Soccer 101

776
Soccer #61

All the soccer history and explainers you can handle

Recent Episodes
  • How have soccer pitches improved over the years?
    May 2, 2025 – 39:33
  • What is the professional soccer landscape in New Zealand?
    Apr 25, 2025 – 40:25
  • Why doesn't MLS use the European Calendar? What are the benefits and drawbacks of adopting it?
    Apr 18, 2025 – 47:09
  • What is the Persian Gulf Pro League, and how has it helped develop the Iranian national team?
    Apr 11, 2025 – 46:16
  • What is fixture congestion and what can teams do to combat it?
    Apr 4, 2025 – 31:02
  • What is the J.League and how has it strengthened the Japan national team?
    Mar 28, 2025 – 41:47
  • What is CONCACAF, and what is its scandalous history?
    Mar 24, 2025 – 39:27
  • Why isn't Ligue 1 better? What are the issues it's faced, and how has it positioned itself for future growth?
    Mar 14, 2025 – 42:59
  • How do teams, players and managers handle the language barrier?
    Mar 7, 2025 – 36:03
  • What are the best and worst rebrands in soccer history?
    Feb 28, 2025 – 36:07
  • Do Sporting Directors, GMs and Directors of Football all do the same thing?
    Feb 21, 2025 – 22:23
  • What is a cult hero, and how does a player become one?
    Feb 14, 2025 – 26:37
  • What is The Big Six in the Premier League, and does it still exist?
    Feb 7, 2025 – 27:49
  • An abbreviated history of Neymar, and why he's such a polarizing figure
    Jan 31, 2025 – 46:21
  • How do Premier League clubs typically travel to matches?
    Jan 24, 2025 – 22:57
  • #196 What is PSR, why was it introduced and how is it enforced?
    Jan 17, 2025 – 40:56
  • #195 How to get tickets for a Premier League match
    Jan 10, 2025 – 33:15
  • #194 Everything you need to know about futsal
    Dec 20, 2024 – 28:27
  • #193 Why do winter breaks exist, and how many leagues observe them?
    Dec 13, 2024 – 26:17
  • #192 All things scran!
    Dec 5, 2024 – 38:52
  • #191 What is the history of goalkeepers in soccer, and how has the position evolved over time?
    Nov 29, 2024 – 35:53
  • #190 What is Match of the Day, and why is it so revered?
    Nov 22, 2024 – 29:35
  • #189 What is a fairytale in soccer, and are they becoming increasingly less common in the modern game?
    Nov 15, 2024 – 28:49
  • #188 What do soccer players eat, and how has their nutrition changed over time?
    Nov 8, 2024 – 30:27
  • #187 Who is Mario Balotelli, and why does he attract so much attention?
    Nov 1, 2024 – 46:13
  • #186 Who is Gianni Infantino and what does he do?
    Oct 25, 2024 – 40:00
  • #185 What is a dual national and who are some of the most notable players who have switched national teams?
    Oct 11, 2024 – 46:57
  • #184 What are some formerly great teams that experienced a dramatic decline, and what factors led to that fate?
    Oct 4, 2024 – 35:10
  • #183 What is an ACL injury?
    Sep 27, 2024 – 38:00
  • #182 What is a Number 10, and how many different types are there?
    Sep 26, 2024 – 29:06
  • #181 An abbreviated history of US men's national team managers
    Sep 12, 2024 – 01:15:58
  • #180 What is the UEFA Nations League, and why does it exist?
    Sep 6, 2024 – 27:45
  • #179 What is the origin of the Liverpool-Man United rivalry, and how has it grown over time?
    Aug 30, 2024 – 30:28
  • #178 What are The Galacticos, how many iterations have there been, and are we in a new era right now?
    Aug 23, 2024 – 40:15
  • #177 What is fantasy soccer and how does it work?
    Aug 16, 2024 – 25:35
  • #176 What is the Scottish Premiership, why isn't it called the SPL, and what does its future hold?
    Aug 2, 2024 – 36:06
  • #175 Who is new USWNT manager Emma Hayes, and why is her appointment so significant?
    Jul 25, 2024 – 35:27
  • #174 What are the European Championships, and how important are they on the global stage?
    Jun 14, 2024 – 28:33
  • #173 The best and worst of crests and kit colors in soccer
    Jun 7, 2024 – 01:00:20
  • #172 What is Wembley Stadium, and why is it called "The Home of Football?"
    May 31, 2024 – 33:21
  • #171 Why is the English Championship playoff final known as The Richest Game in Football?
