The Morning Kick-Off w/Mike Hardball Hardge & Mark Henry

Texas heads to Columbia for one of its toughest remaining SEC tests, and The Morning Kickoff is breaking down what it will take for the Longhorns to leave Missouri with a win. We discuss the key areas Texas must establish early, including controlling the line of scrimmage, protecting Arch Manning, finishing drives, and creating balance on offense. We also examine the latest injury concerns facing the Longhorns, the challenges presented by Missouri's physical rushing attack and stout run defense, and why Texas' depth will be put to the test on the road. Plus, we react to Texas Basketball's dominant season-opening...

Longhorn legend Rod Babers joined The Morning Kickoff to discuss Texas' game plan heading into a pivotal SEC road matchup against Missouri. Rod shared his thoughts on creative ways Steve Sarkisian can get the Longhorn running game going, why offensive balance will be critical in Columbia, and how Arch Manning can benefit from a productive ground attack. He also broke down Missouri's dangerous rushing offense, the Tigers' physical run defense, and what Texas must do on both sides of the ball to leave Columbia with a victory. If Texas wants to continue its success against ranked opponents, Rod explains where...

Missouri week continues, but the biggest storyline for Texas is an injury report that's growing at a critical point in the season. On this episode of The Morning Kickoff, we discuss what the Longhorns can do to overcome personnel losses, which players need to elevate their game, and why Texas' defense could be the key to leaving Columbia with a win. We also recap Texas Women's Basketball's season-opening victory behind Madison Booker and Breya Cunningham, preview Texas Men's Basketball's opener against Gardner-Webb, debate our favorite 4th-and-2 play call, and dive into the Texas Two Step with the Cowboys, Texans, Spurs...

Eric Henry of Horns247 joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Texas' lengthy injury report and how it could impact the Longhorns heading into a pivotal road matchup against Missouri. Eric identifies the players who will need to step up, explains where Texas has the greatest depth concerns, and breaks down the biggest challenges Missouri presents. Plus, he shares what must go right for Steve Sarkisian's team to leave Columbia with a critical SEC victory.

The latest CFP rankings have everyone talking, but inside the Texas football facility the focus remains firmly on Missouri. On this episode, we discuss the committee's latest decisions, Steve Sarkisian's approach to keeping his team locked in, and whether Texas' defense may need to carry the load once again against a physical Missouri rushing attack. Plus, with Texas Women's Basketball opening its season and Texas Men's Basketball ready to tip off, we preview what's ahead for both programs as basketball season officially arrives in Austin. From playoff debates to SEC football and the return of Texas hoops, it's a packed...

Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com joins the show to examine where the Cowboys stand following their disappointing loss to Arizona. While there's still time to turn the season around, questions remain about whether Dallas can put everything together. Tommy also discusses the reported disconnect concerns surrounding Dak Prescott and Brian Schottenheimer and whether the Cowboys can get back on track before it's too late.

D-Lo Brown makes his pitch to convert Mark and Hardge into Chicago Bears fans. Fresh off an impressive win in Seattle and bolstered by the acquisition of All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, D-Lo explains why he's buying stock in the Bears and why he believes Chicago is building something worth paying attention to for the rest of the season.

Michael Fabiano joins the show to discuss one of the most challenging fantasy football seasons in recent memory. Between injuries, underperforming stars, and constant lineup adjustments, fantasy managers have been forced to dig deeper than ever. Fabs explains why there's a certain beauty in the challenge and how successful managers are finding value when their expected starters aren't delivering.

Danny Davis joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas' matchup against Missouri. While the Longhorn offense continues searching for consistency, the defense has repeatedly answered the call. Danny discusses whether that trend may need to continue this weekend as Texas prepares to face Missouri's talented rushing attack and how the Longhorn defense matches up against one of the Tigers' biggest strengths.

