ken Carmen and Anthony Lima talk with Mike Sielski about the potential of LeBron James joining the Philadelphia 76ers and the impact he would have on the city's sports legacy. Sielski breaks down the front office changes under Bob Myers and how the current roster makes Philadelphia an attractive destination. They also touch on the local sports pecking order and the latest Guardians All-Star news.
They examine the fan discourse surrounding Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson while questioning why the debate remains so heated in July. The discussion also touches on Malik Thomas' Summer League performance and the role Todd Monken will play in evaluating the quarterback room.
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Ken Carman and Anthony Lima share their fascination with the Big Boy steam locomotive and the massive crowds it drew to Cleveland. They also debate if LeBron James choosing another team over the Cavaliers would be a mistake for his career legacy. 01:11 - Big Boy Train Sighting 06:13 - Missing The Train Again 10:35 - LeBron James Return Debate
Anthony Lima clarifies his controversial statement that he would be "devastated" if LeBron James does not return to Cleveland for a career finale. Ken Carman and Lima also discuss the national perception of the Guardians and why fans seem less connected to the current Cavaliers roster. They debate whether the relatability of players like Steven Kwan impacts how Cleveland sports fans view their teams.
The discussion focuses on the Guardians' offensive struggles and whether their low slugging percentage prevents them from being seen as a legitimate postseason threat. They also explore how modern ring culture and an obsession with championships can alienate fans from enjoying the regular season journey.
Lima and Ken analyze the likelihood of LeBron James announcing his return to the Cleveland Cavaliers during the upcoming Fanatics Fest in New York. They compare the potential spectacle to his 2010 decision and discuss reports from Chris Haynes regarding the current deliberation process.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the visibility of the Home Run Derby on Netflix and debate the merits of the event's new rules. They also explore ways to improve the MLB Draft and review John Tortolani's interviews with Guardians All-Stars in Philadelphia.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan give their thoughts on Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson publicly courting "the greatest player of all-time." Is it wise for Atkinson to openly confirm the Cavs' pursuit, and will it impact LeBron's thinking at all as he weighs a potential third stint with his hometown team?
The Full Show of Ken Carmen with Anthony Lima on July 13, 2026
Ken and Anthony analyze the growing frustration in Cleveland as the wait for LeBron James' free agency decision continues. They weigh the potential impact on the Cavaliers' roster and contrast the basketball drama with the Guardians' impressive win streak before the All-Star break.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate Kenny Atkinson's recent comments about the Cavaliers' interest in a LeBron James reunion. They explore how the roster would mesh with Donovan Mitchell and the potential heartbreak for fans if the move fails. Additionally, they recap the Guardians' recent sweep and discuss a strange injury in the UFC.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the latest NFL executive rankings that place Josh Allen as the top quarterback over Patrick Mahomes. They are joined by Lance Reisland to discuss the defensive leadership transition from Myles Garrett to Jared Verse. They also evaluate the future of the quarterback position and address rumors regarding LeBron James potentially returning to Miami.
James Jackson joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to evaluate LeBron James' potential return to Cleveland. They also discuss Miami Heat internal dynamics and how the NBA's second apron affects team building. 01:38 - James Jackson on LeBron 04:21 - Evaluating LeBron's Basketball Fits 10:04 - Heat Drama & NBA Finances 14:21 - Most Beloved Heat Players 18:17 - Welcoming LeBron to Cleveland
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima explore why Cleveland fans should embrace a potential LeBron James return, dismissing critics of his past departures. They contrast local loyalty with rooting for stars like Phil Mickelson while evaluating the influence of agent Rich Paul on LeBron's final career chapters.
James Jackson from The Athletic explores the potential landing spots for LeBron James, weighing the benefits of a return to Cleveland or Miami. They analyze how the NBA’s second apron is complicating roster construction for top contenders like the Celtics and Nuggets. Finally, the discussion touches on recent social media friction between Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down ESPN's latest rankings of NFL quarterbacks where Josh Allen surpassed Patrick Mahomes for the top spot. They argue whether playoff success is being overlooked and evaluate where Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford belong on the list.
They analyze the impact of losing Miles Garrett and Jim Schwartz on the Cleveland Browns defensive unit. Discussion centers on whether Jared Verse can step into a leadership role and how the team will handle the pressure of maintaining elite performance. They also explore rumors regarding LeBron James' potential return and the competition between Cleveland and Miami.
Lance Riseland joins the program to discuss the quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders within a Todd Monken-style offensive system. They evaluate how defensive leadership from players like Jared Verse impacts a roster and predict breakout production for stars like KC Concepcion and Quinshon Judkins.
Going through all sports news from the weekend, hear the dicussion surrounding what 'Lima Likes.'
They break down Rich Paul's recent comments about LeBron James and the growing speculation of a return to the Cavaliers. The discussion also covers Kenny Atkinson's public endorsement of the pursuit and how the team might retool its roster around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Kenny Atkinson’s public comments regarding the Cavaliers' pursuit of LeBron James in free agency. They debate the necessity of making a formal pitch and the potential heartbreak for Cleveland fans if the superstar chooses another team.
The Guardians enter the All-Star break on a high note after sweeping their way to a four-game winning streak. Discussions highlight the improved pitching and the return to form for Steven Kwan and Chase DeLauter. The focus then shifts to the massive crowds gathering to catch a glimpse of the Union Pacific Big Boy train.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the agonizing wait for LeBron James' next decision and the significant influence of agent Rich Paul. They break down rumors regarding Draymond Green's recruitment efforts and analyze how the current timeline compares to previous free agency cycles. 01:24 - Traffic Report 02:56 - LeBron Decision Wait 06:54 - Draymond Green Rumors
Rumors continue to swirl, but there's still no word from the man of the hour. LeBron James' future remains up in the air, and while Ken is growing tired of the waiting, Lima doesn't mind being in the middle of what is becoming a historic offseason.
Featuring Mary Kay Cabot, Jason Lloyd, Jared Diamond, Danny Green, and Phil Steele.
It's always Browns season in Cleveland, even amid one of the slower periods in the NFL calendar. The guys spent plenty time discussing newly acquired edge rusher Jared Verse this week -- what his role on the team is, the expectation for him, the responsibility of filling Myles Garrett's Hall of Fame-sized shoes. Plus, an ESPN ranking was none too kind to the Browns, but was it fair?
Tune in as the guys on 92.3 The Fan dissect the Guardians' controversial lineup choices, the front office's control over in-game decisions, whether the team is truly the American League favorite, and the prospect of a potential Francisco Lindor return to Cleveland.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan break down the swirling rumors about LeBron James' future and debate whether a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers or the Miami Heat makes the most basketball sense. Plus, they react to former teammate Danny Green's recent comments to analyze Donovan Mitchell's current contract situation, and whether the roster has what it takes to win an NBA Championship without another superstar.
Ken and Anthony are back after the July 4th holiday. The guys react to Team USA getting unceremoniously bounced from the World Cup; a bizarre report involving Sean Payton and Bill Belichick; the national media's apparent bias on the possibility of LeBron returning to Cleveland; and a scorching hot take from Bill Simmons.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the feverish rumors surrounding LeBron James’ potential return to Cleveland. They debate the possibility of adding Draymond Green to the roster, interview Justin Latta about the Guardians' trade deadline strategy, and discuss the controversial firing of Spurs announcer Jacob Tobey. The segment wraps up with a polarizing debate on the social protocols of bringing children into bars. 01:55 - LeBron's Cleveland Fit 07:05 - Bill Simmons Audio 13:20 - Gary Payton Interview 17:45 - Draymond Green Debate 25:45 - Jared Allen Trade 36:10 - Evan Mobley Mentality 40:20 - Quarterback Workout Videos 46:45 - Media Era Athletes 51:00 - Justin Latta Interview 58:50 - Guardians Trade Targets 01:04:30 - Francisco Lindor Rumors 01:10:20 - Bryce Harper Controversy 01:16:45 - Chipotle Driving Debate 01:27:55 - Jared Verse Sacks 01:33:20 - Myles Garrett Comparison 01:40:30 - JR Smith Parallel 01:51:45 - Jacob Tobey Firing 02:01:55 - Rich Paul Update 02:08:30 - Decision Day Approaching 02:22:50 - Kids At Bars
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the speculation surrounding LeBron James' return to Cleveland and Bill Simmons' latest podcast comments. They also debate whether trading for Draymond Green is the right move to address the team's need for toughness. 01:20 - Speculating on LeBron's Return 06:32 - National Media Perspectives 12:12 - LeBron and Draymond Rumors 18:02 - Addressing Cavaliers' Toughness 26:32 - Trading Jared Allen 34:30 - Callers Debate Draymond
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down social media workout videos from Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, questioning if Todd Monken values brand-building "grind" over practice tape. They talk with Justin Lada about Steven Kwan's trade value and a potential Francisco Lindor return. Additionally, they react to a bizarre gambling controversy involving Bryce Harper and FanDuel. 01:50 - Guardians And Quarterback Workouts 06:15 - Evaluating Monken's QB Competition 10:35 - The New Media Athlete 16:12 - Justin Lada On Guardians 21:50 - Fixing The Cleveland Bullpen 27:07 - Lindor Return Trade Rumors 35:10 - Bryce Harper Gambling Controversy 39:46 - Broadcaster Scandals
Anthony Lima and Ken Carman evaluate the possibility of Draymond Green joining LeBron James in Cleveland, debating if his edginess could fix the perception that the Cavaliers are soft. They also discuss the firing of San Antonio Spurs announcer Jacob Tobey following social media allegations involving Lindy Waters III’s sister. Additionally, the conversation touches on the Cleveland Guardians' trade philosophy and Bill Barnwell's sack prediction for Jared Verse. 02:02 - Cleveland Guardians Trade Fantasy 09:08 - Verse vs Garrett Sacks 15:44 - Draymond Green to Cleveland 22:18 - Fixing the Soft Label 32:32 - Jacob Tobey Firing Scandal
Anthony Lima and Ken Carman speculate on LeBron James' potential return to Cleveland and the career trajectory of Bronny James under agent Rich Paul. The discussion takes a personal turn as Lima polls listeners on whether it is appropriate to bring his two-year-old son to a neighborhood bar while his wife is away. Callers share their perspectives on the cultural shift regarding children in drinking establishments. 17:57 - LeBron And Bronny Speculation 19:33 - Draymond Green Joining Cleveland 20:41 - Taking Toddlers To Bars 24:42 - Caller Opinions On Bars
Ken and Anthony play a supposed Rich Paul update on LeBron's decision that turns out to be nothing new, with Paul admitting he doesn't know what LeBron is doing either, prompting the hosts to swear off covering the story further. A string of prank and joke calls follow, including bits about trading for Bronny James and Draymond Green softening his image via a Kevin Hart roast appearance. The segment pivots into Anthony debating whether it's appropriate to take his two and a half year old son to a neighborhood bar while his wife is out of town, with callers weighing in both for and against. The bit wraps with a Fan Cash Friday winner shoutout before transitioning to the next segment.
Ken and Anthony poke fun at a listener who claims he'll stop watching the Cavs entirely if Draymond Green ends up on the roster, questioning why that would be the breaking point after years of fandom. They play Shams Charania's report detailing how suitors like Cleveland, Miami, and Golden State have been sending voice memos through Rich Paul to pitch LeBron, joking the whole thing is being farmed for content ahead of his eventual documentary. The hosts admit fatigue with the rumor cycle, arguing every realistic case for Cleveland has already been made and there's nothing left to say to sway him. They close by noting LeBron likely made his decision privately long ago, comparing it to his past free agency moves, before teasing another update from Rich Paul coming up.
Ken and Anthony break down the firing of Spurs play-by-play broadcaster Jacob Tobey, who was let go after his girlfriend of six years exposed an alleged affair with the sister of Spurs guard Lindy Waters III on his Instagram. Both hosts agree the firing was justified, arguing Tobey isn't a big enough name to be worth the distraction and that fraternizing with people connected to the team he covers crosses an obvious line. They contrast the situation with an ongoing NFL coach scandal that hasn't resulted in a firing, joking about the different standards for a married head coach versus a replaceable broadcaster. The segment veers into riffing on Tobey's speaker bio, including his side gigs as a musician and his Native American name, before wrapping up with mock sympathy for his career prospects.
Ken makes the case that if LeBron could turn JR Smith, once reviled by Knicks fans, into a beloved Cleveland fan favorite, he can absolutely keep Draymond Green in line for one season. He argues Cavs fans hated LeBron himself more than they'd ever hate Draymond during his Miami years, yet came around within a few seasons, so a similar redemption arc is plausible. The hosts acknowledge Draymond's history of losing his cool in big moments but insist his business partnership and documentary plans with LeBron give him every incentive to behave. A caller, Thomas from Shaker Heights, adds that Draymond could be the tough "big brother" Evan Mobley needs, comparing it favorably to the fallout from the Jordan Poole situation.
Ken and Anthony play audio of ESPN's Bill Barnwell making the case that Jared Verse could finish the season with more sacks than Myles Garrett, citing the Rams' deep defensive line rotation and potential double teams on Garrett as the Browns' clear focal point. The hosts admit it's a hot take but concede the reasoning has merit, then pivot to worrying aloud about unfair comparisons Browns fans might make between the two pass rushers all season. They also revisit earlier audio of Justin Lada explaining why Jose Ramirez would likely support a Francisco Lindor reunion despite Lindor's down year. The segment closes with a broader discussion on why Cleveland's playoff-hunt fatigue makes trade buzz harder to gauge given how many AL teams remain in contention.
Ken and Anthony bring in producer John to recap the Guardians avoiding a sweep behind Gavin Williams' strong start and a power surge, previewing the tough upcoming Marlins series as a real test before the break. They then dig into the Bryce Harper controversy, where a personalized FanDuel cameo video surfaced in a lawsuit from a bettor who wagered 18.5 million dollars and lost 1.5 million, prompting the hosts to joke about recording a similar cameo for Brendan Sorsby. The conversation drifts into gambling more broadly, with John admitting he once bet on a Notre Dame game while driving to call a different game, drawing comparisons to the San Antonio broadcaster who lost his job over a gambling scandal. The segment closes with the hosts ribbing John about eating Chipotle while driving before teasing more Jared Verse trade talk coming up.
Justin Lada of Locked On Guardians joins Ken and Anthony to argue against trading a hot-hitting Steven Kwan, noting there's no real replacement and the return wouldn't be worth it with Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez set to return. He explains the offense has grown passive and pressed at the plate, and identifies bullpen help as the deadline priority, pointing to internal options like Yoramon Gomez as potential converts if a trade market doesn't materialize. Lada also weighs in on Francisco Lindor speculation, saying he'd welcome a reunion if money weren't an issue, and calls for an upgrade over Rhys Hoskins given Ty France's stronger production elsewhere. He closes by praising Brayan Rocchio's improved contact and confidence, though he's skeptical the hot stretch fully sustains.
Ken and Anthony poke fun at the summer flood of Browns quarterback workout videos, joking that Shedeur Sanders is out-hustling Deshaun Watson with multiple daily sessions and even throws with his eyes closed. They argue the whole "competition" playing out on social media is meaningless since it's not a public vote and Todd Monken won't decide the job based on Instagram clips. The hosts note Shedeur would win any fan popularity contest in a landslide, but stress that conducting the offense, teammate confidence, and actually completing passes in practice are what will really decide the starter.
Ken and Anthony continue the Draymond Green debate, arguing his defensive IQ and toughness could unlock Evan Mobley in a way Jarrett Allen never has, especially with LeBron there to keep him in line. Caller Kool Ray flatly rejects the idea, insisting Draymond is all talk in the NBA and that Jarrett Allen already provides the toughness the Cavs need. Caller Deshawn disagrees, saying he'd have made a straight Allen-for-Draymond swap even without LeBron in the mix, pointing to Draymond's basketball IQ and leadership on both ends. The hosts also note the Eastern Conference may be getting weaker, with Kawhi Leonard and Toronto's situation giving them extra reason for optimism about a LeBron return.
Ken and Anthony debate whether the Cavs should pursue Draymond Green if it helps land LeBron James, arguing his toughness and edge could fix the "soft" label that's dogged Cleveland for years. They point out Draymond's durability and leadership despite his history of cheap shots and technical fouls, suggesting LeBron could keep him in line. The hosts dig into the money problem, noting Draymond turned down $27 million and would need to be made whole, likely meaning Jarrett Allen gets moved in a sign-and-trade to clear space. They close by asking listeners if they'd accept Draymond's baggage for a shot at contending with LeBron back in the fold.
Ken and Anthony play audio of Bill Simmons declaring on his own podcast that the LeBron sweepstakes are over and Cleveland has won, while also suggesting Golden State got used as leverage. The hosts riff on how national media guys secretly dread covering games in Cleveland, joking that reporters have reduced the city to one steakhouse the same way they did Indianapolis. They pivot to Gary Payton's take on Sirius XM, where he argues LeBron should instead chase a title with the Sixers or Warriors, citing his daughter's volleyball career in LA. The segment closes with the hosts admitting fatigue over the nonstop rumor cycle as the decision looms.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima reflect on their recent interview with Jimmy Hart and the nostalgic impact of the NWO era. They explore the nuances of interviewing comedians like Bill Burr and share stories about the high costs of wrestling hotlines in the 1990s. 01:00 - Reflecting on Jimmy Hart 04:49 - Interviewing Comedians and Bits 08:38 - Wrestling Nostalgia and NWO 12:22 - Childhood Wrestling Hotline Stories 14:59 - Beatles vs. Rolling Stones
Ken and Lima discuss the ongoing struggles of the Cleveland Guardians bullpen and the impact of Jose Ramirez's absence on the team's offensive output. The conversation shifts to the Cleveland Browns' potential salary cap maneuvers and an extensive analysis of LeBron James' possible return to the Cavaliers, alongside an interview with wrestling legend Jimmy Hart. 03:04 - Guardians Bullpen Struggles 08:10 - Jose Ramirez Absence 12:45 - Guardians Team Vibes 22:39 - Shedeur Sanders Buzz 28:05 - Browns Salary Cap 34:00 - Ken's Health Scares 44:44 - LeBron Return Speculation 53:00 - Cavs Postseason Outlook 01:02:00 - LeBron's Durability Secrets 01:11:55 - Pitcher Usage Controversy 01:18:20 - Justin Verlander Legacy 01:27:30 - Guardians Deadline Strategy 01:35:12 - Mary Kay Cabot 01:45:45 - Browns Training Camp 01:53:30 - Front Office Poll 02:07:03 - Pass Rusher Debate 02:20:06 - Jimmy Hart Interview 02:31:08 - Iconic Heel Turn 02:39:19 - Pro Wrestling History
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the recent struggles of the Cleveland Guardians bullpen and the defensive errors plaguing the team. They also discuss the buzz surrounding Shedeur Sanders working out with Jim Tressel and debate the reality of the NFL salary cap. 02:42 - Guardians Bullpen Woes 08:20 - AL Central Division Race 15:15 - Cavs vs Guardians Outlook 18:30 - Bazzana and Ingle Errors 22:45 - Sanders Tressel Workout 27:10 - Watson Insurance Talk 36:00 - Ken's Midnight Cramp Crisis 40:30 - Upcoming Guests Preview
Ken and Lima explore the rumors surrounding LeBron James potentially returning to the Cavaliers and the legitimacy of the Miami Heat as a suitor. They also address the recent struggles of the Cleveland Guardians and the frustrating trend of pulling pitchers during dominant outings. 01:54 - North Olmsted Solutions 05:26 - Miami Heat Threat 09:54 - LeBron's Legacy Impact 14:05 - Jared Allen Trade 19:32 - Developing Evan Mobley 23:04 - Durability Culture Bonus 32:12 - Guardians Slumping Lineup 36:32 - Pitching Management Trends 38:30 - Verlander's Career Legacy
Ken and Anthony analyze the Cleveland Guardians' performance and explain why they believe selling at the trade deadline would be a mistake despite recent struggles. Mary Kay Cabot joins to discuss the Browns' quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also debate which of them is better suited for a professional front office role. 02:19 - Youth Baseball Practice Banter 06:03 - Guardians Trade Deadline Outlook 15:30 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 20:14 - Deshaun Watson Injury Status 23:54 - Browns Training Camp Focus 33:01 - Front Office Career Debate
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima interview wrestling legend Jimmy Hart about his prolific career managing superstars and composing iconic theme songs like "Sexy Boy." They discuss the transition of the NWO and Hulk Hogan’s heel turn while debating the legacy of Myles Garrett compared to T.J. Watt. The conversation also covers LeBron James' free agency and potential landing spots like Miami or a return to Cleveland. 02:41 - Front Office Coaching Debate 05:42 - Myles Garrett Legacy Discussion 09:12 - LeBron James Free Agency 18:41 - Jimmy Hart Interview Begins 23:31 - Composing Iconic Entrance Themes 27:50 - NWO And Hulk Hogan 35:53 - Vince McMahon Megaphone Story 39:55 - State Of Modern Wrestling
WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Hart stops by the show ahead of Wrestling Under the Stars at Forefront Field, sharing stories from his decades managing some of wrestling's biggest names. He talks about his music career alongside wrestling, including writing entrance themes and a surprise new album coming out later this year. Hart also reminisces about working with Hulk Hogan during the NWO heel turn and his unusual friendship with Andy Kaufman. He wraps up by praising today's generation of WWE stars and promoting Saturday's live event, which features several wrestling legends and tickets starting at 15 dollars.
Miami poses the biggest threat to the Cavaliers landing LeBron James, citing Pat Riley, Erik Spoelstra, and the nostalgia of two championships and four straight Finals appearances there, while noting Golden State's buzz has quietly faded. He and Anthony also debate whether Myles Garrett's new pass rusher ranking as the league's best changes their view of him now that he is a Ram, agreeing they will still watch closely but want to see if his leadership shows up on a new team. Anthony argues Jared Verse could eventually become more beloved than Garrett if the Browns start winning playoff games with him leading the defense. They close by ranking Philadelphia as a serious threat too, questioning whether Joel Embiid's health will hold him back, while dismissing Minnesota as no longer in the conversation.
Ken and Anthony debate a fan poll asking who would run a better Browns front office, with Ken surprised his lead is only 59 percent given his football knowledge, while Anthony argues his own weakness is being too emotionally attached to players and teams to make cold, cutthroat decisions. They point to rising trends of media and agent backgrounds infiltrating NBA and NFL front offices, citing Bob Myers, Rob Pelinka, and Leon Rose as examples of relationship-driven executives succeeding. Ken says he would struggle to cut a player he personally liked, while Anthony jokes he would thrive as a college football general manager because he values relationships and people over pure scheme knowledge. They close by noting most star athletes, unlike John Lynch, don't have the curiosity needed to translate playing careers into front office success.
Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken and Anthony to break down who fills the marketing void left by Myles Garrett's trade, predicting Jared Verse, the new receivers, and possibly Denzel Ward will draw attention, with Shedeur Sanders becoming the face of the franchise if he wins the starting job. She also addresses the Deshaun Watson insurance cap savings confusion, noting she hasn't confirmed the exact figure but has seen an estimate around 9.8 million dollars, and downplays reports of shoulder fatigue as minor inconsistencies worth monitoring rather than a real concern. On the quarterback competition, she says Sanders needs to keep improving his pre-snap operation and decision-making speed to close the gap with Watson. Cabot also predicts Jared Verse will become more of a unifying, beloved locker room presence than Garrett ever was, given his more sociable personality.
Amid a brutal four-game skid and a bullpen implosion, chatter has emerged that the Guardians should become sellers before the trade deadline, but Ken and Anthony flatly reject it. They argue there is nobody worth moving since the roster is stocked with cheap, young core pieces like Travis Bazzana, Cooper Ingle, and Angel Martinez who are central to the franchise's future, not trade chips. Anthony points out some of the frustration stems from Cavs fatigue bleeding into how fans view the Guardians, while Ken argues the team still deserves the benefit of the doubt given a weak AL Central and the absence of Jose Ramirez. Rather than a splashy sell off, they suggest smaller moves like adding a reliever or converting a Triple A arm into bullpen depth.
Ken and Anthony bring in producer John to break down the Guardians' walk-off loss to the Twins, a game they say Cleveland should have won despite sloppy pitching that included eight walks and a bases-loaded jam in the seventh. They note the offense is now dead last in the league in slugging percentage, arguing someone beyond Austin Hedges needs to step up as a leader while Jose Ramirez is out. The conversation shifts into a rant about MLB pitchers being pulled during perfect games due to pitch-count management, which the hosts call bad for the sport, before wrapping with a lighthearted debate over which athlete they'd trade places with, landing on the recently retired Justin Verlander.
Ken and Anthony admit they have officially let their hopes rise on LeBron James returning to Cleveland, even as they take Miami seriously as a threat given the roster fit and history with Pat Riley. Charles Barkley weighs in publicly, arguing LeBron's homecoming to Cleveland would be the most fitting way to finish his career compared to ring-chasing narratives elsewhere. The hosts debate who benefits most from a LeBron return, landing on Evan Mobley as the player who could take the biggest leap under his influence and durability example. They close by placing the Cavs among the top three or four teams in the league if LeBron comes back, while acknowledging real malaise will set in around the franchise if the deal falls through.
Ken and Anthony debate LeBron James' free agency, arguing that while Cleveland is the frontrunner, Miami is the only other realistic contender given LeBron's history with Pat Riley and the organization's basketball seriousness. They push back on the assumption that Cleveland is a lock, citing the sting of LeBron's 2010 departure and stressing the Cavs need to sell him on substance and a real title chance, not just nostalgia. The hosts also debate roster fit, arguing Cleveland is already a better team than Miami even without LeBron given the Heat's thin assets. They close by noting the delicate balance the Cavs would need to strike between competing now and managing a 40-year-old LeBron's minutes over a potential farewell season.
Ken recounts a golf outing with Lima where he hit the best drives of his life, then describes waking up screaming at 3am from brutal leg cramps that sent his wife scrambling for pickles and mustard. The conversation shifts to the Guardians, with the hosts pushed to give realistic solutions to the slump instead of fantasy fixes like a Francisco Lindor reunion. They settle on getting a healthy Jose Ramirez back after the All-Star break as the most realistic path, while admitting the bullpen issues with Emmanuel Clase and Sean Armstrong are still unsolved. The hosts insist they aren't ready to wave the white flag, even with the Twins and White Sox breathing down Cleveland's neck.
Ken and Anthony jokingly declare Shedeur Sanders the winner of the Browns QB battle after video surfaced of him training under legendary coach Jim Tressel. They contrast that offseason win with Deshaun Watson's news, a murky update on his contract's insurance situation that reporter Mike Florio had to walk back after publishing bad numbers. The mix-up spins into a bigger rant from Ken about how the NFL salary cap isn't really a hard rule, a point he says fans are finally coming around on. The hosts wrap by poking fun at themselves for turning every offseason update into another Shedeur versus Deshaun debate.
