Podcast appearances and mentions of fran mccaffery

Illini Inquirer's Jeremy Werner and Kyle Tausk react to Illinois earning a No. 3 seed in the South Region of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The guys discuss the first-round matchup against No. 14 seed Penn and Fran McCaffery in Greenville (S.C.) and a possible second-round matchup against No. 6 seed North Carolina and a potential Sweet Sixteen matchup against Houston. The guys also discuss what must happen for the team to get through to the second weekend. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Omaha Steaks: Go to ⁠⁠https://www.OmahaSteaks.com⁠⁠ to get 50% off sitewide and an extra $35 off with promo code ILLINI247 at checkout. Minimum purchase may apply. Columbia Street Roastery: Head to ⁠⁠CSRcoffee.com⁠ and use code IlliniAllTheWay to get 10 percent off your first order and get free shipping on orders of over $45. Follow the Illini Inquirer Podcast on: Apple: https://apple.co/3oMt0NP Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2Xan2L8  Other: https://bit.ly/36gn7Ct   Go VIP for just 50% OFF: https://tinyurl.com/2fkhmjdz  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Selection Committee places Illinois as the #3 seed in the South Region, kicking things off Thursday against #14 seed Penn in Greenville, SC. Mike Carpenter discusses the opening weekend draw, one that includes a Caleb Wilson-less #6 UNC and a pesky #11 VCU. Tip-off against Fran McCaffery's Penn Quakers is Thursday, 8:25pm CT.

The Hawkeyes make their 30th NCAA Tournament appearance—and first since 2022—squaring off with Clemson in an 8/9 matchup Friday in Tampa. Led by senior guard Bennet Stirtz, who averaged 22 points per game in Big Ten play, Iowa enters March with momentum after a 21-win season in one of the nation's toughest conferences.Clemson counters with a deep, balanced roster and All-ACC forward RJ Godfrey, but will be without starting center Carter Welling due to injury. With both teams known for their defense, this matchup sets up as one of the most competitive games of the opening round—with a potential showdown against top-seeded Florida looming.We hear from head coach Ben McCollum and floor leader Bennett Stirtz as the Hawkeyes prepare for Friday's tip.Plus, Iowa Women's Basketball opens NCAA Tournament play in Iowa City as a No. 2 seed, hosting Fairleigh Dickinson at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Head coach Jan Jensen, Kylie Feuerbach, and a veteran Hawkeye squad look to make another deep March run on their home floor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

1 hour and 44 minutes The Sponsors Thank you to Underground Printing for making this all possible. Rishi and Ryan have been our biggest supporters from the beginning. Check out their wide selection of officially licensed Michigan fan gear at their 3 store locations in Ann Arbor or learn about their custom apparel business at undergroundshirts.com. Our associate sponsors are: Peak Wealth Management, Matt Demorest - Realtor and Lender, Ann Arbor Elder Law, Michigan Law Grad, Human Element, Sharon's Heating & Air Conditioning, The Sklars Brothers, Champions Circle, Winewood Organics, Community Pest Solutions, Venue by 4M where record this, and Introducing this season: Radecki Oral Surgery, and Long Road Distillers. 1. Men's Basketball vs Michigan State Starts at 0:51 Michigan is the best team in the Big Ten since the 1977 Indiana team. You can't say they didn't earn it, they had to win at Breslin, Carver, and Illinois. They would still win the Big Ten outright if you only counted the games that Michigan won by double digits. It was Yaxel's deep shooting that propelled Michigan when they weren't shooting well. Michigan felt mortal with Tschetter at the four but MSU didn't exactly take advantage of that time. There were a lot of 1-on-1 opportunities, Michigan only had 12 assists. 1.27 PPP is crazy against Michigan State. Where does Yaxel Lendeborg rank all time amongst all Michigan players? They had a reel prepared for when Fears would kick someone in the jingle jangles, and it did happen. Credit Dusty for keeping the team calm when things start to go wrong. How is Fears allowed to keep playing the way he does? Congrats to Nebraska for getting the #2 seed.  2. Men's Basketball vs Iowa Starts at 32:06 A very slow game and a very annoying win. Their thing is fouling you constantly and hoping the refs don't call it. They fired Fran and we hate Iowa basketball now. Michigan finally gets some calls in the second half and turns the ball over a lot. Bennett Stirtz's 4-14 from three feels optimistic for him given the shot quality. There was a "sink or swim" moment when Cadeau had to sit out and it wasn't great. Cadeau played 30 minutes but in an important tournament setting he'll probably play more than that. Roddy Gayle has some at-the-rim difficulties that have lasted most of the conference season. Fran McCaffery was a beautiful Big Ten coach and now he's in the Ivy League. 3. Hot Takes and Spring Ball - Offense Starts at 54:05 How excited is everyone for this spring practice? What will Bryce's role as a runner be? JJ didn't run much but in the championship season there were only 4-5 games where he would have needed to. Maybe Bryce looks a little better throwing downfield now that he has actual receivers. JJ Buchanan might have a Colston Loveland level catch radius. There was a moment of silence for Max Bredeson but we truncate silence on this podcast so you didn't hear it. What's the tight end depth going to look like? Evan Link to guard? We're expecting a big third year swing for Blake Frazier.  4. Spring Ball - Defense Starts at 1:22:09 Any sort of news about John Henry Daley being able to play would be high on the list. And Rod Moore. Also hoping to hear good things about Palepale and Cam Brandt. The North Dakota State linebacker (Nathaniel Staehling) transfer could be really good, he was a captain and these scenarios often work out nicely. Ideally he's the 3rd linebacker because that means some other guys popped off. How much much better will everyone look with better coaching? Unfortunately we won't be able to see if rotation on defense gets better in the Spring Game. Could Shamari Earls overtake Jyaire Hill? New kickers but kicking in April seems different than in the Fall. Looking forward to punting drills. Taylor Tatum for punt return?    MUSIC: "Any Major Dude"—Steely Dan "Believe"—My Morning Jacket "Broken Chair"—Luna “Across 110th Street”—JJ Johnson and his Orchestra   