The Morning Kickoff reacts to Steve Sarkisian's message as Texas officially turns its attention to Missouri and the challenge of making November a successful month. While playoff rankings and outside noise continue to grow, Sark's focus remains on the game directly in front of his team and the daily work required to keep winning. We discuss Texas' mindset entering the stretch run, the importance of avoiding distractions, and what the Longhorns need to do to keep building momentum. Plus, Texas Men's Basketball opens a new season, we recap Monday Night Football, and take a closer look at the Cowboys' current...

Tyler Horka of Inside Texas joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss what Texas needs from Arch Manning to get the offense operating at its highest level. Horka talks about the heightened expectations and scrutiny that come with being the Longhorns' quarterback, where Arch can improve, and why he's optimistic about Texas heading into the heart of the season. He also shares his excitement for the start of Texas Men's Basketball.

Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss how Houston approached its bye week and the adjustments needed after a frustrating 2-5 start. Vandermeer breaks down the issues on offense and defense, explains what has to change moving forward, and why Sunday's game against the winless Chargers is a must-have opportunity if the Texans hope to turn their season around.

Texas handled business with a dominant 31-3 win, but the conversation doesn't stop at the final score. The guys break down the Longhorns' performance, Arch Manning's toughness, the offensive line's continued search for consistency, and why one third-quarter touchdown drive could be a sign of progress. Plus, the latest AP Poll implications, a look ahead to the next CFP rankings, and a full SEC whip-around. On the NFL side, the Dallas Cowboys continue their descent into dysfunction. Is it finally time to stop calling them "America's Team"? We discuss another embarrassing loss, the future of the coaching staff, and what...

Anne-Parker Clifton of KVUE joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas vs. Mississippi State and discuss why the Longhorns have an opportunity to continue building momentum. She also shares her thoughts on Cam Coleman's underwhelming season to this point, highlights key Texas high school football storylines, and discusses what she'll be watching as Texas enters the final stretch of the season.

Rod Babers joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss how a more consistent rushing attack could help mask some of Texas' offensive shortcomings and create more opportunities down the field. Rod also breaks down the challenges facing the Longhorns' secondary, explains why being "the other corner" can sometimes expose Kade Phillips, and details how improved technique and finishing plays could help reduce penalties and elevate his game.

Jacob Bain joins The Morning Kickoff to provide an inside look at Mississippi State heading into its matchup with Texas. Bain discusses the impact of star quarterback Kamario Taylor being ruled out for the remainder of the season, who is expected to step into the starting role moving forward, and how the Bulldogs are adjusting as they prepare to face the Longhorns in Austin.

November is here, and the stakes are only getting bigger for Texas Football. On this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we break down Steve Sarkisian's latest comments on the Longhorns' preparation, special teams improvements, and what Texas needs to show as the season enters its most important stretch. We also discuss the importance of establishing a more consistent running game, the challenges facing the Texas secondary, and what the Longhorns can expect from Mississippi State this weekend. Plus, a look at Texas Women's Basketball, high school football around the state, and all the latest storylines surrounding Texas Athletics as the...

On this episode of The Morning Kickoff, we broke down Texas' upcoming matchup with Mississippi State and discussed what stands out about the Bulldogs as the Longhorns prepare for another SEC test. We highlighted the Texas players making an impact on and off the field, talked about the importance of routine and preparation, and examined what it takes to maintain a championship standard throughout the season. We also previewed the biggest NFL games of the weekend, debated where Nikola Jokić belongs among basketball's all-time greats, discussed Texas Women's Basketball's showdown with Baylor, reacted to Ernie Johnson's retirement announcement, and looked a...

Horns247's Eric Henry joined The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas' weekend matchup against Mississippi State and explain what challenges the Bulldogs could present. Henry discussed Mississippi State's talented cornerback duo, how they could impact the game, and what the Longhorn offense needs to do to find success. He also shared his thoughts on Texas' outlook moving forward and took a moment to salute his hometown Tampa Bay Rays for their World Series run, reflecting on a memorable season that came up just short of a championship.

