Sports on a Sunday Morning

In Hour 1, Tom Ackerman runs through the latest college football scores before checking in with Brian Barnhart on Illinois football's start and upcoming matchup. Lindenwood head coach Jed Stugart breaks down the Lions' comeback win over Charleston Southern and previews their home opener, while Doug Armstrong shares thoughts on the Blues Prospect Showcase, young players, and preseason preparations. In Hour 2, Tom makes his weekly NFL picks and highlights the BackStoppers organization. He talks with John Mozeliak about the Cardinals' bullpen struggles, injured players, and long-term rebuilding plans. Bernie Miklasz wraps the hour with analysis of college football's biggest games, previews for Missouri vs. South Carolina and Illinois vs. Indiana, and insights on the Cardinals' offseason, STL CITY SC, and the latest in the NHL and MLB.

Tom Ackerman talks with Bernie Miklasz about an action-packed college football weekend, including Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M, Tennessee vs. Georgia, and other marquee matchups. They dive into the strength of the SEC and Big Ten, with focus on Missouri, Illinois, Alabama, LSU, and more, plus a preview of Illinois vs. Indiana and Missouri vs. South Carolina. Bernie also shares thoughts on the Cardinals' struggles, the uncertain future of manager Oliver Marmol, and what could be a pivotal offseason for St. Louis.

Tom Ackerman talks with John Mozeliak about the Cardinals' recent series against Milwaukee, bullpen struggles, and late-inning issues. Mozeliak compares the Cardinals and Brewers in team-building and player development, and explains the organization's rebuilding approach through drafting, trades, and free agency. He gives updates on Nolan Arenado, Masyn Winn, and Brendan Donovan, and emphasizes preparing young players for the offseason and 2026 as the Cardinals finish the season.

In Hour 2, Tom Ackerman makes his weekly NFL picks before highlighting the BackStoppers organization. He then talks with John Mozeliak about the Cardinals' recent series against Milwaukee, bullpen struggles, injured players, and the club's rebuilding approach as the season winds down. Bernie Miklasz closes the hour with analysis of college football's biggest games, including Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M and Tennessee vs. Georgia, plus previews of Missouri vs. South Carolina and Illinois vs. Indiana. He also weighs in on the Cardinals' offseason outlook, St. Louis CITY SC, and the latest across the NHL and MLB.

In Hour 1, Tom Ackerman runs through the latest college football scores before checking in with Brian Barnhart on Illinois football's strong start and upcoming matchup. Lindenwood head coach Jed Stugart joins to break down the Lions' comeback win over Charleston Southern and preview their home opener. Doug Armstrong closes the hour with thoughts on the Blues Prospect Showcase, standout young players, and preparations for training camp and the preseason.

Tom Ackerman and Doug Armstrong recap the Blues' Prospect Showcase, where Justin Carbonneau scored the game-winner against Minnesota and Otto Stenberg impressed. They look ahead to training camp, preseason games in Dallas and Columbus, and the first home preseason matchup Sept. 27 vs. the Blackhawks, with focus on young players like Jake Neighbors and Will Cranley alongside veteran leadership.

On Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman is joined by Chuck Gerding and Mike Simms to preview the 10th Anniversary Backstoppers Barbecue in Cedar Hill. They discuss how the event raises funds to support families of fallen and injured first responders, the history of its success, and the strong role of community volunteers. Highlights include food preparation, family activities, live music, a fireworks show, and a raffle for a side-by-side vehicle. The conversation also touches on tornado relief efforts in North St. Louis and the importance of helping affected families.

Tom Ackerman talks with Lindenwood head coach Jed Stugart after the Lions rallied from a 21-0 deficit to beat Charleston Southern 35-28. Stugart highlights his team's resilience, the importance of culture and unity, and the performance of local talent like running back Jared Rhodes. He previews the Lions' first home game at Hunter Stadium against Stony Brook and their upcoming matchup with Miami of Ohio. Stugart also reflects on building the identity of the only Division I football program in the St. Louis area, staying “Loyal to the Lou,” and the pride he takes in his players overcoming adversity together.

Tom Ackerman and Brian Barnhart discuss Illinois football's win, Luke Altmyer's play, and Brett Bielema's impact. They cover the $100 million donation renaming Memorial Stadium to Gies Memorial Stadium and preview a promising basketball season with depth at guard and size in the frontcourt.