    May 23, 2024 – 25:19
  • #170 What is the history of trophies in soccer? And what are some of the best and worst pieces of silverware?
    May 17, 2024 – 29:13
  • #169 What is the Europa League and why doesn't it get more coverage?
    May 9, 2024 – 39:33
  • #168 What is Football Manager, and why is it so addictive?
    May 6, 2024 – 34:14
  • #167 The FIFA video game series and its lasting legacy
    Apr 12, 2024 – 38:35
  • #166 What is the Copa Libertadores and why are Brazilian clubs suddenly so dominant in it?
    Apr 4, 2024 – 30:22
  • #165 What are match programmes and why do they exist?
    Mar 30, 2024 – 29:22
  • #164 What does a captain actually do?
    Mar 22, 2024 – 27:23
  • #163 What are parachute payments, why do they exist, and what are their positives and negatives?
    Mar 15, 2024 – 25:06
  • #162 What is doping and how prevalent is it in soccer?
    Mar 12, 2024 – 43:43
Recent Reviews
  • MikaGuima
    One word
    AAAAMMMMAAAAZZZZIIIINNNGG
  • therea1wags
    So many ads before any content
    While I understand the need for advertising dollars, having 4 minutes of them BEFORE the episode starts is excessive.
  • kimbobo722
    This Pod Helped Me So Much
    Graham and Taylor break down 101 football knowledge. You could look up all of these topics, but would not get the context, history and relevancy. Making the complex, simple is an art. Plus they do it with humor and zero snobbery.
  • horgar
    False angst
    Usually interesting and informative. The Qatar episode brought out their virtue signals. To the point where they accuse Qatar of human trafficking. Shocked I was to find out that in a sport all about money, Qatar uses their money to try and not be embarrassed in a cup on home soil. Seems like they’d be much happier to have Qatar’s doors blown off so they can say “see they shouldn’t be hosting”. So tired of them lamenting countries with money spending their money to improve their situation. Also their continued injection of leftist political nonsense now makes what was once a timeless podcast when Mr Grove was involved into a childish liberal agenda screed. Way to waste a great concept.
  • Ekyby314
    Great idea! Perfect for both new and old fans!
    I’m a big fan of the parent pod, The Total Soccer Show, and this ingenious spinoff is one of few on Automatic Download. The Ta-ta-Rockwell, Ryan from Rome/NC, Arizona-Joe and Glasgow Graham (who is sick today) are a force of pod chemistry to to reckoned with. It’s like your hanging out with your buddies and they’re being funny while teaching you some things about soccer you may not have known. I’ve played soccer since I was 6yr and pay attention pretty close, but I always learn a bunch from Soccer 101. Just love it, full stop. I think if someone is just getting into soccer, this is the perfect podcast. I hope the soccer community is a welcoming one to new fans and this Pod epitomizes that. Many thanks to and a big shout out to the gents for all the work they do behind the scenes to make TSS and Soccer 101 a reality!
  • Hattiehein
    Istanbul rivalries, other international stuff please!
    I’d love to know the social / political stuff about the Istanbul big 2 or 3, and same with river plate, etc. Keep up the great work!
  • Butt Rocker
    Great
    I farted
  • Ak3786
    Love this Pod
    I’ve become increasingly addicted to soccer and this is such a great pod from fellow soccer lovers to fill in the gaps in my knowledge.
  • Slight full
    Ryan and the athletic are ruining this show
    Lost its way now just another podcast with bloviating uk centric voices. Joe is real the only redeeming thing dump ryan and find a divergent voice.
  • Stimpy66
    What a visionary resource
    We are doing a podcast about St Louis City SC - the MLS expansion team set to start play in 2023. As we plan out how we are going to address new soccer fans to the game as the club’s first game approaches, we are going to to do a show to introduce them to the basics. We will touch on topics but will reference them to this podcast for in depth detail if the need it. What a visionary idea Daryl & Taylor had. This is the Wikipedia for new soccer fans. A true labor of love.
  • Im a hero to these kids Taylor
    Soccer history is fun
    Near evergreen episodes always an enjoyable listen
  • Gary Mauk
    Anything soccer topic you will want to know, it’s here
    Great for new and veteran soccer fans. Great variety of topics with a short and sweet podcast. A MUST add to your soccer podcast diet!
  • Glennikin
    Informative
    Super informative. Loads of great information presented in a way that’s entertaining and easy to understand and absorb. Love the episodes on the history of clubs and the game as a whole!
