Root graduated as Valedictorian from his high school, Thornton-Donovan School, then graduated from Columbia University in 1983 as a Political Science major (in the same class as President Barack Obama) - wikipedia
Yep, anyone who underestimates this guy is in for a rude shock. I first did some work with him back when his ambition was to be “the next Mike Warren” (the premier professional handicapper at the time). He did, indeed, become the next Warren, then went on to excel at everything else he did. And he is masterful on TV and radio.