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

On this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we break down the proposed Protect College Sports Act and debate which rule could have the biggest impact on college football, from transfer portal restrictions to NIL regulations and coaching movement. We also preview a busy football weekend as Texas prepares for UTSA, discuss the Cowboys' need to respond against Washington, and examine whether the Texans can handle business against Cincinnati. Plus:
Sark's latest message on what it means to represent TexasHardge Knocks Life: The applause are over, now comes the workThe Battle of Ole MissNFL Winners and LosersMLB Pennant ChaseMike Leach's...

Daily Texan Sports Editor Meaghan English joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas' upcoming matchup with UTSA and discuss what she's seeing from the Longhorns heading into another important week. Meaghan also reflects on one of her most memorable assignments, making the grueling 15-hour trip to Florida last season to cover Texas on the road, and shares what it's like traveling with and reporting on one of college football's biggest programs.

Former Texas Longhorn and current UTSA defensive line coach Chris Nelson joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss this week's matchup against Texas and what it's like returning to Austin. Nelson shares lessons learned from his playing days, his philosophy for developing young athletes, and the importance of building relationships inside the locker room. He also breaks down how he approaches coaching the trenches and highlights several Roadrunner defensive linemen who could make a major impact against the Longhorns. A conversation filled with football knowledge, coaching insight, and appreciation for the game from one of the most respected figures around the...

Fantasy football expert Michael Fabiano joins the show to break down everything you need to know after an exciting Week 1 of the NFL season! We discuss the biggest fantasy football takeaways from Week 1, players who may be headed for disappointing performances in Week 2, and the under-the-radar sleepers who could help win your matchup. Michael also shares his insight on trending waiver wire pickups, breakout candidates, and which players fantasy managers should keep a close eye on moving forward.

Austin American-Statesman reporter Danny Davis joins The Morning Kickoff to break down Texas' impressive comeback victory over Ohio State. Danny discusses what the win revealed about Steve Sarkisian's team, the resilience shown in crunch time, and why the Longhorns continue to prove they can handle the biggest stages. Plus, what the victory means moving forward as Texas prepares for UTSA and the challenges ahead.

JJ Perez of Inside Runner Sports joins The Morning Kickoff to preview UTSA's matchup with Texas. JJ discusses the Roadrunners' early-season struggles, the challenges they've faced through the first part of the schedule, and the players who could make an impact against the Longhorns. He also reflects on how far the UTSA program has come in recent years and what success looks like as the Roadrunners continue to build their identity on the national stage.

Tommy Yarrish joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Dallas' tough Week 1 loss to the Giants and why a quick response is critical. We break down what went wrong, how the Cowboys can bounce back, key areas that need improvement, and whether Dallas has the pieces in place to get its season back on track before things snowball early.

Texas rallied for a huge comeback victory over Ohio State, but Steve Sarkisian's message remains clear: the standard doesn't change. On this episode of The Morning Kickoff, we break down the Longhorns' biggest win of the season, discuss what Texas proved in a hostile environment, and look ahead to the upcoming matchup with UTSA. Joining the show, Danny Davis discusses the significance of Texas' comeback win and what it says about this team's championship mentality. Tommy Yarrish breaks down Dallas' disappointing Week 1 loss to the Giants and the adjustments the Cowboys must make moving forward. Michael Fabiano, NFL Fantasy Football...

Texas is the new No. 1 team in the country, and on this edition of The Morning Kickoff, we break down exactly how the Longhorns got there. Hear from Steve Sarkisian as he discusses the first-half offensive struggles, the dominant second-half defensive performance, leadership within the program, and the coaching points that helped Texas respond. Plus, we dive into Arch Manning's clutch second-half performance and why his preparation showed up when the lights were brightest. The crew debates what ultimately decided the game, examines how Texas won the battle up front, and reacts to the latest SEC weekly honors, including recognition...

Voice of the Houston Texans, Marc Vandermeer, joins The Morning Kickoff to break down Houston's difficult Week 1 loss to the Buffalo Bills and what the team can learn from the defeat. Vandermeer shares his thoughts on the Texans' performance, areas that need improvement, and the biggest takeaways from the opener. Plus, a look ahead to a crucial matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, key players to watch, and what Houston must do to bounce back and get its first win of the season. Don't miss one of the most trusted voices covering the Texans as he provides insight into the team's...

