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To kick off Nuanez Now, Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down what has been a wild few weeks across the subdivision. The latest headline: Sacramento State announcing its move to the FBS by joining the Mid-American Conference. Herder shares his perspective on what the transition means for the Hornets, how it impacts the broader FCS landscape, and what ripple effects could be coming as realignment continues to reshape college football. The two also dive into other major storylines and offseason developments from around the FCS.Later in the show, Colter sits down with Jaden Steppe, sophomore forward for the Montana State Bobcats men's basketball, to talk about his journey, his connections to Montana, and his mindset as the Bobcats gear up for the upcoming conference tournament.
Sam Herder, FCS Analyst for HERO Sports, joins the show to break down the massive ripple effects of North Dakota State's move from the FCS to the FBS and what it means for the future of college football. From the Mountain West implications to the financial risks behind buying their way into the next level, Sam explains why now was the time for the Bison to make the jump and how this decision could reshape the entire subdivision landscape. He also dives into Sacramento State's bold MAC move, the long term scheduling impact for NDSU, and which FCS programs like Tarleton State could be next to follow the same path. #fcs #ndsu #mwc #collegefootball #cfb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Colter kicks off the show by sitting down with FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down the latest news from around the FCS. The two discuss North Dakota State's transition to the FBS, Bobby Hauck's brief retirement before taking the defensive coordinator job at the University of Illinois, South Dakota head coach Travis Johansen's move to Rutgers, and other major storylines shaping the subdivision.Later in the show, Colter visits with Montana State freshman guard Jamison Phillips to recap recent conference results, including a big win over Eastern Washington, and to preview the upcoming rivalry matchup against the Montana Grizzlies.
Tuesday's 9am hour of Mac & Cube kept on with Sam Herder, from HERO Sports, tells McElroy & Cubelic why North Dakota State made the jump to FBS, how this invigorated fans & donors, and where the ceiling of the team is now that they've moved to a bigger level of sports; then, the guys find out that Greg has apparently has been so biased for the SEC while broadcasting games; and finally, a few Bad Box Scores of the Day close out the Tuesday show. "McElroy & Cubelic In The Morning" airs 7am-10am weekdays on WJOX-94.5!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"McElroy & Cubelic In The Morning" airs 7am-10am weekdays on WJOX-94.5!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, Sam is joined by Zach McKinnell of FCS Football Central and The Bluebloods.The two discuss:-NDSU going to the FBS, why it makes sense for the Bison, and what it means for the FCS-Bobby Hauck retiring as head coach at Montana, and then quickly coming out of retirement to take the Illinois DC gig-Travis Johansen stepping down as South Dakota's head coach to take the Rutgers DC job-Sac State's FBS pushThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, HERO Sports; Jeff Kolpack, Forum of Fargo-Moorhead and; Grey Zabel, Seattle Seahawks Left Guard
On this episode, Sam is joined by FCS Nation Radio's Stone Labanowitz.The former Southern Illinois quarterback turned FCS media member talks all things quarterbacks. Sam and Stone chat about the top returners in 2026, discuss why many of the top signal-callers returned, and talk about some risks of the transfer portal.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, Hero Sports and Jeff Kolpack, Forum of FM
On this episode, Sam is joined by FCS Fans Nation's Jamie Williams. The two discuss the biggest surprises and disappointments of the 2025 FCS season. Which teams surpassed preseason expectations? And which teams did not live up to the hype?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, Hero Sports; Jeff Kolpack, Forum of FM and; Avery Koenen, NDSU Junior Forward
Colter Nuanez kicks off the show alongside FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder, continuing their breakdown of a wild FCS National Championship. They discuss the title game being played in Nashville for the first time, what the setting brought to the event, and how the atmosphere elevated an already unforgettable championship week. From there, the conversation turns to the game itself—one of the craziest national championships you'll ever see—as Colter and Sam unpack the moments, decisions, and chaos that turned it into an instant classic. The two also dive into broader FCS developments, including early discussion around next season's playoff landscape. (3:42)Next, Colter shifts focus to Montana State's recent developments, breaking down Bobcat players entering the transfer portal and what it means for the program moving forward. (35:36)To wrap up the first hour, Colter turns his attention to the NFL, previewing key matchups as the NFL playoffs get underway this Saturday. (47:05)
