Former ESPN college football analyst Todd McShay didn’t hold back in his commentary, both celebrating Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer’s road win at Georgia and taking a pointed swipe at his former ESPN colleague Paul Finebaum.
Speaking on his The McShay Show podcast after the Crimson Tide’s 24-21 victory in Athens, McShay acknowledged the significance of the win for DeBoer, who is navigating his second season at Alabama following Nick Saban’s retirement. For McShay, the result was less about the scoreboard and more about easing the relentless pressure that can swallow a coach in Tuscaloosa.
“It’s really good to see this,” McShay said. “I’m not pulling for either side. It’s really good to see this for DeBoer. Because it feels like if Alabama had lost this game after losing to Florida State — and Florida State just lost to Virginia — that place is vicious.”
From there, McShay transitioned from relief to critique. Pointing directly at Finebaum, who has built a career amplifying the highs and lows of SEC football. McShay suggested that Finebaum’s brand of commentary contributes to an atmosphere he views as toxic.
“Watch that trash, Paul Finebaum, to see how vicious,” McShay said. “It’s just not good humanity. Get my little shot in at Paul, one of the all-time cowards.”
While McShay didn’t elaborate further, he hinted more details are coming. “Is it October 1 yet? Let’s see. I can let it all unleash. We’ll explain it all,” he added, leaving the door open for a deeper explanation of his grievances.
The exchange reflects a growing tension within sports media about how analysts and hosts cover the sport. Finebaum’s radio show and ESPN appearances have long thrived on polarizing takes and strong criticisms. Particularly of coaches and programs in the SEC. His style has drawn as much praise for its entertainment value as criticism for its perceived harshness.
McShay, who spent nearly two decades at ESPN as a draft analyst before being laid off by the company in 2023, has rarely taken public shots at former colleagues. His comments over the weekend suggest lingering frustration with how some voices in college football media handle coverage of teams under pressure. McShay signed with The Ringer in the fall of 2024.
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