Advertisement

Smash Mouth's 'All Star,' Swimming + Eating Myth, 'The Super Fight'

48:27
Download Audio
Resume
This week on Only A Game: an investigation into the origin of the song "All Star" by Smash Mouth. (Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)
This week on Only A Game: an investigation into the origin of the song "All Star" by Smash Mouth. (Chris Graythen/Getty Images for NASCAR)

The song "All Star" by Smash Mouth became a sports anthem, but it wasn't written for sports fans — and it almost didn't exist. This week on Only A Game, the origin of the 1999 hit. Also, we take a dive into the classic myth of fatal swimming cramps. And The Super Fight: a fantasy heavyweight bout featuring two all-time greats ... and an old computer. Join us!

Subscribe to the Only A Game podcast on Apple PodcastsNPR One or Stitcher.


The Origin Of Smash Mouth’s ‘All Star,’ An Unintentional Sports Anthem

The MLB All Star Game is Tuesday night in Washington D.C. That means it’s time for the OAG Investigative Unit to release the results of a months-long probe into the origin of a song you may hear in anticipation of Tuesday’s game.

3 Stories: NFLPA Lawsuit, English Soccer Rallying Cry, Warriors' NBA Domination

Nora Princiotti of the Boston Globe and ESPN's Howard Bryant join Bill Littlefield.

Enjoy Your Pre-Swim Sandwich — Without Fear Of Death By Cramp

Only A Game's Karen Given investigates the age-old claim that getting back in the water too soon after eating could have fatal consequences.

Charlie Pierce: The Week In Sports

The 2018 World Cup is nearly over. Bill Littlefield and Only A Game analyst Charlie Pierce share some of their favorite moments from the tournament. Also, former Louisville basketball players sue the NCAA. And Travis Pastrana's Eveler-than-Evel motorcycle feats.

Marciano Vs. Ali And The Story Of ‘The Super Fight’

Rocky Marciano retired from boxing in 1956. But he had one more “fight” in him — against Muhammad Ali in 1970.

This program aired on July 14, 2018.

Advertisement

More from Only A Game

Listen Live
Close