In Hour 2, Tom Ackerman talks with Stifel CEO Ron Kruszewski about the Stifel Charity Classic, its community impact, and the event's future. Cardinals President John Mozeliak joins to reflect on the Hall of Fame inductions of Walt Jocketty and Edgar Renteria, the ceremony honoring Cardinals legends, and the team's current status including Jordan Walker's performance and player injuries. Sports commentator Bernie Miklasz rounds out the hour with analysis of Missouri's win over Kansas, Illinois' win over Duke, Jordan Walker's walk-off hit, and the latest in college football rankings.

Cardinals President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak joins Tom Ackerman on Sports on a Sunday Morning to reflect on the Hall of Fame ceremony honoring Walt Jocketty and other Cardinals legends, including an emotional speech from Joey Jocketty. Mozeliak discusses Jocketty's impact on the franchise with acquisitions like Mark McGwire, Jim Edmonds, and Larry Walker, and the 2006 World Series title. The conversation also shifts to current Cardinals baseball, from Jordan Walker's walk-off hit against the Giants to the development of young players, the possible returns of Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan, and the challenges of sustaining success in Major League Baseball.

It is a very busy weekend of sports, Golf, NASCAR, Cardinals plus Mizzou against KU. Tom is joined by NASCAR drivers Christopher Bell, Austin Cindric and Chase Briscoe talking about the race at WWT Raceway. Mizzou Wide Receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. joins Tom Ackerman to talk about the big win against Kansas and his new bag of chips. Stanley Cup Champion and Blues General Manager in waiting Alex Steen joins the show to talk about the upcoming season and what he likes most about the youth.

Stanley Cup Champion and Blues General Manager in waiting Alex Steen joins the show to talk about the upcoming season and what he likes most about the youth.

Mizzou Wide Receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. joins Tom Ackerman to talk about the big win against Kansas and his new bag of chips.

In Hour 1, Tom Ackerman welcomes St. Louis Police Chief Robert Tracy to talk about his Yankees fandom, the Cardinals' push in the wild card race, and how his department is ensuring safety at major St. Louis sporting events, including the Stifel Charity Classic and NASCAR at World Wide Technology Raceway. Tracy highlights a 58% reduction in downtown crime and proactive safety measures. Later, Chris Blair joins to preview NASCAR playoff weekend at WWT Raceway, featuring the return of the Xfinity Series and a packed music lineup. In Hour 2, Ackerman opens with listener questions about the value of his weekly interviews with John Mozeliak. Lutz Pfannenstiel then reviews CITY SC's match against Chicago Fire, late-game struggles, interim coach David Critchley, and the impact of new players like Fallou Fall. He also highlights City2's 13-game unbeaten streak in MLS Next Pro and previews matchups against Sporting KC2 and Vancouver. John Mozeliak follows with updates on roster moves...Nathan Church replacing Victor Scott, Anthony Veneziano's bullpen role, and decisions with Wilson Contreras and Brendan Donovan...as well as thoughts on Oliver Marmol's growth, JJ Weatherholt, Paul Goldschmidt's legacy, and Nolan Arenado's rehab. Finally, Bernie Miklasz joins Ackerman to react to Mozeliak's comments, analyze Miles Mikolas' home/road splits, evaluate Sonny Gray's season, and address the Cardinals' ongoing pitching struggles.

In Hour 2, Tom Ackerman opens with listener questions on the value of weekly interviews with John Mozeliak and why they're an essential part of the show's format. Lutz Pfannenstiel then joins to review CITY SC's recent match against Chicago Fire, the team's struggles with late goals, interim coach David Critchley's leadership, new additions like Fallou Fall, and City2's 13-game unbeaten streak. John Mozeliak follows with insight on roster moves, including Nathan Church replacing Victor Scott, Anthony Veneziano's addition to the bullpen, short bench decisions with Wilson Contreras and Brendan Donovan, Oliver Marmol's growth, organizational outlook, and updates on Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado. Finally, Bernie Miklasz joins Ackerman to react to Mozeliak's recent comments, evaluate Miles Mikolas' pitching splits, discuss Sonny Gray's season, and break down the Cardinals' ongoing pitching challenges.

Tom Ackerman and Bernie Miklasz discuss John Mozeliak's recent comments and provide context around them. They analyze Miles Mikolas' pitching, especially the contrast between his home and road ERA, and dive into the Cardinals' rotation struggles with a rising team ERA since late June. The conversation also covers the impact of Michael McGreevy and other rotation adjustments, Sonny Gray's inconsistent season and the excuse of the St. Louis heat, and the broader challenges facing the Cardinals' pitching staff this year.