Ken and Anthony break down a brutal Guardians loss where the bullpen walked 14 batters and burned through seven relievers, dropping Cleveland a game behind the White Sox. They debate whether something is physically wrong with Emmanuel Clase after his wild outing, question the bullpen options for the next game, and wonder if the malaise from a mediocre Cavs stretch has bled into how fans view the Guardians. The hosts ultimately argue the team deserves more benefit of the doubt given they are defending division champs still without Jose Ramirez, even as they admit June and early July have been ugly.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down Donovan Mitchell's massive four-year extension with the Cavaliers and investigate the growing rumors surrounding a potential LeBron James return to Cleveland. They also discuss the Guardians' trade needs, including the possibility of bringing back Francisco Lindor, and compare hypothetical roster moves involving Jared Verse and Myles Garrett. Jason Lloyd joins to provide insight into the current NBA landscape and LeBron's impending free agency decision. 01:50 - Mitchell Extension Analysis 11:45 - Concert Experience Recap 22:40 - Francisco Lindor Rumors 32:30 - Mitchell Contract Critics 42:50 - NBA Financial Landscape 55:55 - Analyzing Quinn's Take 01:06:10 - Jared Verse Potential 01:18:40 - Browns Roster Leadership 01:32:05 - Jason Lloyd Interview 01:43:35 - LeBron Legacy Standard 01:52:50 - Sixers LeBron Pitch 02:02:20 - Cavs Return Pitch 02:13:30 - Decision Drama History 02:23:35 - Firestone Country Club 02:35:15 - Cavs Draft Assets 02:44:00 - Show Wrap Up
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the electric atmosphere at the Usher and Chris Brown concert in Cleveland, including a viral moment with a Browns jersey. They transition into sports to evaluate Donovan Mitchell's extension and the likelihood of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers. They then debate a potential trade for Francisco Lindor and how it would affect Jose Ramirez's clubhouse leadership. 02:20 - Ken Carman's Concert Recap 05:35 - Usher Jersey Viral Moment 08:45 - Stage Performance Controversy 16:10 - LeBron James Return Rumors 22:13 - Francisco Lindor Return Debate 30:09 - Donovan Mitchell Extension Reaction
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the fallout of Donovan Mitchell's contract extension and whether he can lead the Cavaliers to a championship. They also analyze the leadership qualities of Jared Verse in contrast to Miles Garrett and how Cleveland fans perceive stars who don't play quarterback. 01:07 - Donovan Mitchell Contract 04:33 - NBA CBA Challenges 08:38 - Mitchell Playoff Value 14:21 - Sam Quinn Commentary 19:32 - Evan Mobley Development 24:07 - Jared Verse Leadership 29:58 - Verse vs Garrett 34:50 - Cleveland Quarterback Void
Jason Lloyd joins Ken and Tone to discuss why Donovan Mitchell's extension is a major victory for the Cavaliers. They analyze the impact of LeBron James' legacy on fan expectations and debate whether the team needs to make a formal pitch to bring James back. The discussion also explores Browns rookie Jared Verse and his potential to provide the leadership some felt Myles Garrett lacked. 02:01 - Physique and confidence theories 05:24 - Jared Verse leadership potential 08:57 - Flacco vs Garrett leadership 14:07 - Jason Lloyd on LeBron James 20:02 - Mitchell extension impact 23:44 - Spoiled by LeBron's legacy 28:20 - Francisco Lindor return rumors 34:45 - Public free agency pitches 40:38 - Cavs potential LeBron pitch
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze whether team president Koby Altman needs to make a formal presentation to lure LeBron James back to Cleveland. They examine Bob Myers' recent public efforts and discuss the balance between showing respect and avoiding desperation. 02:07 - Pitching LeBron James 05:48 - Analyzing LeBron Nostalgia 09:15 - The Need for Respect 16:30 - Bob Myers' Podcast Pitch 20:21 - Fans Support the Pitch 24:12 - Defending Maverick Carter 28:52 - Effort and Relationships 32:29 - Future Draft Capital 38:17 - Roster Spots for Sons 41:51 - Francisco Lindor Return Debate
Ken and Anthony dig into the Cavs' bleak draft capital situation, noting Cleveland has no true first-round pick until 2031 and no second-rounder in 2027, before Anthony floats a tongue-in-cheek plan to sweeten a LeBron pitch by getting his son Bryce a roster or G League spot with the Cleveland Charge. They point to precedent around the league, like the Knicks hiring Jalen Brunson's father as a coach before his discounted deal, as evidence this kind of family favor isn't unheard of, even if it reeks of nepotism. The segment closes with a quick return to the Francisco Lindor debate, with Anthony now saying he'd welcome a reunion despite the massive contract, before teasing Mary Kay Cabot's appearance on Thursday's show.
Ken and Anthony dig further into the Bob Myers pitch controversy, replaying the clip and debating whether Kobe Altman needs to do something similar without going overboard on flattery. They note the symbolic timing of today being the anniversary of LeBron's 2010 "Decision," with Anthony revealing Donovan Mitchell was reportedly in the crowd that day as a kid. Callers weigh in heavily in Ken's favor, including Diane comparing it to wanting respect at any job, and Chuck comparing it to needing to hear "I love you" from his wife, while another caller jokingly suggests the guaranteed way to land LeBron is getting Trump to publicly tell him not to go to Cleveland. The segment closes with a caller theorizing the Cavs may already have a roster spot lined up for Bronny James as part of the pitch, teasing a return to the Francisco Lindor debate next.
Ken takes heat from callers after arguing the Cavs need to make a genuine, public effort to bring LeBron back rather than assume nostalgia alone will do the trick. Multiple callers, including one who compares Bob Myers' pitch to a "pathetic loser" move, push back that a legend like LeBron shouldn't need to be courted and that the Cavs have already done their work behind the scenes. Ken clarifies he's not asking anyone to beg, just to give LeBron real basketball reasons to return rather than taking his loyalty for granted the way he felt taken for granted in 2010. The segment closes with a callback to their old "Cleveland Classic" bit, floating other beloved former Cleveland players like Francisco Lindor they'd want to see return.
Ken and Anthony revisit the 2010 Cavs pitch to LeBron, including a bizarre Family Guy-style cartoon the front office made for him, before pivoting to the surreal modern version playing out on podcasts, where former GM Bob Myers openly pitched LeBron on joining the 76ers during an appearance on agent Rich Paul's show. The hosts debate whether Cavs front office figures like Kobe Altman should go on Rich Paul's podcast to make a public case for LeBron staying in Cleveland, with Anthony arguing a strong, respectful pitch is necessary while Ken worries it could look desperate. They agree LeBron still wants to feel wanted and that a genuine basketball-based case, not just fan nostalgia, is what should be made if the Cavs want him back. The segment closes by teasing the ongoing question of whether Cavs fans have been spoiled by the LeBron era and whether that's fueling unfair criticism of Donovan Mitchell.
Jason Lloyd joins Ken and Anthony and dodges a direct LeBron prediction, but notes Cleveland would've likely gotten a firmer signal by now if he wasn't seriously considering a return, drawing on his experience covering the 2010, 2014, and 2018 sagas. Lloyd praises the Cavs front office for making Donovan Mitchell comfortable enough to sign two extensions and pushes back on fan negativity, borrowing LeBron's old line that he "spoiled" everyone in Cleveland, arguing Mitchell is unfairly measured against the greatest player of his generation and the magic of the 2016 title run. He also says a Francisco Lindor reunion sounds fun in theory but isn't grounded in financial reality, and weighs in on Jared Verse, crediting the trade as well-timed given Myles Garrett's age and run-defense limitations, while cautioning it's still just July optimism talking.
After a "yay or boo" bit riffing on last night's concert and a running joke about Myles Garrett's shirtless press conferences, Ken doubles down on his stance that Jared Verse could eventually be more beloved in Cleveland than Garrett, even predicting the exact date fans will start complaining about Verse after a tough loss. He argues Garrett's immense talent excused a lack of vocal leadership, something he expects Verse to actually provide as the roster tries to build a winning culture around a young quarterback. A caller compares the situation to Joe Flacco's steadying veteran presence during the Browns' 2023 playoff run, and Ken agrees leadership, not sack totals, is what he's really hoping Verse brings to a locker room that's never had it from the front of the defense.
Ken and Anthony continue debating whether Jared Verse is being set up for unfair comparisons to Myles Garrett, with Anthony maintaining it's a disservice to hype Verse this early since he's a fraction of the all-time talent Garrett was. Ken counters that fans care more about likability and winning than pure talent, pointing to how Cleveland embraced Jose Ramirez and Nick Chubb over Garrett despite Garrett being the better player at his position. Both agree the Browns' lack of a franchise quarterback will unfairly cast a shadow over Verse's early years in Cleveland, the same way it did for Joe Thomas and Josh Cribbs, and predict fans will already be frustrated with him by the first tough Monday morning of the season. The segment closes teasing Jason Lloyd's take on the debate coming up shortly.
Ken and Anthony dig into national criticism of Donovan Mitchell's new deal, playing audio of CBS's Sam Quinn calling it a contract that won't age well, before pushing back that virtually every non-Jokic, non-Wembanyama max deal will get the same treatment going forward. A caller named Jeff argues Evan Mobley, not Mitchell, needs to take the leap offensively for the Cavs to become real contenders, leading Ken to float a thought experiment about how differently we'd view Mitchell with a stronger supporting cast like Jalen Brunson's. The segment shifts to the Browns, where Ken poses a provocative question about whether Jared Verse could ultimately become more beloved in Cleveland than Myles Garrett if he provides leadership and winning, prompting Anthony to call the framing a disservice that sets Verse up to fail by comparison.
Just hours after Donovan Mitchell signed his extension, national NBA media already started calling it a bad contract, exactly as Anthony predicted weeks earlier. Ken pushes back hard, arguing that almost every max contract for a non top-five player gets labeled bad in today's NBA and that the Cavs had no real alternative given what the Jarrett Allen and Jalen Brown trades suggest they'd get in return. Anthony and Ken agree the new CBA is forcing every team into this same bind, but they maintain Mitchell remains a top-tier player whose playoff heroics get unfairly compared to LeBron and Kyrie's career-best moments rather than a fair baseline. They close by teasing Jason Lloyd's take on where LeBron might land next and whether that's the same answer as where he legacy-wise should go.
Ken and Anthony continue debating a hypothetical Francisco Lindor reunion, with Ken now warming to the idea if it means upgrading a lineup spot currently held by Brayan Rocchio. A caller raises the idea that any Lindor trade should be run by Jose Ramirez first, since Jose took a hometown discount to stay in Cleveland, sparking a debate over how much say Jose should have in roster moves. The hosts agree Cleveland's strong clubhouse culture, unlike the dysfunctional Mets, is part of why the team has stayed competitive, and Ken says he'd defer to Jose's read on the potential addition. The segment closes by teasing the growing national criticism of Donovan Mitchell's new contract, which Anthony predicted weeks in advance.
Ken and Anthony debate a hypothetical Guardians trade for Francisco Lindor amid the Mets' clubhouse dysfunction, with Ken surprisingly open to the idea despite the money and Anthony firmly against it. Anthony argues it's not about the contract but the power dynamic, questioning whether Lindor would want to return to a clubhouse that's unquestionably Jose Ramirez's team after leaving Cleveland the way he did. They also touch on Joey Cantillo's rough second inning, defending his "battler" reputation as a legit third-starter ceiling rather than a knock, before setting up the Guardians' rotation questions heading into the All-Star break.
Ken and Anthony recap the previous night's Chris Brown/Usher concert before diving into LeBron James speculation. Richard Jefferson teased on a national radio hit that he, LeBron, and Rich Paul have been mapping out the entire free agency strategy and know exactly when and where LeBron will announce his decision, though the hosts are skeptical it wasn't just a bit. They break down why LeBron holds so much leverage around the league right now, with every owner reportedly desperate to land him for the financial and marketing upside. Ken argues this may be LeBron's last career decision anyone will actually care about, so he's going to draw it out for maximum value.
The Fan team breaks down Donovan Mitchell's massive new contract extension and debates whether he truly has what it takes to lead Cleveland to a championship.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the state of soccer in the United States following a disappointing World Cup performance. They compare the communal watching experience and traditions of the English Premier League to the cultural dominance of the NFL and college football. They also explore whether older fans can truly adopt new sports passions as they age. 01:43 - Men's Soccer Versus Women's 06:22 - NIL And Development Paths 08:11 - Comparing Soccer To Football 13:51 - National Pride In Basketball 20:34 - Future Of American Soccer
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to the breaking news of Donovan Mitchell signing a massive extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers. They analyze the U.S. soccer loss to Belgium, discuss LeBron James' potential homecoming, and debate the Browns' lowly roster ranking. 01:50 - LeBron Homecoming Rumors 06:45 - Team USA Soccer Loss 13:00 - Soccer Growth Debate 21:40 - Christian Pulisic Critique 52:06 - LeBron Legacy Analysis 59:30 - Browns Ranking Disrespect 01:09:15 - Watson and Shedeur 01:16:00 - Jaylen Brown Trade 01:23:40 - Lima Concert Plans 01:35:30 - Draymond Green Rumors 01:40:30 - Cavs Physicality Issues 01:52:40 - Payton's Radical Proposal 02:05:10 - Mitchell Signs Extension 02:18:15 - Mitchell's Star Status 02:30:15 - Anthony Davis Speculation 02:39:15 - NBA Power Shift
Ken and Lima analyze the buzz surrounding LeBron James potentially returning to the Cavaliers after recent sightings in Akron. They also break down Team USA’s World Cup exit and debate whether soccer will ever rival the popularity of the NFL. The discussion explores the challenges of athlete specialization in high school and the impact of LeBron’s free agency on Cleveland. 01:50 - LeBron Return Rumors 04:57 - World Cup Match Analysis 11:27 - American Soccer Popularity Debate 20:57 - Analysis Of Christian Pulisic 27:14 - High School Sports Specialization 38:55 - LeBron Free Agency Process
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze reports regarding LeBron James' free agency and the possibility of a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. They also tackle a controversial NFL ranking that places the Browns' roster 31st in the league and discuss how the new CBA impacted the Jalen Brown trade. 02:15 - LeBron James Free Agency Reports 06:05 - Ric Bucher’s NBA Insights 09:25 - Evaluating Potential Cavaliers Lineups 13:35 - Caller Joe on LeBron's Legacy 19:30 - Browns 31st in NFL Lineups 24:50 - Todd Monken and Andrew Barry 33:20 - Team USA and Jalen Brown Trade
Ken and Lima weigh the possibility of LeBron James returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers, specifically considering a rumor that Draymond Green might follow him. They debate whether Green's aggressive enforcer mentality is exactly what a team often labeled as soft needs to reach the next level. Additionally, they react to a bizarre report about Sean Payton's proposal to hire Bill Belichick in Denver. 01:50 - Landline Prank Stories 04:45 - Lima's Concert Anxiety 09:51 - Concert Content Warnings 16:40 - LeBron's Potential Return 20:40 - Draymond Green Debate 28:40 - Toughening Up Mobley 36:40 - Payton's Belichick Proposal
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Donovan Mitchell’s massive four-year extension and what it means for the Cavaliers' future. They debate whether this move paves the way for a LeBron James homecoming and address the lack of respect some fans show Mitchell. They also weigh in on potential trades for Anthony Davis and the state of the NBA's salary cap. 02:34 - Freddie Kitchens Argument 05:40 - Mitchell Contract Details 10:05 - Respecting Donovan Mitchell 14:50 - Daryl Ruiter’s Tweet 20:15 - Cleveland Legends Comparison 24:15 - US Soccer Struggles 28:40 - Anthony Davis Evaluation 36:50 - NBA Professional Conduct
Ken and Anthony poke fun at insider Daryl Ruiter, whose prediction that Donovan Mitchell wouldn't sign an extension broke just minutes before Mitchell actually signed. The hosts then debate whether Mitchell's long-term commitment strengthens the Cavs' pitch to LeBron, with Ken arguing fans should thank Jalen Brunson's Knicks stardom for keeping New York from ever seriously pursuing Mitchell. Callers float the idea of trading Jarrett Allen and Max Strus for an injury-prone Anthony Davis, with Ken comparing AD to Joe Burrow, a player with a sky-high ceiling but a health record that makes the move risky. The segment closes with Ken laying out how Mitchell's extension, Mobley's presumed long-term future, and a potential Harden agreement could all click into place to make a LeBron return, and even an AD trade, more palatable for fans.
Ken and Anthony poke fun at insider Daryl Ruiter, whose prediction that Donovan Mitchell wouldn't sign an extension broke just minutes before Mitchell actually signed. The hosts then debate whether Mitchell's long-term commitment strengthens the Cavs' pitch to LeBron, with Ken arguing fans should thank Jalen Brunson's Knicks stardom for keeping New York from ever seriously pursuing Mitchell. Callers float the idea of trading Jarrett Allen and Max Strus for an injury-prone Anthony Davis, with Ken comparing AD to Joe Burrow, a player with a sky-high ceiling but a health record that makes the move risky. The segment closes with Ken laying out how Mitchell's extension, Mobley's presumed long-term future, and a potential Harden agreement could all click into place to make a LeBron return, and even an AD trade, more palatable for fans.
Breaking news drops mid-show that Donovan Mitchell has agreed to a four-year, $273 million extension with the Cavaliers, and Ken and Anthony debate whether it clears the way for a LeBron signing or is simply about locking in stability now. Ken pushes back hard on fans who turned on Mitchell after the Eastern Conference Finals sweep, arguing he's been a drama-free, community-focused superstar performing at or above his Utah numbers, and that no other star of his caliber is walking through Cleveland's door anytime soon. The two also revisit an old on-air disagreement where Ken once said he'd rather have Freddie Kitchens than Mike Vrabel, with a joking detour into Diana Rossini's relationship. The segment closes with Ken and Lima debating whether they'd rather see LeBron sign for one all-in year or two years given the physical toll at his age.
Ken and Anthony react to a wild Seth Wickersham report claiming Sean Payton once considered a plan to hire Bill Belichick as Broncos head coach until he broke Don Shula's all-time wins record, with Payton stepping down to offensive coordinator and reclaiming the job afterward. The hosts call the idea "lunacy" and question how a proud, established coach could ever hand over the keys to his franchise, drawing comparisons to the messy Parcells-to-Belichick Jets transition years ago. Despite the absurdity, Ken admits he still trusts Payton given his rapid turnaround of the Broncos from cap hell to a 14-3 season, saying he'd take him over Todd Monken in Cleveland in a heartbeat, while Anthony pushes back hard on the entire premise as pure carnival sideshow.
Ken and Anthony debate a wild scenario floated on Kevin O'Connor's show: that Draymond Green could follow LeBron wherever he signs, forcing Cavs fans to decide whether they'd welcome a longtime villain who they believe cost Cleveland a championship. Despite Draymond being a shell of his offensive self, the hosts argue his toughness, edge, and willingness to get in teammates' faces could be exactly what a Cavs team widely viewed as "soft" needs, with rapid-fire caller polling confirming most fans agree. They weigh whether Jarrett Allen, not Draymond, would actually be the odd man out given his defensive limitations, and whether adding Draymond could ironically improve floor spacing for Harden, Mitchell, Mobley and LeBron. The segment closes with Ken and Lima agreeing they'd have never predicted Draymond as a real Cavaliers possibility but are now open to it if it means bringing LeBron home.
Ken and Anthony trade landline prank call stories from their teenage years before shifting to Lima's plans to take his wife Sarah to the Chris Brown and Usher concert downtown for her 40th birthday, with the crew debating ticket prices, set length, and whether he'll need to stay for a possible encore. A caller named Riley jokingly warns Lima about the concert's raunchier moments, sparking a bit about R. Kelly-era club music and the artists' ages. The segment turns toward LeBron speculation when the group notes he was reportedly watching the World Cup match and floats the wild possibility he could show up at the concert or even make an announcement, given his public admiration for both performers. It closes with Ken polling the room, including producer John, on whether they'd want LeBron back in Cleveland.
Ken and Anthony rip Americans who publicly rooted for Belgium over Team USA, tying the backlash to political comments and arguing sports shouldn't get caught up in polarization, with John chiming in about his own path from conservative talk radio into sports for that exact reason. The conversation pivots to Brad Stevens defending the Celtics' decision to trade Jaylen Brown to the Sixers, with Ken taking a victory lap for correctly predicting it as a win for Boston given the punishing new NBA cap rules around paying two max players. John, a Philly native, and Ken spar over whether the Sixers' front office can be trusted to make the deal work. The segment closes with Ken questioning whether the new CBA effectively fleeced the Cavs on their Donovan Mitchell trade and whether a Mitchell trade return would even be worth pursuing now.
Ken breaks down ESPN's rankings of every NFL team's starting lineup, where the Rams take the top spot behind Myles Garrett and Matt Stafford while the Browns land 31st, ahead of only the Dolphins, with quarterback flagged as the glaring weakness. Anthony argues there's a silver lining since young, talented teams often lose games they're not ready for, setting up a strong draft position, but Ken pushes back that this reflects poorly on both Todd Monken and Andrew Berry regardless of spin. The two debate whether Deshaun Watson's ongoing presence even matters if the team is projected to finish near the bottom anyway, and question the legitimacy of the insurance payout tied to his latest injury. A caller named Joe also weighs in earlier on LeBron's calculated decision-making and Dan Gilbert's willingness to spend big to compete for a championship.
Ken and Anthony break down why the Cavs are essentially frozen in place waiting on LeBron, with the roster of Mitchell, Harden, Mobley and Allen unable to make any real moves until he decides, and free agency across the league stalled by the cap situation. They debate whether fans will lose patience if the decision stretches into August, while noting mounting circumstantial evidence, LeBron's Akron nostalgia tour and the Cavs hiring his friend Romeo Travis for Summer League, that suggests Cleveland is the frontrunner. Ken also pushes back on people dismissing LeBron's GOAT case by bringing up Elgin Baylor, arguing LeBron may feel disrespected after eight years with the Lakers. The segment closes with Ken and Lima agreeing they have no real leverage and simply have to leave the decision "in his court."
Chris Haynes reports that LeBron has no plans to sit down for team pitch meetings this offseason; instead, Rich Paul will gather intel from interested teams and relay it back for LeBron to make his call. Ken warns this could be dangerous for Cleveland, since fans have fully convinced themselves he's coming back and a long, drawn-out process could breed resentment if he ultimately doesn't. Earlier in the segment, callers Rodney and Rob debate whether America's top athletes, guys like Tyreek Hill or Myles Garrett, would dominate soccer if they'd grown up in that sport instead, with Ken and Lima agreeing money and culture, not talent, dictate where elite athletes end up. The crew also touches on high school coaches finally learning to share multi-sport athletes like kicker-soccer players.
Fox Sports analyst Stu Holden's brutal breakdown of Christian Pulisic's rough night (turnovers on his first three touches) kicks off a debate over whether Pulisic deserves the "soft" label being thrown at him online, with the crew questioning if his injury was gamesmanship or legitimate. Ken and Anthony rip the shaky USA goalkeeper's wandering positioning, joke about Belgium's population and waffle culture, and admit they know almost nothing about the country beyond that. The conversation shifts to whether America's growing EPL fandom and World Cup hosting duties actually moved the needle on soccer's place in the country, with Ken declaring the old "is soccer taking over" argument officially dead. Producer John and reporter Owen weigh in on what youth sports look like in their own communities, noting soccer jerseys were everywhere at Bay Village's July 4th events but hockey and baseball still dominate elsewhere.
After Team USA falls to Belgium in the Round of 16, Ken calls out fans who suddenly have hot takes on soccer despite never watching it, arguing the US had zero top-50 talent coming in and lost fair and square. Lima and Ken riff on confusing soccer rules (the box, hand usage) before diving into the decades-long "will soccer overtake football" debate. Ken declares that argument dead, pointing to exploding youth soccer participation, EPL bar culture in Cleveland, and Messi's stadium in Miami as proof the sport has found its rightful, permanent place in America. LeBron's Akron nostalgia tour also opens the segment, with Lima saying he's now fully convinced a Cleveland return is coming.
As rumors heat up about LeBron James making a dramatic return to Cleveland, we push back against the national media critics to break down how the King would actually fit with the current roster. From potential offseason trades involving Jarrett Allen to Kenny Atkinson's coaching fit, we examine exactly what it would take to bring another championship to the Land.
Ken and Lima explore the mounting rumors of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers, fueled by high betting odds and his presence in Akron. They analyze the national media's negative reaction to the potential fit and interview Danny Cunningham to discuss roster changes and coaching challenges. The conversation also touches on Guardians All-Star selections and a debate over the cultural impact of Taylor Swift’s wedding. 02:53 - Rich Paul Market 08:45 - LeBron Fit Debate 16:55 - National Media Slam 22:30 - Ken’s Media Conspiracy 34:22 - Soccer vs Baseball Debate 48:00 - LeBron Akron Hype 57:20 - Danny Cunningham Interview 01:06:00 - Potential Roster Trades 01:16:20 - LeBron’s Coaching Fit 01:22:50 - Firework Safety Stories 01:31:30 - Announcement Date Theory 01:39:30 - Evan Mobley Untouchable 01:43:50 - Soccer Rules Debate 01:57:20 - Taylor Swift Wedding 02:06:00 - NBA Parity Reality 02:19:20 - Rick Bucher Analysis 02:29:15 - Guardians Mid-Season Review
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dive into the latest LeBron James rumors, reacting to insights from former players Joe Johnson and Jeff Teague regarding a potential Cleveland return. They challenge criticisms from national figures Bill Simmons and Zach Lowe, with Ken Carman suggesting that national writers are biased against the city for personal convenience. The duo also debates the significance of regular-season Guardians baseball compared to the World Cup. 03:13 - Local Events and Personal Updates 06:33 - Rich Paul and LeBron Rumors 10:32 - Players Predict Cavs Return 14:13 - Media Criticizes Cleveland Fit 19:16 - Lima Defends NBA Parity 23:39 - Carman's Media Bias Conspiracy 28:03 - Championship Expectations and Moves 36:21 - Guardians vs World Cup Soccer
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss the increasing rumors of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers after seeing social media clues in Akron. They speak with Danny Cunningham about potential roster moves involving Jarrett Allen and how a star-studded lineup would function under head coach Kenny Atkinson. 01:45 - World Cup Interest Debate 08:50 - LeBron Return Rumors 14:41 - Danny Cunningham Interview 20:53 - Cavaliers Roster Adjustments 26:21 - Coaching Fit For LeBron 32:49 - Kenny Atkinson Analysis
Ken and Lima weigh the possibility of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers, specifically looking at how he would fit with coach Kenny Atkinson and young star Evan Mobley. They also recap holiday fireworks mishaps, discuss the US Men's National Team's roster drama, and celebrate three Guardians players being named All-Stars. 02:20 - Fireworks Safety And Holiday Recap 07:45 - LeBron James Return Rumors 12:00 - Potential LeBron Announcement Date 16:41 - Evan Mobley's Playoff Trajectory 22:06 - US Soccer Roster Drama 32:31 - Guardians All-Star Selections 36:08 - Celebrity Wedding Rumors
Ken and Lima tackle the speculation of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers and why national media fit narratives are misguided. They analyze Ric Bucher's recent comments regarding LeBron's leverage and the business side of NBA ownership. The conversation shifts to Ken's weekend experiences and a look at the Guardians' series against the White Sox. 01:30 - LeBron James Return Speculation 04:40 - National Media Bias and Cleveland 07:30 - Debunking NBA Fit Concerns 11:15 - Cavaliers Roster Retooling Discussion 18:05 - Ric Bucher on LeBron's Leverage 23:30 - Cavaliers Championship Odds 28:20 - Guardians Series Recap vs White Sox 35:40 - LeBron Decision Timing and USA Soccer
Ken and Anthony break down the Guardians' four-game split with the White Sox, praising Brayan Rocchio's walk-off homer and the overall entertainment value of the series despite dropping the final two games. They note Tanner Bibee's recent home-run struggles and touch on Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez getting valuable at-bats back as the team heads into a crucial stretch, while wondering if looming CBA uncertainty is making the front office more conservative than usual. The conversation shifts to LeBron James, with both hosts speculating whether an announcement could come around the July 11th anniversary of his 2014 return, though they doubt it happens on a night dominated by the USA-Belgium World Cup match. Ken closes the show noting that despite loud anti-LeBron voices online, he didn't encounter a single skeptic in person over the weekend.
