Cougar Tail Gate

Lauren McClain, Hema Hemuli, and Karter Baughan dive into the top five questions facing BYU as they head into fall camp. They discuss the intense quarterback competition, the potential improvement of the offensive line, the defense's prospects under Jay Hill, the receivers' ability to step up, and the run game's outlook. Plus, they share their biggest takeaways from Big 12 Media Days and play a game of "Buy or Sell" to make bold predictions for the upcoming season.

BYU football kicks off next month. Former BYU DB Brian Logan joins Lauren McClain to talk about how BYU will improve next season, where the Cougar's biggest challenges will be, and what areas fans should be concerned. Also, they check in with Big 12 Media Day with comments from the Utah Utes about playing BYU.

It's a new era of BYU Basketball under new head coach Kevin Young. Lauren McClain is joined by BYU Radio Sports Producers Tori Kimball and Karter Baughan to discuss BYU Hoops massive overhaul this offseason and what BYU fans should expect going into next season. They begin discussing additions and losses via the transfer portal and recruiting from last year to this season, the new coaching staff, which players are they most excited about, and is BYU being snubbed on top 25 lists?

Lauren McClain is joined by former BYU sports stars Mitch Mathews and his wife Madie Mathews. In this episode, Mitch and Madie share their journeys to BYU, how they met, and their experiences as elite athletes. They reflect on family support, faith, and their most memorable moments at BYU. The couple also dives into life after college, discussing Mitch's NFL journey, their commitment to fitness, social media careers, and parenthood. Plus, don't miss the fun trivia segment where they test their knowledge about each other's sports achievements.

Lauren McClain is joined by former BYU sports stars Mitch Mathews and his wife Madie Mathews. In this episode, Mitch and Madie share their journeys to BYU, how they met, and their experiences as elite athletes. They reflect on family support, faith, and their most memorable moments at BYU. The couple also dives into life after college, discussing Mitch's NFL journey, their commitment to fitness, social media careers, and parenthood. Plus, don't miss the fun trivia segment where they test their knowledge about each other's sports achievements.

Time to take a trip down memory lane! Lauren McClain is joined by senior assistant athletic director, Duff Tittle, and assistant athletic director for football strategy, Brett Pyne to discuss their new book "100 Years of BYU Football". In this episode, they discuss the inspiration behind the book, the extensive research and countless interviews that brought it to life, and some of the most fascinating stories from BYU's football history. From legendary moments like the 1953 televised rivalry game against Utah to the unforgettable Beck-to-Harline play, Duff and Brett share insights that will captivate any BYU fan. They also explore personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, including Knute Rockne's surprising connection to BYU, pivotal team meetings, and miraculous game-winning moments. Duff and Brett reveal what it was like to compile this comprehensive history and share their favorite memories from their time with the BYU football program.

Time to take a trip down memory lane! Lauren McClain is joined by senior assistant athletic director, Duff Tittle, and assistant athletic director for football strategy, Brett Pyne to discuss their new book "100 Years of BYU Football". In this episode, they discuss the inspiration behind the book, the extensive research and countless interviews that brought it to life, and some of the most fascinating stories from BYU's football history. From legendary moments like the 1953 televised rivalry game against Utah to the unforgettable Beck-to-Harline play, Duff and Brett share insights that will captivate any BYU fan. They also explore personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, including Knute Rockne's surprising connection to BYU, pivotal team meetings, and miraculous game-winning moments. Duff and Brett reveal what it was like to compile this comprehensive history and share their favorite memories from their time with the BYU football program.

Was the first season in the Big-12 a success for BYU Athletics? Lauren McClain is joined by BYU Women's Basketball Commentator Jason Sheppard to discuss whether the first season in the Big-12 was a success for the Cougars. They dive into each of the main sports men's hoops, women's hoops, football, baseball, softball, and BYU athletics as a whole. They also discuss your fan-submitted responses discussing "What was your favorite memory from year one in the Big-12?