Tom Ackerman talks with John Mozeliak about the Cardinals' latest roster moves, including Nathan Church being called up for the injured Victor Scott and Anthony Veneziano joining the bullpen. Mozeliak shares his thoughts on Church's skills, the current state of the bullpen without Matz, Matan, and Helsley, and why Wilson Contreras and Brendan Donovan remain on the bench rather than the injured list. He also discusses Oliver Marmol's growth as a manager, his own future with the organization, and the club's long-term outlook with pitching prospects, recent draft picks, and excitement about JJ Weatherholt. Additional topics include Paul Goldschmidt's legacy, Nolan Arenado's rehab in Jupiter, and expectations for his return.

Tom Ackerman talks to Lutz Pfannenstiel about St. Louis City SC's recent performance against Chicago Fire, the frustration of conceding late goals, and the mental aspect of closing out matches. Lutz also discusses interim coach David Critchley's leadership, squad rotation, and the impact of new players like Fallou Fall. The conversation shifts to City2's 13-game unbeaten streak in MLS Next Pro, highlighting their confidence and playoff push with an upcoming home game against Sporting KC2. Looking ahead, Lutz previews City SC's next match against Vancouver, the challenge of facing a top team, the arrival of new signings like Thomas Müller, and the influence of a new coach.

Tom Ackerman talks with Chris Blair from World Wide Technology Raceway about the upcoming NASCAR playoff race. Blair previews the excitement at the track, including the return of the Xfinity Series and a packed music lineup to complement the racing action.

Tom Ackerman and St. Louis Police Chief Robert Tracy discussed the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees' performances, with the Yankees currently leading the Cardinals by two games in the wild card race. Tracy shared his experiences as a Yankees fan and his role in ensuring safety at major sporting events in St. Louis, including the upcoming Stifel Charity Classic and NASCAR races. He highlighted a 58% reduction in crime downtown and emphasized proactive measures to maintain safety. Chris Blair from World Wide Technology Raceway previewed the upcoming NASCAR playoff race, noting the return of the Xfinity Series and the extensive music lineup for the event.

On Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman is joined by Chief Robert Tracy to discuss public safety around major St. Louis sporting events, from Cardinals games at Busch Stadium to Blues hockey, STL City SC at CITYPARK, and Battlehawks football at The Dome. Chief Tracy highlights strategies to reduce crime, the importance of keeping fans safe, and his experiences policing at iconic venues like Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden. He also shares thoughts on New York Yankees great Don Mattingly, today's Yankees lineup against the Cardinals, and how teamwork on and off the field drives success.

In Hour 2 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Lutz Pfannenstiel discusses St. Louis City SC's 3-1 victory over Nashville SC, focusing on team strategy, youth development, and roster updates. John Mozeliak weighs in on Yadier Molina's return to the Cardinals, the team's pitching challenges, and the balance between competing now and planning for the future. Bernie Miklasz joins Joe Pott to analyze Molina's influence, review key player performances, and highlight the Cardinals' draft strategy and acquisition of pitcher Jorge Alcalá.

Joe Pott and Bernie Miklasz dive into the impact of Yadier Molina's return to the Cardinals' dugout, emphasizing his historical significance and positive influence on younger players. They debate the performance and future potential of key players like Matthew Liberatore, Alec Burleson, and Jordan Walker, while discussing the inconsistency of Andre Pallante and the promise shown by Quinn Matthews and Liam Doyle. The conversation also highlights the Cardinals' recent draft strategy focused on high-upside pitchers with swing-and-miss skills and covers the acquisition of pitcher Jorge Alcalá.

John Mozeliak discusses Yadier Molina's return to the Cardinals, highlighting the veteran's energy, knowledge, and leadership that positively influences younger players. Mozeliak addresses the team's inconsistency, especially with starting pitching, which has created tough situations on the field. He emphasizes the delicate balance between competing to win now and building for the future, noting the potential return of pitchers Jorge Alcalá and John King. Mozeliak underscores the importance of providing opportunities to young players to develop their confidence. The conversation wraps up with a preview of the upcoming rubber game against the Chicago Cubs.

St. Louis City SC coach Lutz Pfannenstiel reviews one of the team's most complete performances this season in their 3-1 win over Nashville SC. He discusses key moments such as a tough penalty call on goalkeeper Roman Bürki and the impact of new signing Fallou Fall alongside Baumgartel. Eduard Löwen's influence on the pitch is highlighted as the team balances winning now with developing young talent for the future. Lutz emphasizes the importance of players proving themselves, maintaining squad health, and the vital role of MLS Next Pro for young player development. He also praises St. Louis' outstanding football culture and the club's commitment to nurturing homegrown players.