After a lighthearted chat about Bay Days and old-timey baseball, Ken and Anthony play a clip of noted LeBron critic Ric Bucher arguing that Rich Paul's reported outreach to 27 teams is "propaganda" masking the reality that a 42-year-old LeBron simply doesn't have the market he once did, making Cleveland the only franchise that truly makes sense. Anthony pushes back, arguing owners still view LeBron as a financial cash cow and that any GM unwilling to at least call about him should be fired given what he showed last postseason. Both hosts argue LeBron's age shouldn't be disqualifying since the league has crowned eight different champions in eight years, and that the Cavs' current outlook is shaky enough with or without him that adding LeBron only helps. Ken closes by noting Donovan Mitchell's expensive extension looms as a bigger long-term question than anything LeBron brings to the roster.
Ken and Anthony argue that NBA media's obsession with LeBron's "fit" in Cleveland is hollow, pointing out the league has had eight different champions in eight years playing wildly different styles of basketball, so no one really knows what a "good fit" even means anymore. They contend coastal media members are biased against cold-weather, Midwest cities like Cleveland, Detroit, and Chicago, and would be raving about the same roster if LeBron were from a sunnier market. Anthony brings up Danny Cunningham's earlier point that Jarrett Allen could be traded to better space the floor around a Mitchell-Harden-LeBron-Mobley core, since two non-shooting bigs create structural problems in the modern game. Both hosts admit they're rooting for LeBron's return and increasingly optimistic given his recent sightings back in Akron.
Ken and Anthony celebrate the Guardians landing three All-Stars in Cade Smith, Parker Messick, and rookie Travis Bazzana, while lamenting that Brian Rocchio got snubbed despite a breakout season. They also touch on Junior Caminero's monster year with Tampa Bay, with Ken shrugging off any regret over the trade since the Guardians have remained competitive. The segment shifts to "Lima Likes," where they react to backlash over Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Madison Square Garden wedding, playing a TikTok clip arguing Swift has "always been tacky," and noting Adam Sandler officiated. Ken and Anthony agree it's ultimately the couple's business to celebrate however they choose, regardless of outside opinions.
Ken and Anthony play a clip of The Athletic's Joe Vardon making the case that Cleveland is a strong LeBron fit not just for the roster, but because James Harden and Donovan Mitchell are true contemporaries he already has real relationships with, unlike younger stars on other contending teams. That leads into a debate over whether the Cavs' refusal to trade Evan Mobley is justified, with Ken and Anthony noting both Boston and Oklahoma City reportedly coveted him, and agreeing LeBron would likely want to play alongside Mobley given his two-way upside. A caller pushes for Mobley and Jarrett Allen to anchor the paint while moving Harden to a bench role. The segment closes with a lengthy World Cup tangent about Folarin Balogun's eligibility to play against Belgium after a red card controversy, with Ken again admitting his limited soccer knowledge while Anthony presses him on his contradictory level of engagement with the tournament.
Ken and Anthony open with a Fourth of July fireworks safety tangent before circling back to whether Kenny Atkinson is really equipped to coach LeBron James, questioning if he's a legitimate "player's coach" or someone the roster ignored during their Eastern Conference Finals collapse. A caller named Diane predicts LeBron will announce his decision on July 11th, pointing to the date's link to his original 2014 return to Cleveland, and brings up his emotional, tearful tribute at Rocket Arena as proof of how much the city still means to him. Ken and Anthony agree that moment seemed to hit LeBron harder than almost anything else in his career. The segment closes teasing a discussion on whether the Cavs are being too stubborn about trading Evan Mobley.
Ken and Anthony replay Danny Cunningham's take defending Kenny Atkinson as coach for a potential LeBron-led roster, then debate whether the Cavs' three Hall of Fame-caliber players actually need a tougher voice rather than a "player's coach." Ken raises the comparison to David Blatt getting swapped for Ty Lue after LeBron's first stint, questioning whether the team's apparent lack of urgency in the Eastern Conference Finals reflects a lack of respect for Atkinson. Anthony counters that Atkinson isn't the problem, noting the Cavs still made the conference finals despite injuries and that most reporters expected him to keep his job. They close by noting LeBron has historically avoided the "coach killer" label, meaning a coaching change tied to his arrival would be a delicate, unlikely move.
Locked on Cavs host Danny Cunningham tells Ken and Anthony he believes LeBron James will end up back with the Cavs, though he stresses nothing is finalized and points to a critical window this week before things could start to feel uneasy. Cunningham pushes back on national takes calling the fit bad, arguing LeBron's playmaking, James Harden's adaptability, and Evan Mobley's defense would all mesh well, and predicts Jarrett Allen gets traded for more shooting and perimeter defense if LeBron signs. He also defends the Cavs' refusal to include Mobley in trade talks, comparing his value to what Jaylen Brown fetched, and says Kenny Atkinson's varied coaching experience gives him a real chance to handle a LeBron-led roster. The conversation closes with a broader discussion on how analytics have reshaped the NBA, with Cunningham noting the best teams use the data as a tool rather than a rigid rulebook.
Ken defends skipping non-USA World Cup matches to watch the Guardians, explaining he doesn't want to fake being a soccer expert out of respect for hardcore fans, while Anthony needles him for being oddly disinterested given the tournament is on home soil. The conversation pivots to LeBron James, with Anthony saying he's now leaning toward a Cleveland return after watching betting markets swing hard in the Cavs' favor and seeing LeBron reunite with old Akron friends and teammates. They play a clip of Rick Bucher, a longtime LeBron critic, arguing Rich Paul's outreach to all 30 teams is "propaganda" masking the fact LeBron no longer has real market leverage at 42, making Cleveland the only real fit. Both hosts agree LeBron's basketball IQ makes fit concerns overblown, pointing to his ability to adapt roles with the Lakers and Cavs' strong record last season despite personnel questions.
Ken and Anthony spend most of the segment arguing over Ken's choice to watch Guardians baseball over non-USA World Cup matches, with Anthony accusing him of being disingenuous about his soccer interest. Ken insists he's not ignoring the World Cup, just prioritizing the Guardians' tight division race, and says he'd only skip a Guardians game for the World Cup final itself. They also touch on a listener email backing Ken's earlier theory that NBA media (like Stephen A. Smith) roots for players to land in cities they personally prefer to visit. Ken and Anthony agree James Harden's stereotype as a bad fit ignores his real production in the Cavs' run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Ken lays out a conspiracy theory that NBA media figures like Bill Simmons and Zach Lowe are downplaying a LeBron-to-Cleveland fit because they don't want to keep traveling back to the city if he stays for a farewell tour. Anthony counters Simmons' clip dismissing the fit with James Harden by pointing to the Cavs' actual playoff run this past season, arguing pundits too quickly eliminate teams from title contention before the season even starts. Both hosts push back on the media narrative, noting the NBA has had eight different champions in eight years and that "bad fit" takes ignore how often unexpected teams have won it all. The segment closes with a tease that Danny Cunningham will join to weigh in on where he thinks LeBron ultimately lands.
Ken and Anthony wade through a flood of media speculation on where LeBron James will sign, playing clips of Joe Johnson and Jeff Teague both pointing toward Cleveland or Miami. Ken pushes back on Bill Simmons and Zach Lowe's take that LeBron, Donovan Mitchell and James Harden would be a bad fit together, arguing all three are high-IQ players. They also touch on Rich Paul's comments that no decision has actually been made despite reports of a documentary crew following LeBron for years. Ken teases a "conspiracy theory" about the timing of the decision that he'll reveal later in the show.
Featuring Chris Fedor, Mary Kay Cabot, Spencer Davies, Albert Breer, and John Fanta.
In this compilation clip from during the past week, the hosts of 92.3 The Fan discuss a potentially misleading statistic from ESPN about Browns QB Shedeur Sanders and why stats don't yet paint the full picture on Shedeur. Plus, looking at every possible QB scenario for the Browns, and what new head coach Todd Monken can do to avoid the one-and-done trap with the franchise.
The guys break down the Guardians' gritty walk-off win against the White Sox and debate whether Cleveland needs to finally cash in their prospect chips for veteran bats at the trade deadline. Plus, they dive into Cooper Ingle's rookie mistake, the team's resilient culture, and why Travis Bazzana is getting completely disrespected in the latest All-Star game projections.
In this fiery segment from 92.3 The Fan, the crew breaks down the swirling rumors of LeBron James potentially making a blockbuster return for a third stint with the Cavs. The guys passionately debate the team's power rankings against rival suitors like the Warriors and Sixers, while weighing the high-stakes roster expectations and pressure necessary to maximize a win-now window alongside Donovan Mitchell.
Ken and Anthony dive into the swirling rumors of a potential LeBron James reunion with the Cavaliers, debating if his return to Cleveland has been a calculated, predetermined move orchestrated by Rich Paul all along. Plus, the guys vent about the chaos of downtown Inner Belt traffic, debate an absurd proposal of allowing pro athletes to place prop bets, and share some hilariously unapologetic hot takes on Fourth of July grilling.
The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima full show for Friday, July 3, 2026 - Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland filling in for Ken and Anthony
Hour 1 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima - Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland filling in for Ken and Anthony
Hour 2 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima - Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland filling in for Ken and Anthony
Hour 3 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima - Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland filling in for Ken and Anthony
Hour 4 of the Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima - Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland filling in for Ken and Anthony
Daryl and Coach Rizz talk about Chris Fedor's comments on what happiness means for LeBron and why they're suddenly not so confident the Cavaliers will be his destination this upcoming season.
Chris Fedor joined Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland to break down the latest news with LeBron 4.0 and share his thoughts on Rich Paul's white board of destinations for LeBron James this upcoming season. He explained what he thinks "happiness" might mean for LeBron and what that means for where he'll play for the 2026-2027 season, and whether or not the Cavaliers are a top destination for the Akron native.
Daryl and Coach Rizz react in real time as Rich Paul's big board for LeBron's next destination and dissect where they think the Akron native will wind up.
Daryl shares his conspiracy theory with Coach Rizz that maybe LeBron has already made his decision and he's just waiting to make an announcement
Daryl and Coach Rizz talk about LeBron potentially going to the Warriors and why they think the friendship aspect shouldn't be a deciding factor.
Daryl and Coach Rizz discuss where they think LeBron will end up playing this upcoming season.
Daryl and Coach Rizz share their thoughts on "The Summer of LeBron," while LeBron is trolling Kevin Hart on social media.
Daryl and Coach Rizz talk about what moves the Guardians need to make in order to be serious playoff contenders.
Daryl and Coach Rizz talk about all of the positives they saw from the Guardians in their walk off win over the White Sox.
Daryl and Coach Rizz talk about all of the things happening in the sports world this holiday weekend, and why the Guardians are the most interesting to them.
Daryl Ruiter and Lance Reisland fill in for Ken Carman and Anthony Lima and break down the Guardians' walk-off win over the White Sox.
Ken and Anthony analyze the impact of the Jaylen Brown trade on the Cavaliers' pursuit of LeBron James and the trade values of Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. They also welcome Mary Kay Cabot to discuss the intensifying quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. The conversation touches on sports gambling transparency and compares LeBron's Lakers legacy to a potential Cleveland return. 02:43 - Team USA Soccer 08:10 - Sports Popularity Order 18:50 - Jaylen Brown Traded 24:00 - LeBron Return Rumors 30:00 - Collin Sexton Signing 36:00 - Evan Mobley Value 45:30 - Cavs Strategy Discussion 54:25 - Manziel Sanders Stats 01:06:10 - LeBron Lakers Legacy 01:20:00 - Guardians Rangers Recap 01:25:15 - Video Games Media 01:33:30 - Mitchell Trade Talk 01:38:30 - Mary Kay Interview 01:42:10 - Browns Quarterback Competition 01:49:10 - Mary Kay Anniversary 02:00:50 - Shedeur Sanders Discussion 02:09:10 - LeBron Legacy Context 02:23:10 - Gambling Transparency Idea 02:38:15 - Fourth Of July
Ken and Lima analyze the shocking trade sending Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers and its potential impact on LeBron James' future. They also discuss the U.S. Men's National Team's World Cup run and defend Koby Altman's current strategy for the Cavaliers' roster. 02:43 - USMNT World Cup Run 07:45 - Soccer's Growth In America 15:36 - USMNT Next Man Up 20:10 - Jaylen Brown Trade Shock 24:40 - LeBron Philly Rumors Analysis 33:35 - Altman Cavaliers Strategy Defense 38:45 - Mobley Untouchable Roster Status
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dive into a hypothetical 2026 sports landscape, debating if Kobe Altman can successfully bring LeBron James back to Cleveland. They analyze a simulated NBA offseason where the Lakers roster features Luka Doncic and Walker Kessler, while also reflecting on Johnny Manziel's Browns career. They also recap a fictional US Men's Soccer World Cup run and the Guardians' success against the Rangers. 01:52 - Kobe Altman's Cavs Strategy 06:55 - NBA Offseason Movement 11:40 - LeBron Return Rumors 17:12 - Why Manziel's Numbers Lie 26:08 - LeBron's Lakers Legacy 37:37 - Soccer And Guardians Recap 42:12 - Stephen A On Lakers
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the perceived lack of appreciation for Donovan Mitchell within the Cleveland fan base. Mary Kay Cabot calls in from a plane to discuss the high-stakes quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also explore the front office's roster-building strategy and the importance of veteran leadership on the offensive line. 01:50 - Physical Media and Gaming 10:04 - Donovan Mitchell Trade Debate 16:31 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 20:11 - Browns Quarterback Competition 25:36 - Browns Offensive Line Updates 33:23 - Shedeur Sanders Fan Discourse
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate whether the Cleveland Cavaliers can build a roster strong enough to entice LeBron James back to Northeast Ohio. They also critique the offensive chemistry between Jared Allen and Evan Mobley before clashing over a radical proposal to legalize and publicize gambling for professional athletes. 01:50 - Cavs Roster Strategy 06:00 - Enticing LeBron James Back 11:00 - Allen and Mobley Fit 15:50 - Manziel and Sanders Comparison 19:20 - Proposed Athlete Gambling Rules 26:30 - Integrity of the Game 35:30 - Grilling and Eating Contests 38:50 - Cavs Roster Trade Value
In a lighter Fourth of July segment, Ken confesses he has zero interest in grilling culture, competitive eating, or the whole backyard cookout scene, while Lima needles him about it and the two riff on friends with elaborate multi-grill setups. A caller named Diane pushes back on the LeBron-centric roster talk, asking why the Cavs need to add more stars after making a deep playoff run without him, prompting Ken to clarify that trade buzz around names like Jaylen Brown and Donovan Mitchell has mostly been about creating an enticing situation to lure LeBron back rather than an actual teardown. The show wraps with holiday wishes and a nod to the Guardians' big weekend series.
After more social media jabs over the Manziel-Sanders stats debate, Lima pitches a genuinely bizarre solution to the sports gambling problem: let athletes bet on themselves as long as every wager is made fully public, comparing it to tracking congressional stock trades. Ken immediately pokes holes in the idea, pushing Lima on bet minimums, maximums, and whether prop bets like Shedeur's passing yards or Malik Beasley's rebounds would just turn players into walking incentive structures. The segment turns into an increasingly absurd back-and-forth, complete with jokes about a shadowy "Big Golf" conspiracy, before Ken shuts the idea down as a bad precedent that would make fans question the integrity of every game.
Ken argues Cleveland fans have grown too quick to throw Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley into trade talks because LeBron James, still playing at a high level, remains the unfair standard everyone gets measured against. He and Lima also speculate Koby Altman may be quietly shopping Jarrett Allen rather than Mobley, since the two bigs can't effectively space the floor together in the playoffs, and toss around long-shot names like Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis as potential targets. Both hosts note that if LeBron ultimately signs elsewhere, the fallout and blame will unfairly land on Mitchell rather than the front office.
Ken and Lima both declare they want Shedeur Sanders to win the starting job, but say it's fair for Deshaun Watson to open the season as starter given the new coaching staff, patchwork offensive line, and rookie receivers around him. A caller named Cool Ray pushes back hard, accusing the hosts and Mary Kay Cabot of unfairly praising Watson for showing up to train while glossing over the fact that Sanders never left, and challenging them on whether they're really giving him a fair shake. The debate gets heated over whether last year's struggles were mostly circumstance or a real red flag, with both sides agreeing the real answer comes once pads are on in camp.
Mary Kay Cabot joins the show mid-boarding to break down the Browns' quarterback competition, saying Deshaun Watson's decision to return early with his trainer and quarterback coach signals he's fighting to keep the starting job over Shedeur Sanders. She also explains why Denzel Ward isn't a realistic trade candidate for Detroit, details Ryan Grigson's expanded personnel role alongside Andrew Berry, and weighs in on Parker Brailsford's long-shot chance to start at center as a rookie. The call gets chaotic with flight announcements interrupting throughout, and it wraps with some lighthearted chat about Cabot's 33rd wedding anniversary and the upcoming Travis Kelce-Taylor Swift wedding.
Ken and Lima open with a nostalgic tangent on old video games, physical media, and their reluctance to embrace new comedies before shifting into the meat of the segment: defending Donovan Mitchell. Ken argues Clevelanders have gotten far too comfortable throwing his name into every hypothetical trade, pointing out he's a drama-free superstar who's delivered elite playoff moments and raised the floor of the team every single year. Both hosts agree it's strange that a player this good and this clean off the court isn't getting the appreciation he deserves, especially compared to how fans have historically treated other star athletes in the city.
Producer John runs through "About Last Night," covering Team USA's win over Bosnia and Herzegovina despite star Balogun picking up a red card suspension, plus the Guardians' 9-run outburst behind Austin Hedges and David Fry. The segment's biggest moment comes from Stephen A. Smith, who ripped the Lakers for building around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and new addition Walker Kessler, joking their lack of star power is what pushed LeBron out the door. Ken and John also riff on the rarity of prominent white NBA and NFL cornerback talent, while John gives a shoutout to his aunt, a Mercer County Soccer Hall of Famer.
Ken and Lima tear into Johnny Manziel for resurfacing on social media to compare his Browns stats favorably to Shedeur Sanders, insisting anyone who actually watched him play knows the numbers are misleading and calling him out for repeatedly seeking attention with inflammatory posts. The hosts pivot into a debate on LeBron James' Lakers legacy, arguing his eight years in Los Angeles felt like pure business rather than the kind of beloved, legendary run he had in Cleveland and Miami. They question whether his lone Lakers championship truly elevates him among franchise legends or if it's just another trophy that doesn't move the emotional needle the way his other titles did.
Ken argues Koby Altman is handling the offseason exactly right by keeping any Evan Mobley or Donovan Mitchell trade talks completely under wraps, warning that leaking those conversations without completing a deal could leave Cleveland far worse off. He and Lima dig into the murky James Harden situation, noting nobody actually knows the terms of his restructured deal or whether he's truly committed to re-signing. The hosts also debate whether LeBron still has the star power to lure other big names to Cleveland the way he once pulled Anthony Davis to the Lakers, and question what Donovan Mitchell is really thinking about his future after this year's playoff exit.
Ken defends the Cavs' quiet approach after the Jaylen Brown trade, arguing Koby Altman has to stay tight-lipped about any Evan Mobley conversations so he doesn't damage the relationship the way a leak could. He points out player value is unpredictable right now, citing wild trade returns for Paul George, Luka Doncic and Desmond Bane as proof nothing makes sense in today's NBA anymore. Ken and Lima debate whether Mobley alone is enough to attract LeBron now that the Jaylen Brown scenario is off the board, while still bracing for angry fan reaction to the take.
Ken and Lima react to the shocking Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia trade, playing clips of Boston sports radio hosts absolutely blasting the deal as a salary dump that makes the Celtics worse. They debate whether the trade hurts Cleveland's LeBron James chances, ultimately deciding the 76ers getting better just means every team with a good roster, including the Cavs, still has a real shot to pitch him. The hosts also wonder what Koby Altman is cooking up this offseason if a Jaylen Brown swap is now off the table.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima spent a huge chunk of the show breaking down Team USA's World Cup run, admitting they're both soccer novices learning terms like "offside" and "extra time" on the fly. They debated whether soccer has finally found its permanent place among America's major sports and argued about what to even call the men's national team. The two also previewed Monday's showdown with Belgium and announced an 8 p.m. watch party, all while Lima rocked a homemade American flag cape for the occasion.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the high-stakes rumors of LeBron James returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers and a potential trade for Jaylen Brown. They debate the necessity of trading young star Evan Mobley to maximize a championship window and react to the recent mental error by Guardians player Cooper Ingle. Additionally, they discuss the quarterback competition in the Browns' future involving Shedeur Sanders. 02:31 - LeBron Return Speculation 12:16 - James Harden Roster Moves 19:43 - Greatest All-Time Lakers Rank 30:44 - Cooper Ingle Out Mistake 38:01 - Fan Reaction To Ingle 58:39 - Trading Mobley For LeBron 01:11:33 - Cavs Rotation Piece Losses 01:23:00 - Eastern Conference Power Rankings 01:35:33 - Joe Vardon Interview Begins 01:43:43 - LeBron And Dan Gilbert 01:53:41 - LeBron's Golfing Requirements 02:04:33 - Cooper Ingle Punishment Debate 02:17:14 - NBA Starting Lineup Fit 02:31:56 - Browns Quarterback Competition Analysis 02:41:10 - Deshaun Watson vs Shedeur
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the intensifying rumors surrounding LeBron James potentially making a third stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers. They discuss how James Harden and Jaylen Brown might fit into the team's aggressive roster restructuring and address the fallout from Cooper Engel's viral outfield error against Texas. 03:08 - LeBron James Speculation Returns 11:40 - James Harden and Jaylen Brown 19:43 - LeBron's Lakers Legacy Tiers 26:05 - Cleveland's Standard of Excellence 30:44 - Cooper Engel Outfield Error 40:02 - Guardians Fan Phone Calls
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima weigh the cost of a potential blockbuster trade involving Evan Mobley, Jaylen Brown, and the return of LeBron James to Cleveland. They also examine a mental error by a Guardians rookie and review a series of hypothetical future roster moves during an About Last Night segment. 01:50 - Cooper Engel Outfield Error 06:08 - Media Coverage Controversy 12:52 - Guardians Roster Construction 17:58 - Trading Mobley For LeBron 22:14 - Jaylen Brown's Cleveland Fit 32:41 - About Last Night Update 38:57 - Kawhi Leonard Trade News
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the high-stakes possibility of LeBron James returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers for a third stint. They speak with Joe Vardon about the potential of trading Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown to facilitate a championship run. The discussion also touches on Rich Paul's comments about LeBron's future and a controversy involving Cooper Engel. 02:28 - Cavaliers Eastern Conference Ranking 07:05 - Trading Mobley For Brown 11:40 - LeBron James Legacy Concerns 17:02 - Joe Vardon Interview 22:05 - LeBron And Gilbert Relationship 26:45 - Sign-and-Trade Possibilities 37:44 - Rich Paul On Happiness 45:35 - Cooper Engel Mental Error
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Cleveland Guardians prospect Cooper Ingle's recent base-running blunder and whether the public discourse serves as sufficient punishment. They also explore a potential LeBron James return to the Cavaliers involving a Jaylen Brown trade and evaluate the Browns' quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 01:50 - Cooper Ingle Base-Running Error 06:20 - Judging Professional Athletes Mistakes 09:25 - Potential Cavs LeBron Trade 17:15 - Crying Over Cleveland Sports 26:05 - Watson Versus Sanders Debate 36:10 - Selling The Browns Future
Ken and Lima reflect on emotional sports moments, including LeBron James' 2014 return and the Browns' 2020 playoff run. They debate a potential LeBron reunion in Cleveland before shifting to the Browns' quarterback situation and a controversial ESPN segment. Lima expresses frustration over the negative statistics presented regarding Shedeur Sanders in his competition with Deshaun Watson.
Ken and Lima defend not benching or demoting Cooper Ingle after his blunder, arguing that being called out on air and knowing he made a stupid mistake is punishment enough for a player barely a week into the majors. Ken compares it to other athletes forgiven for costly errors, like Nick Chubb's fumbles or Quinshon Judkins, reasoning that benching a young player only hurts the team and risks turning a minor mistake into a bigger narrative. The conversation shifts to LeBron, with Ken firmly stating he's willing to trade Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown to bring LeBron to Cleveland, even at the cost of Donovan Mitchell's standing, since the Cavs have already proven they can reach the Conference Finals without a true superstar. Ken argues no NBA roster is perfect and that the current Eastern Conference landscape, with Toronto improving and Indiana getting Tyrese Haliburton back, makes now the time to gamble on the LeBron and Brown pairing.
Ken and Lima react to Rich Paul's appearance on Max Kellerman's podcast, where Paul revealed LeBron's interest in returning to the Lakers dropped from 80 percent to zero over recent weeks and that LeBron explicitly told him this decision is about happiness rather than money or history with a franchise. Ken argues that framing is a huge boost for the Cavs, since love, relationships and nostalgia matter more under that lens than anywhere else LeBron could go, though he acknowledges the emotional pull of Golden State's history with him too. The hosts also marvel at Rich Paul's rise as an agent and entrepreneur, calling his story a symbol of his growing respect across the league. They close by pivoting back to Cooper Ingle, with Ken jokingly asking callers what a "fit punishment" would be after getting criticized online for defending him.
Joe Vardon of The Athletic joins Ken and Lima and says he now believes LeBron is coming to Cleveland, admitting the reporting community was completely wrong about a done deal with the Lakers just weeks ago. He pushes back on trade speculation involving Evan Mobley, arguing it makes no sense for the Cavs to deal a 25-year-old two-way player, but says a Donovan Mitchell-for-Jaylen Brown swap with Boston is at least a more realistic thought exercise given Mitchell's looming extension. Vardon argues the Cavs already have a compelling pitch for LeBron since he'd have real relationships with James Harden and Donovan Mitchell in the locker room, something he never had with the Lakers, and doesn't think Cleveland needs to make roster upgrades to win him over. He closes by saying if LeBron signs and no major moves are made otherwise, the Cavs are a legitimate championship contender in a deep Eastern Conference.
Ken and Lima rank the Cavs fourth in the East behind the Knicks, Celtics and Raptors, calling it a "desperate move" made only in hopes that LeBron and Jaylen Brown's addition changes the equation. They highlight competing takes from two respected reporters, with Dave McMenamin suggesting the tea leaves point to LeBron coming home to Cleveland, while Terry Pluto argues a return at 41 alongside an aging James Harden risks tarnishing his legacy if it doesn't produce another title. Ken firmly disagrees with Pluto, arguing there's no scenario where one final season in Cleveland undoes the goodwill from 2016, especially since a LeBron return would clearly be a farewell run with no lingering "what's next" drama.
