Next Up with Adam Breneman - podcast cover

Next Up with Adam Breneman

On Next Up, college football analyst Adam Breneman sits down with the most influential names in college sports and lets them tell their stories unfiltered, direct to the fans. Next Up features candid, open, and honest conversations with the most impactful figures in college sports including head coaches, athletes, athletic directors, commissioners, entrepreneurs, media personalities, agents, and executives shaping the business of college sports.
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Episodes

The FUTURE of College Football Is At Risk… Jake Butt Tells the Truth

Jake Butt joins Adam Breneman for a raw, unfiltered conversation about the broken state of college football. From NIL hypocrisy to why players feel like employees, Jake dives into how the sport needs to evolve and fast. He also shares his journey from Michigan star to rising broadcaster, his thoughts on sports betting, why Penn State might be ready to break through, and how he rebuilt his purpose after football. If you care about the future of college football, this is a must-watch. PRIZEPICKS: ...

May 29, 202551 minSeason 2Ep. 18

The Hidden Architect of Penn State’s Rise To A National Championship

In this episode of Next Up, Adam Breneman sits down with the man behind the curtain at Penn State Football — General Manager Andy Frank. For years, Andy has played a critical but often unseen role in building one of the top programs in college football. He’s been Coach Franklin’s right-hand man going all the way back to their time at Vanderbilt, and now he’s overseeing everything from roster construction and recruiting strategy to navigating the chaos of NIL, the transfer portal, and revenue sha...

May 22, 202524 minSeason 2Ep. 17

He Sold BodyArmor for $8B… Now He’s Coming for Nike | Interview w/ Mike Repole

Billionaire entrepreneur Mike Repole — the mind behind Vitaminwater, BodyArmor, and now NoBull — joins Adam Breneman for one of the most raw and inspiring conversations we’ve had on Next Up. From growing up in Queens as the son of a waiter and a seamstress to selling companies for billions, Repole shares the unfiltered truth about what it takes to win — in business, in sports, and in life. This episode dives into his mission to make NoBull bigger than Nike, his legendary partnership with Tom Bra...

May 15, 202553 minSeason 2Ep. 16

The BEST Defensive Mind in CFB Opens Up | Penn State’s Jim Knowles Interview

In this episode of Next Up with Adam Breneman, Penn State Defensive Coordinator Jim Knowles opens up about his journey to Happy Valley and what it means to coach at the school he grew up idolizing. From his first impressions of the Penn State culture to the fast-moving process that led him to take the job, Knowles brings you inside the mindset of one of college football’s top defensive minds. He breaks down how he’s merging his aggressive defensive philosophy with Penn State’s proud tradition, w...

May 08, 202521 minSeason 2Ep. 18

The NFL Vet Who Took Over TV: Nate Burleson’s Wild Career Flip

In this episode of Next Up, Adam Breneman sits down with Nate Burleson — former NFL star turned Emmy-winning TV host and entrepreneur. Nate opens up about how he built a second career even bigger than his first: the struggles of life after football, finding his voice in media, navigating self-doubt, investing smartly, launching new businesses, and why preparation is the secret weapon to success on and off the field. They talk about chasing trophies beyond the NFL, learning to let go of ego, nego...

May 01, 202555 minSeason 2Ep. 14

The James Franklin Interview Every Penn State Fan Needs to Hear

James Franklin has been the face of Penn State football for over a decade, but this may be his most revealing interview yet. In this episode, Adam Breneman sits down with Coach Franklin to talk about the challenges of NIL and the transfer portal, why players are staying at Penn State, and how he landed top defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. They dive deep into leadership, culture, and what it’ll take to bring a national championship to Happy Valley. Whether you're a Penn State fan, a college foo...

Apr 24, 202541 minSeason 2Ep. 13

The Playcaller Behind Penn State’s Title Run | Andy Kotelnicki Exclusive

Penn State’s offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki is one of the most creative minds in college football. In this episode, we dive deep into his offensive philosophy, how he’s developing Drew Allar into a future star, and the culture shift happening inside the Penn State football building. Kotelnicki opens up about why he left Lance Leipold after 11 years, what it was like getting hired by James Franklin, and how he’s building a unit that’s tough, explosive, and hard to defend. We break down the...

