The Drive with Lon Tay and Derek Piper airs weekdays 4-6pm on ESPN 93.5 in Champaign-Urbana!
The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper is truly a gem for any Illini basketball fan. As a recent listener, I stumbled upon this podcast during the 2021 Illini Basketball run, and I must say that it has quickly become one of my favorite sports podcasts to listen to. Lon Tay and Derek Piper are not only insightful but also incredibly entertaining, making each episode an engaging experience. Their chemistry is palpable, as they bounce off each other's ideas and opinions seamlessly.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the hosts' genuine love and support for the Illinois team. Unlike some other podcasts or radio shows where hosts tend to constantly pick against Illinois and emphasize rival teams' greatness, Tay and Piper maintain a refreshing enthusiasm for their home team. It's clear that they have a deep understanding of the game and are genuinely invested in Illinois' success. Their analysis and breakdowns of games are top-notch, offering unique insights that you won't find elsewhere.
Another highlight of The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper is the exchanges between J Lehman and Lon Tay. These moments provide some of the best radio (or podcast) content I've ever come across. Their banter is light-hearted yet informative, adding an extra layer of entertainment to each episode. As someone who often feels disappointed and frustrated with Illinois football, it's comforting to hear someone discuss these issues openly on the show.
On the downside, one could argue that The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper's content relies heavily on there being ongoing sports events. While Tay and Piper do an excellent job creating engaging content even during dry spells, there may be instances where episodes feel repetitive or lack new material. This is simply a natural consequence when no actual games or major developments occur frequently.
In conclusion, The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper is a fantastic podcast for any Illini fan looking for insightful commentary on their beloved team. Tay and Piper's genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the game make each episode a joy to listen to. Their chemistry and banter are a delight, further enhancing the overall experience. While occasional lulls in sports events may lead to repetitive content, this is a minor drawback compared to the excellent quality of the podcast as a whole. I'm excited for what the future holds for The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper and look forward to many more engaging episodes.
Hour 2 featured Kyle Tausk from X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 1 of today's show featured racing analyst Brian Ames breaking down one of the wildest editions of the Indianapolis 500 ever, as Felix Rosenqvist edged David Malukas in the closest finish in race history. We also discussed the Cubs' losing streak reaching nine games while the Cardinals and Brewers continue battling for first place in the NL Central. Plus, Illini Headlines covered another addition to Shauna Green's coaching staff.
Hour 2 features Adda Lavalle from AlBat breaking down whether Alex Bregman's massive contract would actually be worth it for the Cubs. Plus, Let's Go Racing continues as we draft the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 fields, and we wrap up the week with Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 1 is all about racing as Brian Ames joins the show to preview the Indy 500, break down the top storylines, and explain what makes this year's race so intriguing. Plus, the Cubs miss key opportunities in a loss to the Astros, and we hit the latest Illini Headlines with updates from Illinois athletics. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
The St. Louis Cardinals walk it off against the Pittsburgh Pirates as the guys recap the thrilling finish and preview the upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Plus, “Educating Evan Stone” dives into the history and traditions of the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 ahead of Memorial Day weekend, and the crew reveals the results from the Tuesday Draft: Best Spielberg Movies! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Ravi Lulla from Hurrdat Sports joins the show to discuss potential expansion of the College Football Playoff and why growing the field even more could negatively impact the sport. Plus, Kurtis' Curveballs returns with “Sports Moments That Reveal Your Age” as listeners share the iconic plays, athletes, and memories that instantly show their generation. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
The St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates square off as we break down the matchup, while Arsenal F.C. captures the Premier League title — complete with live reactions and updates from Evan's Mom overseas! Plus, the Tuesday Draft returns with our favorite movies from legendary director Steven Spielberg. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Carson Gourdie returns to break down the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball offseason, why Andrej Stojaković is expected to return, and expectations for Illinois Fighting Illini football this season. Plus, Kurtis' Curveballs make their return with plenty of random sports thoughts and facts about smells.
Zack Pearson from Bear Wire returns to break down the Chicago Bears schedule release, rookie minicamp takeaways, and the latest on whether a new stadium project is finally moving forward. Plus, the crew gives out their Etched in Stone selections for tonight's Major League Baseball slate. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Brad Sturdy from Illini Guys joins the show to break down the latest with Illinois basketball's offseason, the buzz around Andrej Stojaković, and Brad Underwood's new contract extension, plus updates on the Illinois football roster. We also recap the Chicago White Sox taking down the Chicago Cubs, while the St. Louis Cardinals pick up another win.
