The Drive on ESPN 93.5

Pete Crow-Armstrong put together one of the most memorable nights in Cubs history, becoming just the sixth player in MLB history to hit both a leadoff homer and a walk-off homer in the same game. PCA went 4-for-5 with two home runs in the Cubs' 7-5, 10-inning win over the White Sox, while his second homer gave him 30 home runs and secured his second straight 30-30 season.

The Cardinals and Reds split Monday's doubleheader, with St. Louis taking Game 1 before Cincinnati rallied for a walk-off win in Game 2. The focus turns to the series finale Tuesday, including...

Doug Bucshon of On3’s Orange & Blue News joins The Drive to break down the latest Illinois football storylines as the Illini inch closer to the 2026 season. The conversation covers the team's injury situation, key position battles still being decided in training camp, and whether the revamped offensive line is starting to develop the chemistry it needs. Illinois is replacing four starters up front, making the O-line one of the biggest areas to watch heading into the season.

Plus, Kurtis and Evan bring back Random Illini Football Players of the Day, highlighting some names from Illinois football hi...

Hour 2 of The Drive gets you ready for a big weekend of baseball as the St. Louis Cardinals head to Wrigley Field to take on the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series beginning Friday, August 14. The rivals meet with both teams looking to make a push in the NL Central, setting the stage for another heated weekend at Wrigley.

The guys also check in on former Illinois football players making their mark in NFL preseason action. With preseason games underway, which Illini have the best opportunity to make an NFL roster, and who could be fighting for...

In Hour 1 of The Drive, Kurtis Allen and Evan Stone dive into a big night for former Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer, who gets the start for the Detroit Lions in their preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. Altmyer is getting a major opportunity to showcase what he can do as he competes for a spot on Detroit's roster.

The guys also discuss the latest developments in the Chicago Bears' stadium situation. Bears leadership says the organization is conducting its due diligence on potential sites in Hammond, Indiana, with the team currently focused on two Northwest Indiana locations...

Due to severe weather and tornado warnings across the area, Hour 1 of The Drive was preempted for storm coverage. We still packed plenty into Hour 2!

🏀 Random Illini Players of the Day – We dig into the Illinois history books and highlight some memorable—and perhaps forgotten—Fighting Illini players.

🏆 Tuesday Draft: Best Traditions in Sports – Kurtis, Evan, and Quinntern The Intern draft their favorite traditions from across the world of sports. Which traditions are must-haves for any great fanbase, and which ones deserve more recognition?

Plus, plenty of sports talk, debate and Illini conversation.

Listen t...

Hour 2 of The Drive is packed with Chicago Bears and Illinois football talk!

Kurtis and Evan are joined by Chris Kwiecinski of FOX 32 to discuss the latest on Luther Burden III's injury, what it means for the Bears' wide receiver depth, and why there's reason for optimism surrounding Chicago's defense.

Then it's back to Champaign for an Illinois football defensive back breakdown, looking at the Illini secondary and the players who could make an impact this season.

Plus, we preview the St. Louis Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Phillies, including what to watch for in...

The Dog Days of Summer are here, but Illinois football season is getting closer! On Hour 1 of The Drive, Kurtis and Evan dive into the latest Illini football storylines, including what fans should be watching as fall camp continues.

Plus, we have some fun with the strangest and most unexpected football opponents Big Ten schools have played, bring back Random Illini Players of the Day, and check in on the Chicago Cubs, who continue to roll as the MLB season heats up.

In this hour:
🏈 Illinois Football and the Dog Days of Summer
🤔 The st...

The Chicago Cubs are rolling, and Alex Patt of Chi City Sports joins The Drive to break down the team's recent surge, why the Cubs' moves at the MLB Trade Deadline could pay off, and whether Alex Bregman is finally starting to look like the player Chicago hoped it signed.

Then it's time to turn the attention to Illinois football, with a breakdown of the Illini linebackers heading into the 2026 season. Kurtis and Evan look at the depth, key players and biggest questions facing the position group.

And, of course, the week wraps up with...

Illinois basketball sophomore star David Mirkovic is dealing with a significant foot injury that required surgery, and Kyle Tausk of Illini Inquirer joins The Drive to discuss the seriousness of the injury, his expected recovery and what it means for the Illini heading into the 2026-27 season. Early reports indicate a recovery timeline of roughly 6–8 weeks, with Illinois still expecting Mirkovic to be ready for the start of the season.

Kyle, Kurtis and Evan also examine Illinois basketball's depth and how the roster can withstand a potentially extended absence from one of its most important frontcourt pieces.

Hour 2 of The Drive is packed with Illinois football and Major League Baseball talk!

