SEC Nation enters its 13th season this fall and welcomes some new faces both in front of the camera and behind-the-scenes. Among those new to the show is Coordinating Producer Aaron Katzman, who talks us through those changes and what fans can look forward to beginning September 5.
This is your first year on SEC Nation. What are you most looking forward to this fall?
We have assembled a smart, passionate and energetic team that cannot wait to travel to different campuses across the SEC each week to celebrate the passionate fan bases, incredible traditions and unique stories. There is nothing like SEC football, so to be able to set the stage every Saturday morning is a challenge that our team is excited to embrace. We will work tirelessly to create a show that will be must-see TV for the SEC football fan every Saturday.
This year, Nation welcomes three new additions to the show. What can fans expect from this group?
The team that has been assembled will educate, entertain and provide insightful commentary to get the SEC football fan ready for the day. We are lucky to have Matt Barrie join the show as host. Matt brings a passion for college football that will resonate through the screen. He will lead the rest of our on-air team including returners Tim Tebow, Roman Harper and Paul Finebaum, along with new Analyst Chase Daniel and new Reporter Marion Crowder. Chase played quarterback at Missouri before an incredibly successful NFL career. He can break down the game as well as anyone and cannot wait to mix it up with his new teammates (including former New Orleans Saints teammate Roman Harper). Marion brings a wealth of SEC knowledge to her new role. Growing up in Mississippi, SEC football was everything. Marion played soccer at Georgia, where the appreciation for the SEC passion continued to grow. She is excited to share the stories that make the conference special. Marty Smith and Ryan McGee will also play an integral part in SEC Nation each week before hosting their show (Marty & McGee) from noon-12:45 each Saturday.
In addition to our on-air changes, we also have changes behind the scenes with Producer Michelle Rosenhouse and Director Brian Albon taking the helm of the show. The two of them have been working tirelessly to put the show in position to succeed beginning Week 1 in Atlanta.
The entire crew spent days together this summer building chemistry and brainstorming for the season. My biggest takeaway was the genuine excitement that everyone has in celebrating the SEC. Fans can expect to see an authentic, hardcore football show that combines analysis, captivating discussions and a lot of fun.
Nation is shifting to a three-hour format for the first time, what opportunities does that allow for?
The three-hour format allows us the opportunity to best prepare our viewers for Saturday’s slate of games. This switch helps to underscore the importance of SEC football and the amount of amazing stories that we can share. Whether it’s campus traditions, human interest player stories, or the passion of fans, we will do our best to provide the most meaningful and in depth SEC football coverage that you can find.