Elias Schuster joins the show to break down the latest in the Crosstown Series between the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox, plus the latest buzz surrounding the Chicago Bulls and the upcoming NBA Draft. The guys also discuss the best possible landing spot for Keaton Wagler as his basketball future takes shape. Plus, “Etched in Stone” returns and the crew wraps up the week with their Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Tristan Thomas from WCIA 3 joins the show to break down the latest on Brad Underwood's contract update and what it means for Illinois basketball moving forward. The guys also take the “Irritable Sports Fan Test” and see just how fired up fans really get during games. Plus, all of today's biggest Illini headlines and updates from around Champaign-Urbana. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Can the Minnesota Timberwolves claw their way back into the series against the San Antonio Spurs? The crew breaks down what needs to change for Minnesota, including defensive adjustments, star performances, and whether they still have enough momentum to flip the matchup. Plus, another edition of “From the Office of Evan Stone” dives into the future of LeBron James and what could be next for the NBA superstar as speculation continues around the final stage of his career. The show also officially welcomes new intern Pierce to the team and puts him through his first on-air introduction. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
The University of Illinois and Duke University officially announced a marquee home-and-home basketball series, giving Illini fans a massive non-conference matchup to look forward to over the next two seasons. The guys break down what the series means nationally for Illinois and how it could impact the program's growing reputation under Brad Underwood. Plus, the latest from the NBA Draft Combine on Andrej Stojaković and his future as scouts continue to evaluate his stock heading into the draft process. Chris Kwiecinski from FOX 32 Chicago joins the show to react to the Chicago Bears schedule release and break down the biggest matchups, toughest stretches, and prime-time storylines for the 2026 season. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Curt Bishop of Sports Illustrated and Redbird Rants joins the show to discuss the Cardinals' strong start to the season, what's fueling their early success, and whether it can continue over the long haul. The guys also hold a Tuesday Draft featuring the best Chicago athletes of all time, sparking plenty of debate and nostalgia, before sending Intern Cooper off in style as he heads into summer break. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Andrej Stojakovic's NBA Draft stock continues to climb, and Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down why scouts are becoming increasingly intrigued by his upside and overall fit at the next level. Are the chances of him leaving Illinois on the rise? The guys also dive into the latest outlook for the Illinois men's basketball schedule, highlighting key matchups, difficult stretches, and opportunities for the Illini heading into the season. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Illinois is well represented at the NBA Draft Combine as Keaton Wagler, Kylan Boswell, and Andrej Stojakovic all look to boost their draft stock in front of scouts and executives. The guys also react to top in-state recruit Cam Warner committing to Oregon over Illinois and what it means for the Illini moving forward. Plus, Evan previews the upcoming World Cup and discusses the biggest storylines and teams to watch heading into the tournament. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Rick Horton joins the show to break down the Cardinals' season, including what's gone right lately and where the team still needs to improve as the summer approaches. Pierre Noujaim from Fox 9 Minneapolis also stops by to discuss the Timberwolves evening up their playoff series with the Spurs and what changed after Game 3. Plus, the latest Illini headlines, including updates from Illinois football and basketball. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Steve Greenberg from the Chicago Sun-Times joined the show to discuss the red-hot Chicago Cubs and what's fueling their incredible winning streak. Later, Ravi Lulla from Hurrdat Sports broke down the Big Ten Conference football offseason, debating which programs made the biggest moves and who came out on top heading into 2026. The hour wrapped up with the crew's weekly Friday Toasts, celebrating the best moments from the week in sports and beyond. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joined the show to break down a busy offseason for Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball, including the latest on roster movement and high school recruiting targets. The guys also discussed the impact of Friday night games on Illinois Fighting Illini football and what it means for fans and national exposure. Plus, a full preview of Game 3 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs, including key matchups and what Minnesota needs to do to regain control of the series.