The guys continue their Illinois football position previews by taking an in-depth look at the Fighting Illini defensive line. Can this unit become one of the Big Ten's best? They discuss the impact of the returning veterans, breakout candidates, pass rush expectations, and how the defensive front could shape Illinois' 2026 season.

Then it's on to the Chicago Cubs after a thrilling extra-inning victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. The crew breaks down the dramatic finish, key performances, and what the win...

Illinois football training camp is heating up, and Carson Gourdie from WICS joins The Drive to break down the biggest storylines on the defensive side of the ball. The guys discuss why the Illini defense has the potential to be one of the Big Ten's best, key position battles, and players who could emerge as difference-makers this season.

They also dive into Illinois' intriguing backup quarterback competition behind Katin Houser, examining the battle between Carson Boyd, Michael Clayton II, and Dane Eisenmenger as camp continues. The QB2 race has become one of the most talked-about storylines of...

The Chicago Cubs continue their incredible stretch by completing a series sweep of the Los Angeles Dodgers, raising even more questions about whether they're the team to beat in the National League. We break down what stood out during the series, the biggest contributors, and what the sweep means heading into the final two months of the season.

We also preview tonight's matchup between the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees, discussing the pitching matchup, key players to watch, and what's at stake as the Cardinals continue their postseason push.

To close out the...

Illinois basketball received concerning news as sophomore star David Mirkovic underwent successful surgery on his left foot after suffering an injury during a recent team workout. The guys discuss what the injury means for the Illini heading into the 2026-27 season, early reports suggesting a 6-to-8 week recovery timeline, and why Illinois still expects Mirkovic to make a full recovery before the season gets underway. They also break down how Brad Underwood could adjust if Mirkovic misses additional time and which players may be asked to step into larger roles.

Later, Ravi Lulla joins the show to...

J Leman joins The Drive to preview the 2026 Illinois football season, discussing expectations for Bret Bielema, key players, and what could make this Illini team special. Jacob Infante breaks down the latest from Chicago Bears training camp, including the impact of Coby Bryant's injury and standout performers. Plus, the Cubs emerge as one of the biggest winners of the MLB Trade Deadline with several key additions, while the Cardinals begin reshaping their roster by trading Lars Nootbaar. Catch all the biggest Illini, Bears, Cubs, Cardinals, and NFL headlines from August 4, 2026. The Cubs were widely viewed as aggressive buyers at...

Jacob Infante from Pro Football Network and the Windy City Gridiron calls in to talk about Bears camp, extensions, injuries, and potential future moves. Jacob also sheds some light that Pierce the Fierce might have some competition. 

Evan and Quinn have both had the same experience hooked up to 1,000 wires... 

Evan explains his hot take from hour 1. 

Evan and Quinn react live on air to breaking news about David Mirkovic's injury, WHAT DOES IT MEAN??? Then, All-American J Leman gets an intro of a lifetime and joins the show to discuss Illinois' 2026 season and beyond. What does J really think about the SEC? 

The hour ends with maybe Evan's hottest take yet... 

08-03-26 ESPN The Drive Hour 2, Evan Stone and Pierce talk about trade deadline, and what we think about the Cardinals and Cubs made.

The Drive recaps an eventful first week of Chicago Bears training camp, highlighting an offense that continues to generate excitement while the defense works through early camp growing pains. Kurtis Allen and Evan Stone discuss Caleb Williams' development, the playmakers standing out, and whether Bears fans should be encouraged by the offensive progress.

The conversation then shifts to the NFL, where the guys explain why the Los Angeles Chargers have all the ingredients to be a legitimate Super Bowl sleeper in 2026. They also preview the Cardinals' upcoming series against the Toronto Blue Jays, discussing key pitching matchups...

Austin Burklund of Armchair Illini joins The Drive to break down expectations for Bret Bielema and Illinois football entering the 2026 season. The conversation covers what success looks like for the Illini, key players to watch, the biggest challenges on the schedule, and why Washington has the potential to emerge as one of the Big Ten's biggest surprise teams this year.

Later in the hour, Kurtis Allen and Evan Stone recap the Cubs taking three of four games from the Cardinals in a heated rivalry series. The guys discuss what went wrong for St. Louis, what the series...

Hour 2 of The Drive is packed with football talk from both the NFL and college ranks. Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to discuss the early chemistry between Caleb Williams and rookie wide receiver Luther Burden on the opening day of Chicago Bears training camp, while also examining concerns the coaching staff may have with standout defensive back Kyler Gordon. Later, Ravi Lulla of Hurrdat Sports recaps Big Ten Media Days, highlighting the coaches and players who elevated their stock, the conference's biggest storylines, and what stood out as teams prepare for the 2026 college...

