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

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By: AM 1300 THE ZONE (KVET-AM)

Welcome to “The Morning Kick-Off Show” with Mike “Hardball” Hardge and Olympian & WWE Legend, “The World’s Strongest Man” Mark Henry!

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Eric Henry Joins the Kickoff: Breaking Down Texas vs. Texas State
Eric Henry Joins the Kickoff: Breaking Down Texas vs. Texas State episode artwork
Yesterday at 2:47 PM

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.


The Legend Returns: Mack Brown on Texas Football, College Football's Future & More
The Legend Returns: Mack Brown on Texas Football, College Football's Future & More episode artwork
Yesterday at 2:44 PM

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.


Transfer Thursday: Which New Longhorn Makes the Biggest Impact in 2026?
Transfer Thursday: Which New Longhorn Makes the Biggest Impact in 2026? episode artwork
Yesterday at 2:44 PM

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...


Cowboys Insider Tommy Yarrish Talks Final Roster Decisions, Christian Parker's Defense & the Joe Milton Surprise
Cowboys Insider Tommy Yarrish Talks Final Roster Decisions, Christian Parker's Defense & the Joe Milton Surprise episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 2:41 PM

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 Breaks Down Texas vs. Texas State and What to Expect in Week 1
Danny Davis Breaks Down Texas vs. Texas State and What to Expect in Week 1 episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 2:38 PM

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. 


Texas State Insider Keff Ciardello Previews the Bobcats' Week 1 Showdown with Texas
Texas State Insider Keff Ciardello Previews the Bobcats' Week 1 Showdown with Texas episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 2:35 PM

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...


Pressure Reveals Preparation: The New Era of Texas Defense
Pressure Reveals Preparation: The New Era of Texas Defense episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 2:31 PM

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.


Everything Texans: Houston's Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer Breaks Down Everything Heading Into Week 1
Everything Texans: Houston's Voice of the Texans Marc Vandermeer Breaks Down Everything Heading Into Week 1 episode artwork
Last Tuesday at 2:24 PM

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...


Four Days to Texas Football
Four Days to Texas Football episode artwork
Last Tuesday at 2:19 PM

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...


Bar Raised: Longhorns Ready for Launch
Bar Raised: Longhorns Ready for Launch episode artwork
Last Monday at 2:21 PM

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


Legends of the Locker Room: Jackson Jeffcoat
Legends of the Locker Room: Jackson Jeffcoat episode artwork
08/28/2026

Longhorn legend Jackson Jeffcoat joined the show to discuss his induction into the University of Texas Hall of Honor, reflect on the journey that earned him recognition as one of the program's all-time greats, share what stands out about current Longhorn pass rushers Colin Simmons and Lance Jackson, and explain why he's excited about the potential of this year's Texas team as the Longhorns prepare for a highly anticipated season.


Final Tune-Up: Texas Enters the Last Week Before Kickoff
Final Tune-Up: Texas Enters the Last Week Before Kickoff episode artwork
08/28/2026

With just eight days until kickoff, Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry break down Texas' final scrimmage, position battles, and the latest from Steve Sarkisian and Arch Manning. The guys also question why so much attention is given to perceived issues at Texas while concerns surrounding Texas A&M continue to fly under the radar. Plus, Week Zero previews, NFL storylines, Cowboys and Texans news, and more on The Morning Kickoff. 


Nine Days Away: Texas Football, Arch Manning and the Teams Under Pressure
Nine Days Away: Texas Football, Arch Manning and the Teams Under Pressure episode artwork
08/27/2026

It's a Thirsty Thursday edition of The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry as the countdown to Texas Football continues with just 9 days until kickoff. The guys break down what they're hoping to see from the Longhorns' final fall camp scrimmage, discuss Arch Manning's leadership, and why Texas' defense could be the story of the season. Plus, Eric Henry of Horns247 joins the show to discuss the latest from the Forty Acres, including Trevor Goosby's injury status, fall camp takeaways, and what to watch as Texas gets closer to Game 1. The crew also tackles coaching hot seats...