The Morning Kickoff breaks down how the Texas Longhorns became the nation's new No. 1 team after erasing a 20-point fourth-quarter deficit in one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent memory. We dive into the clutch plays from Arch Manning, Steve Sarkisian's bold fourth-down decisions, and the moments that turned a certain loss into a historic victory. Plus, The Morning Kickoff debates whether one incredible quarter erases the concerns that surfaced earlier in the game, hands out the Good, Bad & Ugly from Texas' performance, recaps the Cowboys' loss to the Giants, discusses the Texans' high-scoring defeat against Buffalo, and looks...

The Morning Kickoff honors 9/11 and dives headfirst into one of the biggest college football weekends of the season. The crew discusses why Texas is ready to take the next step, the thin line between good and great, pressure points in the Longhorns showdown with Ohio State, and what makes this game so important. Plus, NFL Week 1 reactions after the 49ers dominated the Rams, the latest MLB pennant race updates, and predictions for a loaded weekend of football.

Former Texas All-American and Longhorn legend Rod Babers joins The Morning Kickoff for another edition of Legends of the Locker Room. As Texas prepares for its massive showdown with Ohio State, Rod explains why the biggest games are defined by the biggest players. He discusses the championship mindset required for moments like these, how stars separate themselves under pressure, and why elite competitors embrace the spotlight instead of shrinking from it. Rod also breaks down the key playmakers who could decide the outcome and shares why big-time players are expected to make big-time plays when everything is on the line<...

KVUE's Anne-Parker Clifton-Coleman joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss the excitement building around Austin ahead of the highly anticipated Texas vs. Ohio State showdown. Anne-Parker shares what she's hearing around campus, the buzz surrounding game week, key storylines to watch, and what a win could mean for the Longhorns & the city of Austin.

CBS Sports football analyst and Lifetime Longhorn Brian Jones joins The Morning Kickoff to break down Texas vs. Ohio State. BJ discusses what separates championship teams from contenders, where Texas has improved the most under Steve Sarkisian, key matchups to watch, and why this game could shape the national title race. Plus, his thoughts on the Longhorn culture, leadership, and the pressure of playing on college football's biggest stage.

Texas legend and former Longhorn linebacker Derrick Johnson joins The Morning Kickoff for another edition of Legends of the Locker Room. DJ shares his thoughts on Texas' highly anticipated showdown with Ohio State, what it takes to win games on the biggest stage, and the mindset championship teams must possess when the pressure is at its highest. He also reflects on leadership, preparation, and the standard of excellence that has defined Texas football's greatest teams. Plus, Derrick discusses the impact of his Defend the Dream Foundation and the work being done to help empower the next generation both on and...

The Morning Kickoff breaks down the biggest game of the college football weekend as Texas and Ohio State collide under the lights at DKR. The crew discusses why this matchup is a true measuring stick for Steve Sarkisian's program, the four keys to victory for Texas, and whether Arch Manning will have enough protection against an elite Buckeye defense. Plus, can the Longhorns contain Ohio State's explosive playmakers and win the battle at the line of scrimmage?

Horns247's Eric Henry joins The Morning Kickoff to preview one of the biggest games of the college football season as Texas hosts Ohio State at DKR. Eric breaks down the key matchups that could decide the game, including Texas' receiving corps against Ohio State's secondary, the battle in the trenches, and how the Longhorn defense can slow down the Buckeyes' explosive playmakers. He also discusses where Texas may have the edge, the biggest concerns for both teams heading into Saturday, and what it will take for the Longhorns to come away with a statement victory.

Bucknuts 247Sports insider Patrick Murphy joins The Morning Kickoff for a deep dive into the highly anticipated Texas vs Ohio State showdown in Austin.

DallasCowboys.com writer Tommy Yarrish joins The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry to discuss the latest on Tyler Smith's injury and what it means for the Cowboys as Week 1 approaches. Tommy breaks down Dallas' offensive line outlook, how the team could adjust if needed, key players to watch, and what to expect as the Cowboys prepare to open the season.

