#258 – Michelle Kaufman, the Miami Herald’s talented veteran sportswriter talks about Messi, USMNT’s failures at Copa America, and Berhalter’s future.

Michelle Kaufman, the Miami Herald’s talented veteran sportswriter talks about Messi, USMNT’s failures at Copa America, and Berhalter’s future.
#257 – Emergency Episode: USMNT Once Again Underperforms. Is Berhalter out?

Five years ago, Gregg Berhalter was tasked with rebuilding the U.S. men’s national team after their painful failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. His mission: to elevate a new generation of talent and restore pride to American soccer. Fast forward to the present, and the USMNT finds itself in a precarious situation at the Copa America. A surprise 2-1 loss to Panama has raised serious questions about Berhalter’s leadership, player development, and tactical choices. With their hopes hanging by a thread, is Berhalter’s job on the line? Dave Gallego dissects the match, analyzes the team’s stagnation, and explores whether the coach’s tenure is in jeopardy.
#256 – Kevin and Dave dig into USMNT, the Euros, ticket prices, grass pitches, the NCAA’s demise, and Alex Morgan being left off USWNT.

On this episode of OTB, Kevin and Dave discuss USMNT vs. Bolivia, the Alex Morgan controversy, the Euros, overly harsh English fans, temporary grass pitches, skyrocketing ticket prices, changes inside NCAA and D1, and the pros and cons of the NCAA transfer portals.
OTB Executive Producer, Ken Park, joins the boys for the shows new “Getting to Know You” segment to discuss his experiences as a professional skateboarder, his first celebrity crush, and more.
#255 – Mike Woitalla, Executive Editor of Soccer America joins the boys at OTB to dissect USMNT recent performances.

Mike Woitalla, Executive Editor of Soccer America, joins Kevin and Dave to review the USMNT’s recent performance. They analyze the team’s lackluster game against Colombia and the friendly match against Brazil. The discussion also includes predictions on the significance of the 2024 Copa América for Coach Gregg Berhalter.
With decades of soccer journalism experience, Mike brings deep insights into game highlights, player transfers, and referee decisions. Additionally, he’s an active volunteer coach, referee, and photographer with SWB Oakland, contributing to the sport from youth leagues to the professional level.
Kevin highlights the tactical adjustments needed for the USMNT to compete effectively on the global stage, emphasizing the importance of a solid defensive strategy and creative midfield play. Dave counters with a focus on improving player development programs within the US, suggesting a long-term approach to cultivate homegrown talent capable of succeeding internationally.
Mike and the hosts delve into the potential impact of upcoming international fixtures and tournaments, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities awaiting the USMNT. Their conversation underscores the critical role of strategic planning and consistent performance in elevating the team’s global standing.
#254 – OTB chats with South Carolina Women’s soccer head coach, Shelley Smith about her winning strategies and insights.#254 –

OTB chats with South Carolina Women’s soccer head coach, Shelley Smith about her winning strategies and insights.
#253 – Exploring the Evolution of Soccer in Austin and the US with veteran professional soccer writer, editor, and author Phil West.

Exploring the Evolution of Soccer in Austin and the US with veteran professional soccer writer and editor, Phil West.
#252 – Think the U.S. soccer system needs a shake-up? Hear from one of its biggest advocates! Ted Westervelt, known for his outspoken stance on promotion and relegation in American soccer, joins this week’s episode of OTB.

Think the U.S. soccer system needs a shake-up? Hear from one of its biggest advocates! Ted Westervelt, known for his outspoken stance on promotion and relegation in American soccer, joins this week’s episode of OTB.
#251 – Jonathan Tannenwald, Chief Soccer Correspondent for the Philadelphia Inquirer, joins the boys on OTB to stir up some controversy about his feelings for his hometown Union FC and their incredibly successful youth programs, Jim Curtin, USMNT’s lineup, Emma Hayes, and 14-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan.

Jonathan Tannenwald, Chief Soccer Correspondent for the Philadelphia Inquirer, joins the boys on OTB to stir up some controversy about his feelings for his hometown Union FC and their incredibly successful youth programs, Jim Curtin, USMNT’s lineup, Emma Hayes, and 14-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan.
#250 – Celebrated soccer referee and podcast host of “Refs Need Love Too,” David Gerson joins Dave and guest host, John Bolster to discuss the challenges and changes in the world of soccer refereeing.

Celebrated soccer referee and podcast host of “Refs Need Love Too,” David Gerson joins Dave and guest host, John Bolster to discuss the challenges and changes in the world of soccer refereeing.
#249 – Washington Post reporter Steven Goff discusses Memorable World Cup Moments, DC United’s Progress and the Future of Soccer in the US.

Washington Post reporter Steven Goff discusses Memorable World Cup Moments, DC United’s Progress and the Future of Soccer in the US.