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Brands joins the Fight for Iowa Podcast as the Hawkeyes prepare for the Big Ten Wrestling Championships. The Iowa head coach breaks down the team's mindset heading into the postseason, discusses key wrestlers and matchups to watch, and explains what it will take for the Hawkeyes to compete for a conference title. Brands also shares insight into Iowa's preparation, the intensity of the Big Ten tournament, and how the Hawkeyes are positioning themselves for the road to the NCAA Championships.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Dolph sits down with the newest voice in the Hawkeye coaching room — Chris Polizzi, Iowa's Special Teams Coordinator. Fresh off earning the role leading one of the most vital (and often game-deciding) phases of football, Polizzi opens up about stepping into his new position for the Hawkeyes and the mindset he brings to the job. With two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate level — including stops at Tulsa, UT-Martin, UCLA, Utah, Western Carolina, Tennessee Tech, and previous roles with Iowa — Chris offers insight into what it takes to coach at the highest levels of college football and how special teams fit into the Hawkeyes' identity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iowa Swimming and Diving celebrates Senior Night this Friday as the Hawkeyes host St. Thomas at the Campus Wellness and Recreation Center.Iowa enters the meet 3–3 overall and 2–2 in Big Ten duals, coming off big wins over Illinois and Nebraska in what has been a record-setting season under head coach Nathan Mundt and diving coach Todd Waikel.Senior diver Lainey Woodward and junior standout Olivia Swalley join this week's Fight for Iowa podcast. Woodward discusses her comeback from injury and what Senior Night means to a class that helped guide the program through difficult early years. Swalley reflects on a season that's seen her lead the team in five events and rewrite the record book.Plus, a look ahead at a bright future: freshman Payton Flowers' pool record in the 50 free, and a Hawkeye Invitational that produced 19 program top-10 times, three champions, and three school records.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Dolphin welcomes Iowa men's basketball assistant coaches Bryston Williams and Josh Sash to Fight for Iowa this week for a powerful, personal conversation. The two discuss their individual journeys into coaching, their transition to Iowa, and what it's like working for head coach Ben McCollum. Josh also reflects on the life and legacy of his late brother, former Hawkeye All-American safety Tyler Sash, and how that connection to Iowa continues to shape him today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 1-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show 12-30-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer wrap up Bowl Week coverage on the Fight for IowaBowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank, with a final look ahead to Iowa vs. Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl. The episode focuses on final preparations, mindset, and what will matter most when the Hawkeyes take the field.This final pregame show features interviews with Hawkeyes Max Llewellyn and Deshaun Lee, offering player perspective on Bowl Week, team chemistry, and the opportunity to finish the season strong on the national stage in Tampa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer continue Bowl Week coverage on the Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank, as the Hawkeyes prepare for the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl matchup against Vanderbilt. The show breaks down the latest storylines, preparation, and mindset as Iowa gets set to close the season on the national stage.This episode features player interviews with Kaden Wetjen, Kamari Moulton, and Logan Jones, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Bowl Week from the locker room to the practice field. Insight and perspective from Hawkeye voices as kickoff approaches in Tampa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, the Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show continues as Pat Angerer and Gary Dolphin dive deeper into Iowa's preparation for the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl matchup with Vanderbilt. This episode focuses on the defensive mindset and quarterback play as Iowa readies itself for bowl season, with insight on matchups, adjustments, and what will matter most on game day.The show features interviews with Iowa defensive coordinator Phil Parker and quarterback Mark Gronowski, breaking down preparation, leadership, and the keys to success in Tampa as the Hawkeyes approach their postseason finale.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Live from Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer preview Iowa's bowl matchup against Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl on this special Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank. Dolph and Angerer break down the key storylines, matchups, and what to expect as the Iowa Hawkeyes close the season on the national stage.The episode features interviews with Iowa offensive coordinator Tim Lester and Hawkeye linebacker Koen Entringer, providing insight into preparation, mindset, and the keys to success in Tampa as bowl week arrives.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-22-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-22-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-15-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-15-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Dolphin is joined by Iowa men's basketball assistant coach Luke Barnwell, who made the move to Iowa after a successful run at Texas Tech. Barnwell discusses his coaching journey, what drew him to Iowa, and his perspective on building success in the Big Ten.Barnwell brings 14 years of coaching experience, including helping Texas Tech to a 51–20 record and two NCAA Tournament appearances, plus an elite prep résumé as a two-time Naismith High School Coach of the Year at Sunrise Christian Academy. Growing up in Emporia, Kansas, Barnwell shares his roots in the game and his vision for Hawkeye basketball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-08-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-08-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special bowl-edition episode of the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin brings you audio from Head Coach Kirk Ferentz's ReliaQuest Bowl announcement press conference. Hear Coach Ferentz break down Iowa's postseason bid, the matchup with Vanderbilt, and how the Hawkeyes will prepare for their trip to Tampa. It's your first look at Iowa's bowl plan as the team gears up for its New Year's Eve showdown.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a bonus edition of the Takeoff Podcast with John Clark. First, Jason Avant lays out his concerns about the Eagles defense, and the chances the Cowboys catch the Eagles in the NFC East. John's then joined by Penn Men's Basketball head coach, Fran McCaffery, to chat about this weekend's Big 5 Classic at Xfinity Mobile Arena. NBC Sports Philadelphia serves Philly sports fans 24/7 with the latest news on the Eagles, Sixers, Phillies and Flyers. Watch live games and insightful analysis from our experts on NBC Sports Philadelphia. Subscribe to our channel for the latest Philly sports news and highlights! » Visit NBC Sports Philadelphia: https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/ » Facebook: / nbcsphilly » Twitter: / nbcsphilly » Instagram: / nbcsphilly