  • joshrmke
    Great for the Beginner and the Expert
    There's always more to learn about football. As someone who's been involved in the game since I was young (as a player, coach, supporter, and volunteer administrator), I've picked up a lot of knowledge around it. For the sport to keep growing stateside, it needs less gatekeepers. Daryl and Taylor do a phenomenal job of explaining the topic of each episode in a way that's easily digestible but also makes you think!
  • Ali VVK
    Obsessed
    Love Total Soccer Show and love this one too. I played soccer my entire life, through to D1 in college, so didn’t think “Soccer 101” would be geared towards me... I was very wrong. I’ve learned a ton, and can’t get enough! I love the style of these guys. Very professional sound, and very smart, yet easy to understand tactical break downs. I will subscribe to anything and everything they produce!
  • paRtyThyME666
    Vital!!
    As someone who has always enjoyed watching soccer casually but felt there was a barrier to entering the “analysis level” of enjoyment, this podcast has really helped take me from casual fan to soccer/football enthusiast. Love the energy between these two guys and their wealth of knowledge!!
  • AllNicknamesAreBelongToMe
    Each one is insightful
    I came to soccer as an adult and have tried to catch up as best I can with those around me who have played it and/or watched it for much longer. Each of these episodes is insightful and delightful, but my most listened to is the episode on what the numbers mean, and the most endearing (so far) is the mini episode on GAM and TAM. Absolutely recommend a subscribe!
  • USMNTjmh
    Classic Games.
    Since we are all socially distancing on saturdays at a fixed time my son and newphews start one of the reviewed classic games. We pick the game in advanced and listen to the always inciteful review and then get in our jerseys and scarfs and count down start and watch as if it were a live game. So great to see classic 2-0 wins over Mexico. The Columbus games was my sons first live MNT qualifier great to relive and some of the old names. Robbie Rogers or Jay DeMerrit wow how soon we forget. Keep up the classic reviews while we shelter at home.
  • Revs20
    Brilliant!
    Daryl Grove and Taylor Rockwell are top notch. Soccer 101 has been big time! Recently going back in a soccer time machine to listen Daryl and Taylor discuss the US v Mexico 2002 World Cup was magic😀 I have been a major fan of the US MNT since the 1990 Italia World Cup. I never saw the 1995 Copa America Match between the US and Argentina. Your story telling and tactical analysis was outstanding about this David and Goliath Match. Kenny Finn Beverly, MA Total Soccer Listener 7+ years
  • chrishoal
    A public service for soccer enthusiasts
    The hosts of The Total Soccer Show investigate the questions, misunderstandings, and traditions of soccer fandom and I am grateful. Come on you boys in gold.
  • Jason_H
    Even the Episodes I Don’t Care About Are Great
    What else is there to say??? Again, the research that goes into these shows makes it a fun listen. I really enjoy the education that these episodes provide.
  • AnaMartinez7755
    Welcoming
    Love every episode !
  • Derek Dellovo
    One of the most interesting soccer podcasts
    Darrel and Taylor go in depth on an array of topics under the broad umbrella of soccer. This has become in my opinion one of the most interesting soccer pods, every new episode becomes must-listen stuff when I see it on my feed. Thanks for doing something a little different and putting so much time and research into these episodes!
  • SKiTHx
    Another great soccer pod from two people that do it best
    The johan episode was fantastic. Even for a person like myself who is currently 33 and spent majority of my life playing soccer or at least being around the game in some capacity learned SO very much from this episode! Very interesting and informative. Can’t wait for more like this :-)
  • TonyAce1911
    TSS Does it again!
    Another great show from the crew at TSS. Very entertaining stuff and you two are doing a great job of helping inform your listeners to the beauty and nuances of soccer. #FightonDarrellGrove!!
  • KFlogood
    Thoughtful explanations and great stories
    Daryl and Taylor are two of the best in the soccer podcasting world, specifically for their thoughful approach to explanation and analysis. They're also really entertaining — they're funny and have great chemistry together. Can't wait for more of these!
  • arsenal955
    Want to like it
    I’m trying to like this one. Similar to my feelings about their other show, TSS, I just get exhausted listening to Taylor try to sound smart. Slow down man!! We get it, you’re a smart guy and know lots of stuff about soccer. Creating a quality podcast is about more than blathering on about a subject. Slow down. Explain more. Let Daryl speak more. Just my two cents.
  • nsindt05
    If you want to be smart enough to “well actually” your friends
    Listen to this podcast. But don’t be that guy, no one likes that guy.
  • Cheriway
    Fantastic History and Strategy Lessons
    I love the original podcast from these guys and am really enjoying their spinoff. Listening has been fun from a history of the game perspective, but also I’m learning how to better analyze games when I’m watching. Thanks for putting this together.