In Hour 1 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman talks with Matt Farrell, CEO of U.S. Figure Skating, about the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships coming to St. Louis, a key Olympic qualifier featuring top athletes. Joe Pott fills in as host and interviews Randy Gersh, Vice President of the St. Louis Blues, about the inaugural U12 Icebreaker Tournament for girls hockey and the rapid growth of girls hockey in the St. Louis area. The hour also includes analysis of the St. Louis Cardinals' inconsistent season and pitching challenges following a tough loss to the Cubs.

Joe Pott fills in for Tom Ackerman on Sports on a Sunday Morning to cover the inaugural U12 Icebreaker Tournament at the Centene Community Ice Center, showcasing girls' tier one ice hockey teams from across the country. Randy Gersh discusses the event's success, highlighting team-building activities, nutrition education, and a festival featuring Olympic gold medalists. He also details the remarkable growth of girls' hockey in St. Louis, with over 1,200 participants, and shares upcoming youth programs and community initiatives like Celly with the Blues and Blues and Brews.

Tom Ackerman talks with Matt Farrell about the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, scheduled for January 5–11 in St. Louis. The competition will be held at the Enterprise Center and the Centene Community Ice Center, featuring events in women's, men's, pairs, ice dance, junior levels, as well as novice pairs and ice dance. This championship serves as a key qualifier for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. Farrell highlights the unique blend of athleticism and artistry in figure skating, the relatability of the athletes, and reflects on the community's resilience following a recent plane crash. Tickets for single sessions go on sale starting September 10.

In Hour 1 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman addresses growing fan frustration with the Cardinals and discusses the team's recent comeback win over the Padres. He breaks down Michael McGreevy's outing, the reshuffled bullpen, and trade deadline implications. Coach Josh Schertz joins to talk SLU basketball's revamped roster, including Dion Brown and Ishaan Sharma, and Robbie Avila's improved health. Steve Kelly then shares insight on Illinois football's rising expectations, Brett Bielema's leadership, and key matchups ahead. In Hour 2 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman recaps the Cardinals' quiet trade deadline with John Mozeliak and Bernie Miklasz, including the move of expiring contracts, the focus on prospects, and the leadership transition to Chaim Bloom. Mozeliak shares thoughts on his final deadline and fan concerns. Chris Blair joins to preview upcoming NASCAR events at Iowa Speedway and World Wide Technology Raceway, including details on the Confluence Music Festival.

In Hour 2 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman recaps the Cardinals' quiet trade deadline with John Mozeliak and Bernie Miklasz, including the move of expiring contracts, the focus on prospects, and the leadership transition to Chaim Bloom. Mozeliak shares thoughts on his final deadline and fan concerns. Chris Blair joins to preview upcoming NASCAR events at Iowa Speedway and World Wide Technology Raceway, including details on the Confluence Music Festival.

Bernie Miklasz joins Tom Ackerman to break down the Cardinals' trade deadline, where only three expiring contracts were moved and the Phil Maton deal sparked frustration. He reflects on John Mozeliak's emotional exit and ongoing concerns with fan attendance and stadium access. Miklasz highlights Chaim Bloom's early impact on drafting and development and the need to make room for young talent like Quinn Mathews and Jimmy Crooks.

John Mozeliak joins Tom Ackerman to reflect on an emotional final trade deadline as Cardinals President of Baseball Operations. He discusses parting with key players like Ryan Helsley, Phil Maton, and Steven Matz, and the return of prospects such as Blaze Jordan and Jesus Baez. Mozeliak opens up about transitioning leadership to Chaim Bloom, the pressure of decision-making, and what he'll miss most. He also addresses declining fan attendance, the future of the franchise, and major renovations in Jupiter.

In Hour 1 of Sports on a Sunday Morning, Tom Ackerman addresses growing fan frustration with the Cardinals and discusses the team's recent comeback win over the Padres. He breaks down Michael McGreevy's outing, the reshuffled bullpen, and trade deadline implications. Coach Josh Schertz joins to talk SLU basketball's revamped roster, including Dion Brown and Ishaan Sharma, and Robbie Avila's improved health. Steve Kelly then shares insight on Illinois football's rising expectations, Brett Bielema's leadership, and key matchups ahead.

Tom Ackerman talks with Chris Blair about Iowa's rise as a racing hub with the Sprint Car 360 Nationals and Knoxville Nationals. Blair also previews upcoming NASCAR events at WWT Raceway near St. Louis, including a Cup Series playoff race and XFINITY Series return. He highlights improved fan experience, strong community and corporate support, and a pre-race concert by Bill Murray's band.