Ken and Lima debate the Cavs' free agency losses, with producer John arguing Keon Ellis is the bigger loss since the Cavs traded for him and never got to see him developed, while Ken counters that Dean Wade's defense and starter reps make him more irreplaceable, especially if LeBron and Jaylen Brown don't materialize. The hosts also dig into Brendan Sorsby's statement that he'll skip legal action and focus on the 2027 draft, questioning whether he should instead play JUCO ball this year to stay sharp, and joke about him becoming a gambling analyst given his new freedom to bet on college football. They close by speculating where LeBron's first Cleveland appearance might be if he re-signs, tossing around ideas like a Guardians game or a Swensons drive-in, before some unrelated banter about Swensons and stomach issues.
Ken and Lima talk through whether the Cavs should trade Evan Mobley to land both LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, building on Brian Windhorst's report that James Harden opting out and LeBron's willingness to take a discount could set up a bigger roster shakeup. After weighing the defensive tradeoffs and shaky fit between Mobley and Jarrett Allen, Ken lands on yes, arguing a Donovan Mitchell, Jaylen Brown, LeBron, Jarrett Allen, Harden lineup gives the Cavs a better shot at a title right now than staying the course with Mobley. Lima pushes back throughout, worried about closing the championship window and replacing what Mobley provides on defense, while Ken counters that the current core, as good as it's been, still hasn't gotten them a ring. They close by fantasizing about LeBron's kids potentially joining the mix down the road as a bonus to the move.
Ken and Lima take caller reaction to the Cooper Ingle blunder, with Drew from Chicago arguing local media went too soft on Ingle by suggesting his rookie status or outfield inexperience as excuses instead of just calling it a boneheaded play. Ken and Lima counter that reporters were likely trying to guide players toward honest answers rather than let them off the hook, and agree the team's lack of run support means any defensive mistake gets magnified. They openly admit double standards exist, noting a veteran like Jose Ramirez or a struggling player like Gabriel Arias would face harsher scrutiny for the same mistake. A second caller shifts blame to the front office's roster construction, sparking a broader tangent comparing the Guardians' tight-margin build to the big-spending, dysfunctional Mets.
Ken and Lima break down Cooper Ingle's costly mental error, tossing a ball into the stands after mistakenly thinking there were three outs, which turned into a two-base error and handed Texas the lead. Both hosts defend the rookie, arguing it was a "dumb kid thing" rather than a lack of effort, and push back on fans calling for him to be sent to Triple-A or benched. A caller, Mike from Cleveland Heights, tries to connect the gaffe to Josh Naylor's departure and his choice of cleats, but Ken and Lima shoot down both tangents as unrelated. The segment closes with the hosts crediting Ingle and manager Stephen Vogt for how the team rallied around him afterward.
Ken sparks a debate by ranking LeBron ninth on the all-time list of beloved Lakers figures, arguing LeBron never got embraced the way Kareem, Wilt, Magic and Kobe were because his time in LA always felt like a business arrangement. He contrasts that with LeBron's status in Cleveland, where he's unquestionably number one and has defined an entire generation's expectations for a championship. Ken also admits LeBron's recent Instagram videos about Akron and home are stirring up excitement again, and says it'll sting if all that ends with him signing with Golden State anyway. The crew reflects on how different this free agency feels compared to 2014, when LeBron's decision consumed the entire sports world.
Ken and Lima break down the LeBron James free agency chaos after Brian Windhorst's report that LeBron would take below market value to sign somewhere, with the Cavs among the suitors. James Harden's contract opt out and lack of restructuring details are seen as a signal he's clearing cap space to help lure LeBron and facilitate a bigger roster move. That fuels speculation the Cavs could flip Evan Mobley to Boston for Jaylen Brown, even though the front office has insisted for weeks that Mobley isn't going anywhere. Ken and Lima also note the Cavs letting Dean Wade and Keon Ellis walk as another sign something bigger might be in motion.
Ken and Lima debate producer John whether New Jersey or Ohio boasts a superior baseball culture after reviewing national high school rankings. They transition into a heated discussion regarding Lima's proposal to allow professional athletes to gamble on their own teams through a transparent public system. They also touch on misunderstood song lyrics and the potential implications of a quarterback betting on his own performance. 01:00 - NJ and Ohio Baseball Rankings 06:31 - Radical Sports Gambling Proposal 09:44 - Gambling Win Lies 16:40 - Hidden Meanings in Songs 18:21 - Quarterbacks Betting on Games
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate the Browns' quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders following insights from Joe Thomas. They also examine the Guardians' offensive struggles and the hypothetical scenario of LeBron James joining the Golden State Warriors. 02:10 - Browns QB Battle Begins 06:30 - Traffic Report 13:30 - Dianna Russini Body Cam 22:20 - Steven Kwan Slump Analysis 32:15 - Jaylen Brown Analytics Debate 42:40 - New Browns Stadium Concerns 47:10 - Offseason Winners List Discussion 01:01:20 - NBA Trade Speculation Update 01:13:45 - Guardians Rangers Game Recap 01:20:40 - NBA Gambling Scandal News 01:26:55 - Interview With Joe Thomas 01:32:45 - Defensive Coordinator Transition 01:39:00 - Hall Of Fame Farms 01:43:55 - Post Garrett Era Challenges 01:52:15 - Shedeur Sanders Statistical Comparisons 02:12:10 - Justin Termine On LeBron 02:23:45 - Evan Mobley Trade Value 02:40:20 - Potential LeBron Fan Alienation
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima examine why analytics undervalue Jaylen Brown compared to the eye test and how that impacts NBA front office decisions. They also address Steven Kwan's hitting slump for the Guardians and react to Diana Russini using NFL connections to avoid a traffic ticket. 01:50 - Watson and Sanders Competition 06:00 - Cleveland Traffic Construction Woes 13:05 - Diana Russini Traffic Stop 18:50 - Local Name Dropping Debate 22:15 - Steven Kwan Batting Slump 27:00 - David Fry Hitting Struggles 33:25 - Jaylen Brown Analytics Debate 42:15 - NBA and NFL Analytics
Ken Carmen and Anthony Lima analyze a report from The Athletic that ranks the Browns as top offseason winners. They discuss the controversial trade of Myles Garrett and the strategy behind rebuilding the offensive line. They also address concerns regarding the new stadium's subterranean design and recent gambling allegations in the NBA. 01:50 - Browns Stadium Design Concerns 05:42 - Offseason Winners and Losers 10:00 - Browns Building for Future 17:02 - Russini's Speeding Ticket Tactic 24:18 - Andrew Berry's Personnel Strategy 31:50 - About Last Night Update 38:40 - Malik Beasley Gambling Scandal
Joe Thomas breaks down the quarterback battle, comparing the experience of Deshaun Watson to the developmental potential of Shedeur Sanders. He identifies the defensive transition following the Myles Garrett trade as a primary hurdle for Todd Monken's leadership. The discussion explores offensive line adjustments under George Warhop and reacts to statistical comparisons of young quarterbacks. 02:41 - Joe Thomas Interview Begins 06:55 - Watson vs Sanders Experience 11:40 - George Warhop's Coaching Style 17:26 - Meeting With The President 22:12 - Analyzing Myles Garrett's Impact 27:39 - Shedeur Sanders Statistical Comparison 42:05 - Fan Debate On Stefanski
Justin Termine joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to discuss LeBron James' potential move to the Golden State Warriors and how it might impact his legacy in Cleveland. They analyze the trade market for Jaylen Brown and Donovan Mitchell while debating whether the Cavaliers should take a risk or run back their current roster. 02:18 - Justin Termine Joins 07:45 - NBA Eastern Conference 11:42 - Jaylen Brown Analytics 17:19 - Defensive Engagement Debate 24:01 - LeBron Legacy Discussion 30:55 - Sharing LeBron Legacy 37:01 - Grudge Holding Caller
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima close out the show debating whether LeBron James leaving Cleveland for Golden State should sour his legacy, with both hosts agreeing they could never truly turn on him given he delivered the city's only championship in over 50 years. A caller named Mike from Macedonia pushes back, explaining how he became a Warriors fan out of spite after Dan Gilbert's infamous Decision letter and the Cavaliers re-signing LeBron in 2014, admitting he would stop watching basketball entirely if LeBron joined Golden State. Ken and Anthony marvel at Mike's ability to hold a grudge.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Justin Termini's hypothesis that LeBron James might join the Golden State Warriors. They analyze the potential impact on James's legacy in Cleveland and debate whether his career trajectory aligns with the definition of a mercenary. 01:02 - LeBron To Golden State 04:06 - NBA Mercenary Debate 08:44 - Cavs Fan Sentiment
Justin Termine joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima, opening with a callback to their previous heated debate, before tackling LeBron James' future and the Cavs' offseason direction. Termine argues LeBron's flirtation with Golden State is bizarre given Steph Curry's rivalry status and notes the Cavs actually offer LeBron a better shot at a title than the Heat or Warriors, while also explaining why the league's lack of interest in trading for Jaylen Brown despite his MVP pedigree should worry Cleveland more than the analytics community's skepticism. He pushes back hard on Ken's idea of trading Donovan Mitchell for Brown, calling Mitchell the better and less divisive player, but says he would consider moving Evan Mobley only for a true superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo. The conversation closes with Termine detailing Brown's inconsistent off ball defense and high usage rate as legitimate reasons analytics view him so negatively despite his playoff heroics.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima open by mocking the messy KIND bar breakfast situation before getting back into the Shedeur Sanders defense, with Ken arguing he is more open minded about Sanders' future than Deshaun Watson's because the upside of a young quarterback outweighs the fool's gold of a Watson led playoff run. Caller Chuck from Cleveland Heights pushes back on the idea that Shedeur's rookie struggles were his fault, blaming poor offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and a lack of reps, while pointing out that Todd Monken recruited Sanders twice in college and the team cleared the runway by moving on from Jameis Winston and Joe Flacco. Ken largely agrees with Chuck but pushes back on the idea that Andrew Berry views Sanders as a guaranteed franchise quarterback, noting the Myles Garrett trade suggests the front office is not fully committed yet. They close by teasing Justin Termini's segment on NBA free agency, Thomas Bryant, James Harden's contract situation, and Cavs LeBron James reunion speculation.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Joe Thomas naming the defense, not the offense, as Todd Monken's biggest challenge this season, agreeing that losing the best pass rusher in football history makes Mason Graham and the rest of the defensive line much harder to evaluate going forward. They debate whether Jared Verse's leadership can offset losing Myles Garrett's pure sack production, while questioning how much the locker room actually misses Garrett emotionally given his more reserved personality. The conversation shifts to a viral graphic comparing Shedeur Sanders' rough rookie stats to Hall of Fame quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Troy Aikman, with Ken arguing the comparison is silly but not worth getting mad about since fans made similar reaches for Baker Mayfield and Evan Mobley in the past. They close by previewing Justin Termini's 9 o'clock segment on the worsening sports gambling scandal landscape.
Hall of Famer Joe Thomas joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to discuss the Browns' quarterback competition, explaining that Deshaun Watson's experience navigating new offenses and big games gives him an edge over Shedeur Sanders heading into camp, while cautioning that trading Sanders for anything less than a first round pick would be premature given how little the team actually knows about his ceiling. Thomas identifies the defense, not the offensive line, as Todd Monken's biggest challenge as a first year head coach, pointing to the loss of Myles Garrett and a new defensive coordinator as reasons the unit could take a step back even as the offensive line improves with veteran additions and position coach George Warhop. He also defends Warhop against analytics based criticism, details his Hall of Fame Farms Wagyu beef promotion ahead of July 4th, and shares the story of representing American agriculture at a White House roundtable. The segment wraps with a lighthearted bit about whether Browns swag could help the hosts talk their way out of a speeding ticket.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima bring in producer John to recap the Guardians' loss to the Rangers, where another high-hit, low-run output continues a pattern of pressing at the plate, before shifting to the Cavs re-signing center Thomas Bryant and pushing back on fans calling the offseason quiet so far. The bigger story is the NBA gambling indictment against Malik Beasley and Ed Davis, with Ken arguing the alleged point shaving and game manipulation is far more serious than the Brendan Sorsby situation, while Anthony cautions against ranking scandals until more facts come out, invoking the slow unraveling of the Pete Rose case. They close the segment with a lighthearted, fact-filled argument over whether New Jersey or Ohio has produced better high school baseball talent.
Ken Carman doubles down on calling the Browns' offseason a success despite predicting only six wins this season, arguing fans can acknowledge real progress on the offensive line and rookie wide receivers without expecting immediate results. Anthony Lima pushes back, questioning whether addressing the offensive line only after it completely fell apart last year actually deserves credit, while a caller named Jack from Lorain backs Ken's optimism and even corrects Anthony's "throwing darts" metaphor. The hosts agree the season is really about clarifying the Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders quarterback competition and determining whether Andrew Berry's young core can be trusted heading toward 2028, with Ken admitting this framing could get thrown back in his face if the Browns collapse. They close by teasing Joe Thomas joining the show at 8 and another athlete caught up in a gambling scandal.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima open by mocking fan outrage over leaked images of the Browns' new below-grade stadium before pivoting to The Athletic naming Cleveland one of the NFL's offseason winners despite trading Myles Garrett. Ken pushes back on the idea that fans should withhold any optimism until the win-loss record improves, arguing the Browns can have genuinely built for the future through the Garrett trade return, an overhauled offensive line, and a strong draft class even if the team only wins around six games in 2026. Anthony counters that Denzel Ward is likely traded next as part of the rebuild, while both agree the franchise's long-term outlook hinges almost entirely on whether Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders can give them stability at quarterback. They close by inviting callers to weigh in on whether it's fair to call this a good offseason without it translating to wins right away.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dive into Bobby Marks' comments on the analytics versus eye test debate surrounding Celtics star Jaylen Brown, with both hosts siding firmly with the eye test over advanced metrics that paint him as a below average player. They discuss how Boston's deep, well-coached roster may be skewing Brown's on-off numbers, and weigh whether the Cavs should pursue him despite questions about fit alongside Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. The conversation expands into a broader discussion of how unpredictable the playoffs have become, using the Knicks' surprise run as an example, before pivoting to how Cleveland sports fans' lingering distrust of Paul DePodesta has shaped the city's skepticism toward analytics across all three major teams.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dig into the Guardians' offensive struggles after a 10-hit loss, debating whether Steven Kwan or David Fry deserves more of the blame. They credit Kwan for elite defense and a willingness to draw walks despite a brutal bat speed decline, while questioning why Fry still has a roster spot over younger options like Cooper Ingle. The pair also revisit their past stance that the Guardians should have paid Kwan big money, conceding that Owen and Zack Meisel were right to push back. They close by wondering if the lineup can hold up in another playoff push once Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez return from injury.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down body cam footage of NFL reporter Diana Russini getting pulled over in New Jersey, where she namedrops Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell to the trooper to get out of a distracted driving ticket. The tactic works, with the officer fanboying over the Vikings instead of writing her up. Ken and Anthony riff on whether other Browns figures like Joe Thomas or Todd Monken could pull off the same move, before circling back to discuss the ongoing Watson versus Sanders quarterback competition and the East 9th Street closure wreaking havoc on their commutes.
Dive into the Cavaliers' high-stakes free agency strategy as hosts break down how James Harden's contract maneuvering helps Cleveland avoid the NBA's dreaded second apron. Plus, the guys debate whether the intense fan backlash against Harden is actually justified and what the return of Thomas Bryant means for the roster.
Ken and Lima break down the Guardians' emotional series win over the Mariners and the viral exchange between Austin Hedges and Josh Naylor. The discussion pivots to rumors of LeBron James joining the Golden State Warriors and whether a retirement tour in Cleveland is realistic. They also evaluate James Harden's role with the Cavaliers and the latest fallout regarding Brendan Sorsby's football career. 02:23 - Guardians Win Recap 06:43 - Hedges Confronts Naylor 12:04 - LeBron Warriors Rumors 19:23 - LeBron's Final Season 26:05 - Jaylen Brown Potential 33:18 - Golfing At Stonewater 38:14 - Brendan Sorsby Controversy 47:53 - Naylor's Team Reputation 57:56 - Matt Derry Joins 01:06:01 - Travis Bazzana Struggles 01:14:11 - Lima Likes Segment 01:22:52 - Johnny Manziel Rants 01:31:06 - Shedeur Sanders Apology 01:37:53 - Daryl Ryder Joins 01:54:30 - James Harden's Future 02:11:41 - Cavs Roster Depth 02:18:08 - Ken Birthday Controversy 02:26:07 - Trading Evan Mobley 02:36:45 - LeBron Jersey Legacy
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to the Cleveland Guardians' dramatic comeback victory and the viral lip-reading moment involving Austin Hedges. On The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, they debate the validity of LeBron James rumors and the potential of adding a "dog" like Jaylen Brown to the Cavaliers roster. 02:15 - Guardians Win of Year 05:25 - Hedges and Naylor Reputation 09:25 - American League Division Race 12:45 - LeBron James Rumor Mill 18:30 - Comparing All-Time Legacies 22:10 - LeBron's Final Season Strategy 26:05 - Jaylen Brown Trade Fit 30:15 - Ken's Personal Golf Struggles 37:10 - Cool Ray's Inspiring Story 41:30 - Brendan Sorsby Betting Scandal
Matt Dery joins to analyze the Cleveland Guardians' recent win over the Seattle Mariners and the drama surrounding Josh Naylor's confrontation with Austin Hedges. They delve into clubhouse dynamics, the development of Travis Bazzana, and potential trade scenarios for Denzel Ward. The segment concludes with a look at the 2016 Cavaliers reunion and Daryl Ruiter's response to Johnny Manziel's recent comments. 01:52 - Sorsby and NFL Draft Debates 06:07 - Naylor and Hedges Confrontation 15:51 - Matt Derry Guardians Analysis 21:06 - Moving On From Naylor 25:08 - Guardians Division Race Outlook 29:13 - Lions Rumors and Denzel Ward 33:47 - Lima Likes and Johnny Manziel
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster construction and whether James Harden remains a long-term fit for the future. They are joined by insider Daryl Ruiter to discuss LeBron James' potential return and Johnny Manziel's lack of accountability following his latest comments. They also examine the intensity of Shedeur Sanders' fanbase and the challenges of roster building in the NBA's second apron era. 01:44 - Johnny Manziel Accountability Discussion 05:31 - Shedeur Sanders Role Debate 11:07 - Dealing With Shedeur Fans 15:48 - LeBron James Return Speculation 20:12 - Jaylen Brown Trade Discussion 25:21 - Manziel Criticizes The Browns 33:21 - James Harden Performance Review
Ken and Lima evaluate whether acquiring James Harden was a mistake for the Cavaliers while discussing the likelihood of Donovan Mitchell signing an extension. They explore the possibility of LeBron James joining the Warriors and debate whether Ken was "selfish" for not hosting a milestone birthday party. 01:56 - James Harden Debate 07:52 - Mitchell's Cavs Future 15:39 - Ken's Selfish Birthday 24:44 - Evan Mobley's Ceiling 32:19 - LeBron To Golden State 39:05 - Cleveland Retirement Tour
Ken acknowledges he's overreacting to the idea of LeBron joining Golden State, but says it still bothers him given the rivalry years between Cleveland and the Warriors. He and Anthony debate whether a move to Cleveland would essentially be an admission that LeBron's career is winding down, while noting his continued elite play this postseason makes that hard to accept either way. They also touch on LeBron's new membership at Firestone being tied to his foundation rather than a relocation signal, and close out by running through other league movement, including Kawhi Leonard's potential trade to Toronto and Jaylen Brown's lingering trade market.
Ken and Anthony open with news that James Harden declined his player option as the Cavs work on a new multi-year deal, then shift into some birthday banter after Ken admits he may have been "selfish" by skipping a celebration for his milestone birthday. A caller pushes for trading Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown, but Ken pushes back, arguing Mobley still lacks a go-to move and a reliable jump shot, and that losing him likely doesn't get Cleveland past the East's best teams anyway. He adds that both Boston and Oklahoma City's interest in Mobley should make Cleveland cautious about moving him out of desperation.
Ken and Anthony, along with a caller, dig deeper into why fans want James Harden gone despite admitting there's no real replacement available given the Cavs' lack of draft picks and cap flexibility. They argue Harden was actually solid defensively and necessary in heavy minutes during the playoffs, with the criticism mostly stemming from years of disliking him elsewhere. The conversation shifts to Donovan Mitchell's looming extension decision, with Ken saying he's increasingly convinced Mitchell won't sign and that his time in Cleveland could be nearing its end. They close by debating whether trading for Jaylen Brown is even realistic given the picks and assets the Cavs would have to give up.
Ken pushes back on the wave of fans calling for the Cavs to move on from James Harden, pointing to The Ringer's top 100 ranking Harden 30th in the league as proof he's still a legitimate piece. He argues Harden's heavy playoff minutes exposed how little the Cavs could rely on Mobley and Mitchell to create offense, not that Harden himself is the problem. Anthony counters that Harden simply carries a reputation that makes him an easy scapegoat on a team fans are already skeptical of. Both agree they'd ditch Harden for a real upgrade, but neither can identify what that upgrade would actually look like.
Daryl Ruiter tells Ken and Anthony he's at 55 percent on LeBron returning to Cleveland but says he can't stomach the idea of him joining the Warriors after they took multiple championships from him. He explains why he wants the Cavs to move off James Harden quickly, viewing him purely as a vehicle to duck under the second luxury tax apron and give Koby Altman roster flexibility, while also taking issue with Harden's age, turnovers and defense. Ruiter also says he'd have rather traded Donovan Mitchell than Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown, arguing Brown fits better next to Mobley. He closes by dismissing Johnny Manziel's renewed shots at the Browns and saying Brendan Sorsby's lack of a strong draft grade explains why teams are unwilling to deal with the off field baggage.
Ken and Anthony dismiss Johnny Manziel's recycled criticism of the Browns as not worth the airtime, comparing him to a street corner ranter people eventually learn to tune out. Ken then walks back comments from Friday's show, apologizing to Anthony after realizing he conflated his cohost's stance on Shedeur Sanders with the "start or trade him" crowd Ken had been arguing against. Ken clarifies he never wanted Sanders moved if he doesn't win the job in camp, calling this a development year for the whole young roster. They close by previewing Daryl Ruiter's upcoming segment on James Harden and the Cavaliers.
In this week's Lima Likes, Anthony gives a thumbs up to Khalil Watson's turnaround from an 0-for-12 start to a .290 average, and to Chase DeLauter's return to the lineup. He and Ken also dig into Timofey Mozgov getting left out of the Cavs' 10-year reunion celebration, and debate the Browns' decision to pull O.J. Simpson from their wall of fame ahead of the new stadium. They close out by replaying Daryl Ruiter's blistering response to Johnny Manziel taking shots at the Browns and Cleveland, with Ken teasing he may owe Anthony an apology from Friday's show.
Matt Dery joins Ken and Anthony to rank Sunday's comeback win among the Guardians' top three of the season, crediting Chase DeLauter and Hoskins for finally delivering with runners in scoring position. He explains the Naylor-Hedges tension by pointing to Naylor's lack of postseason hustle and reputation around the league, while praising Hedges as the most respected leader in the clubhouse. Derry also breaks down Travis Bazzana's rookie struggles, arguing he still belongs everyday given his draft pedigree, and pushes back on the idea that Cleveland can't develop hitters by pointing to Bazzana, DeLauter and Kahlil Watson's early returns.
Ken and Anthony revisit the Naylor-Hedges feud and use it to reexamine how much popularity actually matters for a leader in the clubhouse, drawing comparisons to Myles Garrett and Baker Mayfield situations where talent outweighed teammate friction. They also dig deeper into the Brendan Sorsby debate, with Ken arguing the NFL's harsh letter and lack of direct contact with Sorsby felt hypocritical given how the league has handled other troubled prospects, including Shedeur Sanders. Ken says his curiosity about seeing Sorsby actually play outweighs his concerns, framing football ultimately as an entertainment business. They close by teasing an upcoming Matt Dery interview on the Guardians' big weekend win.
Ken and Anthony open with some self-deprecating golf talk before taking a call from longtime listener Cool Ray, who reveals he's dropped from 545 pounds to 298 thanks to the game. The conversation shifts to Brendan Sorsby getting rejected by the CFL, which Ken and Lima see as a serious blow given he's already missed his shot at the NFL supplemental draft. They debate whether this means his football career could realistically be over, and whether the league and CFL ever took the situation as seriously as they should have.
Ken and Anthony dig into whether LeBron's flirtation with Cleveland is real or just him having fun, with Ken arguing a final season here would be unforgettable regardless of championship odds, drawing comparisons to Kobe's farewell year with the Lakers. They note the Cavs have stayed eerily quiet on additions while subtraction rumors swirl around Strus, Schroeder, Wade and Ellis. The conversation shifts to Jaylen Brown's reported frustration with his role in Boston, with Ken admitting the drama and "angry Brown" energy is actually making him want the Finals MVP on Cleveland's roster. They wrap by teasing an upcoming Matt Derry segment on the first place Guardians.
Ken and Anthony break down the Guardians' wild comeback win over Seattle, capped by Austin Hedges allegedly telling former teammate Josh Naylor "nobody likes you" after a heated exchange at first base. They debate whether the line still carries weight among adults and what it says about how Naylor was viewed in the clubhouse. The win pushed Cleveland to 44 victories and kept them within striking distance in a wide open AL race. They close by digging into fresh reports linking LeBron to a possible move to Golden State, with Ken admitting it has him souring on the idea of a Cleveland return.
A selection of interviews from during the past week with The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Baskin & Phelps, and The Afternoon Drive. Featuring Mary Kay Cabot, Greg Swartz, Mike Florio, Danny Green, and Cody Allen.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan pull no punches in reacting to Joe Thomas defending the Myles Garrett trade as part of a necessary "building phase" for the franchise. Tensions run high as the hosts also debate the national media's praise of Cleveland's off-season, questioning if the team can truly succeed with an uncertain quarterback room and heated disagreements over the true value of their offensive weapons like Harold Fannin Jr. and Quinshon Judkins.
The 92.3 The Fan crews dive into the wild possibility of a LeBron James reunion in Cleveland, debating whether the current front office dynamics could make or break the King's return. Plus, the guys vent their frustrations over the Cavaliers' draft strategy of selecting yet another undersized guard instead of addressing their desperate need for frontcourt size, all while floating a blockbuster trade scenario involving Donovan Mitchell and Jaylen Brown.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan tackle the Guardians' mid-season woes, with Al Pawlowski breaking down the devastating injuries to the top of the lineup and the pressure on young call-ups to keep the team afloat. The guys also debate the team's trade deadline strategy, questioning if this roster is worth a major investment, and attempt to name the "hot" and "not hot" hitters in a struggling offense.
In this compilation episode, the guys tackle the latest Cleveland sports news, including the Cavaliers' draft selection of Meleek Thomas, brewing Evan Mobley trade rumors, and the NFL's handling of Brendan Sorsby's supplemental draft eligibility. The conversation also takes a hilarious detour into personal territory as the crew recaps a dramatic staff trip to Iowa and debates the best way to deter a raccoon garbage invasion using ammonia.