Austin American-Statesman reporter Danny Davis joins The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry to break down Texas and Ohio State ahead of one of college football's most anticipated matchups. Danny shares his insight on the Longhorns' biggest challenges, how Texas matches up against the Buckeyes, key players to watch, and what must happen for the Horns to come away with a statement win at DKR.

Fantasy Football Guru Michael Fabiano joins The Morning Kickoff to get you ready for Week 1 of the NFL season. Fabiano discusses the biggest matchup advantages, breakout candidates, risky starts, and players who could win your fantasy week. Get expert advice before setting your lineup and stay ahead of your competition.

The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry gets you ready for the biggest game of the weekend as Texas takes on Ohio State at DKR. The guys break down the biggest key to the matchup: can the Longhorns slow down the Buckeyes' rushing attack? Plus, the critical plays that could decide the game, NFL opening night, LSU talk, and picks for a loaded football weekend. 

Chris Plonsky joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss the continued success and growth of Longhorn Women's Athletics. With 39 years at The University of Texas, Plonsky shares her perspective on building championship programs, supporting student-athletes, elevating women's sports, and maintaining Texas' tradition of excellence. From national success to the future of women's athletics on the Forty Acres, Plonsky provides insight into the leadership, culture, and vision that continue to make Texas one of the premier athletic departments in the country.

Voice of the Houston Texans Marc Vandermeer joins The Morning Kickoff to discuss Houston's expectations for the season and a key question facing the offense: who will step up at wide receiver opposite Nico Collins? Vandermeer breaks down the Texans' outlook, potential breakout playmakers, and what it will take for Houston to make a deep run this season.

he Longhorns have turned the page and shifted their focus to Ohio State. Steve Sarkisian discusses the run game, Texas' preparation, and key injury updates, while Arch Manning shares his mindset and preparation for a marquee matchup. On The Morning Kickoff with Mike Hardge and Mark Henry, the crew reacts to Raheem Biles' standout play, breaks down the pressure surrounding several key coaches, discusses the Cowboys' latest injury setback, and previews Texas vs. Ohio State under the lights at DKR Stadium.

Texas opened the season with a 59-7 win over Texas State, and now the focus shifts to Ohio State. On this Longhorns Monday edition of The Morning Kickoff, we break down Arch Manning's performance, the biggest plays from the opener, defensive standouts like Rasheem Biles and Littleton, and Steve Sarkisian's postgame comments. We also discuss what Texas still needs to clean up before the Buckeyes arrive at DKR, hand out our Stars of the Game, revisit a perfect 16-0 opening weekend for the SEC, and play another round of Start, Bench, or Cut featuring the Rams, Texans, and Broncos defenses...

Texas Longhorn legend, former All-Big 12 defensive back, and a respected voice from the locker room, Rod Babers joins The Morning Kickoff to break down Texas football ahead of the season opener against Texas State. Rod shares his perspective on Arch Manning's growth as the leader of the Longhorn offense, what he expects from the Texas defense, and the areas Texas must clean up before SEC play heats up. He also discusses the championship standard inside the program, the mentality required to win at Texas, and what he's watching most closely in Game 1. It's a can't-miss football conversation with one of...

KVUE's Anne-Parker Clifton joins The Morning Kickoff to preview another exciting season of Texas high school football. From the biggest Friday Night Lights matchups to the players and programs to watch, Anne-Parker breaks down the stories shaping football across the Lone Star State as opening weekend arrives.

It's officially game eve in Austin, and The Morning Kickoff is counting down the final day before Texas opens the 2026 season against Texas State. The crew discusses what Year 6 under Steve Sarkisian means for the Longhorn program, Sark's latest injury updates, and the excitement surrounding Arch Manning as he takes the next step in leading the Longhorn offense. On this Feel Good Friday edition of The Morning Kickoff, the countdown is nearly over. One more sleep until Texas football returns to DKR. Hook 'Em.

Horns247's Eric Henry joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas' season opener against Texas State. Eric discusses key transfer portal additions, the Bobcats' strengths, and what could determine whether the Longhorns start 2026 with a statement victory. Insight, analysis, and predictions from one of the top voices covering Texas football.