Tom Ackerman and Steve Kelly discuss Illinois football's momentum under head coach Bret Bielema. After a rare 10-win season in 2024, the Illini aim for back-to-back success in 2025. They preview key matchups, highlight quarterback Luke Altmyer's role, and reflect on the program's strong defense and renewed culture.

SLU head coach Josh Schertz joins Tom Ackerman on Sports on a Sunday Morning to break down the Billikens' summer progress. Coach Schertz discusses the eight-week training block, an energetic open scrimmage, and the impact of six new transfers including Dion Brown, Paul Otieno, and Ishaan Sharma. He shares insights into Robbie Avila's recovery and the team's renewed depth, physicality, and shooting. Plus, Schertz offers perspective on fan expectations and the excitement building in the St. Louis community.

In Hour 1, Tom Ackerman breaks down the Cardinals' 2025 season, trade deadline strategies, and their focus on developing young players for 2026 and beyond. He reviews this year's Hall of Fame inductees including Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia while looking ahead to the 2028 class featuring Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina. Ackerman also examines the Cardinals Padres incident involving Wilson Contreras, team tensions, and player reactions. St. Louis CITY SC's recent struggles are discussed before Kirk Herbstreit joins to talk about Purina Pro Plan's “Fueled By” series, his personal connection to dogs, and the upcoming college football season. In Hour 2, Ackerman covers the Cardinals vs Padres lineup, MLB trade updates involving the Yankees, Royals, Mets, and Mariners, NASCAR and IndyCar results, and Caitlin Clark's latest game. Lutz Pfannenstiel shares his take on CITY SC's first half strength, second half struggles, and new player integration ahead of their Aston Villa friendly. John Mozeliak outlines the Cardinals' trade deadline plans focused on pitching prospects Michael McGreevy, Gordon Graceffo, Forrest Swanson, and Quinn Matthews while discussing Eric Fedde's DFA and the club's wild card push. Bernie Miklasz analyzes the National League wild card race, the Cardinals' pitching issues, possible trades, and the transition in the team's baseball operations leadership.

In this hour, Tom Ackerman covers the Cardinals vs. Padres lineup, key MLB trade updates involving the Yankees, Royals, Mets, and Mariners, recent Hall of Fame inductions, NASCAR and IndyCar results, and Caitlin Clark's latest game. Lutz Pfannenstiel discusses St. Louis CITY SC's first-half strength, second-half struggles, and integration of new players ahead of their Aston Villa friendly. John Mozeliak shares the Cardinals' trade deadline strategy, with a focus on pitching, minor league prospects like Michael McGreevy, Gordon Graceffo, Forrest Swanson, and Quinn Matthews, as well as Eric Fedde's DFA and the team's push for a wild card spot. Bernie Miklasz analyzes the National League wild card race, the Cardinals' starting pitching issues, possible trade scenarios, and the transition in the team's baseball operations leadership.

Cardinals President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak joins Tom Ackerman to discuss the team's trade deadline strategy, focusing on pitching acquisitions while balancing competitiveness with long-term roster plans. He addresses recent tensions with the Padres, the club's improved weekend performance, and their aim to remain in contention heading toward October. Mozeliak also talks about emerging arms like Michael McGreevy, Gordon Graceffo, as well as Quinn Matthews' progress and a strong 2025 draft class. Additional topics include Eric Fedde's designation for assignment, JJ Weatherholt's promising minor league play, and collaborative decision-making with Chaim Bloom.

Tom Ackerman speaks with St. Louis CITY SC Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel about the team's first-half strength, second-half struggles, and missed opportunities, including two penalties conceded. They discuss integrating new arrivals Jeong Sang-bin and Devin Padelford, the impact of Chris Durkin's red card, and Conrad Wallem's intensity. Pfannenstiel also addresses the team's challenge to close out matches, upcoming games against Aston Villa and Nashville SC, recent transfer moves, and long-term plans for the 2026 season. Minnesota United's counter-attacking style and Kelvin Ebola's scoring threat are also analyzed.

In Hour 1, Tom Ackerman breaks down the Cardinals' 2025 season, trade deadline strategies, and the team's focus on developing young players for 2026 and beyond. He reviews this year's Hall of Fame inductees, including Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia, while looking ahead to the 2028 class featuring Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina. Ackerman also examines the Cardinals-Padres game incident involving Wilson Contreras, team tensions, and player reactions. St. Louis CITY SC's recent struggles on the pitch are discussed before a conversation with Kirk Herbstreit about Purina Pro Plan's “Fueled By” series, his personal connection with dogs, and the upcoming college football season.