Ken Carman and Daryl Ruiter analyze the possibility of LeBron James returning to the Cavaliers and how he would fit with Evan Mobley. They react to Shedeur Sanders rumors involving the Browns and debate if the young quarterback could push Deshaun Watson. Interviews with Curtis Danburg and Al Pawlowski provide insight into the Guardians' current homestand and roster moves. 02:43 - Daryl Ruiter Joins Ken 06:48 - LeBron Return Rumors 15:56 - Cavs GM Discussion 21:41 - Trading Evan Mobley 25:49 - Channing Frye On Cavs 30:43 - Curtis Danberg In Studio 34:40 - Guardians All-Star Update 40:49 - Shedeur Sanders To Browns 48:47 - QB Competition Debate 01:02:38 - Listener Calls On Shedeur 01:15:31 - MLB Labor Concerns 01:19:20 - Caitlin Clark Snub 01:24:43 - Gas Station Skimmer 01:30:47 - Eric Pincus On Mobley 01:38:59 - Greg Schwartz Joins 01:45:02 - Cavs Roster Toughness 01:50:39 - Donovan Mitchell Extension 02:05:48 - Al Pawlowski Interview 02:26:10 - NFL Top 100 02:43:41 - Nathan Zegura Segment
Ken Carman and Daryl Ruiter explore the growing rumors of LeBron James returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers and the financial hurdles required to make it happen. They analyze Channing Frye's critical comments regarding the team's chemistry and mental toughness following recent playoff exits. Later, Cleveland Guardians VP Curtis Danberg stops by to discuss the team's resilience through injuries and the upcoming ten-game homestand. 02:43 - Daryl Ruiter Joins Ken 04:16 - LeBron To Cavs Rumors 07:46 - Potential Cavs Front Office 13:06 - LeBron's Legacy And Fit 21:00 - Evan Mobley Trade Talk 25:45 - Channing Frye On Cavs 30:36 - Curtis Danburg Interview 39:00 - Honoring Larry Doby
Ken Carman and Daryl Ruiter address controversial claims on The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima regarding the Cleveland Browns' treatment of Shedeur Sanders. They explore the possibility of Sanders serving as a backup to Deshaun Watson and examine the potential for an MLB work stoppage and marketing blunders in the WNBA. 02:15 - Shady McCoy Sabotage Claims 05:45 - Trading Shedeur Sanders Narrative 10:00 - Watson Versus Sanders Debate 15:05 - Browns Fan QB Opinions 21:38 - Ken Carman Coaching Stories 34:33 - Guardians Cooper Ingle Promotion 40:10 - WNBA Poster Snub Controversy
Owen shares a cautionary tale about falling victim to a credit card skimmer at a gas station and offers tips for spotting fraudulent devices. Greg Swartz from Bleacher Report joins the conversation to analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers’ lack of toughness and the financial risks of offering Donovan Mitchell a supermax extension. They also explore why Evan Mobley remains the franchise's most valuable long-term asset. 01:50 - Protecting Evan Mobley 05:00 - Gas Station Skimmer Scams 08:45 - Cavs Roster Soul Issues 14:50 - Greg Swartz On Harden 20:30 - LeBron James Return Debate 28:00 - Mitchell Extension Financial Concerns 35:15 - Future Of Donovan Mitchell
Ken Carman and Daryl Ruiter are joined by Al Pawlowski to discuss the Guardians' reliance on young talent and the upcoming trade deadline. They also engage in a heated debate over the validity of the NFL Top 100 list while analyzing recent coaching changes within the Cleveland Browns organization. 01:50 - Al Pawlowski Interview 08:00 - Guardians Pitching Development 15:15 - MLB Trade Deadline 21:43 - NFL Top 100 Debate 28:12 - Evaluating NFL Ranking Metrics 38:07 - Jaylen Brown Trade Rumors 41:05 - Browns Coaching Staff Analysis
Ken finally gets to gloat as Daryl Ruiter relays Nathan Zegura's comments backing up Ken's controversial December prediction that firing Kevin Stefanski would hurt Shedeur Sanders' shot at starting. They also dig into Shams Charania's report that the Celtics are asking for as many as four first round picks for Jalen Brown after missing out on Giannis Antetokounmpo, with Ken floating a theory on why draft picks have grown more valuable under the second apron rules. Zegura's update on Deshaun Watson rounds things out, with Daryl and Ken agreeing the new coaching staff has Watson in a noticeably better headspace. The segment closes with some lighthearted Friday banter heading into a break.
Ken and Daryl Ruiter spend a chunk of the show debating the validity of the NFL Top 100, the player-voted list that just landed Carson Schwesinger at 93rd overall. Ken argues it should carry serious weight since it's voted on by his peers and represents the top five percent of the league, while Daryl dismisses it as a glorified popularity contest he's never gotten into. The two go back and forth comparing it to Hall of Fame voting and past Browns players like Odell Beckham Jr and Nick Chubb, with Ken eventually getting a caller to side with him for the show's Fanatics Cash giveaway. The segment wraps with a tease about more audio coming up where Ken claims vindication on another long-running argument.
Al Pawlowski joins Ken and Daryl Ruiter to break down how the Guardians are clinging to first place despite losing their top three hitters to injury, and why the development pipeline keeps producing arms like Parker Messick. He contrasts the Guardians' team-first culture with the Mets, arguing that talent alone doesn't win when a clubhouse lacks chemistry, and credits manager Stephen Vogt's steady, predictable presence for keeping young players grounded. Pawlowski also weighs in on the surprising White Sox contention in the AL Central and explains why the expanded wild card format makes the trade deadline so difficult to navigate. The segment closes with Ken and Daryl bantering about potential nicknames for Cooper Ingle as he prepares to join the big league roster.
Ken lays out an uncomfortable theory that nobody around the Cavs wants to pay Donovan Mitchell the 70 to 80 million dollar supermax extension he could command, which could make this his final season in Cleveland. He and Daryl Ruiter debate whether a championship run would change the calculus, with Ken admitting he'd only push to re-sign Mitchell if the Cavs actually win it all this year. The two also revisit Greg Swartz's James Harden trade criticism, with Ken now wondering aloud whether the deal that sent out Darius Garland was actually a mistake given Harden's playoff struggles. The segment closes with a preview of Guardians TV analyst Al Pawlowski joining the show to talk Cooper Engel and the team's injury situation.
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report joins Ken and Daryl Ruiter and drops a surprising take, saying he'd sooner trade Donovan Mitchell than Evan Mobley given the massive supermax money Mitchell could command in two years. He explains why he wouldn't deal Mobley for Jalen Brown or even Giannis, calling Mobley the team's one true safety net given his age and team control. Swartz also breaks down why LeBron James wouldn't fix the Cavaliers' toughness and defensive issues even if he returned, and lays out his ideal offseason built around adding wing defenders rather than chasing a blockbuster. The conversation closes with a tease that Ken thinks there's an uncomfortable truth about Mitchell nobody wants to say out loud.
Ken and Daryl Ruiter make the case for holding onto Evan Mobley, pointing out that the two teams reportedly interested in trading for him, the Celtics and Thunder, are exactly the patient, pick-hoarding franchises that have built championship cores the right way. They play Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus arguing Mobley's age and size make him more valuable long-term than Jalen Brown, plus another replay of Channing Frye's criticism that the Cavs' chemistry issues won't be fixed by adding LeBron. Ken warns that trading Mobley only pays off if it actually results in a championship, otherwise the Cavs risk feeling sick about giving up their best asset for nothing. The segment closes with a preview of Bleacher Report's Greg Schwartz joining the show in five minutes.
Ken and Daryl bring in producer John and he runs through "About Last Night," covering the Guardians' rumored call-up of catcher Cooper Ingle and the awkward roster math around Austin Hedges and Patrick Bailey. He and Daryl Ruiter dig into MLB's proposed new CBA, debating whether a 200 million dollar cap on free agent deals could actually trigger a work stoppage given how the players' union is reacting. The conversation shifts to the WNBA's 30th anniversary poster controversy, where Caitlin Clark's exclusion sparks a debate over whether the league benefits from the constant outrage cycle. They close by teasing an upcoming interview with Bleacher Report's Greg Schwartz on the James Harden trade fallout.
The phone lines explode as Browns fans weigh in on whether Shedeur Sanders has to start to justify keeping him on the roster. Callers largely back Ken and Daryl Ruiter's stance that trading or cutting him over a backup role would be foolish, pointing to the upgraded offensive line and receiving corps as reasons to let him develop behind Deshaun Watson. One caller compares Sanders' situation to Troy Aikman's rocky rookie season, arguing growing pains are normal for young quarterbacks. The segment wraps with a tease of upcoming Cavaliers and Guardians coverage later in the show.
Ken pushes back hard Daryl who argue Shedeur Sanders must either win the starting job or be traded or cut. He plays a clip of Shady McCoy on his podcast pushing for the Browns to trade Sanders to a team where he can start right away, then dismantles the idea that Kevin Stefanski sabotaged Sanders as a rookie. Daryl Ruiter pushes back somewhat, suggesting there's a scenario where Sanders gets traded if a team calls, but agrees there's real value in him learning behind Deshaun Watson rather than starting week one. The segment ends with Ken opening the phone lines to get fans' take on whether Sanders has to start or can develop as a backup.
Curtis Danburg, the Guardians' VP of Communications and Community Impact, joins Ken and Daryl Ruiter in studio ahead of a 10-game homestand. He discusses the team holding onto first place despite losing three top hitters on the road trip, frustration over Toronto dominating All-Star voting, and Daniel Schneemann's breakout season. Danberg also previews the team's plans to honor Larry Doby on July 5th for the 79th anniversary of him breaking the American League color barrier, along with the Tanner Bibee jersey giveaway and a stacked fireworks schedule. The segment wraps with a look ahead to upcoming Guardians-focused guests later in the show.
Ken and Daryl Ruiter dig into whether a LeBron James return alone gets the Cavaliers back to a championship, and both agree it's not enough on its own. They play Channing Frye's pointed criticism from his Road Trippin podcast, where he argues the Cavs have chemistry and mentality issues that an aging LeBron simply can't fix. The conversation shifts into roster fit, with Daryl pushing back on Jalen Brown trade scenarios involving Evan Mobley or Donovan Mitchell and questioning whether this group has actually learned anything from four straight playoff exits. They close by previewing an in-studio visit from Guardians VP Curtis Danburg.
Ken Carman and Daryl Ruiterdives into the latest LeBron James rumors swirling around Cleveland, from sightings at his old Akron gym to Scoop B Robinson's report on a possible Cavaliers sign and trade. Ken and Daryl debate how much the vacant GM job actually factors into LeBron's decision, with names like Brandon Weems and David Griffin in the mix. They break down the financial maneuvering the Cavs would need to pull off, including clearing the second apron and a James Harden contract restructure. The two also weigh whether a Cleveland return stacks up against a Miami reunion or a farewell tour somewhere else entirely.
Ken Carman and guest host Jason Lloyd analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers' draft selection of Malik Thomas and the impact of the NBA second apron. They engage in a spirited debate over a rumored trade sending Evan Mobley to Boston for Jaylen Brown. Additionally, Mary Kay Cabot and Chris Mannix join to discuss the Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition and roster management. 02:10 - Malik Thomas Draft Analysis 06:45 - Ken's Raccoon Garbage Saga 12:10 - Callers Offer Pest Advice 16:50 - NBA Second Apron Explained 24:30 - Mobley For Brown Debate 34:40 - Cavaliers Trade Strategy Discussion 41:50 - LeBron James Return Rumors 49:30 - Shedeur Sanders Starting Debate 01:00:15 - Browns Locker Room Dynamics 01:11:45 - Guardians White Sox Recap 01:18:50 - Terryon Arnold Legal Issues 01:23:10 - Ken's Facebook Ad Nightmare 01:36:25 - Traffic Report 01:37:35 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 01:52:40 - Sanders vs Watson Depth 02:06:50 - Chris Mannix Trade Analysis 02:25:10 - Jaylen Brown Fit Debate 02:36:40 - Final Wrap And Raccoons
Ken Carman and guest host Jason Lloyd weigh the pros and cons of trading Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown after rumors surface from Chris Mannix. They examine how such a move would impact Donovan Mitchell's future and the team's defensive identity. The conversation also covers a humorous early morning battle with raccoons and the drafting of Malik Thomas. 02:45 - Carman and Jason Lloyd Intro 06:00 - Ken’s Garbage Can Raccoon Saga 12:03 - Solutions for Raccoon Problems 17:36 - Cavs Draft Malik Thomas 21:54 - Mobley for Jaylen Brown Rumors 26:11 - Importance of Big Wings 32:42 - NBA Front Office Perspectives 37:55 - Mitchell Future and Team Fit
Ken Carman and Jason Lloyd react to reports regarding a potential LeBron James return to Cleveland and the possibility of David Griffin rejoining the front office. They debate the merits of drafting prospects with character concerns like Brenden Sorsby versus Shedeur Sanders. The discussion also covers the Guardians' trade deadline strategy and recent NFL legal issues. 01:50 - Brenden Sorsby Controversy 04:14 - LeBron James Return Rumors 08:43 - LeBron's Potential Retirement Tour 12:58 - Jarrett Allen Trade Scenarios 18:30 - Shedeur Sanders Draft Outlook 24:07 - Cleveland's Island of Misfits 33:30 - Guardians Trade Deadline Outlook 37:10 - NFL Character Concerns Debate
Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken Carman and Jason Lloyd to discuss why the Browns are unlikely to trade Denzel Ward despite interest from the Detroit Lions. They also evaluate the status of Grant Delpit and the heated quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders heading into the season. 01:50 - Birthdays And Social Algorithms 06:08 - Jason Lloyd's Midlife Crisis 11:47 - Terrion Arnold Arrest Impacts Lions 16:06 - Traffic And Sports Update 18:39 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 25:34 - Browns Quarterback Competition Debate 34:46 - Starting Watson Versus Sanders
Chris Mannix joins Ken Carman and Jason Lloyd to explore the possibility of a blockbuster trade sending Jaylen Brown to Cleveland for Evan Mobley. They break down the roster fit for the Cavaliers, James Harden's future alongside Donovan Mitchell, and the likelihood of LeBron James remaining in Los Angeles. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted look at Ken's home life and a debate regarding the Browns' quarterback situation. 02:15 - Chris Mannix Interview Begins 06:24 - Jaylen Brown Trade Fit 10:34 - James Harden Cleveland Dynamic 15:51 - LeBron James Lakers Outlook 20:21 - Trade Fit Logic Debate 24:13 - Evaluating Recent Cavs Success 33:05 - Ken Carman Garbage Story 39:40 - Browns Quarterback Future Debate
Ken previews his looming on-air clash with Daryl Ruiter over the Shedeur Sanders quarterback debate, pushing back on the idea that he's leading some "Shedeurian" cult. The setup has Ken arguing that both Daryl and Jason's all-or-nothing takes ignore how things actually work in an NFL locker room, especially with Andrew Berry's view that quarterbacks are a precious resource. The bottom line: Ken says if Deshaun Watson wins the job, fine, but cutting Sanders over it makes zero sense after everything the Browns have invested in him.
Ken and Chris Mannix debate whether the Cavs should pursue Jaylen Brown, with Ken pumping the brakes on the idea that adding a big name automatically makes the team better. The setup has Mannix arguing Brown fills Cleveland's long-standing hole at the wing position, while Ken counters that Boston giving up on a championship pairing should make anyone think twice about the fit. The bottom line: Ken admits Evan Mobley isn't quite a true "1 percent" superstar, but says that's not a reason to trade him away just to chase a star name.
Ken and Lima go to war over the Browns' quarterback competition, with Lima arguing point-blank that benching Shedeur Sanders for Deshaun Watson proves the team doesn't actually believe in him. Ken pushes back hard, comparing it to how a rookie like Fernando Mendoza would still need time to adjust to a new system, and says throwing Shedeur out before he's ready only sets him up to fail. The bottom line: Ken admits the leash is short if Watson struggles, but insists experience earns Deshaun the tiebreaker for now.
Ken and Jason Lloyd go back and forth hard on whether Shedeur Sanders should be the Week 1 starter over Deshaun Watson. The setup has Jason arguing that if the Browns truly believed in Shedeur they'd already be starting him, while Ken counters that throwing him out before he's ready only confirms doubts and hurts his long-term development. The bottom line: Ken says the tie goes to Deshaun's experience for now, but if Watson struggles and Shedeur looks ready, the leash will be short.
Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken and Lima to break down the Browns' offseason, starting with the Denzel Ward trade buzz sparked by Terrion Arnold's arrest. The setup has Cabot shutting down any real chance of a Ward trade while admitting a first-round pick (or more) would have to be on the table for Cleveland to even listen, and she also clarifies Grant Delpit isn't holding in, just dealing with a minor camp tweak. The bottom line: Cabot says Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson's quarterback competition is legit, with no real trade smoke despite rumors, and benching Shedeur after he wins fans over could be a tougher sell than the Browns think.
Ken and Lima break down the fallout from Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold's arrest and what it means for the Browns' secondary. The setup explains Arnold is facing serious charges that could wipe out his season, and the hosts argue Detroit may now be desperate enough to call Cleveland about Denzel Ward. The bottom line: trading Myles Garrett opened the door to moving any veteran, and Lima says holding onto Ward only drives his price up if another team's need becomes urgent.
Ken Carman and Jason evaluate the Cleveland Guardians' approach to the upcoming trade deadline and the team's internal promotion of young talent. They also examine the felony charges facing Lions cornerback Terryon Arnold and mention the Cavaliers' latest addition from the NBA draft. 01:55 - Guardians Trade Deadline Strategy 06:39 - Terryon Arnold Arrest Discussion 09:52 - Cavaliers Draft Malik Thomas
Ken Carman and Jason Lloyd evaluate the rumors of LeBron James returning to Cleveland and the high trade value of Jarrett Allen. They then shift to a heated debate regarding the NFL Draft prospects of Shedeur Sanders and Brendan Sorsby, weighing talent against off-field gambling concerns. 01:02 - LeBron's Potential Cavs Return 01:36 - Jarrett Allen Trade Value 04:48 - Shedeur Sanders vs Sorsby 10:39 - NFL Gambling Policy Discussion 17:39 - Guardians Beat White Sox
A report from Brandon Scoop B Robinson adds fuel to the LeBron fire, claiming a return to Cleveland is genuinely on the table and would require James Harden to restructure his deal, LeBron taking less than max money, and a sign-and-trade with the Lakers that could involve moving Jarrett Allen or others. The David Griffin angle gets tossed into the mix as a fun subplot, with Ken admitting he'd love to see Griff back in Cleveland before Jason quickly pours cold water on the idea that LeBron would base any decision on who the GM is. Ken's central hang-up remains the same: coming back to Cleveland feels like a retirement tour admission, and he's not convinced LeBron is emotionally ready to make that concession while he's still physically capable of special things at 41. Jason pushes back gently, arguing LeBron has nothing left to prove and would be fine walking away on his own terms, championship window or not.
Ken and Jason Lloyd continue wrestling with the Evan Mobley for Jalen Brown scenario, with Ken gradually talking himself into accepting that this may be the only realistic upgrade available, even as he worries it just creates a lineup of three guards and Jarrett Allen. Jason makes the most compelling argument of the segment: if Ken doesn't believe Mobley can lead this team to a championship, and there's no other realistic trade partner, then saying no to Brown is essentially saying no to every Mobley trade forever. The Donovan Mitchell contract situation hangs over everything, with Jason noting the window is likely two years regardless, and Ken revealing he's been hearing whispers about Miami and Donovan's affection for Bam Adebayo as a potential landing spot if Mitchell doesn't re-sign. Ken closes with the James Harden analogy that keeps nagging at him: that move sped the clock up like cutting the wrong wire on a bomb, and whatever comes next has to be the right call.
Chris Mannix reported that the Celtics have been calling around about Evan Mobley as a potential return piece in a Jalen Brown deal, and Ken and Jason Lloyd dig into whether Cleveland should pick up the phone. Jason makes the case that wings win championships, that Mobley has never become the player the Cavs needed him to be, and that Brown is exactly the type of two-way wing that could finally push Cleveland over the top. Ken is intrigued but hesitant, arguing that swapping Mobley for Brown leaves the starting four as Dean Wade and creates a roster of essentially three guards, which he's not convinced is enough to beat Oklahoma City or San Antonio in a seven-game series. Both agree that Donovan Mitchell's relationship with Brown is a real asset in recruiting him to Cleveland, and Ken closes by noting that both OKC and Boston coveting Mobley says something important about how good he actually is.
Ken opens the show with Jason Lloyd sitting in for Lima, and the morning's first crisis has nothing to do with sports: a raccoon problem has reached a boiling point, with Ken calmly calling his 11-year-old son at 4:50 a.m. to clean up the garage, setting off a chain reaction of chaos that woke up the entire family and sparked a heated text exchange with his wife over whether to get a third garbage can. Listeners flood the phones with solutions, with ammonia emerging as the consensus answer, and Ken is already on the Target app by the end of the segment. On the actual basketball news, the Cavs used the 34th pick on Malik Thomas, a shooter out of Arkansas who projects as an upside play and a future trade asset rather than someone expected to contribute right away. Ken also explains the second apron constraints driving Cleveland's roster decisions, drawing a parallel to a similar move the 2015 championship team made when they traded out of the first round to manage tax penalties.
Ken and Lima break down the NFL's decision to bar Brendan Sorsby from the supplemental draft and the hypocrisy of league gambling policies. They are joined by Mike Florio to discuss the legal ramifications and Danny Cunningham to analyze trade rumors involving Evan Mobley. A heated debate with Brian Geltziler over the Cavaliers' future and the New York Knicks rounds out the discussion. 01:50 - Sorsby Draft Rejection 07:18 - Kessler Legal Strategy 14:33 - Collegiate Gambling Details 19:45 - Cavs Trade Pitfalls 31:58 - NFL Gambling Precedents 41:44 - Danny Cunningham Interview 58:45 - Heat Trade Threats 01:07:00 - LeBron Return Discussion 01:11:00 - Guardians Score Update 01:13:51 - NBA Draft Trades 01:22:33 - Bruce Pearl Controversy 01:30:49 - Sorsby Legal Outlook 01:34:14 - Mike Florio Interview 01:49:30 - Steelers Interest Rumors 02:03:20 - Mobley For Brown 02:11:18 - Knicks Overrated Debate 02:15:43 - Brian Geltziler Interview 02:28:50 - Harden Playoff Debate 02:35:10 - Segment Wrap Up
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the NFL's decision to bar quarterback Brendan Sorsby from the supplemental draft due to his gambling history. They debate the league's legal standing, the influence of attorney Jeffrey Kessler, and how this case compares to past controversies involving Maurice Clarett. The discussion also touches on the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster construction ahead of a visit from Danny Cunningham. 02:51 - Landmark Sorsby Case Analysis 07:13 - Jeffrey Kessler Joins Battle 12:22 - Sorsby Traits and Potential 21:10 - Cavs and Donovan Mitchell 28:25 - Maurice Clarett Precedent Comparison 39:36 - Listener Calls and Accountability
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the merits of a proposed blockbuster trade sending Donovan Mitchell to Boston for Jalen Brown. They are joined by Danny Cunningham to analyze the Cavaliers' roster flexibility, the impact of the NBA's second apron, and the ongoing rumors surrounding a LeBron James return to Cleveland. 01:50 - Donovan Mitchell Trade Scenario 05:08 - Darius Garland Comparisons 07:10 - Mitchell's Contract Sticker Price 10:14 - Evaluating Evan Mobley's Value 13:37 - Danny Cunningham Interview 18:12 - Heat Interest in Mitchell 20:35 - Jared Allen Trade Market 26:24 - LeBron James Return Talk 32:26 - Guardians Offensive Struggles 35:40 - NBA Second Apron Restrictions
Mike Florio joins to break down the NFL’s decision to prevent quarterback Brendan Sorsby from entering the supplemental draft. They discuss the league's legal justification regarding gambling policy and how this serves as a warning to other athletes. The conversation also explores Bruce Pearl’s comments on the NBA draft and the rising costs of youth sports. 01:50 - John’s Miami Trip 05:30 - Bruce Pearl Tweet 08:40 - Youth Sports Training 11:53 - Brendan Sorsby Case 17:04 - Mike Florio Interview 23:30 - NFL Draft Eligibility 28:00 - Gambling Normalization Issues 34:30 - NFL Warning Shot 39:00 - Sorsby Lawyering Up 42:30 - Cavaliers Trade Rumors
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima debate the possibility of the Cavaliers trading Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown following reports of interest from the Celtics. An interview with Brian Geltzeiler turns sour when he and Lima get into a fiery disagreement regarding James Harden's impact on the court. They wrap up by analyzing recent draft picks and the internal expectations for the Cavaliers organization. 01:55 - Cavs Trade Rumors 06:15 - Mobley Vs. Jaylen Brown 09:50 - Jared Allen and Callers 16:35 - Brian Geltzeiler Interview 21:25 - Geltzeiler and Lima Argument 27:15 - Interview Reaction Debrief 32:20 - NBA Draft Prospects 37:25 - Building Cavs Identity
Ken argues the Cavs front office quietly accepted at the trade deadline that the Eastern Conference Finals was this year's realistic ceiling, once Rich Paul effectively forced the Darius Garland for James Harden trade and left no time to build chemistry. He pushes back hard on fans wanting a "punitive" shakeup just to feel something, insisting a Jaylen Brown deal would only stack the backcourt, age the roster, and shrink the championship window without fixing anything real. Ken draws his line in the sand: as built, this team can't beat the Knicks, Thunder, or Spurs, but it can beat everyone else in the East, so patience matters more than a splashy move for its own sake. He closes the show thanking Brian Geltzeiler, Mike Florio, and Danny Cunningham for a packed morning of Sorsby and Cavs debate.
Brian Geltzeiler joins to weigh in on a possible Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown swap and says he'd make the deal as Boston but isn't convinced as Cleveland, arguing Mobley's offensive ceiling has been capped by usage rather than talent. The segment derails into a heated argument when Anthony pushes back on Geltzeiler calling James Harden's Eastern Conference Finals performance "humiliating," comparing it unfavorably to Victor Wembanyama, and Geltzeiler abruptly threatens to hang up over the disrespect before the call actually drops. After patching things up, Geltzeiler argues the Cavs have a roster structure problem, with Mobley miscast next to Jarrett Allen instead of playing center outright, and says running the same group back next year guarantees the same result. He closes things out on a lighter note, confirming AJ Dybantsa was the right pick at number one in last night's draft.
Per NBC Sports Boston's Chris Mannix, the Celtics' real trade target isn't Donovan Mitchell, it's Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown, and Anthony surprises Ken by saying he'd actually pull the trigger on it. Ken pushes back hard, arguing Mobley's talent is too tantalizing to give up and that the move solves a wing problem while creating a new one on the interior, leaving Dean Wade as the team's primary frontcourt defender. They pivot into an argument over whether Jarrett Allen, not Mobley, should be the one on the trade block given how much he's outperformed his bargain contract and helped win multiple Game 7s. The segment ends in chaos when a caller named Will claims the Knicks are overrated two weeks after winning the championship, and the guys roast him for one of the worst calls they've ever taken.
Ken and Anthony argue the NFL's rejection letter isn't really about Sorsby specifically, it's a public message that the league will crush anyone who tries to fight its gambling-related decisions the way Sorsby fought the NCAA. They draw a comparison to Terry Rozier's NBA betting scandal, noting nobody's stopped wagering on the league despite it, and conclude the NFL's real motivation is protecting its own corporate gambling partnerships rather than any consistent integrity standard. Ken pushes back hard on critics who call lawyering up a character flaw, insisting that's simply what anyone with means does in this country. They close by teasing a separate Cavaliers trade angle, revealing the Celtics have interest in a Cleveland player for Jaylen Brown, but it isn't Donovan Mitchell.