Join host Lauren McClain on this week's episode of Cougar Tailgate, where it's all about family, football, and the BYU Cougars. We're thrilled to have a special roundtable featuring the 1984 National Champion, "Turbo Tongan" Lakei Heimuli, alongside his sons — BYUtv Sports Producer Hema and former Stanford and BYU fullback Houston. Dive into the Heimuli family dynamics with us, from their tradition of "H" names to insights on family dinners and football's role in their upbringing. Lakei discusses his storied career at BYU under Coach LaVell Edwards, sharing reflections and unforgettable stories. We'll also explore the profound impact of BYU on the Heimuli family, their close-knit ties, and how BYU's Polynesian pipeline and Coach Kalani Sitake hold special significance for them. Plus, don't miss a fun trivia segment testing how well Hema and Houston know their dad's BYU career stats! We wrap up with a lively Q&A session where the Heimulis answer questions from you, the fans. Tune in to celebrate the legacy of BYU with the Heimulis on this episode of Cougar Tailgate.

Join host Lauren McClain on this week's episode of Cougar Tailgate, where it's all about family, football, and the BYU Cougars. We're thrilled to have a special roundtable featuring the 1984 National Champion, "Turbo Tongan" Lakei Heimuli, alongside his sons — BYUtv Sports Producer Hema and former Stanford and BYU fullback Houston. Dive into the Heimuli family dynamics with us, from their tradition of "H" names to insights on family dinners and football's role in their upbringing. Lakei discusses his storied career at BYU under Coach LaVell Edwards, sharing reflections and unforgettable stories. We'll also explore the profound impact of BYU on the Heimuli family, their close-knit ties, and how BYU's Polynesian pipeline and Coach Kalani Sitake hold special significance for them. Plus, don't miss a fun trivia segment testing how well Hema and Houston know their dad's BYU career stats! We wrap up with a lively Q&A session where the Heimulis answer questions from you, the fans. Tune in to celebrate the legacy of BYU with the Heimulis on this episode of Cougar Tailgate.

Lauren McClain is joined by former BYU basketball player and pro standout Jonathan Tavernari and BYUtv Sports Producer Hema Heimuli. In this episode of Cougar Tailgate, they discuss the recent hiring of Kevin Young as the new head coach of BYU men's basketball. They discuss their reactions to the hiring, the financial implications, and the unique challenges of recruiting at BYU. They also analyze Young's coaching background and his potential to build on the success of previous coach Mark Pope. They also express optimism about Young's ability to develop players and create a strong program at BYU.

This episode of "Cougar Tailgate" features host Lauren McClain discussing the BYU Cougars' off-season activities with former BYU football stars Mitch Juergens and Brian Logan. They delve into what players do during the break between spring football and summer workouts and explore offseason preparation strategies. The discussion also covers the BYU football team's readiness for their season opener against Southern Illinois, the ongoing quarterback competition, and the decision not to seek additional quarterbacks from the transfer portal. Additionally, the episode examines the depth and potential of the wide receiver group, evaluates the defensive challenges and needs, and debates the impact of NIL agreements and the transfer portal on college football. The conversation aims to provide insight into the complexities of managing team dynamics and continuity amidst the evolving landscape of college football.

BYU Football's Spring practices are coming to a close. Lauren McClain is joined by former BYU quarterback Riley Nelson and BYU Radio producer Karter Baughan to discuss what excites them before the 2024 football season. Nelson also gives his take and perspective on BYU's current quarterback battle. Lauren, Riley, and Karter also play "Buy or Sell - BYU Football Edition," and close the show discussing their preferred trade destination for former BYU star QB Zach Wilson.

It's time for the Big Dance! The Cougars will face off against 11-seed and Atlantic-10 conference champion Duquesne. Lauren McClain is joined by BYUtv sports producer Hema Heimuli and former BYU basketball player Jonathan Tavernari. Lauren, Hema, and JT preview BYU's matchup against the Dukes and also discuss the potential benefits of not playing on Sunday. JT gives his perspective on what it will take for the Cougars to make a deep run and Lauren. Hema, and JT discuss how far they believe the Cougars can go in the Big Dance. They close the show with rapid fire question surrounding the tournament and each of them give their pick on who will cut down the nets in April.

