Breakdown! Episode 170: LSU & Demond Williams vs Washington

Welcome to Episode 170 of Breakdown! We’re kicking off 2026 with a deep dive into the absolute chaos of the transfer portal and previewing a massive weekend of College Football Playoff semifinals. Whether it’s $6 million bidding wars for quarterbacks or rematches for all the marbles, we’ve got you covered from the SEC to the Big Ten.
Episode Summary
In this episode, we tackle the wild "reverse Nico situation" with Washington's Demond Williams and LSU's massive $6 million offer that has the transfer portal in a frenzy. We also break down the logic—or lack thereof—in current NIL contracts and why the "free market" is officially running college ball. Finally, we preview the heavy-hitting playoff matchups: Ole Miss vs. Miami and the Big Ten rematch between Indiana and Oregon. Can the Hoosiers break the "blue chip ratio" and ride the wave all the way to a ring?
Key Moments & Insights
[00:10] – The $6 Million Quarterback: We dive into the drama surrounding Washington QB Demond Williams entering the portal just days after signing a contract, thanks to a massive offer from LSU.
[01:45] – Contractual Chaos: We discuss why these NIL contracts aren't worth the paper they're written on until players are considered employees with collective bargaining.
[05:12] – LSU’s QB Hunt: Why LSU is passing on Sam Leavitt for Williams, specifically focusing on injury timelines and spring camp availability.
[06:50] – Ole Miss vs. Miami Preview: A breakdown of the QB battle between Trinidad Chambliss and Carson Beck. Is Miami's defense just too much for the Rebels?
[10:40] – The Coaching Factor: Discussing Pete Golding’s first real test at Ole Miss without a "rematch" game plan to follow.
[13:30] – Indiana vs. Oregon Rematch: Previewing the Friday night showdown. We look at Oregon's depth issues at running back and whether they can stop the Indiana "mauling."
[15:20] – Mendoza vs. Moore: A look at the NFL-caliber QB matchup. Fernando Mendoza (Heisman winner) vs. Dante Moore in a battle for the top draft spots.
[17:45] – The "Overrated" Debate: A heated take on whether Oregon's Dan Lanning is the most overrated coach in the sport despite his 10-win seasons.
[20:50] – Basketball Tease: A quick nod to Michigan's narrow win over Penn State as we prepare to transition into hoops season.