On this episode, Sam and Zach recap an epic FCS championship game as Montana State defeats Illinois State in overtime. They also talk about how ISU and MSU can reload for next season. And then they discuss the experience in Nashville, which made its debut hosting the game.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach preview the FCS championship game between Montana State and Illinois State. What are some key matchups, things to watch, and storylines heading into this game?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by John Fitzgerald, the play-by-play voice for Illinois State. They discuss:-Illinois State's playoff journey to Nashville-When did things click for Illinois State-The win at NDSU-Expected crowd in Nashville-Key players for Illinois State-Brock Spack-Illinois State adapting to the new age of college athletics-The matchup against Montana State-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam is joined by Colter Nuanez of Skyline Sports and ESPN Montana. They discuss:-Montana State's journey to the national title game-How this year's team has a different personality from last year's team-Is last year's championship result a motivating factor?-Is this the best coaching job by Brent Vigen in his time at MSU?-Justin Lamson and the new-look offense-Illinois State matchup-Nashville-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-Recapping the semifinal games as Montana State defeats Montana in an epic atmosphere, and Illinois State's incredible run continues with a win at Villanova.-They then give a 500-foot view of the FCS championship matchup and the atmosphere it'll be in Nashville.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, HERO Sports; Cole Payton, Former NDSU Quarterback and; Donovan Woolen, NDSU Sophomore Linebacker
On the first hour of Nuanez Now, Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down a massive weekend in the FCS playoffs.The two dive into the chaos on one side of the bracket, where unranked Illinois State and No. 12 seed Villanova shocked the college football world, running the table to reach the semifinals with a chance to play for a national championship.On the other side, history is set to be made as Montana and Montana State meet in the postseason for the first time in this storied rivalry. Dubbed the “Super Brawl,” it's one of the most anticipated games in the history of Montana sports, with a spot in the FCS National Championship on the line. (3:38)Later in the hour, Colter welcomes Montana State color commentator Keaton Gillogly to continue the conversation, diving deeper into the stakes, storylines, and matchup details surrounding the Super Brawl. (30:36)To wrap up the first hour, Colter shares his own analysis on the other semifinal matchup between Illinois State and Villanova, breaking down what to watch as both teams fight for a spot in the national championship game. (47:39)
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the quarterfinals-Previewing the semifinal round-How hyped is the Montana-Montana State game? How unexpected is the Illinois State-Villanova game? What are the keys to victory? And is new blood in one semifinal matchup good for the FCS?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
To kick off Nuanez Now, Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down last weekend's action — including the major upset of North Dakota State — and preview the next four games in the FCS playoffs, featuring upcoming matchups for both Montana and Montana State. (3:20)Next, Geoff Safford is joined by the man behind the glass, Hayden Smith, for a conversation on the Brawl of the Wild on the ice, the Seattle Kraken, and the latest storylines from around the NHL. (34:03)
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the 2nd round.-What do we make of NDSU's loss and Mercer's performance? Meanwhile, USD and Montana impress in their wins.-Game-by-game previews for the quarterfinals and Celebration Bowl.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down the latest action across the FCS landscape and preview the upcoming playoff matchups—including Montana's showdown with South Dakota State and Montana State's clash with Yale. (6:17)Then, Colter sits down with Missoula native Adam Jones to discuss the Cats securing the outright Big Sky title, what it means for a hometown kid to win inside Washington–Grizzly Stadium, and how Montana State is gearing up for Saturday's matchup with Yale.(31:35)To close the show, Colter shares his thoughts on Eli Gillman being left off the Walter Payton Award watch list despite his standout season for the Grizzlies. (40:18)
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from the 1st round-Game-by-game previews for the 2nd roundThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss the FCS playoff bracket. What were the biggest surprises in the seeds and on the bubble? They then break down each corner of the bracket before looking into the FCS championship odds.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down the Brawl of the Wild, react to the newly released FCS playoff bracket, and take a wide-angle look at the FCS landscape as a whole. (2:04)Next, Colter shares his thoughts on the news surrounding Brent Vigen and his candidacy for the vacant head coaching position at Oregon State. (27:03)
Colter continues his deep dive into rivalry week, previewing the Brawl of the Wild and examining the wider FCS landscape with FCS expert and Hero Sports contributor Sam Herder. (4:50)Then, the voice of the Bobcats, Keaton Gillogly, joins the show to add even more insight as the countdown to the Brawl of the Wild heats up. (29:26)Lastly, Colter takes time to discuss and honor the life and legacy of Lady Griz basketball great Skyla Sisco, who recently passed away at the age of 50 after a battle with cancer. (47:54)