Mike Florio tells Ken and Anthony he doesn't think Sorsby plays football in 2026, walking through why every backup option, from the CFL to the UFL to non-NCAA ball, is a worse alternative than just preparing for the 2027 draft. Florio argues the NFL's actual case is shaky since the CBA contains no "purity test" for supplemental draft eligibility, and points out the league held a supplemental draft for Josh Gordon without issue, making this rejection look like a targeted departure from precedent rather than a real rules-based decision. He's most struck by the public reaction, questioning why Sorsby has become so much less sympathetic than Maurice Clarett or Terrell Pryor when no teammates have spoken against him and his betting habits were arguably a product of a sports culture the NFL itself profits from and normalizes. Florio closes by noting that even a team like the Steelers, with their own gambling-soaked ownership history, would have little real principled objection to drafting him.
Ken and Anthony unpack Bruce Pearl's tone-deaf draft night tweet about family structure, but pivot to argue it actually exposes a real problem: NBA prospects increasingly come from wealthy, hyper-specialized youth sports backgrounds that have priced out the "rags to riches" path entirely. They riff on how AAU circuits, private trainers, and travel academies have turned youth sports into a haves-versus-have-nots system across every major sport, predicting football is next. They also break down the NFL's letter to Brendan Sorsby, debating why the league stopped short of an outright suspension and whether a running back accused of the same gambling violations would have been treated this harshly. Plus, the crew gives producer John an earful about his "totally platonic" Florida trip.
Ken and Anthony bring in producer John to rip the Guardians' lineup after another loss drops them a game back, pointing out the offense has fallen to among the worst in baseball in nearly every major category over the last three weeks. Ken argues firing the hitting coach is a symbolic move that won't turn struggling bats like Gabriel Arias into real threats, and floats suspicion that MLB's own baseballs have quietly changed. They also dig into the Cavs trading their 29th pick for second-rounders, with Ken shutting down a fan theory that Dan Gilbert is being cheap by walking through the actual second apron cap restrictions forcing the move. They wrap with some lighter banter on the World Cup and England's shaky tie against Ghana.
Danny Cunningham joins Ken and Anthony and shoots down trading Donovan Mitchell, arguing a top-10 player who actually wants to be in Cleveland is too rare to give up, and he's skeptical Jaylen Brown is even the right target if Evan Mobley were on the table. He flags Jarrett Allen, not Mobley or Mitchell, as the most realistic trade chip given his rising value, and warns that mid-season shakeups like trading for a new starter rarely produce a title that same year. Danny also pours cold water on a midseason fix-it strategy, pointing out the rest of the East is improving too, so simply running it back and being "better" may not be enough to get past Boston, New York, or Indiana. He closes by laying out the case for LeBron's return hinging entirely on whether LeBron prioritizes winning over comfort or money.
Ken backs Nick Wilson's proposed Donovan Mitchell for Jaylen Brown swap straight up, arguing Brown ages better and fits cleaner alongside Evan Mobley, even though he admits the Celtics almost certainly say no. He and Anthony keep circling back to an uncomfortable parallel: every "untouchable" guard from Jarvis Allen to Darius Garland eventually became the convenient trade chip, and now Donovan is getting the same treatment. They debate whether Evan Mobley has to be the actual centerpiece of any real shake-up after his strong playoff run, and whether the Cavs even have a realistic path to improve without getting older and shrinking their championship window. Ken closes by warning that Miami, not just Boston or Indiana, might be the team Cleveland should actually be worried about next season.
Citing Albert Breer, Ken and Anthony lay out the theory that the NFL knowingly picked a fight it might lose in court because making a statement on gambling and protecting its betting partnerships mattered more than the legal risk. They question why the league is handling this centrally instead of letting all 32 teams vet Sorsby's character the way they do every other draft prospect, and wonder if a contrition requirement even exists in the supplemental draft rules. A caller pushes back that the NFL is "holier than thou" given how it's handled other off-field issues, while still agreeing Sorsby has to be accountable for placing thousands of bets. Ken predicts the league drags this out until Sorsby simply gives up the fight and waits for the 2027 draft instead.
Ken pushes back on fans crying hypocrisy over the NFL's gambling partners, arguing personal responsibility still applies even if Sorsby was technically a legal adult when the betting happened. He contrasts the public reaction to Sorsby with Maurice Clarett two decades ago, noting Clarett was treated sympathetically despite his own violations while Sorsby has become an unsympathetic villain simply because he's already been paid. Ken predicts Sorsby goes on a PR offensive with workout videos and "changed man" messaging, betting that every bad outing from Julian Sayin or LaNorris Sellers only keeps his name in the conversation. He closes by floating that the real distinction here may be that Sorsby is a quarterback, a position the league seems far less willing to gamble on than a wide receiver.
The NFL denied Brendan Sorsby's supplemental draft bid, citing a missed paperwork deadline that his own attorney insists doesn't even exist as a category on the application. Ken and Anthony trace how this went from a Browns subplot to a national story touching the NCAA, the CBA, and attorney Jeffrey Kessler, who they note has a track record of beating the league in court. They dig into the gambling numbers themselves, questioning whether 90,000 bets and a six figure profit really separates Sorsby from guys they know personally, and whether the league's stance is hypocritical given its own gambling partnerships. They close by debating if Sorsby was ever truly a top prospect or just a guy with traits and a great agent pitch.
Ken Carman, Anthony Lima, and later Daryl Ruiter analyze the blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to the Heat and presents a critical resume of the Haslam Sports Group's ownership history. Lance Reisland provides a scouting report on supplemental draft prospect Brendan Sorsby while comparing his traits to Shedeur Sanders. Discussions also cover the Guardians' loss to the White Sox and potential trade scenarios involving Jaylen Brown and Evan Mobley. 01:50 - Giannis Traded To Heat 06:45 - NBA Trade Gut Tax 13:15 - Jaylen Brown Trade Buzz 19:20 - Cavs Success Vs Media 27:40 - Jalen Brown Trade Fit 35:00 - Cavs Interior Defense Issues 41:50 - Shedeur Sanders Trade Rumors 50:15 - Sanders Value Analysis 55:50 - Stephen Vogt Bullpen Debate 01:04:20 - Browns Quarterback Future 01:10:10 - Kyrie Irving Media Narratives 01:20:10 - Trae Young Contract Value 01:27:45 - Browns Offseason Win Rankings 01:35:30 - LeBron James Return Talk 01:45:10 - Haslam Ownership Career Resume 01:51:40 - Arch Manning Draft Rumors 01:59:45 - Lance Reisland Interview Starts 02:12:10 - Trading Best Players Impact 02:21:15 - Brendan Sorsby Draft Projection 02:33:15 - Cavs Eastern Conference Expectations
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the massive trade sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat on The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima. They evaluate the impact on the Eastern Conference, address Jaylen Brown's frustrated reaction to trade rumors, and debate if the Cleveland Cavaliers should move for the Celtics star. 01:55 - Giannis Traded To Heat 05:48 - Mobley Versus Giannis Value 10:25 - Miles Garrett Legacy Discussion 14:00 - Jaylen Brown Trade Rumors 20:15 - Ken Defends Cavaliers Success 31:15 - Evaluating Jaylen Brown Trade 35:35 - Cleveland Frontcourt Fit Issues 40:05 - Listener Trade Suggestions
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate the trade market for Shedeur Sanders and his potential role behind Deshaun Watson. They debate Steven Vogt's recent managing decisions following a Guardians loss and discuss Kyrie Irving's social media comments regarding the 2016 Cavaliers. The discussion concludes with an analysis of major NBA contracts and coaching hires. 02:10 - Shedeur Sanders Trade Market 06:50 - Quarterback Depth and Sorsby 12:58 - Steven Vogt Managing Debate 19:50 - Guardians Bullpen Usage Discussion 24:10 - Shedeur Sanders Future Role 32:15 - Kyrie Irving Matrix Comments 36:40 - NBA Coaching and Contracts
Daryl Ruiter and Anthony Lima react to the blockbuster trade sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Heat and examines what this means for Jimmy Haslam’s legacy as an owner. They also debate the Browns being named NFL offseason champions and evaluates the professional potential of quarterback prospect Brendan Sorsby. 02:02 - Guardians Game Analysis 08:08 - Browns Offseason Champions 15:05 - Giannis Antetokounmpo Blockbuster 19:47 - Cavaliers Roster Outlook 24:18 - Jimmy Haslam Ownership Resume 32:48 - Brendan Sorsby QB Prospect
Lance Reisland evaluates quarterback prospects Brendan Sorsby and Shedeur Sanders while discussing their potential impact on the Cleveland Browns roster. They explore the team's off-season moves, including the Miles Garrett trade, and pivot to the NBA to debate trading Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown ahead of the draft. 01:50 - Brendan Sorsby Scouting Report 07:40 - Browns Quarterback Depth Issues 10:45 - Shedeur Sanders Development Analysis 13:50 - Browns Off-season Trade Review 19:45 - Evaluating NFL Draft Prospects 27:45 - Jaylen Brown Trade Rumors 39:00 - Cavaliers NBA Draft Expectations 42:10 - Trading Mobley For Brown
Daryl Ruiter and Anthony Lima evaluate the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster following their playoff exit and ahead of the NBA Draft. They debate a hypothetical trade involving Evan Mobley for Jaylen Brown, while considering if a LeBron James return could secure another championship for Cleveland. 01:04 - NBA Draft and Season Recap 05:33 - Cavs Offseason Path Forward 06:40 - Trading Mobley for Jaylen Brown
Daryl and Lima analyzes the Browns' draft prospects, specifically comparing Brendan Sorsby and Shedeur Sanders. He examines the team's quarterback room under Andrew Berry before discussing the NBA landscape after Giannis Antetokounmpo's move to the Heat. The discussion shifts to a potential blockbuster trade involving Evan Mobley and Jaylen Brown. 01:01 - Sorsby vs Shedeur Sanders 05:01 - Andrew Berry's Draft Success 06:55 - Managing the Quarterback Room 09:22 - Giannis Traded to Heat 10:42 - Mobley for Jaylen Brown
Lance Reisland joins the show and makes clear he doesn't think Brendan Sorsby is better than Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson right now, pointing to a Utah game that exposed real pocket-passing limitations. He breaks down the visible improvement in Shedeur's footwork, weight transfer, and progression reads since his Colorado days, while also defending the Myles Garrett trade by arguing the Browns added enough depth elsewhere to offset the loss. Daryl and Lima close out by previewing the Jaylen Brown trade buzz and how the Cavs might factor into it.
Lima and Daryl evaluate Brendan Sorsby's potential as a supplemental draft target for the Cleveland Browns. They debate whether his athletic traits outweigh a gambling controversy and collegiate production while comparing his ceiling to other top prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Arch Manning. 01:27 - Browns Stadium & Sorsby 02:43 - Manning Family Ties 04:27 - Sorsby Gambling Issues 06:36 - Quarterback Prospect Ceilings 08:43 - Browns Bidding Decision
Daryl Ruiter breaks down the Giannis trade to Miami before unloading a fully compiled list on Jimmy Haslam's track record running the Browns and the Bucks, citing years of losing records, coaching turnover, and quarterback chaos across both franchises. Owen pushes back by bringing up the Columbus Crew's two MLS titles, which only sets up more roasting about Haslam's broader ownership reputation. The two also revisit whether the Cavs should have pursued Giannis or LeBron James this offseason, and question why the front office hasn't made any real moves despite Dan Gilbert's pointed comments after the playoff exit.
Daryl Ruiter fills in for Ken and rips apart CBS's ranking that crowns the Browns the offseason champions of the NFL, arguing you can't claim that title after trading away your best player in franchise history. He and Lima point to history, like the 2019 hype that fell apart immediately, as a warning sign for what "winning the offseason" usually means for Cleveland. Before that, the crew dissects the Guardians' brutal loss to the White Sox, including Gabriel Arias becoming just the fifth player in team history to strike out five times in a game.
Kyrie Irving addresses chatter that he ghosted his old championship teammates during their European reunion trip, insisting everything is fine before veering into his usual conspiracy talk about pattern recognition and living in a simulation. Lima and producer John point out the irony of trusting his word given his track record with flat-earth claims and other out-there beliefs. The show then pivots to Dusty May leaving Michigan for the Mavericks job and a hypothetical debate over whether Cavs fans would rather have Donovan Mitchell's max contract or the deals just signed by Trae Young and Ayo Dosunmu.
Ken and Lima pick apart Stephen Vogt's decision to bring closer Cade Smith into a tied eighth inning for the third or fourth time this month, only to watch the Guardians lose late to the White Sox. They go back and forth on whether the move shows desperation or was simply a defensible call that backfired, ultimately landing on a defining show stance. The conversation then shifts back to Shedeur Sanders, with Ken doubling down that he wouldn't ask for a trade even if Deshaun Watson wins the job, and that the Browns trading Myles Garrett says more about the team's quarterback confidence than anything Shedeur has done.
Ken and Anthony break down Zac Jackson's claim that there's zero real trade market for Shedeur Sanders and no actual calls coming in, despite all the fan noise online. They debate whether Shedeur would ever demand a trade if Deshaun Watson wins the starting job, with Ken insisting fans care way more about this than teams actually do. The two also weigh whether a Jets deal or a surprise Brennan Sorsby pickup would shake up the quarterback math in Cleveland at all.
Ken and Anthony dig deeper into the Jaylen Brown trade talk, weighing whether dealing Evan Mobley actually fixes the Cavs' two-big problem with Mobley and Jarrett Allen or just creates a new one on the interior. A caller pushes back with his own proposal, floating Donovan Mitchell and James Harden in a package for Brown, which Ken quickly shoots down. The conversation circles back to Darius Garland's trade value and whether the Cavs are now stuck in no man's land, good enough to be good but not good enough to win it all.
Ken goes on a rant after a fan tweet compares the Cavs to a play-in team, using it to defend the James Harden trade and call out anyone still nostalgic for the Darius Garland and Colin Sexton era. He insists a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals is nowhere close to mediocre, no matter how it ended. Then the conversation shifts to Jaylen Brown's frustrated Twitch comments after his name leaked in trade talks, with Ken and Anthony weighing whether Evan Mobley should actually be on the table to get him.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to Miami after a saga that dragged on far longer than thirteen months. They debate whether this move actually helps the Cavs more than a Giannis to Boston deal would have, and revisit the old argument about whether Evan Mobley should have ever been on the table. The conversation pivots into the fallout for Jaylen Brown and the Celtics, plus a juicy report tying Bucs owner Jimmy Haslam's decision making to his history with Myles Garrett and the Browns.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima explore whether the 2016 Cavaliers' championship created an impossible standard for the franchise's current roster. Zach Jackson from The Athletic calls it malpractice if the Browns do not pursue quarterback Brendan Sorsby, and they weigh the latest rumors regarding a LeBron James return. They also delve into the Guardians' midseason needs and a debate over Father's Day expectations. 03:20 - Weather and Traffic Woes 07:22 - Giannis and Bucks Ownership 13:10 - Cavs and Jaylen Brown 18:09 - Legacy of 2016 Championship 24:31 - Guardians and Rings Culture 31:18 - Brendan Sorsby Gambling Talk 35:22 - Character and QB Maturity 46:08 - Maurice in Bay Area 53:57 - Travis Bazzana All-Star Bid 01:01:01 - Ochocinco on Deshaun Watson 01:08:02 - Lima Likes Wyndham Clark 01:17:23 - The Forgotten Father's Day 01:25:41 - LeBron James Return Rumors 01:34:09 - Channing Frye Road Trippin 01:40:01 - Tyronn Lue Media Call 01:53:00 - Zac Jackson Joins Show 02:04:42 - Deshaun Watson Performance Review 02:19:21 - Shedeur Sanders Trade Demands 02:27:28 - LeBron James Firestone Rumors
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima explore how the historic 2016 Cavaliers championship established an impossibly high standard for current Cleveland sports teams. They discuss the potential for a LeBron James homecoming alongside rumors of a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade involving the Milwaukee Bucks. The conversation also addresses the future of the Guardians' roster and the controversy surrounding quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s gambling history. 03:20 - Traffic Report 06:55 - LeBron And Giannis Rumors 11:40 - Cavaliers Offseason Roster Strategy 18:20 - 2016 Championship Legacy Impact 24:48 - Guardians Midseason Performance Analysis 32:39 - Brendan Sorsby Gambling Investigation
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation, including Deshaun Watson's status and hypothetical competition from Shedeur Sanders. They also dive into the controversy surrounding Brendan Sorsby's gambling allegations and the impact on college programs. Finally, they discuss Travis Bazzana's performance and the Guardians' outlook heading into the trade deadline. 01:26 - Browns QB Competition Talk 05:32 - Brendan Sorsby Gambling Claims 16:02 - Travis Bazzana Guardians Impact 21:48 - Ochocinco Deshaun Watson Audio 25:42 - Todd Monken Coaching Perspective 31:24 - Wyndham Clark Wins US Open 36:28 - Steven Kwan Batting Slump
They weigh the realistic chances of LeBron James finishing his career with the Cavaliers following recent media speculation. The discussion also covers potential league-altering trades involving Jalen Brown and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Finally, they analyze how the 2016 championship created a high standard for current Cleveland sports teams. 01:20 - Father's Day Expectations 09:20 - Cavs Offseason Trade Rumors 15:42 - Championship Legacy Standards 22:55 - LeBron James Return Buzz 31:00 - Celtics Target Giannis Antetokounmpo 35:41 - Running Back Cavs Core
Zac Jackson joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to explain why it would be "malpractice" for the Browns to ignore Brendan Sorsby. They debate the impact of Sorsby's character issues and the crowded Cleveland quarterback room. The discussion also touches on rumors about LeBron James' potential return to Northeast Ohio and the growth of soccer in the United States. 01:50 - Zac Jackson Interview 05:24 - Sorsby Draft Evaluation 09:24 - Browns Quarterback Room 12:25 - Todd Monken Offense 17:15 - LeBron Retirement Rumors 20:50 - College Prospect Projections 24:12 - Gambling Red Flags 33:15 - Alexi Lalas Criticism 38:10 - NBA Career Legacies
Ken and Lima close out the show by circling back to the LeBron question, noting that the buzz around a return feels nothing like the electric summer of 2014 and that most people seem to be resigned to him staying out West with the Lakers or Golden State. Ken makes clear he'd be genuinely troubled by a Golden State landing, arguing it would invite serious criticism from players in the GOAT debate in a way that going back to LA simply wouldn't. The core of Ken's thinking is that a return to Cleveland carries an implicit admission that this is LeBron's final season, and he's not convinced LeBron is emotionally ready to make that commitment when he still has flashes of his old brilliance. Ken wraps by marveling at the absurdity of the whole conversation, pointing out that Dwyane Wade was washed and done in Cleveland back in 2017, while LeBron is still a meaningful playoff contributor nearly a decade later.
Ken and Lima continue the Brendan Sorsby debate after Zach Jackson's appearance, with Ken softening slightly on a fourth round bid but drawing a firm line at a third rounder, arguing that pick could be better spent on a proven contributor and that he still doesn't trust the full story has come out. The more explosive topic turns out to be Shedeur Sanders, with Lima pointing out that Shedeur's fan base is already loudly demanding a trade if Watson wins the starting job, a stance Ken thinks is both premature and counterproductive given that Shedeur has already received more opportunity than most fifth rounders ever see. A caller raises the addiction angle on Sorsby, warning that gambling is a lifelong disease, though Lima pushes back by reiterating that the confirmed facts still amount to small wagers with no game-fixing involved. Ken closes by warning Shedeur's supporters that demanding a trade would only validate every concern the league already has about him.
Zac Jackson from The Athletic joins the show and lands firmly on the side of the Browns making a bid for Brendan Sorsby, calling it near malpractice to pass on a redshirt quarterback prospect given the team's history of running toward red flags and buying low on talent. Zac pegs a third round pick as the serious offer threshold, with a fourth round bid being the "we're interested but not desperate" move, and flatly dismisses the idea that adding Sorsby would muddy the Watson versus Shedeur Sanders competition since Sorsby would be a pure developmental project with no bearing on this year's starter. On Watson specifically, Zac is blunt, saying spring practice only confirmed what everyone already knew: he's the same inconsistent, inaccurate quarterback he's been and there's no reason for a team focused on the future to play him. Zac also sees a door open for LeBron to return to Cleveland, arguing there's no truly ideal landing spot for him right now and that a mix of role, sentimentality, and winning opportunity could make Cleveland a real option.
Ken makes the case that the 2016 championship set an almost unfair standard that now makes both the current Cavs and the Guardians feel insufficient to fans, even though 25 other NBA franchises would trade places with Cleveland in a heartbeat. The LeBron conversation takes center stage, with Ken arguing that a return to Cleveland carries an unspoken implication that it would be his final season, and he's not convinced LeBron is ready to make that admission. Dave McMenamin's weekend appearance on the Fan left a small door open, but Ken sees LA as the more likely destination precisely because it lets LeBron avoid confronting his own basketball mortality. Ken closes by noting the cruel irony that if this turns out to be LeBron's last year, finishing it in LA with a fan base that's already taking him for granted would be a far worse ending than coming home.
Ken and Lima kick off the segment with a lighter Father's Day conversation, with both hosts admitting they're not big on the holiday and producer Kayla one-upping them both by revealing she spent hours assembling a smoker in the heat as a surprise gift. The conversation shifts to the Cavs offseason, where Ken argues the team is stuck in a frustrating holding pattern, with LeBron almost certainly headed back to the Lakers and Giannis showing no real connection to Cleveland. Ken makes the case for Jalen Brown as the kind of two-way wing the Cavs desperately lack, but acknowledges the only realistic path to getting him likely runs through Evan Mobley, a move that gives him pause. With the draft looming and the whole league frozen waiting on the Giannis situation to resolve, Ken's bottom line is that Cavs fans need to mentally prepare for the possibility of running it back.
Lima runs through a packed sports weekend starting with Wyndham Clark's US Open victory at Shinnecock, where the crowd was openly rooting against him after last year's locker room incident, with Scottie Scheffler actually drawing a bigger ovation walking up 18 than the champion did. Lima is fired up about the US men's national team rolling through World Cup group play and the bracket setting up for a potential deep run, while Ken remains unmoved and would need considerably more than two group stage wins to get off the couch. The guys also flag a brutal development for the Guardians, as Steven Kwan has somehow fallen to the lowest OPS among all qualified hitters in baseball, sitting 38 percent below league average. Ken floats the theory that contract uncertainty may be messing with Kwan's head at the plate, noting that sometimes the deals you don't make end up telling the whole story.
Chad Ochocinco sparked debate by declaring on a podcast that Deshaun Watson is the starting quarterback and Shedeur Sanders will only take over if Watson falters in the first six weeks, a claim backed by reports of Watson working out with Jerry Judy. Ken pushes back hard, saying Watson represents nothing but a painful era he wants to move past, and that seven or eight out of ten Browns fans would rather see Shedeur Sanders under center from the jump. The guys also note how little anyone actually knows, since all public information comes from a handful of throws in non-padded practices with no real pass rush. Ken's bigger concern is that if Shedeur is still closing the gap on a quarterback this far removed from his best football, it says something ugly about the state of the entire Browns QB room.
Ken and Lima continue debating Brendan Sorsby, with Ken growing more suspicious about the role Cincinnati played in leaking information, questioning why Sorsby's agent keeps throwing the Bearcats under the bus and whether the full story has actually come out yet. Lima pushes back on Ken's reluctance to pursue any quarterback solution, pointing out that Sorsby was the highest-paid transfer quarterback in the portal and that Texas Tech chose him over everyone else for a loaded roster. Ken's bigger concern is trust, arguing that no matter how small the bets were, something still doesn't add up and he can't get there on bringing Sorsby in. Notably, neither ex-teammates nor coaches from his past have come out with serious character concerns, which Lima sees as meaningful evidence that the Big 12 rival schools were simply motivated to bury him.
Ken and Lima dig into the Brendan Sorsby supplemental draft situation, with Ken arguing that the gambling violations have been wildly overstated, pointing out that most of the incidents occurred when Sorsby was a low-level freshman buried on Indiana's depth chart making three and four dollar bets. Ken pushes back on the "top five pick" narrative being used to hype his value, noting that draft analysts projected him as a Day 2 or even third-round pick in this year's draft. The guys also debate whether his age at the time of the violations matters, with Lima drawing the line at personal accountability regardless of when it happened. The Jets reportedly distancing themselves from Sorsby gets dismissed as classic liar's poker, with both hosts agreeing that desperate quarterback-needy teams are almost certainly still in play.
Ken reflects on a thought that's been nagging at him: winning the 2016 championship may have set an impossible standard that now makes it harder to appreciate every Cleveland team that comes after it. The current Cavs squad is genuinely good, but fans can't help measuring them against a team that pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in sports history, and the comparison is unfair by design since that Warriors dynasty could never be replicated under today's NBA rules. The same phenomenon bleeds into how fans view the Guardians, who keep making the playoffs but can't seem to generate real excitement despite being legitimate contenders. Ken wonders if Cleveland fans can only fully move on once LeBron retires and closes that chapter for good.
The guys open by discussing the NBA offseason landscape, noting that the entire league seems frozen while waiting for the Giannis situation to resolve, with Miami and Boston emerging as the most likely destinations. From there, the conversation shifts to LeBron, with Ken pushing back on the idea of him joining Golden State or the Knicks, arguing either move would invite uncomfortable comparisons to Michael Jordan and feel beneath his legacy. As for the Cavs themselves, Ken makes the case that blowing things up isn't necessary, given how little time Harden actually had to mesh with the group. The 10-year reunion of the 2016 championship team adds an emotional backdrop, with the notable exception of Kyrie Irving, who only seemed to patch things up publicly under some pressure.
Featuring Mary Kay Cabot, Justin Termine, Chris Assenheimer, Dan Hoard, Mike Renner, and Steve Phillips.
During the past week, the hosts of 92.3 The Fan continued the conversation about the Browns and the prospect of drafting quarterback Brendan Sorsby. First of all, how good of a player is he really? And, how realistic of an option is he for the Browns? Can a player with his history of gambling issues win the trust of his teammates? All that and more!
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of conversations about the Cavaliers from during the past week. The guys discuss the Cavs' title odds, whether the James Harden trade was a failure, the chances of LeBron coming home to finish his career, and whether Donovan Mitchell can take on a Jalen Brunson-type of role in Cleveland.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of conversations about the Guardians from during the past week. The discussion is dominated by talk about the injury to perennial All-Star Jose Ramirez. What does it mean for the team as presently constituted, and what does it mean for the roster ahead of next month's trade deadline? What is your current confidence level in the team, and they have earned the benefit of the doubt given their track record of success in recent years?
A collection of some of the top conversations from Ken and Anthony during the past week. The guys talk about how to spot a fake Browns fan, Team USA's decisive win over Paraguay in the World Cup, and an NBA pundit calling the Larry O'Brien a 'participation trophy.' Plus, Lima makes an 'asinine' proposal for LeBron James' next stop, and the guys discuss producer John travelling to meet a woman who's not his girlfriend.