Taking a quick pause from basketball, Lauren is joined by former football standout, Brian Logan and BYU Sports Producer Ben Bagley to discuss spring ball. All eyes are on the quarterback spot. So who is going to lead the Cougars next season? The trio breaks down where they are most confident and where they are concerned. Plus, a quick interview with Parker Kingston!

It's the end of the regular season so it's time for regular season awards! Lauren is joined by BYU Radio Producers Cleon Wall and Karter Baughan. They begin discussing BYU's heartbreaking loss on the road against Iowa State and then discuss your fan-submitted responses on what your concern about the Cougars rolling into Big-12 play. They close the show giving out regular season awards and playing "Would you Rather?" BYU Basketball edition.

Did BYU get their biggest regular season win in history at Allen Fieldhouse this week? Lauren, Brandon, and Ben debate whether this was the biggest win in BYU men's hoops history and they discuss your fan-submitted responses . They also break down what went well and the importance of the Cougars win over the Jayhawks. Lauren, Ben, and Brandon preview the upcoming TCU matchup, play a game of "Buy or Sell?" and the close the show discussing Pope's postgame comments discussing the importance of the Sabbath for this BYU men's hoops team.

The Cougars got a massive bounce-back win over the 11th-ranked Baylor Bears. Former BYU basketball star Jonathan Tavernari and BYUtv Sports Producer Hema Heimuli join Lauren to break down the positives from the Baylor game. They also discuss your fan-submitted responses and play "Buy or Sell?" regarding BYU men's hoops! They close the show with Jonathan discussing his relationship with his faith and how his faith has changed his life for the better.

Lauren McClain is joined by Carlie Ellett, wife of Chiefs Assistant RB Coach Porter Ellett. Carlie give a behind the scenes look of what Super Bowl day is like. Lauren is also joined by BYUtv producer Brandon Crow and BYUradio senior producer Cleon Wall to discuss all things BYU men's hoops! Lauren, Brandon, and Cleon briefly talk about their takeaways from BYU's narrow win over UCF. They also discuss fan-submitted responses on who the most important player on the team is and which team in the Big-12 should be BYU's rival. They close the show playing "Buy or Sell?" debating whether Fouss should start over Aly Khalifa, whether Dallin Hall deserves more minutes, and whether BYU can steal a win on the road at Iowa State and Kansas.

Check out Chief's assistant coach Porter Ellett's full interview with Lauren McClain as they talk about Kansas City getting ready for the Super Bowl, players watching out for him because he's a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and winning a bet with Travis Kelce.

We've got former Cougs in this year's Super Bowl! That includes Chiefs assistant coach Porter Ellett, who joins Lauren for an extended interview. Former BYU Football stars Mitch Matthews and Brian Logan then talk to Lauren about who they are rooting for in the big game and if they enjoy the Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift drama. Plus, they discuss "Cougars in the Pros" and the impact all these former Cougs are making in the NFL.

The Cougars are coming off a massive home win over the Texas Longhorns and now travel to West Virginia looking to get their 4th conference win. Lauren is joined by BYU Basketball legend Jonathan Tavernari and BYUtv Sports Producer Hema Heimuli to discuss their upcoming game versus the Mountaineers. They discuss how BYU has been getting it done inside the paint as of recent and talk about whether that will be a trend we see going forward. Lauren, Jonathan, and Hema also discuss our fan-submitted responses about who should be the "go-to" guy at the end of the game for BYU. They also get into how this might be the most important 5-game stretch for BYU this season.

BYU fans love a good tailgate before big games. One of the biggest Cougar fans wants you to stop by to rant and chat about the teams that wear white and blue. Lauren McClain wants to hear from you on Cougar Tailgate as she and her raucous roundtable grill up spicy takes and potentially spicy food.