Could Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball really cut down the nets in 2027? National title expectations are already building in Champaign and one analyst says it will happen. Who do they think Illinois will beat in Detroit next year and why? The conversation also shifts to Illinois Fighting Illini football and whether a 9-win season is realistic heading into the fall. Plus, the San Antonio Spurs completely dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2, evening the series in emphatic fashion. Can the "Champaign T-Wolves" bounce back at home? Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
The NCAA officially unveiled its new-look March Madness bracket, sparking plenty of debate about the changes and what they could mean for teams heading into next season's tournament. Who loves it and who hates it? Jacob Infante joins the show to break down the latest around the Chicago Bears and NFL free agency, including whether pass rusher Joey Bosa could realistically end up in Chicago. Plus, the Chicago Cubs continue their incredible run, staying red-hot over their last 20 games as they surge up the standings. How good has the hitting been while injuries to the pitching staff mount? Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 2 centers on Ayo Dosunmu returning for the Timberwolves matchup against the Spurs, adding a big boost to Minnesota's lineup. The guys also dive into rumors that the Chicago Bears are favorites to land David Njoku, and wrap things up by sharing stories and listener reactions about the best sporting events they've ever seen in person. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 1 features Illini men's tennis head coach Brad Dancer previewing the Super Regional matchup against Ohio State. The show also dives into the Thunder's win over the Lakers, which sparks another round of the never-ending Jordan vs. LeBron debate. Plus, Evan stirs things up with some takes involving NBA legends Jerry West and Bob Cousy. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
The Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James debate heats up ahead of the Lakers vs. Thunder matchup as listeners flood the show with passionate and heated texts defending both NBA legends. Plus, the Tuesday Draft returns with the crew picking the best fictional moms from TV, movies, and pop culture. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
We discuss the return of Tom Michael to the University of Illinois as the new Deputy Director of Athletics and what it means for Illini athletics moving forward. Chris Hine from the Minnesota Star Tribune retutns to the show to break down the Minnesota Timberwolves stealing Game 1 from the Spurs, plus Terrence Shannon Jr.'s confidence after saying he plans to dunk on Victor Wembanyama. We also recap big wins for both the Cardinals and Cubs as both teams continue strong starts to the season. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 2 featured Chris Block breaking down Golden Tempo's victory in the Kentucky Derby and explaining why he believed the horse had a real chance to win heading into the race. Later, Jeff Jones joined the show to discuss the recent play of the St. Louis Cardinals and preview their upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers. The hour also included a fun conversation debating whether adults still wear sports jerseys and which ones are acceptable to own. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Hour 1 recapped a huge weekend for Illinois Fighting Illini sports, highlighting some of the biggest performances and storylines from across the university. The Men's Golf team prepares for the NCAA Tournament, Tennis advances in the Super Regional, baseball prepares to wrap up the season, softball finishes theirs, and track & field prepare for the regular season finale. The show also handed out one-month report card grades for the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs, breaking down what's gone right — and wrong — through the first month of the MLB season. Plus, Evan Stone shared his thoughts on all things Star Wars in a fun conversation about the legendary franchise and "May The Fourth Be With You."
Hour 2 featured Carson Gourdie breaking down Bret Bielema's latest press conference and why Illinois freshmen could see significant playing time this season. The guys also continued the discussion surrounding Andrej Stojaković and what his NBA Draft decision means moving forward. Don't worry - he's most likely coming back. Later, the crew made their picks for the Kentucky Derby before wrapping up the week with another edition of Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 1 features Michael Rand from the Minneapolis Star Tribune breaking down Terrence Shannon Jr.'s huge performance for the Timberwolves in their win over the Denver Nuggets. The guys discussed what Shannon's breakout night means moving forward for the T-Wolves in the NBA Playoffs and why Illini fans should be excited about his NBA future. Later, horse racing expert Chris Block stopped by with everything listeners need to know ahead of the Kentucky Derby, including top storylines, contenders, and betting insight for one of racing's biggest weekends. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Hour 2 dives into how the Chicago Bears performed in the 2026 NFL Draft, now that we're one week removed. The guys also get into the impact that Illini great Ayo Dosunmu has had on the Minnesota Timberwolves during their playoff push, talk the GOAT debate between LeBron James and Michael Jordan, and talk about the new additions to the Illini Hall of Fame!
Hour 1 featured a conversation with Pierre Noujaim from FOX 9 Minneapolis, who discussed Ayo Dosunmu's impact with the Minnesota Timberwolves during the NBA Playoffs and what his continued development means moving forward. The show also highlighted the newly announced Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing some of the top names and achievements in Illini sports history.
Hour 2 dives into the NCAA Tournament expanding from 68 to 76 teams and whether the change will actually improve the event. We also react to listener texts on the topic and wrap things up by revealing the results of our Tuesday Draft, highlighting the best places to drink a beer! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Hour 1 focuses on the latest developments surrounding Andrej Stojakovic declaring for the NBA Draft and what it means for fans moving forward. The show also covers key Illini headlines and wraps up with an update on the Cubs, Cardinals, and the latest movement in the NL Central.
Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the impact of the Illinois Fighting Illini football at the NFL Draft! Plus, Brian grades the Chicago Bears draft. Which player do he and Evan completely disagree on? Plus, it's time for the Tuesday Draft as the crew has some fun ranking the best places to drink a beer! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
We're back with a packed hour, highlighted by a strong showing from Fighting Illini football at the NFL Draft over the weekend. The guys also break down draft grades for the Chicago Bears and what it all means moving forward. Plus, a recap of The Oskees at State Farm Center. Intern Coop was on The Orange Carpet all night. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
WCIA 3 Sports Director Glenn Kinley joins the show to discuss Illinois Fighting Illini players preparing for the NFL Draft, along with a look at the Illinois Marathon and other local sports storylines. The hour also features “Around the Bases,” breaking down the latest headlines from Major League Baseball. It all wraps up with Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Jacob Infante joins the show to break down the Chicago Bears and their outlook heading into the NFL Draft, including key needs and potential targets. It's a must-listen conversation! The hour also features the latest Illini headlines, keeping you up to date on what's happening around campus. Plus, the crew has some fun with “Name A Forgettable Franchise,” sparking plenty of debate and throwback discussion. Folow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Zac Braunagel from Illini wrestling joins the show to discuss competing at the US Open Championships and what the experience means for his growth on the mat. The conversation then shifts back to more NFL Draft storylines and key updates as the event approaches. The hour wraps up with a recap of the Chicago Cubs pulling off an exciting walk-off win and "Things you can't say at The Masters!"
An Illini legend helps us kick off the show! Kurt Kittner joins us to share insight on his NFL Draft experience while also discussing Luke Altmyer and his development. Later, Sean Hammond from the Chicago Tribune breaks down the latest NFL Draft storylines and what to expect from the Chicago Bears. The hour delivers a strong mix of local perspective and league-wide draft analysis. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Brian Walton from The Cardinal Nation joins the show to break down the early season success of the Redbirds and what's fueling their strong start. He also dives into the Cardinals' farm system, highlighting key prospects and overall organizational depth. The conversation gives a full picture of both the present and future of St. Louis baseball. Plus, we roll into “From The Office of Evan Stone – NFL Draft Edition,” with a full Mock Draft of the First Round. Plus our takes, storylines, and a fun spin on everything surrounding the draft. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down Illinois' 2026–27 roster, including potential breakout candidates and key pieces to watch. We also hit the latest Illini headlines and recap Tuesday Draft with listener reactions. The hour wraps with your texts, featuring fan takes and questions on Illinois basketball. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the latest surrounding the Chicago Bears and preview the upcoming NFL Draft. The hour also features a fun Tuesday Draft with listener Lindy, as the guys make their picks for the best Minor League Baseball team names. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!
Jeff Jones from the Belleville News-Democrat joins the show to break down the early-season success of the Cardinals and what's fueling their strong start. Dave Wishnowsky also stops by to discuss the latest developments in the Illini basketball offseason and what it means for the program moving forward. The hour wraps up with a look at the latest Illini headlines. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Hour 2 dives into how the National League Central has emerged as one of baseball's most competitive divisions early in the season. The show also hits key headlines from the NBA Playoffs, Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the upcoming NFL Draft. Plus, listeners get a chance to win tickets to see Kylie Morgan live at The City Center in Champaign! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Quentin Coleman officially commits to the Illini and Brandon Lee has entered the Transfer Portal, sparking the question of whether the roster is now fully set heading into next season? The text line lights up. Meanwhile, Evan "Stone Cold" steals the spotlight by dominating the show's WrestleMania prediction contest with an impressive performance. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Sunny Verma from Locked On Illini joins the show to break down Andrej Stojakovic's return and what to expect from Illinois' incoming freshman class. The guys also have some fun with Evan “Stone Cold's” WrestleMania predictions, plus another edition of Around the Bases. And as always, they wrap things up with Friday Toasts. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Big news for Illinois basketball as Andrej Stojakovic is officially back with the Illini, giving the roster a major boost heading into next season. Brad Sturdy joins the show to break down what Stojakovic's return means, along with insight on newcomer Zavier Zens and how he fits into the program. Plus, more reaction and analysis on what this all means for Illinois moving forward.
Tristan Thomas joined the show to break down the returning Illini players and the impact they'll have heading into next season. He also reflected on Ty Rodgers' legacy, emphasizing his role as a true “culture guy” during his time at Illinois, while touching on Illini spring football storylines. The hour rounded out with NFL Draft discussion, what is the best fit for Luke Altmyer in the NFL, and the latest “Etched in Stone” bets.
Big news for Illinois as the Ivisic twins and Jake Davis are officially returning, giving Brad Underwood a strong core heading into next season. The announcement came last night at Underwood's “Kickin' Cancer” event. The trio join a returning David Mirkovic, but what will Andrej Stojakovic do? How could John Blackwell fit into the equation? Meanwhile, Ty Rodgers has entered the transfer portal, adding an interesting wrinkle to the Illini's offseason outlook. We break it all down this hour. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!
Carson Gourdie joined the show to preview Brad Underwood's “Coaches vs. Cancer” event, highlighting its importance to the community and the continued support from the Illinois basketball program. Gourdie also shared the latest football recruiting nuggets, offering insight into prospects and the direction of the Illini's future roster. The hour also features additional discussion on David Mirkovic's return to Illinois and how his presence strengthens the team heading into the 2026 season.
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