Ken and Lima analyze the controversy surrounding Brendan Sorsby's draft eligibility and his agent's fiery defense against gambling allegations. They also discuss J.R. Smith’s claims that the Cavaliers have failed to recognize him properly since the 2016 championship. Mary Kay Cabot and Zach Meisel join to provide updates on the Browns' quarterback battle and the Guardians' depth issues. 01:50 - Guardians Without Jose Ramirez 07:20 - John’s Platform For Florida 13:15 - Christmas Tree Farm Heirs 18:25 - Brendan Sorsby Gambling Issues 27:35 - Sorsby’s Agent Defends Integrity 37:05 - Tornado Warning In Ashtabula 42:40 - Browns Supplemental Draft Talk 53:55 - Shedeur Sanders Character Debate 01:05:15 - J.R. Smith Rips Cavs 01:11:20 - About Last Night Segment 01:21:20 - Logan Reacts To Florida 01:31:25 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 01:41:50 - Browns Quarterback Competition Battle 01:50:15 - NFL Interest In Sorsby 02:01:10 - Zach Meisel On Guardians 02:12:15 - Guardians Trade Deadline Strategy 02:24:35 - LeBron James To Knicks 02:35:40 - Final LeBron To New York
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Guardians' performance and Gavin Williams' start before discussing a producer's unusual vacation plans. The conversation shifts to a deep dive into college quarterback Brendan Sorsby and the gambling allegations surrounding him. They react to comments from Sorsby's agent, Ron Slavin, debating whether the player's past mistakes will affect his NFL stock. 01:50 - Guardians and Gavin Williams 05:40 - John's Florida Hinge Date 16:10 - Dating and Generational Trust 19:26 - Sorsby Gambling Controversy 26:45 - Sorsby's NFL Draft Outlook 33:20 - Ron Slavin's Defense Strategy 40:12 - Character and Redemptive Trust
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate Brendan Sorsby's NFL potential in the supplemental draft while comparing his prospects to Shedeur Sanders. They also react to J.R. Smith's criticism of the Cavaliers organization and discuss the Guardians' recent loss and new Home Run Derby rules. 01:14 - Ashtabula Tornado Warning 02:35 - Brendan Sorsby Draft Value 08:33 - Shedeur Sanders Evaluation 15:23 - Defending Shedeur Sanders 24:10 - J.R. Smith Blasts Cavs 32:21 - Guardians Lose In Milwaukee 35:14 - Home Run Derby Changes
Ken and Lima welcome Mary Kay Cabot to discuss the Cleveland Browns' interest in quarterback prospect Brendan Sorsby and the ongoing competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They also navigate a personal drama involving their producer John’s upcoming trip to Florida to visit a friend he met on Hinge. Mary Kay provides insight into Todd Monken's coaching style and why the organization might pass on Sorsby despite his talent. 01:50 - John's Florida Trip Drama 05:50 - Logan Discusses Relationship Trust 13:27 - Mary Kay Cabot Interview 18:44 - Sorsby's NFL Draft Outlook 21:57 - Browns Quarterback Battle Update 25:42 - Cabot Joins Relationship Debate 32:37 - NFL Interest In Sorsby 39:38 - Steelers' Draft Philosophy Analysis
Zack Meisel from The Athletic joins to analyze the Cleveland Guardians' depth issues following injuries to Jose Ramirez and other key starters. A heated debate breaks out over LeBron James' future, specifically regarding a controversial suggestion that he should join the New York Knicks on a veteran minimum contract to chase another championship. 02:00 - Zack Meisel Interview 05:45 - Guardians Depth Concerns 10:35 - MLB Gambling Scandals 15:45 - Trade Deadline Strategy 20:15 - Guardians Roster Discussion 25:00 - LeBron Lakers Rumors 35:40 - Knicks Legacy Debate
Arguments break out over the possibility of LeBron James joining the Knicks on a veteran minimum contract to bolster his legacy. They also address fans calling the Cavaliers mediocre and speculate on roster changes following recent comments from ownership. 01:10 - Intro and Personal Life 02:01 - LeBron Knicks Rumors 05:32 - Cavs Mediocrity Debate
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the Cleveland Guardians' depth following a wave of injuries and discuss potential moves at the trade deadline. They also clash over LeBron James' future, with Lima arguing that joining the New York Knicks would be a better legacy move than staying with the Los Angeles Lakers. 01:00 - Guardians Injury Outlook 03:43 - Trade Deadline Strategy 05:21 - LeBron James Rumors 08:54 - Knicks Legacy Debate
Zack Meisel from The Athletic joins to analyze the Cleveland Guardians' challenges following the injury to Jose Ramirez. He examines the team's lack of roster depth and the pressure on the pitching staff during a critical road trip. Meisel also discusses the implications of clubhouse trust and how the organization might approach the trade deadline in a wide-open American League.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima examine why 32 NFL teams are scouting a quarterback prospect despite his involvement in a gambling scandal. They discuss the Cleveland Browns' aggressive approach to talent acquisition and contrast it with the Pittsburgh Steelers' conservative history under Art Rooney II. 01:02 - Browns Quarterback Room 02:07 - Scouting QBs With Baggage 05:21 - Gambling Scandal Impact 07:46 - Steelers Draft History 11:05 - LeBron James Tease
Mary Kay Cabot joins Ken and Lima to explain why the Cleveland Browns are likely to pass on prospect Brennan Sorsby despite his agent's claims. She provides insight into the intense quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders while detailing Todd Monken's coaching style.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima discuss their producer John's upcoming trip to Miami to visit a woman he met on a dating app. John's girlfriend, Logan, joins the conversation to express her trust and security in the relationship despite skepticism from others. They also review listener reactions and a voicemail from Ken's wife regarding the situation. 01:00 - MLB Win Percentage Debate 01:57 - John's Controversial Florida Trip 03:02 - Logan Discusses Relationship Trust 08:25 - Liz Shares Voicemail Opinion 10:31 - Community Reacts To News
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima bring in producer John to break down the Cleveland Guardians' recent struggles following a loss to the Milwaukee Brewers, focusing on pitching concerns with Gavin Williams. They also debate the merits of the new MLB Home Run Derby format compared to the classic head-to-head style. Finally, a personal story emerges regarding a platonic vacation that sparked questions from family and listeners.
Ken and Lima dive into J.R. Smith's surprising remarks regarding how the Cavaliers treat their former championship stars compared to the Knicks. They also break down the heated discourse surrounding Shedeur Sanders and whether he is being unfairly judged in the NFL draft process. 02:33 - Shedeur Sanders Draft Debate 08:43 - Browns Quarterback Competition Concerns 12:19 - J.R. Smith Cavs Comments 18:30 - Home Run Derby Changes
Ken and Lima dig into the mechanics of the supplemental draft and what an NFL suspension for Sorsby might actually look like, with Ken arguing the league can't afford to let gambling in college go unpunished. The guys debate at what draft round the Browns should be willing to bid on Sorsby, with Lima drawing the line at a second rounder while Ken says a third or fourth is a no-brainer given Dylan Gabriel is already on the roster. Ken also flags that a full-season redshirt would completely change the math, since you'd be investing a pick in a guy you won't see in a game before having to decide on the next quarterback class. The segment closes with a tease of an update from producer John's girlfriend situation and a pivot to Cavaliers talk.
Ken and Lima continue dissecting agent Ron Slavin's radio interview, where Slavin deflects blame toward the University of Cincinnati for knowing about Sorsby's gambling and staying silent for two years. Ken grows increasingly frustrated as Slavin paints Sorsby as a churchgoing, non-drinking, two-girlfriend-his-whole-life saint whose only real flaw is being "too giving" — a line that sends Ken over the edge. The guys debate whether NFL teams will ultimately care about the gambling history if it truly stopped years ago, but Ken stands firm that he wants no part of Sorsby as the Browns' franchise quarterback. Ken closes by arguing the next Browns QB needs to restore the fan base's faith, not arrive with an agent doing damage control on Dallas radio.
Ken and Lima break down an interview with Brendan Sorsby's agent Ron Slavin, who argues the gambling incidents happened when Sorsby was 18, never compromised the integrity of the game, and that the media wildly overreacted. Ken isn't buying the full narrative, pointing out the contradiction between Sorsby seeking gambling addiction treatment while his agent now downplays any ongoing problem. The guys debate whether the agent's explanation would move the needle for an NFL team considering a supplemental draft pick, with Ken admitting the interview actually makes him feel worse about Sorsby, not better. More damaging audio from the agent is teased for the next segment.
Ken and Lima grill producer John on the air after discovering he's flying solo to Florida to visit a female friend he originally met on Hinge, now in a relationship with someone else. John insists the friendship is completely platonic, but the details keep getting worse — her boyfriend will be there, John doesn't think he's good-looking, and Logan, John's girlfriend of over a year, is stuck babysitting. Ken and Lima can barely contain themselves dissecting the generational trust dynamics at play, marveling that John dropped $200 on flights without a second thought.
Ken and Anthony Lima discuss the Guardians' recent loss and the significant injury blow to Jose Ramirez. They bring on NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler to break down the potential of supplemental draft prospect Brendan Sorsby. Additionally, they cover LeBron James' return odds and the debate over NBA participation trophies. 02:40 - Vincent Goodwill's Trophy Take 08:15 - NBA Star Power 13:45 - Guardians Injury Outlook 19:35 - Ken's Son Jinx 26:05 - Browns Win Predictions 33:10 - Brendan Sorsby Analysis 45:40 - Supplemental Draft Strategy 57:20 - LeBron Return Odds 01:02:30 - Cavs Cap Flexibility 01:11:10 - Two-Second Trivia 01:21:15 - Player Nickname Debate 01:33:40 - James Harden Analysis 01:57:35 - Dane Brugler Interview 02:08:15 - Future QB Prospects 02:28:55 - Watson vs Sanders Battle 02:31:50 - Steelers Draft Philosophy
Ken and Lima react to Vincent Goodwill's controversial claim that the Larry O'Brien Trophy has become a participation trophy due to lack of dynasties. They transition into the Cleveland Guardians' injury crisis after losing Jose Ramirez and discuss the validity of Emory Hunt's ten-win projection for the Browns. 01:50 - Cleveland Sports Highlights 03:01 - Vincent Goodwill NBA Take 07:00 - NBA Parity and Ratings 13:48 - Guardians Injury Report 20:20 - Ken's Son Voodoo Rumors 25:09 - Browns Win Total Debate 34:40 - Supplemental Draft Speculation
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima explore the Cleveland Browns' interest in quarterback Brennan Sorsby and how his collegiate gambling suspension complicates his NFL transition. They also analyze the salary cap barriers for a potential LeBron James homecoming and react to Vincent Goodwill’s comments on championship validation. The segment concludes with a high-energy round of Two-Second Trivia featuring local callers from across Ohio. 01:20 - Browns Quarterback Draft Strategy 05:53 - Brennan Sorsby Suspension Debate 10:20 - Gambling Risks and NFL Prospects 15:25 - LeBron James Cavs Return Rumors 20:10 - Cavaliers Salary Cap Challenges 29:02 - Two-Second Trivia Contest
They evaluate whether the James Harden acquisition was a mistake compared to keeping Darius Garland and analyze the numbers behind their on-court performance. The discussion also covers the culture of sports nicknames in Cleveland, from Chase DeLauter to Baker Mayfield, and features NFL draft insights from Daniel Jeremiah. 01:20 - Guardians Player Nicknames 06:53 - Baker Mayfield Nicknames 09:15 - Local Media Nickname History 11:02 - Daniel Jeremiah Draft Analysis 16:21 - James Harden Trade Debate 22:12 - Jrue Holiday Trade Scenarios 28:46 - Evaluating Player Success Metrics 32:41 - Defensive Impact Comparison 37:34 - Cavaliers Special Anniversary Tease
Ken and Lima welcomes NFL Draft analyst Dane Brugler to discuss the unique scouting profile of quarterback Brendan Sorsby. They analyze how the signal-caller's elite physical traits compare to his off-field challenges and significant developmental needs. The discussion explores potential landing spots for Sorsby, such as the Browns and Steelers, while considering the depth of future draft classes.
Ken Carman makes the case that the Steelers, despite always being floated as a quarterback-desperate landing spot, are exactly the type of conservative, ownership-driven organization that would never gamble a second-round pick on Brendan Soresby's gambling baggage, drawing a comparison to how character concerns once nearly cost them Dan Marino back in 1983. Lima pushes back on the idea that a supplemental pick is somehow a smaller investment than a normal draft pick, leading to a real disagreement about what teams are actually risking by taking the swing. The two also wrap up some lingering Jose Ramirez injury jokes involving Ken's son Axel, including a very funny bit about fans piling on Ken's family for supposedly jinxing the Guardians' star third baseman.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down the fallout from their interview with Dane Brugler, with Carman pushing back on fans who are either over-hyping Brendan Sorsby as a savior or trashing him purely to spite Shedeur Sanders supporters. Carman walks through why evaluators separate game outcomes from prospect grading, using Jackson Dart and Trevor Lawrence as examples of why traits and developmental timelines matter more than head-to-head college results, while still drawing a line at spending more than a third-round pick on Sorsby. The two also dig into the wild detail of Texas Tech paying out Sorsby's reported financial package anyway, and debate how the timing of NFL discipline and a team's coaching stability could end up shaping who actually takes the swing.
NFL Draft Analyst Dane Brugler joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to bring some much-needed context to the Brendan Sorsby hype, explaining that while the talent and physical tools are real, the tape shows a quarterback who's still raw in his reads, protections, and mechanics, making him more of a day two projection even before factoring in the gambling situation. Brugler lays out why the Browns, Jets, and Cardinals make the most sense as landing spots if Sorsby slips far enough in the supplemental draft, and breaks down how the asking price, a third-round pick versus a day three flier, changes the entire calculus for taking the swing. He also tackles the looming 2027 question, weighing whether banking on Sorsby now could actually cost a team a shot at a generational talent like Jeremiah Smith.
Cavaliers Chief Marketing Officer Chris Kaiser joins Ken Carman and Anthony Lima to break down Friday's 10-year anniversary celebration of the 2016 championship, including a new championship-themed basketball court and a commercial-free replay of Game 7 at the Meet Me Here Plaza downtown. Kaiser opens up about how tricky it is to honor the franchise's past while staying focused on a current team fresh off an Eastern Conference Finals run, especially with LeBron James's free agency looming over everything the marketing department plans. Carman also gets Kaiser to explain the surprisingly well-organized process behind auctioning off the actual seat Taylor Swift sat in during the playoffs, which fetched a notable price for charity.
Ken Carman pushes back hard on the growing narrative that the James Harden trade was a bust, walking through the numbers and arguing the on-off splits clearly show Harden was a real upgrade over Darius Garland, especially defensively. He and Lima debate what "failure" even means for a team that made a deeper playoff run than anyone expected, and Carman draws a line between not winning a championship and being an outright disaster, pointing to the Knicks' OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges trades as proof narratives can flip fast. The two also touch on Daniel Jeremiah's comparison of Brendan Sorsby to Jaxson Dart before wrapping up ahead of their interview with Cavaliers CMO Chris Kaiser.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima spiral into an extended back-and-forth about Cleveland sports nicknames, debating whether anyone actually calls Chase DeLauder "CDL," why Tito always seemed to make player nicknames longer instead of shorter, and Carman's refusal to ever use "Spida" for Donovan Mitchell. A caller pokes fun at both hosts for their own nickname habits, leading to a detour into old Browns and Indians nickname history before the guys set up their upcoming interview with Cavaliers executive Chris Kaiser. The whole segment is the kind of loose, bickering tangent that somehow still ties back to bigger questions about Jose Ramirez, Gavin Williams, and the Browns quarterback situation looming over the show.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima host a high-stakes edition of Two-Second Trivia where listeners compete for Mr. Hero meals by answering rapid-fire sports questions. The segment features a variety of topics including Cleveland Guardians stats and NBA ratings, concluding with a fast-paced lightning round and a preview of upcoming guest interviews.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down Sam Quinn's odds on LeBron James's free agency, with Cleveland sitting at a measly five percent behind the Lakers, Warriors, and outright retirement, and Carman explains why the Cavs' cap situation makes a reunion financially brutal even if James wanted it. The two debate whether it would actually be a good thing for LeBron to close out his career in Cleveland versus chasing a ring elsewhere, with Carman arguing a homecoming would mean far more to fans than people want to admit, using Kobe Bryant's farewell season as the emotional comp. They circle back to the "participation trophy" debate from earlier in the show, with Carman arguing the wide-open nature of this year's title race is exactly why a 41-year-old LeBron could still be a difference-maker for whichever team lands him.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima keep hashing out the Brendan Sorsby supplemental draft debate, this time fielding callers who compare the gambit to past Browns gambles on troubled talent like Johnny Manziel and Josh Gordon. Carman draws a sharp line between Sorsby's situation and the Luis Ortiz-style "Class A" betting scandal, pointing out there's no evidence of game-fixing and that the worst behavior may be tied to a specific period when Sorsby wasn't even playing. The conversation also digs into how a personal conduct versus substance abuse classification could affect how much access Sorsby gets to the building during any suspension, using the Giants' handling of Jaxson Dart as a comparison point for how a team can quietly develop a young quarterback behind the scenes.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima dig into the wild idea floated by Albert Breer that the Browns could target Brendan Sorsby in the supplemental draft, even with the threat of a lengthy suspension looming over his head. Carman lays out why spending anything more than a fourth or fifth-round pick on Sorsby means the front office has to have a borderline blind faith in a guy nobody will actually get to see play for weeks, and explains why that level of investment would essentially take the Browns out of next year's loaded quarterback class. The two also debate whether the front office has actually earned any benefit of the doubt given the franchise's track record, and whether passing on a stacked group of receivers and corners is really worth the gamble.
Ken and Lima break down why Emory Hunt's bold 10-win prediction for the Browns actually makes total sense once you factor in his belief in Shedeur Sanders, and uses it to reveal a foolproof way to tell if someone covering the Browns is being honest about their win total or just blowing smoke. Carman and Lima go back and forth on whether a coach picking the "wrong" rookie quarterback over Joe Flacco would actually be gross negligence, or if it just doesn't matter because neither option separates itself enough. Before all that, the guys also get roasted by listeners and each other over Jose Ramirez's injury, old wrestling photos, and one very unlucky kid who may have hexed the Guardians' third baseman.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima rip into ESPN's Vincent Goodwill for calling the NBA championship a "participation trophy" given how many different teams have won it lately, with Carman calling the comment asinine and pushing back hard on the idea that parity cheapens a title. The two dig into why the NBA gets treated so differently than football and baseball when it comes to judging stars who haven't won it all, name-checking Joel Embiid, James Harden, and Victor Wembanyama along the way. They also touch on the Cavs' surprising place in the championship conversation despite the recent fan pessimism. Then the conversation pivots hard into the Guardians' rough start to a crucial stretch, with the offense suddenly without two of its top power sources.
Ken and Lima dig into the emerging podcast scene with a wide-ranging conversation about whether the Knicks' championship should change how Cleveland thinks about its own title ceiling, given that nobody believed New York had a real shot either. Ken challenges the lazy narrative shortcuts in sports media — "no dog in him," "can't win with this guy" — arguing that Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns just blew up most of those talking points in one playoff run. The De'Aaron Fox odds hitting the wire sparks a debate about whether any Cavs move short of LeBron or Giannis will actually excite the fan base, with Ken concluding Cleveland is stuck in that frustrating Kings-Blazers purgatory of being good but not taken seriously. Lima pushes back with the Knicks as Exhibit A that running it back with the right chemistry can surprise everyone, leaving both hosts genuinely uncertain whether the Cavs need a blockbuster or just some good fortune.
Ken and Anthony discuss the fallout of Brendan Sorsby entering the supplemental draft following gambling allegations and a divide between Andrew Berry and Todd Monken. They analyze Sorsby’s professional outlook with guest Ryan Wilson and debate his value compared to Arch Manning. The conversation also explores a simulated NBA Finals where the Knicks are champions and the state of the Guardians without Jose Ramirez. 03:15 - Debating Brendan Sorsby's Future 08:35 - Character Concerns Versus Talent 13:35 - Monken and Berry Disagree 18:35 - Supplemental Draft Bidding Strategy 25:05 - Quarterback Room Purgatory 30:05 - Gambling Rules and Suspensions 36:45 - NCAA Legal Battle Precedents 45:15 - Emory Hunt's Season Outlook 51:30 - Shedeur Sanders Draft Debate 58:05 - Ryan Wilson Analyzes Sorsby 01:07:45 - Sorsby Versus Arch Manning 01:13:45 - Knicks Win Simulated Finals 01:21:20 - Cape Verde's Historic Upset 01:31:05 - Guardians Without Jose Ramirez 01:44:30 - Adversity in Collegiate Football 01:57:15 - Future Prospects and Arch 02:07:45 - Evaluating Browns Trade History 02:16:00 - Justin Termini Interview: NBA 02:25:20 - James Harden's Trade Impact 02:33:37 - Ken's Late Night Parental Rant
Ken and Lima break down the conflicting messages coming from the Browns front office regarding quarterback Brendan Sorsby. They compare coach Todd Monken's harsh assessment of Sorsby's character to GM Andrew Berry’s more measured stance on second chances. The discussion explores whether the franchise can handle another controversial quarterback situation amidst the supplemental draft. 02:06 - Handling Character Concerns 08:06 - Gambling Contaminating Character 13:36 - Monken Eviscerates Sorsby 18:45 - Browns Draft Philosophy 22:22 - Carman's Champions Pose 27:53 - Setting Up For Failure 35:10 - College Litigation Drama 40:30 - NFL Suspension Rules
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima break down Emory Hunt's bold prediction that the Browns can achieve ten wins with Shedeur Sanders at quarterback. They also assess the Cleveland Guardians' resilience as they navigate a difficult schedule without Jose Ramirez and react to James Dolan's unique playoff motivational tactics. 01:50 - Emery Hunt on Browns Potential 05:15 - Sanders vs. Watson QB Debate 10:00 - Draft Status and QB Leashes 13:25 - Evaluating Interest in Brendan Soresby 18:40 - Guardians Survival Without Jose Ramirez 23:50 - Rookies Stepping Up in Cleveland 28:05 - James Dolan's Bizarre Knicks Advice 36:20 - World Cup Upsets and Cycles
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima weigh the risks of the Cleveland Browns potentially pursuing quarterback Brendan Sorsby despite his gambling history. CBS Sports analyst Ryan Wilson joins to provide a scouting report on Sorsby's elite talent compared to top prospects like Arch Manning. They also debate whether the organization can handle adding more controversy to the quarterback room. 01:50 - Quarterback Room Drama and Sorsby 05:33 - Browns Leadership on Sorsby Character 12:43 - Ryan Wilson Evaluates Sorsby Talent 18:00 - Gambling Risks and NFL Future 26:33 - Shedeur Sanders vs. Deshaun Watson 34:21 - Search for Franchise Quarterback
Host of NBA TodaJustin Termine joins Anthony Lima and Ken Carman to analyze the NBA Finals and the progress of the Cleveland Cavaliers. They debate the value of James Harden and Evan Mobley before discussing the Browns' interest in Brendan Sorsby. Additionally, Carman shares a personal story regarding a midnight security scare at his home. 01:20 - Cavs and NBA Rumors 04:26 - Browns Quarterback Conspiracy Theories 08:52 - Debate Over Risky Draft Prospects 14:52 - Termine Analyzes NBA Finals 20:16 - Wembanyama vs LeBron Comparisons 25:15 - Heated Debate Over James Harden 34:40 - Carman's Midnight Security Scare
Ken opens up about getting woken up at midnight to find every light on, the front door open, and the garage unsecured — setting up a morning of parenting debate about what punishment actually sticks with kids. The guys crowdsource discipline ideas, landing on manual labor as the only thing that leaves a lasting impression, with Lima sharing his own gravel driveway story from childhood. The segment pivots to the supplemental draft odds, revealing the Steelers are fourth overall favorites at 7-to-1 to land Sorsby while the Browns sit at a distant 18-to-1. On the round projections, the books favor a third-round selection at 3-to-1, with undrafted nearly as likely as a second-round pick — a far cry from the top-five talent conversation the show spent the morning debating.
SiriusXM NBA Radio host Justin Termine joins Ken and Lima to break down the Knicks' championship run and what it means for Cleveland's title chances, with Termine concluding the Cavs are stuck in a frustrating middle ground — good enough to compete but not built to win it all. The James Harden debate turns into the segment's centerpiece, with Termine calling the trade a failure given Harden's postseason performance and age-related regression, while Lima pushes back hard with the numbers and wins it on points according to Ken. Termine also raises concerns about Evan Mobley's offensive development stalling in year four, questioning whether the Cavs have the second star needed to take real pressure off Donovan Mitchell. The segment closes with Termine speculating LeBron stays in LA before trading playful jabs with the guys about Cleveland sports talk radio.
Ken and Lima wade through social media reactions to the Sorsby debate, including a conspiracy theory that the Browns are secretly interested in Sorsby and already have a Shedeur Sanders trade lined up as an exit. Ken keeps returning to one central argument — that the Myles Garrett trade was the Browns' loudest possible admission that they don't believe in their quarterback room, and no amount of Shedeur loyalty changes that reality. Lima presses Ken on his broader pattern of rejecting every quarterback option without fully committing to any alternative, and Ken concedes the criticism has merit while insisting his standard is finding the right answer rather than just a different one. The guys also touch on the Cavs offseason, with Ken skeptical the Giannis pursuit is real but unwilling to rule out Koby Altman pulling off another surprise.
Fresh off Ryan Wilson's emphatic endorsement of Sorsby's talent, Ken grudgingly steelmans the pro-Sorsby argument — pointing out that Arch Manning could stay in college, Dante Moore could bust, and the Browns might be left with nothing if they pass on a guy scouts take 10 out of 10 times over the most hyped quarterback in the 2027 class. Ken also plays a clip of Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian leaving the door open on Arch returning to college, which only adds more uncertainty to the premise that the 2027 draft class will deliver a clean solution. Despite walking himself to the edge, Ken still lands on skepticism, arguing the Browns haven't earned the right to be anyone's reclamation project at quarterback. Lima praises Ken for staying open-minded while pushing back on the notion that wanting to get the position right is the same as perpetuating an "anybody but Shedeur" narrative.
Ken and Lima bring in CBS Sports NFL draft analyst Ryan Wilson, who confirms that Sorsby's on-field talent is legitimate — going as far as saying he'd take Sorsby over Arch Manning on film alone. Wilson acknowledges the November collapse pattern is a real concern but stops short of pinning it entirely on Sorsby, noting circumstance and drops played a role. On the suspension question, Wilson says the Calvin Ridley precedent is the closest comparison but the situations differ enough that the NFL's ruling is genuinely unpredictable, with anything from one game to a full year on the table. The interview backfires somewhat on Ken's anti-Sorsby stance, with Lima noting that Wilson's glowing talent evaluation only makes it harder to dismiss the possibility — and Ken teases that one coach's single sentence may be enough to change his mind entirely.