The Morning Kickoff took a closer look at Texas' ongoing third-quarter struggles and what needs to change for the Longhorns to play a more complete game. We discussed Steve Sarkisian's comments on halftime adjustments, why Texas continues to stall coming out of the break, and whether changes in-game could help the Longhorns avoid future slow starts. We also reacted to the latest NFL trades, talked Cowboys football, and previewed a packed college football weekend. From Texas football concerns to NFL headlines, today's show covered the biggest stories shaping the week.

Fantasy football expert Michael Fabiano joined The Morning Kickoff for his weekly visit to help listeners get ready for Week 7. Fabiano shared lineup advice, discussed key waiver-wire targets, highlighted favorable matchups, and answered some of the biggest fantasy questions heading into the weekend.

Danny Davis joined The Morning Kickoff to discuss Texas' continued third-quarter struggles and why the Longhorns have had difficulty maintaining momentum after halftime. Davis explained what needs to change moving forward and emphasized the importance of making effective adjustments when opponents counter what Texas is doing well. He also discussed Steve Sarkisian's approach to managing games and why, at this point in the season, the focus should simply be on finding ways to win, even if that means changing tendencies or making significant in-game adjustments.

Tommy Yarrish joined The Morning Kickoff to discuss the growth of the Cowboys' offensive line and the impact Tyler Booker, Tyler Guyton, and Tyler Smith have made in helping Dallas establish the run game and control the line of scrimmage. Yarrish also broke down DaRon Bland's season and how his role has changed with Joey Porter Jr. now handling the No. 1 cornerback responsibilities. He explained that Bland is going to give up some plays, but his performance has improved over the last couple of weeks as he's settled into his current role. Yarrish wrapped up the conversation by previewing Dallas...

On this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we preview Texas' upcoming matchup with Mississippi State and discuss what challenges the Bulldogs could present for the Longhorns. We also break down Steve Sarkisian's comments on the continued growth of the Texas run game and examine how a championship mindset can impact a team's success. Plus, the Cowboys roll past the Eagles 38-21 behind big performances from Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens, while we react to the latest NFL news, trade deadline rumors, and quarterback storylines around the league. We also discuss the Brewers moving within one win of their...

Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Houston's disappointing loss to the Giants and why the Texans now find themselves with their backs against the wall. VanderMeer explains why the team's struggles may be as much mental as physical at this point and discusses the urgency facing Houston as the season enters a critical stretch. He also shares his thoughts on what must change immediately if the Texans hope to get back on track and remain in the playoff conversation.

Texas picked up its biggest win of the season, knocking off No. 7 Ole Miss in a hard-fought SEC battle. On this episode of The Morning Kickoff, we break down how the Longhorns overcame key injuries, the impact of the running game, Arch Manning's competitive edge, and what the victory means moving forward in the SEC race. We also discuss Texas' next challenge against Mississippi State, recap another wild weekend across the Top 25, and examine the latest shakeups in the conference standings. Plus, we go Around the 40 with Texas Basketball, Women's Basketball, and Volleyball, recap the NFL weekend including the Texans...

Former MLB pitcher and Tampa Bay Rays alum Steve Kent joined The Morning Kickoff to discuss what it takes to succeed at the major league level and how those lessons apply to coaching today's athletes. He shared his approach to developing the next generation of players, why building strong character matters just as much as building talent, and how he helps young athletes become good human beings first. Kent also previewed the upcoming World Series matchup between Tampa Bay and Milwaukee, discussed what makes both clubs dangerous, and explained what he's watching for as the series gets underway.

Anne-Parker Clifton of KVUE joined The Morning Kickoff to discuss why Texas needs a win this weekend and what's at stake if the Longhorns come up short. She explained why she'd like to see the offense simply become more efficient and consistent, even if it isn't explosive, and weighed the potential ramifications of a decision to bench Arch Manning. Anne-Parker also previewed some of the biggest Texas high school football storylines heading into another busy weekend around the state.

Former major leaguer and World Series champion Gary Bennett joined The Morning Kickoff to break down the World Series matchup between Tampa Bay and Milwaukee. Bennett discussed the contrast between old-school and modern baseball philosophies, how today's game is coached differently than in previous eras, and where he sees the sport continuing to evolve. He also shared what he'd like to see from this year's Fall Classic, including a long, competitive seven-game series that showcases baseball at its best.