Apr 17, 202523 minSeason 2Ep. 12

He Runs USC Football Behind the Scenes | Meet GM Chad Bowden

In this episode of Next Up with Adam Breneman, presented by Teamworks, USC General Manager Chad Bowden joins the show for a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to build a national powerhouse football program. Chad shares how he made the decision to leave Notre Dame and join Lincoln Riley at USC in just 24 hours, and why he believes California is home to the best high school football talent in the country. He opens up about how the role of a college football GM has evolved, what most f...

Apr 10, 202515 minSeason 2Ep. 11

Manny Diaz on Culture, Leadership & Rebuilding Duke Football

Duke Head Coach Manny Diaz joins Adam Breneman for an in-depth conversation about his coaching journey, leadership philosophy, and the challenges of building a winning program in today’s college football landscape. From getting fired at Texas in 2013 to leading Miami and coordinating one of the nation’s top defenses at Penn State, Diaz has seen it all. Now, he’s taking on a new challenge at Duke, and he’s determined to make his mark. In this episode, Diaz shares his approach to building a strong...

Apr 03, 202550 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Jake Dickert’s Journey: From Math Teacher to Power 4 Head Coach

Wake Forest football is entering a new era under Head Coach Jake Dickert, and in this episode of Next Up with Adam Breneman, he opens up about the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a Power 4 program. From his first team meeting to the culture he’s building, Coach Dickert shares what it takes to win in today’s college football landscape. He talks about the unconventional path that led him to this role, the lessons he’s learned from adversity, and why he believes Wake Forest has ...

Mar 27, 202546 minSeason 2Ep. 10

Marcus Freeman Opens Up on Leadership, Adversity & Future of Notre Dame Football

Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman joins Adam Breneman for a raw and insightful conversation about his journey to leading one of college football’s most storied programs. He shares what it was like stepping into the role, the whirlwind 72 hours that changed his life, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Freeman opens up about the challenges of being a head coach, the adversity he faced in his playing career, and how those experiences shaped his leadership style. He also dives into NIL, ...

Mar 20, 202537 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Unveiling Wake Forest’s $20M Strategy: AD John Currie UNFILTERED

Wake Forest Athletic Director John Currie joins Adam Breneman for a candid conversation on the future of college sports, the rapid changes in NIL and revenue sharing, and how Wake Forest is positioning itself for long-term success. Currie dives into what it’s really like to be a Power 4 AD, how he approaches hiring coaches, and why Wake Forest has become the fastest-growing fan base in the Power 5. He also shares insights on the role of private equity in college athletics, what keeps him up at n...

Mar 13, 202541 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Ryan Silverfield Tells All: Secrets Behind Memphis’ Rise in CFB

In this episode, Memphis Head Coach Ryan Silverfield takes us inside his journey—from getting the head coaching job to building a sustainable winning culture. We discuss the lessons he’s learned, key coaching philosophies, and how Memphis continues to compete at a high level. We dive into his biggest surprises as a head coach, the advantages of being promoted from within, and the moment he found out he got the job. Coach Silverfield also shares his thoughts on creating an explosive offense, the ...

Mar 07, 202553 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Sherrone Moore UNFILTERED: Michigan’s Future, Overcoming Adversity & Beating Ohio State

In this exclusive interview, Michigan Football Head Coach Sherrone Moore shares his incredible journey from graduate assistant to leading one of the most storied programs in college football. He opens up about the moment he got the head coaching job, the lessons he learned from Jim Harbaugh, and the challenges of stepping into this high-profile role. Coach Moore breaks down his approach to recruiting, what it takes to build a winning culture, and how he evaluates coaching staff. He also shares h...