Ken and Lima revisit the Sorsby debate through a new lens — whether Browns fans should be comfortable watching a potential top-five talent land in Pittsburgh if Cleveland passes. Ken holds firm that bad quarterbacks go top five all the time, so the talent hype alone doesn't move him, but concedes that Todd Monken's pointed comments at the golf outing may have actually undermined the Browns' own supplemental draft strategy by telegraphing too much. The guys replay both the Andrew Berry and Monken clips side by side, with Ken noting the stark contrast between Berry's measured grace and Monken's personal attacks on Sorsby's character. Lima pushes the argument that Cleveland's own scouting staff — coming off back-to-back well-regarded drafts — may have a far more positive internal read on Sorsby than anything being said publicly.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima bring in producer John to analyze the New York Knicks' NBA championship win and the trend of parody across the league. They explore James Dolan's "Spartan" advice to players and compare it to historical rules set by Paul Brown. Additionally, they discuss the viral success of Cape Verde's World Cup performance and debate whether hitting for the cycle in baseball is an overrated achievement.
Ken and Lima turn their attention to the Guardians facing what Ken calls a make-or-break two-week stretch, now made significantly harder by Jose Ramirez's injury. Both hosts remain cautiously bullish, pointing to the organization's track record of battling adversity, but acknowledge the loss goes beyond production — Ramirez's leadership and lineup protection are irreplaceable in the short term. The conversation zeroes in on whether young players like DeLauter and Bazzana can counter the adjustments big league pitching has already made to them, with Lima noting De Lauder has never played this many games at any level. Ken draws a parallel to the Browns losing Myles Garrett, framing both situations as Cleveland needing Hall of Fame-caliber players to be replaced by unproven pieces at the worst possible time.
Ken and Lima react to CBS Sports analyst Emory Hunt's bold 10-win prediction for the Browns, which he's making with Shedeur Sanders as the starting quarterback. Ken pushes back hard, arguing that Shadeur hasn't earned the job and that his late-season wins came on the back of a defense led by Myles Garrett — not anything Sanders did at quarterback. The debate spills into whether it's fair to keep calling Shedeur a fifth-round pick, with Ken maintaining that the draft position is relevant context while Lima and Hunt's argument is that critics are being disingenuous by holding his round against him. Ken also takes a shot at the media coverage of the quarterback competition, saying the press conference questions didn't dig deep enough to expose how unsettled the situation really is.
Ken and Lima dig into the unresolved suspension question hanging over Brendan Sorsby, debating how many games the NFL would actually hand down and whether Cleveland would get enough of a sample size to make the investment worthwhile. Ken argues that even a short window of late-season games would be meaningless as evaluation, pointing to how December football can be smoke and mirrors for any quarterback. Lima concedes the point that the supplemental draft risk is wildly different at quarterback than it would be at any other position, given the suspension uncertainty alone. The guys also revisit their earlier debate about whether college teams would boycott Sorsby, with Lima claiming his champion's pose after being proven right that Sorsby never returned to the field.
Ken doubles down on his opposition to the Browns pursuing Brendan Sorsby in the supplemental draft, arguing that an unknown suspension length makes it impossible to properly evaluate him before next year's draft decisions loom. Lima counters that the discount pick cost makes this a low-risk dart throw, especially given the Browns' weak quarterback room, but Ken insists cheap doesn't mean smart. The core of Ken's argument is that if Cleveland invests even a third-round pick in Sorsby, they'll talk themselves out of drafting a franchise quarterback in 2026 — repeating the same cycle of settling that's plagued the franchise for years. Lima scores an early "champion's pose" moment after being right that Sorsby would never return to college football, which Ken reluctantly concedes.
Ken and Lima debate whether the Browns should pursue Brendan Sorsby in the supplemental draft, with Ken firmly opposed due to the gambling concerns and Cleveland's track record with high-risk players. The tension sharpens when contrasting audio clips reveal Andrew Berry giving a measured, open-minded response about Sorsby while head coach Todd Monken flatly dismissed the idea, calling it a "slippery slope." Lima argues the diverging opinions between the GM and coach signal organizational dysfunction that would doom the move before it starts. The guys open the phones and invite listeners to weigh in on whether Cleveland is the right place to take a shot on a quarterback with this kind of baggage.
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze the impact of Jose Ramirez's hand injury on the Cleveland Guardians and discuss upcoming trade deadline strategies. They also evaluate the future of the Cleveland Cavaliers following the New York Knicks' championship win, debating whether Donovan Mitchell should take a salary discount similar to Jalen Brunson. 02:57 - Jose Ramirez Injury Update 08:41 - Difficult June Schedule 20:15 - Jose Ramirez Injury Jinx 27:59 - Trade Deadline Decisions 34:51 - Cavs Future After Knicks 43:54 - Donovan Mitchell Pay Cut 52:34 - USMNT World Cup Win 57:58 - Authentic American Experiences 01:10:53 - Thierry Henry Soccer Comments 01:19:11 - Deshaun Watson Future Comments 01:27:16 - Myles Garrett OTA News 01:34:51 - Guardians American League Standing 01:44:59 - Evaluating Young Player Performance 01:51:49 - Championship Ring Discussion 02:04:33 - NBA Salary Cap Realities 02:11:36 - Anthony Castrovince Interview 02:26:18 - MLB Salary Cap Floor 02:35:11 - Final Show Thoughts
Ken and Lima react to Jose Ramirez's wrist injury and explore how the Guardians will navigate a difficult June schedule. They joke about Ken potentially jinxing the star with a family photo and later discuss James Harden's arrest. The conversation concludes with an analysis of the NBA landscape following the Knicks' championship victory. 02:50 - Jose Ramirez Injury Analysis 07:58 - Identifying New Team Leaders 12:50 - Gabriel Arias Opportunity 20:16 - Ken Carman Jinx Debate 27:30 - Guardians Trade Deadline Strategy 32:48 - James Harden Arrest News 35:50 - NBA Rings Culture Discussion 38:55 - Cavs Future Post-Knicks Title
They debate whether Donovan Mitchell should take a significant pay cut to improve the Cavaliers' roster flexibility, similar to Jalen Brunson's recent move with the Knicks. The conversation also covers the viral fascination Europeans have with American superstores like Costco and Walmart, alongside the U.S. Men's National Team's success on the soccer pitch. 01:34 - Mitchell Pay Cut Debate 07:33 - Cavs Championship Ceiling 14:11 - USMNT World Cup Success 17:06 - Foreigners Visit American Costco 21:40 - US Abundance vs Europe 27:54 - Texas Travel and Buc-ee's 31:42 - Soccer Growth in America 36:33 - Mike Brown NBA Title
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima evaluate Andrew Berry’s stance on a Deshaun Watson extension, deeming it highly unlikely given his current performance. They also examine the fallout from José Ramírez’s injury and how it affects the Guardians' approach to the trade deadline. Additionally, they discuss the presence of celebrities like Timothée Chalamet in locker rooms and the personal rules regarding touching championship trophies. 01:53 - Watson Contract Extension Talk 06:14 - Miles Garrett Trade Fallout 11:27 - Jose Ramirez Injury Timeline 17:45 - Guardians Trade Deadline Outlook 30:20 - Celebrities In Locker Rooms 34:52 - Championship Trophy Etiquette
Ken and Anthony analyze Donovan Mitchell's standing compared to Jalen Brunson before diving into the Cleveland Cavaliers' salary cap constraints. They are joined by Anthony Castrovince to discuss how Jose Ramirez's injury affects the Guardians' trade deadline strategy. The conversation concludes with a deep dive into MLB's competitive balance and the necessity of a salary cap and floor for small-market teams. 01:38 - Mitchell vs Brunson 06:01 - Cavs Salary Cap Challenges 10:15 - Evaluating Roster Rumors 15:35 - Anthony Castrovince Joins 20:00 - MLB Trade Deadline Outlook 23:42 - MLB CBA Impact 30:39 - Salary Cap Debate 36:06 - Small Market Struggles
Anthony Castrovince suggests the Guardians should aggressively pursue impact trades while they hold a lead in the division. The conversation also covers Brayan Rocchio's role in the batting order and how the team's schedule difficulty shifts throughout June. 01:01 - Rocchio's Lineup Position 02:39 - Trade Deadline Strategy 04:58 - Guardians Schedule Outlook
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima welcome MLB.com's Anthony Castrovince to discuss the Cleveland Guardians' outlook following José Ramírez's hand injury. They explore potential trade deadline strategies, the need for pitching reinforcements, and the impact of a looming CBA negotiation on roster decisions. The conversation also highlights the debate over an MLB salary cap and floor to improve competitive balance.
Ken and Lima get the hard numbers from a cap expert and discover that a Donovan Mitchell discount is actually impossible under the current CBA, shifting the conversation to what Cleveland can realistically do this offseason. Ken pushes back on the idea that missing out on LeBron or Giannis means the season is doomed, but admits the Cavs need more than just running it back. The guys land on a tough truth: the wing problem is real, the cap is brutal, and Colby Altman's optimistic press conference answer doesn't quite add up.
Ken and Lima debate whether celebrities like Timothy Chalamet and Ben Stiller belong in the Knicks' championship locker room, with Ken drawing a hard line about never touching a trophy he didn't earn. The bit spirals into Ken refusing to go near the Lombardi Trophy before a Browns Super Bowl, partly out of superstition after Lima keeps blaming Ken's son for jinxing Jose Ramirez with a pregame photo. The guys keep the joke alive while making clear the jinx bit isn't landing the way Lima hoped.
Ken and Lima take calls and debate whether Jose Ramirez's 5-7 week absence should push the Guardians to pounce at the trade deadline early or trust the kids to hold things down. They make the case that Cleveland has earned the benefit of the doubt through years of resilience, but acknowledge the brutal road trip ahead against Milwaukee, Houston, and Chicago will reveal everything fast. The guys land on Gabe Arias as the player to watch, with the looming question of whether this team overreaches trying to fill Jose's shoes or rises to the moment.
Ken and Lima dig into Andrew Berry's media availability, breaking down his noncommittal answer on a potential Deshaun Watson extension and why Ken finds the whole conversation nearly pointless. Ken makes the case that trading Myles Garrett was the Browns' public admission that this team isn't close to competing, making a Watson revival story next to impossible. The guys land on cautious optimism for Shedeur Sanders while agreeing the only real wildcard is whether Todd Monken can work some magic.
Ken and Lima run through the weekend's biggest moments, from the US men's team stunning the World Cup with a dominant 4-0 opener to Knicks coach Mike Brown finally getting his championship ring. They debate whether a deep World Cup run could actually move the needle for soccer in America, and reflect on how Ty Lue somehow became an afterthought in Cleveland's own title history. The guys also touch on Travis Kelce's rained-out first pitch and the UFC spectacle at the White House.
Ken and Lima react to viral TikToks of Europeans losing their minds over Costco and Walmart during their World Cup trips to North America. Lima can't wrap his head around tourists skipping sightseeing to visit a big box store, while Ken argues that the American superstore experience is just as mythical to Europeans as the Colosseum is to us. The guys eventually spiral into debating what there even is to do in Dallas and why a Buc-ee's stop might be the greatest road trip experience Lima has never had.
Ken and Lima make the uncomfortable ask: should Donovan Mitchell take a Jalen Brunson-style discount to help Cleveland build a championship roster. They break down the brutal math of the second apron and why the Cavs keep hitting a ceiling despite being one of the East's best teams. The guys debate whether chasing LeBron or Giannis is realistic or if Cleveland needs a different path to finally break through.
Ken and Lima react to the Knicks winning their first championship since 1973 and debate what it means for Cleveland's title window. They push back on the overreaction to James Harden's arrest and the calls to void his contract, arguing the Cavs wouldn't have reached the Eastern Conference Finals without him. The guys make the case that New York's run should give Cavs fans hope, but also make them more desperate to add another piece around Donovan Mitchell.
Ken and Lima kick off with Lima blaming Ken's son for jinxing Jose Ramirez after a pregame photo op turned into a 5-7 week injury. The guys go off the rails discussing hiding things from your kids before circling back to the real question: does Jose's injury make the Guardians more or less likely to make a move at the trade deadline?
Ken and Lima react to Jose Ramirez leaving Saturday's game with a hamate bone injury, facing a 5-7 week timeline. They break down just how massive the void is, from lineup protection to leadership, while facing one of baseball's toughest June schedules. The guys ask who steps up to keep Cleveland's season afloat while their franchise cornerstone heals.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of interviews and guest appearances from during the past week. Featuring Mary Kay Cabot, Andrew Berry, Mike Axisa, Chris Easterling, Erik Boland, and Albert Breer.
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan continued the conversation about the Browns' quarterback situation during the past week. Is Deshaun Watson the perceived leader in the clubhouse, and is Shedeur Sanders closing ground on him? What is the timeline for new head coach Todd Monken to name the starter? Plus, is GM Andrew Berry finally on an all-time heater, and do the Browns have a face of the franchise?
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan discuss the rival New York Knicks' dominant run to the Finals, where they held a 3-1 lead over the favored San Antonio Spurs after Wednesday night's historic comeback. Does the Knicks' performance against the Spurs make you feel better about the Eastern Conference Finals? How far are the Cavs from the Finals, and does the Knicks' emergence as a force to be reckoned with mean the Cavs will have to be more aggressive this offseason?
The hosts of 92.3 The Fan discuss the Guards in light of the team's recent mini-skid, which dropped them out of first place in the AL Central after Thursday's action. What's going on with the offense, and how concerned were you after being swept by the Yankees? Plus, Steven Kwan's continued struggles, and re-evaluating the Patrick Bailey trade.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of conversations from Ken and Anthony during the past week. The guys talk the Knicks' historic comeback in Game 4 of the NBA Finals; the AFC North; the idea of dating outside your rooting preferences; Red Panda's lucrative contractual demands; and the arrival of a historic vessel in Northeast Ohio.
Andrew Berry joins Daryl Ruiter and Anthony Lima to discuss the wide-open quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They analyze the impact of trading Miles Garrett, the rise of Jared Verse, and the gambling scandal involving Brendan Sorsby. They also evaluate Todd Monken's new offensive identity and the retirement of Joel Bitonio. 03:16 - Show Intro and Guest Lineup 11:43 - History of Quarterback Decisions 19:45 - Skepticism Over No Vet Days 31:30 - Red Panda Halftime Show Income 44:27 - Analyzing the Miles Garrett Trade 55:50 - Dueling Film Crews for QBs 01:06:31 - Fan Debate on Shedeur Sanders 01:19:02 - Sorsby Gambling Scandal and Ethics 01:32:02 - Anthony in Stow Defends Shedeur 01:37:15 - Rick Riccuiti on Training Camp 01:49:02 - Monken’s Offense and Jared Verse 02:04:15 - Andrew Berry on QB Growth 02:11:15 - Deshaun Watson Contract Extension Talk 02:15:02 - Logic Behind Trading Miles Garrett 02:24:42 - Bitonio Retirement and Roster Voids 02:37:02 - Analyzing Sorsby and Finding Grace
Anthony Lima and Daryl Ruiter analyze the ongoing Cleveland quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dylan Gabriel. They discuss Todd Monken's coaching intensity and the potential for a Week 1 starter. Additionally, they reveal the surprisingly modest appearance fees for NBA halftime legend Red Panda. 02:12 - Watson Mechanics And Athleticism 04:44 - Monken Ranking The Quarterbacks 08:09 - Browns Quarterback Competition Update 12:25 - Historical Quarterback Battle Comparisons 17:27 - Kevin Stefanski Closure Debate 21:11 - Veterans Practice Attendance Policy 26:24 - Face Of The Franchise 35:23 - Red Panda Halftime Salary
Daryl Ruiter and Anthony Lima debate whether Shedeur Sanders should begin the season as the starting quarterback or develop behind Deshaun Watson. They analyze Todd Monken's coaching style and the unique pressure of having film crews follow the team's quarterbacks.
Daryl Ruiter and Anthony delve into the Cleveland Browns training camp, focusing on the quarterback duel between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They welcome analyst Coach Riz to break down the nuances of Todd Monken’s new offensive system and the impressive performances of young receivers. The conversation also explores the defensive impact of Jared Verse and the high stakes of upcoming joint practices. 02:23 - World Cup Debate 07:31 - Shedeur Sanders Discussion 13:39 - Coach Riz Interview 20:31 - QB Competition Insights 25:32 - Todd Monken Offensive System 33:14 - Practice Observations Recap 38:18 - Joint Practice Importance
Andrew Berry joins to discuss the quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, noting that long-term extensions remain possible based on performance. He explains the rationale behind the Miles Garrett trade and the excitement surrounding Jared Verse, while also offering a perspective on character evaluations and Brennan Soresby. 02:02 - Andrew Berry Interview 07:05 - Deshaun Watson's Future 10:27 - Miles Garrett Trade 14:46 - Jared Verse Impact 19:34 - Character and Grace 29:11 - Watson Extension Debate 39:12 - Brennan Soresby Controversy
Daryl and Lima break down the stark contrast between Todd Monken calling the Sorsby situation a slippery slope and Andrew Berry responding with compassion and a call for grace, raising real questions about whether the Browns could eventually take a shot on the embattled quarterback prospect. The guys debate whether Sorsby's gambling issues represent a pattern of bad decisions or a genuine addiction, and whether his path back runs through a big season at Texas Tech. One thing is clear: if Sorsby emerges as a Heisman candidate this fall, this conversation is far from over.
Daryl and Lima react to Andrew Berry's bombshell that a Deshaun Watson contract extension isn't off the table, breaking down exactly how well Watson would have to play to make that conversation even remotely realistic. Daryl sets the bar at top 10 quarterback play leading to a playoff run, then immediately acknowledges how improbable that sounds given Watson has played just 19 games in six years. The guys agree on one thing: even if Watson somehow resurrects his career elsewhere after Cleveland moves on, they're fine with it.
Browns GM Andrew Berry joins Daryl and Lima for a wide-ranging interview covering the QB competition, the Myles Garrett trade, Jared Verse's fit in Cleveland, and the young receiver trio that has the organization genuinely excited. Berry opens the door to a Deshaun Watson contract extension if he plays well, defends the Sorsby situation with a call for grace, and reveals he had no idea Miles showed up to voluntary Rams OTAs while skipping Cleveland's. He also offers a surprisingly warm take on Todd Monken, calling him authentically cool in a way that has already won over the locker room.
Daryl and Lima react to Lance Reisland's take and dig deeper into what separates this year's camp from last year's disaster, with Daryl pointing to the pre-snap complexity Monken is installing as the biggest change Cleveland fans haven't been able to see. Both quarterbacks have flashed, but Daryl's honest concern remains the inconsistency that keeps him from fully buying in on either guy heading into training camp. The Buffalo joint practice looms as the real barometer, just like the Vikings joint practice in 2024 foreshadowed exactly how bad that season was going to be.
Lance Reisland joins Daryl and Lima with his most detailed scouting report yet from OTAs and minicamp, breaking down why he'd start Deshaun Watson week one while making clear Shedeur has quietly become a much better practice player than he was a year ago. Riz raves about the young receiver trio of Denzel Boston, KC Concepcion, and Isaiah Bond, arguing Boston has legitimate number one receiver potential and that Harold Fannin forces defenses into impossible coverage decisions. He also breaks down why Monken's player-first offense is a complete departure from Stefanski's system, and why the 4-3 scheme is actually a better fit for Jared Verse than anything he ran in LA.
Daryl and Lima take calls from fired-up fans pushing back on Daryl's criticism of the social media circus surrounding both Browns quarterbacks, with callers split on whether the film crews are a harmless modern reality or a genuine distraction. Daryl makes his position crystal clear: he likes Shedeur personally, wants him to win the job, but believes anything that isn't purely football right now is a waste of a golden opportunity. With Coach Riz up next to break down who's actually winning the QB battle throw by throw, the stakes couldn't be higher.
Daryl and Lima bring in producer John to analyze the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and question soccer's popularity in America. They also debate Sean Payton's legacy with the Denver Broncos and discuss the gambling controversy surrounding Brenden Sorsby at Texas Tech. Finally, the discussion shifts to roster moves for the Cleveland Guardians and upcoming local sports interviews. 01:36 - World Cup Kickoff Debate 03:56 - Sean Payton Extension Discussion 06:24 - Texas Tech And Guardians Updates
Daryl and Lima debate whether the 24/7 social media content machine surrounding both Browns quarterbacks is a sign of the times or a distraction, with callers firing back on both sides. The guys push back on the idea that Shedeur was set up to fail last year, arguing that unlike 2024's four-quarterback circus, he's getting a legitimate first-team shot this time around. Lima's bottom line: if Shedeur doesn't win this job, it's on Shedeur and nobody else.
Daryl and Lima fire back at Jonathan Peterlin after he called it "stupid" to suggest Shedeur Sanders might benefit from starting the season as a backup, with Lima defending his stance that starting Watson week one is the easiest and most likely path for the Browns. Lima breaks down why he has zero confidence Watson can return to form after playing just 19 games in six years, but also why throwing Shedeur into a messy situation too soon could do real damage to his career and trade value. It's a genuine split of opinion on the most important question facing the Browns heading into training camp.
Daryl and Lima finally have the answer to one of Cleveland sports radio's greatest mysteries: how much does Red Panda, the legendary NBA halftime unicycle bowl lady, actually get paid per appearance. The guys break down her $6,765 per-show fee, debate whether she's pulling in half a million annually across her full college and NBA tour, and compare her rate to Mutt's Gone Nuts and the Simon Says guy. It's the deep dive nobody asked for and everybody needed.
Lima and Daryl debate whether the Browns' QB competition is already decided in Monken's head, with Daryl believing someone is quietly in the lead heading into training camp. The guys break down why the Browns haven't had a true franchise quarterback since Baker Mayfield, leaving the face of the team to guys like Denzel Ward and the newly acquired Jared Verse. With Watson's baggage and Shedeur still proving himself, Todd Monken's only concern is who gives them the best chance to score, fans be damned.
Anthony Lima and Daryl Ruiter rank all three Browns quarterbacks from least to most stinky, and his verdict is brutal. Ken and Lima break down what Todd Monken's inability to name a starter really means, with Daryl cutting through the coach speak: neither guy has separated himself enough to earn the job. With Andrew Berry set to join at 9, the question looms whether Watson gets the Week 1 nod by default or if Shedeur Sanders can make a real push once the pads come on.
Author David Lee Morgan Jr. discusses his new book chronicling the rise of LeBron James from an Akron high school star to an NBA icon. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about the pivotal choice of St. Vincent-St. Mary and reflects on the unique media era of the early 2000s. 01:54 - Introducing David Lee Morgan Jr. 04:15 - High School Phenom Memories 06:06 - Choosing St. Vincent-St. Mary 09:28 - Writing The LeBron Phenomenon 15:09 - Potential Return to Cleveland
Ken and Lima analyze the Knicks' massive comeback against the Spurs before exploring the intense quarterback competition brewing at Browns minicamp. Joel Bitonio shares details on his decision to retire and his thoughts on the Hall of Fame, while Mary Kay Cabot joins to break down the performance of Deshaun Watson and the rookies. 02:33 - Knicks Epic Comeback 07:36 - Charles Barkley Quotes 13:45 - Deshaun Watson Performance 27:12 - Joel Bitonio Interview 38:55 - Hall Of Fame 48:40 - Shedeur Sanders' Approach 57:00 - Watson's Mental State 01:07:00 - Internal QB Competition 01:14:23 - Guardians Series Sweep 01:22:00 - NBA Playoff Logic 01:28:40 - Dividing The Media 01:37:46 - Mary Kay Cabot 01:48:50 - Brendan Sorsby Talk 01:55:14 - Quarterback Rep Distribution 02:03:50 - Bitonio's Browns Legacy 02:11:20 - Sympathy For Watson 02:19:36 - Andrew Berry Scouting 02:28:10 - General Manager Strategy 02:35:14 - Taylor Swift's Allegiances
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima welcome newly retired Browns legend Joel Bitonio to discuss his career and his decision to step away from the game. They also analyze the San Antonio Spurs' historic collapse against the Knicks and listen to Daryl Ruiter’s scathing review of Deshaun Watson’s performance at minicamp. 02:00 - Morning Show Intro 04:20 - Knicks Historic Comeback 07:41 - Barkley Rips Spurs 11:05 - Cavs Comparisons Made 14:10 - Browns Quarterback Situation 19:08 - Daryl Ruiter Analysis 27:40 - Joel Bitonio Interview 39:05 - Hall Of Fame 43:20 - Browns Future Outlook
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima analyze Deshaun Watson's first press conference in 20 months and his hints about internal conversations regarding the starting quarterback role. They debate the competition between Watson and Shedeur Sanders, questioning if the veteran or the rookie should lead the offense if both struggle. The segment also covers the Cleveland Guardians losing their lead in the division and a wild comeback in the NBA Finals. 01:20 - Watson Press Conference Review 05:00 - Shedeur Sanders On Practice 08:15 - Starting Deshaun Or Shedeur 12:30 - Internal Conversations On Starting 19:15 - Watson Reinvents His Game 23:45 - Todd Monken Coaching Shedeur 31:00 - Guardians Slip From First 35:55 - NBA Finals Comeback Trends
Mary Kay Cabot joins the program to provide insights into the ongoing competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. They analyze Todd Monken's offensive system, the challenges facing a young roster, and the leadership qualities required for the starting role. The discussion also touches on media interactions and the long-term outlook for the front office. 01:50 - Browns Quarterback Competition Debate 05:10 - Divisive Questions and Media Bias 08:45 - Cleveland Media Culture Analysis 13:45 - Mary Kay Cabot Joins 19:30 - Evaluating Monken's Young Offense 23:45 - Quarterback Leadership Styles Compared 27:45 - Todd Monken's Job Security 34:30 - Analyzing Watson's Recent Struggles 38:15 - Shedeur Sanders' Development Path
Ken and Anthony analyze Joel Bitonio's Hall of Fame prospects and how the Cleveland Browns' lack of success has hindered his legacy. They also delve into Deshaun Watson's first media appearance in 20 months and explore the narrative surrounding Taylor Swift's loyalty to the New York Knicks. 01:51 - Bitonio's Hall of Fame Case 04:59 - Browns' Losing Culture Consequences 08:22 - Deshaun Watson Media Silence 12:44 - Should Deshaun Watson Apologize? 18:37 - Andrew Berry vs Paul DePodesta 23:21 - Berry's Roster Building Strategy 34:00 - Taylor Swift's Knicks Fandom
Ken and Anthony react to Taylor Swift showing up courtside at Game 4 in full Knicks mode, just weeks after appearing at a Cavs playoff game with Travis Kelce, raising the question of whether she'll have to give up her Knicks fandom once they get married. The guys debate whether Travis should have shown up to return the favor, and chew over rumors that the two are planning to get married at MSG. Larry David going bonkers in the crowd and Timothee Chalamet ripping his shirt off in a mosh pit also get the full treatment.
Ken gets fired up after hearing Parker Brailsford is taking first-team reps at center, using it as the latest piece of evidence that Andrew Berry's drafts are trending up now that Paul DiBiase is out of the picture. Anthony pumps the brakes, reminding Ken that good drafts don't automatically translate to wins, pointing to the Jets and Saints as cautionary tales. Berry's Peter Schrager interview also draws mixed reactions, with Ken loving the vision but acknowledging the proof will have to come when the games actually count.
Ken and Anthony play Watson's first press conference comments in 20 months, including his response to getting cheered by some Browns fans when he was carted off with an injury, with Ken pushing back on the idea that it was widespread. The guys debate whether Watson owes Cleveland an apology, with a caller making the case that even a simple statement acknowledging the distraction could go a long way with the fan base. Ken also reflects on Joel Bitonio's legacy, arguing the Browns' years of dysfunction directly cost him a Hall of Fame case and possibly his final season.