BYU bounces back after two huge conference wins against UCF and Iowa State. Lauren, Brandon, and Terry briefly recap BYU's dominating performance over the Cyclones. They also debate which team in Utah is the best basketball school at the moment. They discuss whether they enjoy the brutal schedule of Big-12 basketball or would they rather play an easier schedule like they did in the WCC. Lauren, Brandon, and Terry close the show playing "Buy or Sell?" and "Cougs in the News" discussing the importance of BYU's pro athletes success for their alma mater.

After two disappointing losses to begin conference play, Lauren, Jonny, and Hema are here to dissect the positives and negatives of BYU's rocky Big-12 start. They begin the show reacting live to our man-on-the-street responses during Saturday's loss to Cincinnati at the Marriott Center. Lauren, Jonny, and Hema also play basketball and football versions of "Buy or Sell?" They close the show discussing BYU's matchup with UCF and a playoff edition of "Cougs in the News."

Come tailgate with Lauren McClain as she is joined by Hema Heimuli and Brian Logan to talk Coach Pope's greatest wins, play some football and basketball trivia, and talk BYU's football recruiting!

After a disappointing loss to arch-rival Utah, BYU gets back to their winning ways with a dominant win over Denver. Lauren, Jonny, and Hema recap the highlights from BYU's 90-74 win over Denver. Cougar Tailgate producer Tori Kimball gets raw fans reactions about "What is your favorite thing about this BYU Hoops Team?" Lauren, Hema, and Jonny react to the fans responses as well. As always, they play "Buy or Sell?" discussing topics surrounding BYU Hoops going forward. Lauren, Hema, and Jonny close the show talking about the noise BYU players are making in the NFL.

BYU Basketball just keeps on rolling! Jonny Linehan, a big fan of the sport, and Senior Producer Cleon Wall join Lauren McClain to talk expectations, hype, and hopes for this year's squad. With Big 12 play looming, do we ride the hype wave? What should this season look like? Join the crew as they play buy or sell, talk favorite Utah/BYU basketball matchups and discuss Cougs in the News.

It's time to say goodbye to the 2023 BYU Football season. Lauren is joined by BYUtv sports producers Hema Hemuli and Brandon Crowe. They discuss BYU Women's Soccer's magical NCAA Tournament run and their favorite BYU sports tournament runs. Lauren, Hema, and Brandon say goodbye to the 2023 BYU Football season and their reaction to the Oklahoma State game. They play an off-season edition of Buy or Sell and discuss fans' responses to whom they will miss most from the football team. The trio then talks about BYU Basketball's impressive 6-0 start and their potential.

The Cougars have one last chance to go bowling, can they make it happen? Lauren is joined by BYU Radio Senior Producer Cleon Wall and former BYU punter Jonny Linehan. They begin the show discussing the positives and negatives from last week's narrow loss against Oklahoma. Lauren, Jonny, and Cleon answer your fan-submitted responses discussing what you're thankful for in regards to BYU football. They also talk about BYU's struggles on the road this season and their confidence in the Cougars away from Provo. Lastly, they close with a game of "buy or sell?" and discuss whether they believe Jake Retzlaff is the quarterback to lead the Cougars into year two of the Big-12.

The Cougars are sick and need a diagnosis! Former BYU Football players Jonny Linehan and Mitch Matthews join Lauren McClain to play doctor and give their professional opinions. They answer your fan-submitted responses by diagnosing the underlying issues with recent defeats. Jonny and Mitch give their take on how this season could potentially affect recruiting and the program's future. Lauren, Jonny, and Mitch predict the chances of BYU pulling off a 2009-like miracle against the Sooners and discuss what they would do for a BYU win over Oklahoma.

After a rough couple of games, it's time to get right! Lauren, Dave, and Cleon discuss the fans response about whether they want bowl eligibility or get the offense right for next season. They begin the show with their "Hot Off the Grill" BYU Footall takes. They debate whether they like or dislike the new Big-12 scheduling matrix. Lauren, Cleon, and Dave also play Iowa State or BYU trivia.

