Cox Media Group debuted the new "Zone" this morning, replacing new country "97.3 The Buck" WNCB. The lineup starts off with Eli Gold (University of Alabama play-by-play announcer) and Stan White (former Auburn QB) doing 6-9am. Matt Coulter, once heard at Citadel Broadcasting's sports radio incumbent WJOX-AM/FM (690/94.5) is also part of the roster, as is the syndicated Tim Brando show.
Brando's inclusion is causing friction in the market, with the Capstone Report quoting this tweet from Brando: "Reminder to those that don’t listen to my show. I have been banned from @finebaum Network. Paul will be on my show and hopefully explain.” WJOX personality Finebaum is the flashpoint of the ban, since he has filed a breach of contract lawsuit against Citadel, hoping to gain his freedom. Presumably, he would then move to the new Cox "Zone."
Cox market manager David DuBsoe says "We're excited to give Central Alabama a great new choice for sports talk", especially as the college football season begins.
http://www.radio-info.com/news/the-birmingham-sports-radio-wars-begin-with-a-sign-on-and-a-ban