Feb 28, 202550 minSeason 2Ep. 5

Commissioner Tim Pernetti: What’s REALLY Happening in College Athletics & Conference Realignment

Tim Pernetti, Commissioner of the American Conference, joins me for an unfiltered conversation about the future of college football, conference realignment, NIL, media rights, and the business behind the game. From leading Rutgers’ move to the Big Ten to reshaping the American Conference, Tim has been at the center of some of the biggest decisions in college athletics. In this episode, he shares insights on his strategy for growing the American Conference, the challenges facing college football,...

Feb 21, 202546 minSeason 2Ep. 4

Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould Tells All: Saving the Conference & Its Future

The Pac-12 Conference has faced one of the most challenging periods in its history, but what happens next? In this interview, I sit down with Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould to discuss the conference’s survival, media rights, expansion, and the future of the Pac-12. She shares what it was like stepping into leadership during such a critical time, the tough decisions she’s had to make, and her vision for where the Pac-12 will be in the coming years. We also dive into the lessons learned from the...

Feb 13, 202531 minSeason 2Ep. 1

Kenny Dillingham: College Football's Next Great Coach

In this candid and inspiring conversation, Adam sits down with Arizona State Head Football Coach Kenny Dillingham. We dive deep into his journey to becoming one of the youngest head coaches in college football, the challenges of building a winning program, and his philosophies on recruiting, culture, and leadership. Coach Dillingham shares incredible stories, lessons learned, and a look into the future of ASU Football. SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@NextUpWithAdam?sub_confir...

Feb 06, 202552 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Johnny Manziel Tells All: Heisman Glory, NFL Drama & Life After Football

Next Up is back and now part of Front Office Sports. In the first edition of the new Next Up, Johnny Manziel opens up about his remarkable journey through football and beyond. From his breakout moment at Texas A&M to winning the Heisman Trophy and navigating the chaos of the NFL, Johnny shares stories, including his draft night experience and the challenges of adjusting to pro football schemes. He offers thoughtful advice to young athletes about staying focused amidst distractions, maximizin...

Jan 30, 202535 minSeason 2Ep. 1

Mike Locksley Tells All: Winning B1G Games At Maryland, Career Decisions & Adapting To CFB

Maryland Head Coach Mike Locksley joins Adam Breneman on today’s episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Locksley opens up on success at Maryland and his ultimate goal of winning a national championship.. Having worked worked for legendary head coaches Nick Saban and Urban Meyer, Locksley gives insight into his career decisions that led him back to Maryland and shaped him as a head coach. In a new landscape of college football, Locksley outlines how he continues to adapt and put his tea...

Aug 30, 20241 hr 2 min

Joe Moorhead UNFILTERED: Coaching Journey, Penn State Stories & Rebuilding Akron

Akron Head Coach Joe Moorhead joins Adam Breneman on today’s episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Moorhead opens up on stories from Penn State, success & adversity at Mississippi State. As a successful Head Coach & Offensive Coordinator, Moorhead shares his take on the important metrics of offensive football, new helmet communication with QB's, recruiting, and the landscape of college football in 2024. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $50 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https:...

Aug 22, 202455 min

Kamari Ramsey On Leading USC’s Defense, D’Anton Lynn’s Scheme & Navigating Hollywood

USC Safety Kamari Ramsey joins Adam Breneman on today’s episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Kamari Ramsey discusses his decision to transfer from UCLA to USC and how the adjustment has been so far. Kamari also sheds some light on what D’Anton Lynn’s defensive scheme will look like in 2024, embracing a leadership role for the Trojans, and much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizePicksAdamB FOLLOW NEXT UP WITH ADAM BRENEMAN HE...

Aug 15, 202414 min

Nick Sheridan On Taking Over Bama’s Offense, Jalen Milroe & Upholding Saban’s Standard

Alabama Football Offensive Coordinator Nick Sheridan joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Coach Nick Sheridan opens up about his adjustment to Alabama and his plans for the Crimson Tide offense. Coach Sheridan also talks about his relationship with Jalen Milroe and Kalen DeBoer, his offensive scheme, how he evaluates talent and offensive efficiency, and much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizeP...