A not-so-surprising loss inspires fans to question how BYU Football will fix their offensive woes. Lauren, Mitchell Jeurgens, and Brian Logan discuss concrete ways the Cougars can improve their offense. Mitch offers his insights on offense and goes to bat for QB Kedon Slovis while Brian Logan looks in from the defense and proposes giving Jake Retzlaff a shot. They play "Buy or Sell?" and discuss a possible winning record. This podcast was recorded before media reports said Slovis would not start against West Virginia due to an injury, and Retzlaff would receive his first start for the Cougars.

Can the Cougs repeat that magic night in Austin in 2014? Lauren is joined by Brian Logan and Ben Bagley to discuss their confidence level's going into the Cougars matchup against the Longhorns. They begin the show with "Hot Off the Grill" where they discuss their hottest BYU Football takes and then they answer your fan-submitted responses on BYU fans confidence levels going into Saturday. Brian Logan discusses his experiences playing in these massive games as a player, they play "Would You Rather?", and "Buy or Sell?" various topics surrounding BYU Football.

Lauren McClain is joined by former BYU football players Corbin Kafusi and Jonny Linehan to discuss BYU Homecoming Weekend and their matchup against Texas Tech. As always, they begin with "Hot Off the Grill" and give their hottest takes about BYU Football. Lauren, Corbin, and Jonny answer your fan-submitted responses on who should be the homecoming king for BYU. Then, they discuss certain aspects of homecoming weekend, whether it is "Overrated or Underrated?". Lastly, they play "Buy or Sell?" about this Saturday's matchup against the Red Raiders.

Rivalry Rekindled? Lauren, Greg, and Hema discuss your fan-submitted responses whether you believe BYU vs. TCU is a true rivalry. As always, they begin with Hot Off the Grill where everyone brings their hottest BYU Football take to the show and play a game of "Buy or Sell?" They close the show discussing "Cougs in the News".

The worst week of the season, the bye week! Don't worry! Cougar Tailgate has you covered! Lauren is joined by Jason Shepard and Brandon Crow this week. They begin with "Hot off the Grill" and give their hottest takes on BYU Football. Lauren, Jason, and Brandon discuss your fan-submitted responses, and they play "Buy or Sell." They also check out how other Big-12 programs are doing and determine the biggest Cougar-related story in the NFL.

We've got Friday Night Lights at Lavell Edwards Stadium! The Cougars are looking for a bounce-back win after their road loss to the Kansas Jayhawks. Lauren McClain talks with Cleon Wall and Bronson Kaufusi about BYU's Big-12 home opener against fellow newcomer Cincinnati and the importance of this game. They also discuss fan-submitted responses about "Which BYU brothers are the equivalent to the Kelce brothers?".

Can you believe the Cougars are 3-0? Lauren McClain talks with Jarom Jordan and Brian Logan about the faith - or lack thereof - they had in the Cougars at Arkansas. Jonny Linehan joins the program to recount the debt he paid for the win. He climbed Y mountain three times with a weighted vest. And Jarom believes new expectations are in order after the Cougars won their first three games.

Thunderbirds defeated...Razorbacks next. Lauren and Cleon are joined by former BYU punter Jonny Linehan this week! They begin briefly recapping the highlights from the Southern Utah game and talk about some fan-submitted responses to the question, "What would you do for a BYU win Saturday against Arkansas?" They discuss their expectations for the Arkansas game and close the show, telling their favorite stories and experiences with other SEC schools.

BYU Football is 1-0 with an ugly win over Sam Houston. Fans who chimed in were subdued. But, Hema Heimuli and Ben Bagley join Lauren McClain to talk about the underwhelming performance from the Cougar's offense and the impressive feat by the defense. Plus, they discuss what they want to see from the team against in-state foe Southern Utah.

Everyone loves a good tailgate. This week our roundtable team of Lauren McClain, Cleon Wall and Greg Wrubell discuss what the atmosphere will be like inside of Lavell Edwards Stadium and even what Week 1 Expectations will be for the Cougars against Sam Houston. Is a win enough? We invite you to the Cougar Tailgate to share stories, honor traditions and swap recipes. Cougar Tailgate is a production of BYUradio.