The pressure continues to build around Texas, and The Morning Kickoff tackled the biggest questions facing the Longhorns ahead of a crucial weekend. We discussed Steve Sarkisian's latest comments on handling expectations, potential offensive adjustments, and the challenge of finding the next players ready to step up. Plus, we debated what changes need to happen, what the trigger point would be for significant moves, previewed the weekend's biggest college football matchups, and looked ahead to what's at stake for Texas moving forward.

Texas is searching for answers as a pivotal matchup draws closer. On this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we discuss what the Longhorns must do offensively to get back on track, why the run game needs to become a bigger part of the identity, and where additional production is needed moving forward. Plus, we examine Texas' injury situation, preview a big weekend across college football, and discuss the storylines shaping the road ahead for the Longhorns.

Texas Women's Basketball Head Coach Vic Schaefer joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Madison Booker's impact on the program, the development of his freshman class, and how the Longhorns are preparing for the upcoming season through exhibition play. Schaefer also reflects on reaching his goal of selling out the Moody Center and explains how Texas is preparing for another challenging SEC campaign.

Horns247's Eric Henry joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Texas' injury situation, including the potential impact of being without Colin Simmons and which players may be called upon to step up. Eric also explains why the Longhorns need to establish the run game, how the tight end position can become a bigger factor offensively, and what Texas must do to get back on track. Plus, Eric shares his thoughts on his hometown Tampa Bay Rays reaching the World Series.

Opportunity is still there for Texas, but the results haven't followed. At 4-2, the Longhorns remain very much in the hunt, yet questions continue to surround the offense, the run game, and the team's inability to consistently translate potential into production. As the season enters a critical stretch, the margin for error continues to shrink. On this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we discuss Steve Sarkisian's comments on the offense, what must change for Texas to regain its identity, and why the time for talking about potential is over. If the Longhorns are going to turn their season around, it...

Fantasy football expert Michael Fabiano joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Week 7 and help you gain an edge before kickoff. From must-start players and sleeper picks to potential busts and waiver-wire options, Fabs breaks down everything fantasy managers need to know for the week ahead.

Danny Davis joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss where Texas stands at 4-2 and why the Longhorns still have an opportunity to turn their season around. He explains what's gone wrong, what needs to improve, and why the margin for error is quickly disappearing as Texas enters a pivotal stretch of the season.

Tommy Yarrish joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss the Cowboys' 2-4 start, the defense showing signs of improvement in stretches, and the offense's recent struggles. He explains why Dallas still has a path back into contention, but like Texas, any turnaround needs to start immediately.

Texas football is searching for answers as questions continue to surround Steve Sarkisian, Arch Manning, and an offense looking to regain its identity. The Morning Kickoff breaks down the biggest Longhorn storylines, discusses Texas Basketball's latest developments, recaps the Rays' trip to the World Series, and previews the start of the NBA season. Plus, we debate accountability, leadership, and what needs to change for teams facing high expectations but struggling to meet the moment. It's a packed morning covering the biggest stories from across the sports world. Listen live weekdays from 6-9 AM on Sports Radio 1300 The Zone

Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer joins The Morning Kickoff to break down Houston's exciting victory over Jacksonville in London and explain why the upcoming schedule presents a real opportunity for the Texans to build momentum. Vandermeer also discusses Tank Dell's return, the continued growth of C.J. Stroud, and why the young quarterback is showing all the traits of a long-term franchise cornerstone for Houston.

Texas entered the season with championship expectations, but after another disappointing loss, the questions are only getting louder. On today's episode, the crew examines how the Longhorns reached this point, why the offense continues to struggle in crucial moments, and what Steve Sarkisian means when he says everything is being evaluated. We discuss the team's ongoing second-half issues, hand out accountability grades through six games, and debate whether Texas is simply in a rough stretch or facing a much bigger problem. Plus, reactions to a chaotic weekend across college football, thoughts on the Texans and Cowboys, and a look ahead...