Aug 08, 202427 min

Eric Henderson On Turning Around USC’s Defense, Sean McVay vs Lincoln Riley & Building Culture

USC Football Co-Defensive Coordinator Eric Henderson joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. Coach Eric Henderson opens up about his transition from the NFL to college football in this exclusive interview. Eric talks about how he plans to help turn around USC's defense, some of the lessons he learned from Sean McVay and Aaron Donald during his time with the Rams, USC's recruiting strategy and much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.l...

Aug 01, 202421 min

USC DC D'Anton Lynn: Revamping USC’s Defense, Building Culture & Lincoln Riley

USC Football Defensive Coordinator D'Anton Lynn joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, D'Anton Lynn opens up about his plans to rewrite the narrative surrounding USC's Defense. Coach Lynn touches on his defensive scheme and approach to play-calling, the defensive culture he's building with the Trojans, Lincoln Riley and much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizePicksAdamB EKRIN ATHLETICS: Get 25% o...

Jul 24, 202416 min

Zachariah Branch: All-American Journey, Miller Moss vs. Caleb Williams & Lincoln Riley’s Offense

USC Football WR Zachariah Branch joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Zachariah Branch reflects back on his All-American season with USC last season and explains what USC fans can expect from Lincoln Riley's offense in 2024 with Miller Moss leading the way. Zachariah Branch also talks about playing alongside Caleb Williams, his recruiting process, why he ultimately chose USC, his welcome to college football moment and much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 S...

Jul 18, 202419 min

Alabama DC Kane Wommack: Nick Saban’s Standard, Defensive Scheme & Balancing Risk

Alabama Football Defensive Coordinator Kane Wommack joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. Kane Wommack opens up about his coaching journey and in his decision to become Alabama's Defensive Coordinator in this exclusive interview. Coach Wommack also talks about his defensive scheme and philosophy, how he intends to uphold Nick Saban's standard at Alabama and much much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizePicksAdamB SNHU: Learn...

Jul 12, 202424 min

Miller Moss: Replacing Caleb Williams, Embracing Leadership, Lincoln Riley & Navigating Hollywood

USC Football QB Miller Moss joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. In this exclusive interview, Miller Moss opens up about the adversity he's faced throughout his time at USC and how he's managed to overcome it. Miller also talks about the challenge of replacing Caleb Williams, what it's like playing QB for Lincoln Riley, his approach to leadership, how he navigates the bright lights of Hollywood and much much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link:...

Jul 10, 202423 min

Jalen Milroe Tells All: Overcoming Adversity, Heisman Hopes & Kalen DeBoer vs. Nick Saban

Alabama Football QB Jalen Milroe joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. Jalen Milroe opens up in this exclusive interview, diving deep into the adversity he's faced in life and his football career, his Heisman hopes for next season, what Alabama fans can expect from Kalen DeBoer's new offense, the differing coaching styles between Kalen DeBoer and Nick Saban, and much much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizePicksAdamB EKRIN ...

Jul 03, 202428 min

Kalen DeBoer On Building Alabama His Way, Jalen Milroe’s X-Factor & Upholding Tradition of Winning

Alabama Football Head Coach Kalen DeBoer joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. In this interview, Coach Kalen DeBoer gets honest about his transition from Washington to Alabama, how he plans to fill the shoes that Nick Saban left, the changes he's making to Alabama's culture, Jalen Milroe, and much much more. PRIZEPICKS: Get a $100 Sign Up Bonus with code "AdamB" or this link: https://bit.ly/PrizePicksAdamB SNHU: Learn more about SNHU's Sport Management Bachelor's Degree with this l...

Jun 27, 202448 min

Lincoln Riley Opens Up: Reviving USC, Attacking Adversity & Developing Elite QBs

USC Football Head Coach Lincoln Riley joins Adam Breneman on today's episode of Next Up. Lincoln Riley gets candid about his coaching journey from his early days as a GA at Texas Tech, how he shaped Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray into Heisman winners in Oklahoma, and his shocking exit from OU and leap to USC. Coach Riley also reflects back on his first two years building USC football, the coaching changes he's made on the defensive side of the ball, Caleb Williams, and much much more. PRIZEPICK...

Jun 21, 202442 min
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