Longhorn legend and National Championship-winning coach Mack Brown joins The Morning Kickoff to talk Texas football, the evolution of college football, and the excitement surrounding the start of the 2026 season. Coach Brown shares stories, insights from a lifetime in the game, and his thoughts on where Texas stands heading into another highly anticipated campaign. A can't-miss conversation with one of the most respected figures in college football.

With just days until Texas kicks off the 2026 season against Texas State, The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry dives into the Longhorns' massive transfer class and debates which newcomer could have the biggest impact. Hear from Steve Sarkisian, Arch Manning, and Texas players as they prepare for a tricky Texas State team that brings talent and tempo to Austin. Hardball and The World's Strongest Man break down the biggest storylines heading into Week 1, including whether Texas can cover a nearly 30-point spread and what fans should take away from the final days of preparation before kickoff...

Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com joins The Morning Kickoff to break down the Cowboys' final roster moves as Dallas prepares for the start of the 2026 season. Tommy discusses the biggest surprises from roster cutdowns, including the decision to move on from quarterback Joe Milton, and what those moves say about the direction of the team. The conversation also dives into the Cowboys' defense under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, how the unit is adapting to his system, key players to watch on that side of the ball, and whether the defense can be one of the team's strengths this season...

Danny Davis of the Austin American-Statesman joins The Morning Kickoff to preview Texas' season opener against Texas State. Danny discusses the biggest storylines surrounding the Longhorns entering Week 1, what he's learned from covering the team throughout camp, and the players who could have the biggest impact on opening day. He also shares his expectations for Will Muschamp's defense, the biggest questions Texas still needs to answer, and what a successful performance against the Bobcats would look like as the Longhorns begin the 2026 season. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with one of the most respected voices covering Texas football. 

As Texas and Texas State get set to kick off the 2026 season, Keff Ciardello, host of the Texas State podcast "Win or Get Bent," joins The Morning Kickoff to provide the Bobcats' perspective ahead of Week 1. Keff discusses the outlook for Texas State, the team's strengths and concerns heading into the opener, players Longhorn fans should know, and where the Bobcats believe they can challenge Texas. Plus, he shares expectations for the season and the overall direction of the program as it prepares for a trip to Austin. For more Texas State football coverage, analysis, and insider insight, check out...

With kickoff just three days away, The Morning Kickoff dives into the biggest storyline surrounding Texas football: Will Muschamp's defense. From player reactions and cultural changes to the differences between Muschamp and Pete Kwiatkowski, the crew explores why expectations are soaring for the Longhorns' defense in 2026. Plus, who emerges as the star of the defense, what fans need to see against Texas State, and whether Texas should comfortably cover the 30.5-point spread in Game 1.

The NFL regular season is here, and The Morning Kickoff welcomes the longtime Voice of the Houston Texans, Marc Vandermeer, to discuss everything surrounding Houston as Week 1 approaches. Vandermeer joins Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry to break down the Texans' expectations for the season, key roster storylines, biggest strengths and concerns, and what fans should watch for when Houston takes the field. From the quarterback situation to playoff aspirations, it's a comprehensive look at the Texans as they prepare to kick off another season in Houston. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of the most trusted voices covering...

The countdown is officially on. With Texas State just days away, the focus turns to Arch Manning, Steve Sarkisian, and a Longhorn team carrying championship expectations. On this Turn The Page Tuesday edition of The Morning Kickoff, Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry break down Sark's latest comments, the outlook for Texas' skill positions and offensive line, what should concern fans most before kickoff, and why this season could define the next chapter of Texas football. Plus, NFL headlines, Cowboys talk, a look at local players making NFL rosters, and a deep dive into the weight of expectations surrounding Arch...

Texas football is back, and the countdown to kickoff is on. Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry break down Sark's final scrimmage, the biggest concerns heading into Week 1, what defines success in Year 6, and the five things Texas must show against Texas State. Plus, College Football Zero Week reactions, the 49ers' wild offseason, Cowboys and Texans roster updates, SEC Week 1 previews, and Longhorns making NFL rosters. Hook 'Em and welcome to a Longhorn Monday edition of The Morning Kickoff on Sports Radio 1300 The Zone