Illinois football took center stage at Big Ten Media Days, and Doug Bucshon of Orange & Blue News joins The Drive to break down everything Illini fans need to know. The guys discuss Bret Bielema's headline-making comments comparing the Big Ten and SEC, Katin Houser representing Illinois at media day, the biggest concerns and strengths on the defensive side of the ball, and what to expect as preseason camp approaches. The hour wraps up with another edition of Evan's Random Illini Football Players of the Day.

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The St. Louis Cardinals are searching for answers after another frustrating stretch. Curt Bishop joins the show to discuss what's behind the club's recent slump, whether it's time to panic, and what needs to change as the Cardinals battle the rival Chicago Cubs in a pivotal four-game series. We also look at the latest trade deadline storylines, key matchups, and what's at stake for both teams heading into one of baseball's biggest rivalries.

Then, it's time for another hilarious Tuesday Draft! This week, Kurtis, Evan, and the crew draft the greatest Old Lady Names of all time...

Illinois football officially takes center stage as Big Ten Media Days get underway in Chicago. Head coach Bret Bielema opens the week by taking a subtle shot at the SEC, saying parts of college football are "still stuck in 2005," while explaining why he believes the Big Ten has become the nation's premier conference. We break down Bielema's biggest comments, what they mean for the Illini entering the 2026 season, and the national storylines surrounding Illinois.

Plus, Sunny Verma of Locked On Illini joins us live from Big Ten Media Days in Chicago with the latest buzz surrounding Bret...

The Cardinals and Cubs renew one of baseball's greatest rivalries as they open a four-game series with plenty on the line. The Cardinals are looking to gain ground in the National League playoff race, while the Cubs hope to protect their position atop the division. We preview the pitching matchups, key hitters to watch, trade deadline storylines, and what this series could mean as both clubs approach the stretch run.

The NBA conversation shifts to Philadelphia following the blockbuster acquisition of LeBron James. With LeBron joining an already talented roster, we debate whether the 76ers still need...

Illinois Athletics announces a landmark partnership with Busey Bank, including one of the nation's largest jersey patch deals. Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini joins The Drive to break down what it means for the future of Illinois Athletics, how Illinois continues to position itself among the Big Ten's leaders in the new era of college athletics, and why this move could further strengthen the Fighting Illini's ability to compete in recruiting and revenue generation.

Plus Evan Stone returns after an emergency appendectomy and Random Illini Football Players of the Day.

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Hour 2 kicked off with Sunny Verma of Locked On Illini, who joined the show for an in-depth look at the Illinois football schedule and what it means for Bret Bielema's team entering the 2026 season. Verma highlighted the most challenging stretches on the schedule, the games that could define Illinois' season, and his concerns about the season. The discussion also focused on the continued momentum surrounding the program and why expectations in Champaign continue to rise after several successful seasons.

The conversation then shifted to the latest debate in college football after Nick Saban made comments comparing the...

Hour 1 featured a loaded conversation with Kyle Tausk of Illini Inquirer, who joined the show to discuss one of Illinois basketball's biggest recruiting targets, five-star prospect NaVorro Bowman Jr. Tausk explained what makes Bowman one of the nation's elite recruits, where Illinois stands in his recruitment, and how he could fit into Brad Underwood's system if he commits. The discussion also expanded into the Illini's roster construction for both the 2026 and 2027 seasons, highlighting returning talent, incoming recruits, transfer possibilities, and why Illinois appears well-positioned to remain among the nation's top contenders. The optimism surrounding the program comes as national...

Chris Kwiecinski from FOX 32 Chicago joins The Drive to discuss which Chicago Bears rookies have made the biggest impression early in training camp, who could make an immediate impact this season, and how Caleb Williams is developing chemistry with his revamped group of wide receivers heading into Year 2.

Plus, it's another edition of the Tuesday Draft as the guys take turns selecting the greatest Old Man Names of all time. From timeless classics to names you only hear at the retirement home, expect plenty of laughs, nostalgia, and debate over who built the best roster of old-school...

Doug Bucshon of Orange & Blue News joins The Drive to discuss why Illinois Football could be poised for another successful season in 2026, highlighting the Illini's biggest strengths heading into training camp. He also shares his thoughts on Athletic Director Josh Whitman's contract extension, what it means for the future of Illinois athletics, and early impressions of Illinois basketball's talented freshman class.

Plus, the guys preview the Cardinals' against the Angels as St. Louis looks to bounce back on the West Coast, and what the Cardinals need to do to get back on track.

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Hour 2 of The Drive focuses on the biggest questions surrounding the Cardinals as the MLB trade deadline approaches. Kurtis Allen and Pierce "The Fierce" discuss which players could be on the move, whether St. Louis should buy, sell, or try to thread the needle, and which potential trades would make the most sense as the front office evaluates its playoff chances.