On this episode of the Fight for Iowa podcast, Director of Recruiting Tyler Barnes sits down to dive into Iowa Football's latest signing class—who's coming in, what traits the staff values, and how this group fits the long-term vision for the program. Barnes also explains Iowa's strategy in the ever-evolving transfer portal landscape and what fans should watch for in the months ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-03-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-03-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz 11-24-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Iowa Women's Wrestling team is off to a strong 3–0 start in duals to open the season. Coach Clarissa Chun'sHawkeyes return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena on December 7th, hosting Oklahoma State and 5th-ranked Colorado Mesa in a double dual, with bouts beginning at 2 p.m.Last week, the Hawkeyes took part in the Throwdown on the Yorktown, competing on the flight deck of the USS Yorktown in Charleston Bay, South Carolina. Iowa rolled past 6th-ranked Presbyterian, 35–9, and Coach Chun says the team's depth made a major impact — and will continue to be a deciding factor throughout the season.This week on Fight for Iowa, we continue our conversation with Coach Chun as she breaks down the early success of her squad, the competitiveness in the room, and where she wants this team to grow next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz 11-19-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz 11-12-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Veterans Day is set aside each November 11th to honor and thank all who have served honorably in the U.S. military — in war or in peace. This week, Gary Dolphin offers a standing ovation to the men and women who've answered the call to defend our nation. One of them is Green Beret Master Sergeant Mike McEmeel of Cedar Rapids, now President of the Galen Kittleson Iowa Chapter of the Special Forces Association.McEmeel reflects on his service, the legacy of fellow Iowan and Special Forces legend Galen Kittleson, and the enduring brotherhood among America's elite soldiers.Thank you, veterans — from all of us at the Fight for Iowa Podcast. Go Hawks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.