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss playoff outlooks for each conference. Who are some bid thieves? Who is on the playoff bubble? Who is in a position to earn a Top 16 seed and a Top 8 seed? They break it all down here.The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, HERO Sports; Mike McFeely, Forum of Fargo-Moorhead Columnist; Dave Richman, NDSU men's basketball head coach and; Steve Laqua, MSU Moorhead head football coach
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 11-USD, Mercer, Lamar, YSU, and NDSU all pick up wins in ranked matchups-Playoff scenarios for teams and conferences, and how some Week 12 games impact the postseason picture-Notable games include No. 14 Illinois State at No. 16 South Dakota State, No. 19 Lamar at No. 15 Stephen F. Austin, No. 17 South Dakota at No. 21 Southern Illinois, No. 9 UC Davis at No. 3 Montana State, and No. 11 Rhode Island at MaineThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, Hero Sports and Jeff Kolpack Forum of FM
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 10-Which upsets were most surprising between:No. 24/25 ACU beat No. 2/2 Tarleton StateIndiana State beat No. 4/5 SDSUIdaho State beat No. 6/6 UC DavisSouth Dakota beat No. 8/10 North DakotaUIW beat No. 14/14 LamarIdaho beat No. 19/21 Northern ArizonaSouthern Utah beat No. 22/24 Austin Peay-What to do with teams like Tarleton State and SDSU?-Did we jump the gun on the NDSU vs. the field talk?-Top 4 playoff seed scenariosThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Colton Pool, Hero Sports, on playoff scenarios for JMU + American Conf. Race, & Liberty's pathaway to C-USA Championship by Ed Lane
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 9-NDSU rolls SDSU, James Conway breaks an FCS career record, Michael Wortham is a star, and UTRGV continues to impress-Is it NDSU vs. the field? And where does SDSU go from here?-Big implications this week for No. 2/2 Tarleton State at No. 24/25 Abilene Christian-A look at Top 8 playoff seed scenariosThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guest include: Sam Herder, Hero Sports and Jeff Kolpack Forum of FM
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 8-No. 1/1 NDSU at No. 2/2 SDSU preview. How crucial is Chase Mason's status in this game? What are the key matchups? And what are the implications?-No. 18/20 Illinois State at No. 21/NR South Dakota preview. A huge matchup for playoff hopes.-No. 4/4 Montana at Sac State preview. A major game, plus some antics adding more drama.-No. 3/3 Tarleton State at Eastern Kentucky preview. Can Tarleton keep it rolling?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Guests include: Sam Herder, Hero Sports and Jeff Kolpack Forum of FM
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 7-Projecting what they think the playoff committee's Top 6 will be when it reveals its Top 10 ranking on Wednesday?-Are the top two obvious? Who has the best argument for the No. 3 spot? We think we know who the five teams are to be sorted within the Top 5, but how many teams are in position for the No. 6 spot?The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 6-What do we make of multiple Top 7 teams escaping upsets?-As we hit the midway point of the season, some hypothetical playoff seed scenarios get thrown into the discussion-Week 7 preview-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 5-Discussing how we ranked the Top 5 nationally-Week 6 preview: No. 1 NDSU at No. 6 Illinois State, No. 2 SDSU at No. 24 Youngstown State, No. 5 Montana State at No. 13 Northern Arizona, No. 16 West Georgia at No. 22 Austin Peay-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
Colter Nuanez kicks off Hour 1 with a deep dive into the national FCS football landscape alongside HERO Sports writer and FCS expert Sam Herder. They break down top storylines, key matchups, and rising contenders from across the subdivision.Then, Colter is joined by Montana State defensive back Carson Williams to reflect on the Bobcats' bizarre game last week and discuss how the defense is developing heading into Big Sky Conference play.To wrap up the hour, Montana Hockey assistant coach Mike Anderson calls in to preview the team's upcoming road trip to Denver and what to expect over the next few days.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-A new model pitch for the FCS playoffs is being presented to commissioners. What is it? What are the positives? What are the negatives? Will it happen?-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 4The podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 3-Montana beats UND in comeback fashion-Tarleton State and SIU dominate on the road-NDSU QB Cole Payton off to a hot start-Rhody improves to 3-0 -UIW makes a QB switch-Week 4 top games-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
On this episode, Sam and Zach discuss:-3 Game Balls and a Flag from Week 2-SDSU's big win at Montana State -Abilene Christian gets a ranked win over SFA-The Pioneer gets two more big non-conference wins -Lamar knocks off South Dakota -Bryant and LIU earn FBS wins-Week 3 top games-And moreThe podcast is presented by HERO Sports and BetMGM. Visit HERO Sports for FCS coverage and BetMGM for online betting odds.
08/28 Hour 1: Jason Steps Up As His Neighborhood Hero - 1:00 Top Storylines Around The Sports World - 15:00 Keegan Bradley Announces The 2025 US Ryder Cup Team - 33:00