The guys also preview the Cardinals' upcoming series against the Los Angeles Angels, breaking down the key pitching matchups, players to watch, and what St. Louis needs to accomplish to build momentum after a frustrating weekend...

Hour 1 of The Drive starts with a deep dive into Illinois Football's 2026 schedule as Kurtis Allen and Pierce "The Fierce" Intern break down every game, identify the toughest stretches, discuss potential trap games, and project where the Illini could finish in the Big Ten race.

The guys then recap the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim its second World Cup championship. They discuss Spain's dominant tournament run, Ferran Torres' match-winning goal, Lionel Messi's emotional final World Cup appearance, and what the victory means for the future of international soccer.<...

WCIA Sports Director Glenn Kinley joins the show to break down Illinois Athletic Director Josh Whitman's newly announced contract extension. What does it say about the direction of Illinois Athletics, and what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for Whitman as the Illini continue to build momentum across multiple sports?

Then, a growing movement across the NFL has taken center stage as Caleb Williams and several other players are calling on the league to permanently replace artificial turf with natural grass fields. We'll discuss the latest push for safer playing surfaces, whether the NFL is finally ready to...

Illinois Football continues to strengthen its off-the-field leadership as Bret Bielema has added Tory Tekyl as the program's new Executive Director, bringing another experienced administrator into the Illini football operation as the program looks to build on its recent success.

Meanwhile, Cardinals legend Adam Wainwright is standing up for St. Louis. After Barstool Sports criticized the Cardinals organization, Busch Stadium, and its fan base, Wainwright fired back by passionately defending Cardinals fans, saying they earned the reputation as "the best fans in baseball" through decades of loyalty and knowledge of the game—not because they gave themselves th...

The Drive welcomes former Cardinals World Series champion Scott Spiezio back to the show to discuss the Cardinals as they reach the midpoint of the 2026 season. Spiezio shares his thoughts on whether St. Louis has what it takes to make a postseason run, reflects on his memorable career, and talks about his new book and upcoming documentary, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at his baseball journey.

Later, Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the conversation to break down the latest performances from former Illinois standouts in NBA Summer League, including the continued development of...

Illinois Athletics continues to generate headlines as Athletic Director Josh Whitman is reportedly in line for another contract extension after helping elevate the Illini into one of the nation's premier athletic departments. The guys discuss what Whitman's leadership has meant for football, basketball, and the overall direction of Illinois athletics.

The excitement surrounding Illinois basketball keeps growing after the release of the program's latest summer hype video, adding even more anticipation for what could be another special season in Champaign.

Former Illini guard Kylan Boswell also continues to build momentum in NBA Summer League, delivering...

Carson Gourdie of FOX Illinois joins The Drive to discuss Illinois basketball's preseason ranking, national championship expectations, Michigan's place atop the Big Ten, and we reveal the winners of our 2026 MLB All-Star Tuesday Draft.

Hour 2 of The Drive features FOX Illinois sports anchor Carson Gourdie breaking down the early outlook for Illinois basketball entering the 2026-27 season. With the Illini coming off a Final Four appearance and returning one of the nation's most talented rosters, expectations are soaring. Carson discusses where Illinois belongs in the preseason rankings, the biggest questions facing Brad Underwood's team, and why Michigan...

Illinois football adds defensive back Trezavant Boyd to its 2027 recruiting class, Keaton Wagler continues to impress in NBA Summer League with the Clippers, and Argentina defeats England to advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final against Spain.

Hour 1 of The Drive is packed with the latest Illini and international sports headlines. Illinois football continues building momentum on the recruiting trail with a commitment from defensive back Trezavant Boyd, adding another talented piece to Bret Bielema's future secondary.

The guys also break down another standout NBA Summer League performance from former Illinois star Keaton Wagler, whose...

The second hour kicks off with another Tuesday Draft, as the guys build their ultimate rosters using the biggest stars from the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. From MVP candidates to breakout performers, they debate which players deserve to headline baseball's midsummer showcase.

The conversation then shifts to Las Vegas, where several former Illinois basketball standouts are back in action during NBA Summer League. The crew previews the night's games, discusses the development of the Illini alumni, and reacts to reports that Will Riley has been shut down after an outstanding Summer League performance that further boosted his stock.<...

Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat joins The Drive to break down the St. Louis Cardinals at the season's midpoint, discussing what's gone right, what still needs to improve, and whether the club is positioned to contend in the second half. The conversation also covers Jordan Walker's appearance in the Home Run Derby, top prospect JJ Wetherholt signing his new contract, and the latest storylines surrounding the organization.

Plus, the guys react to Spain's 2-0 victory over France to punch its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, discussing the impressive run by La Roja and what...