  • frolichemann
    Learn new stuff!
    I’ve been following the beautiful game my whole life but still learned a lot of new information or back stories you really don’t learn about unless you go looking for them. Well worth a listen for people newer to the sport and those very familiar alike
  • AAJazzy
    Smiling for 5 miles
    I’ve listened to Total Soccer for a while, but just came across your Parks and Rec XI recently. I listened to it on a 9-mile run this morning, and it had me smiling and laughing through my first 5 miles. It could very well be my favorite podcast episode of all time. Thanks for a great show!!
  • JGreeve
    Great information
    I’m newer to soccer, and never played. This show is great for giving me context, along with their other show Total Soccer Show.
  • piitsburghtim
    Great to learn soccer basics finally!
    I’ve been a soccer fan for about 5 years but since I never played the game there is a lot I don’t know. Soccer 101 filled in a lot of the gaps. Looking forward to a second season of the pod!
  • ron.SC
    Such clear, timeless help for fans of the game
    Thanks guys. Really enjoyed offsides and derbies. Keep it coming, helps us enjoy each game day better. Go Chelsea, except when they play Wolves.
  • Mecdude
    Great way to learn about soccer!
    Great listen for people that want to learn more about soccer. I love how they give historical context to terms that are common to the game. Worth the time for anybody new to the game or those that have a curiosity for the beautiful game of soccer.
  • Chris433129
    Good podcast
    I play at a decently high level for a college athlete and I found this podcast very entertaining because it mixes true historical knowledge of the game with entertainment. Pretty accurate and look forward to listening to more.
  • mprinzmetal
    Worth a listen and maybe a even a re-listen
    I really enjoyed the clear explanations, and historical perspectives. Great stuff from great people making learning about the sport illuminating and entertaining.
  • ThomCaito
    Love it!
    I'm really enjoying these as I make my way through, I especially liked the derby episode! Keep up the great work!
  • podcastFan19
    Great Background
    As someone that is new to soccer, this podcast was a fun and interesting way to get in on the soccer lingo and ideas so that I can appreciate the Total Soccer Show even more.
  • JoeHtx
    Relaxation
    After 13hr days and 65hr weeks of work, thank you. You bring a smile to my face and I feel more informed on the game I love. My guys
  • esh4000
    Love these guys, great show
    Great informative show. Love the tss boys
  • Hatinthebag
    Great Extra Soccer Podcast
    I love the TTS so I had to listen and review this because you guys deserve to rock out with this podcast great rules explanations and many other things. Keep up the good work
  • PatrickBmore
    Great for soccer newbies or futbol veterans
    Daryl Grove and Taylor Rockwell's Total Soccer Show podcast has always been the go-to source for tactical analysis, but Soccer 101 allows them to do a deep dive on a wide variety of questions, answering things that someone might wonder when listening to other folks talking about the beautiful game, but going into such depth and in such an interesting way that even if you think you know the subject you'll still learn more. I can't recommend this highly enough.
  • ArtofJen
    Excellent!
    Excellent in every regard. Thank You!
  • TheDEA22
    Great for newbies and hardcore fans alike!
    The boys from TSS should be a part of every soccer fans listening pleasure. With Soccer 101 they are serving up some really basic knowledge/answers about the “beautiful game”, coupled with history, stories, and a deeper dive into everything soccer. I learn something new with every episode (or perhaps a lot new!) and always enjoy their wit, humor, and delivery. It’s like having two great friends along with me any time I plug in... so don’t miss this- you won’t regret it!
  • Funkipus
    The Best Soccer Explainer Podcast Rigth Now
    There is no soccer podcast that goes does more research, asks more questions, and analyzes the beautiful game with more nuance and earnest joy than the Total Soccer Show — except Soccer 101. Bravo Daryl and Taylor.
  • thinbluesmoke225
    I Know Nothing
    But now I do because of this show.
  • maximauricio
    Thank you!
    This podcast has brought my fiancée a deeper understanding and appreciation for the game I love! She absolutely loves Daryl and Taylor who make it absolutely entertaining and genuinely insightful. And even as a massive fan and coach of soccer I have learned a lot that will help me better develop some of the youth in the sport.
  • ScroogeMcChuck
    Great informative show
    High quality and highly informative
  • otscotty
    Just Subscribe Now
    These guys love soccer, love each other, and love to world about the beautiful game. Whether you're a grizzled veteran or new to the sport, you'll find a home here. #HelloAndWelcome
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