Arch Manning Learning to Lead His Way, College Football Kicks Off & What's Missing for the Texans and Cowboys
Arch Manning Learning to Lead His Way, College Football Kicks Off & What's Missing for the Texans and Cowboys episode artwork
08/26/2026

College football is finally here, and we're diving into some of the biggest storylines heading into the season. Danny Davis of the Austin American-Statesman joins the show to talk all things Texas Longhorns football, including Arch Manning's growth as a leader and how he's learning to embrace his own style while guiding the Longhorns into a highly anticipated season. We also discuss the Longhorns players who earned spots on the Top 100 Athletes list, what those recognitions mean for Texas, and which players could have the biggest impact this fall. Danny shares his insights from around the program, key position battles...


Cowboys Beat Writer Tommy Yarrish on Jerry Jones, Potential Dallas Moves & Joe Milton's Rise as QB2
Cowboys Beat Writer Tommy Yarrish on Jerry Jones, Potential Dallas Moves & Joe Milton's Rise as QB2 episode artwork
08/26/2026

Dallas Cowboys beat writer Tommy Yarrish joins the show to discuss the latest developments surrounding America's Team. We dive into Jerry Jones' recent comments, explore potential roster moves Dallas could still make before the season, and examine why Joe Milton is gaining momentum as the Cowboys' QB2 option. Tommy also shares insights from training camp, evaluates key position battles, and discusses what fans should be watching as the Cowboys finalize their roster. 


Raiders Insider Q Myers Talks Mendoza, Jeanty, Crosby, and the New Era Under Coach Kubiak
Raiders Insider Q Myers Talks Mendoza, Jeanty, Crosby, and the New Era Under Coach Kubiak episode artwork
08/25/2026

Raiders Insider Q Myers joins the show to break down everything happening in Las Vegas as the Silver and Black gear up for the season. From quarterback Mendoza's development to the latest injury update on Ashton Jeanty, Q provides insight into some of the Raiders' biggest storylines. We also discuss Maxx Crosby's future in Las Vegas, the team's evolving culture, and what fans can expect from the new regime under Coach Kubiak. Don't miss this in-depth conversation packed with analysis, insider perspective, and all things Raiders football.


Amid College Football Madness, Sark Has One Focus: Texas
Amid College Football Madness, Sark Has One Focus: Texas episode artwork
08/25/2026

College football isn't what it used to be. The NCAA is under fire once again, while Coach Steve Sarkisian has the Longhorns locked in and focused ahead of Week 1. Plus, NFL players are battling for roster spots as the preseason nears its end and cut days fast approach. Don't miss this Turn the Page Tuesday edition of The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry as they tackle all that and much more!


Longhorns Slowly Rounding Into Form Amid Injuries, Ty'Anthony Smith's Dismissal & Deshaun's Lose-Lose Situation
Longhorns Slowly Rounding Into Form Amid Injuries, Ty'Anthony Smith's Dismissal & Deshaun's Lose-Lose Situation episode artwork
08/24/2026

The Longhorns are slowly rounding into form despite a growing list of injuries and the dismissal of Ty'Anthony Smith. We break down how Texas is adapting to adversity, what it means for the roster moving forward, and why Deshaun Watson finds himself in a true lose-lose situation. Plus, our latest thoughts on where the Longhorns stand as the season approaches. All that and more on this Monday edition of The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!


Texas Hall of Famer Quan Cosby on Sark, Muschamp & Texas' Loaded WR Room
Texas Hall of Famer Quan Cosby on Sark, Muschamp & Texas' Loaded WR Room episode artwork
08/24/2026

Longhorn Hall of Honor inductee Quan Cosby stopped by the show to talk about the continued rise of Texas football under Steve Sarkisian, Will Muschamp's influence behind the scenes, and why the Longhorns' wide receiver room is one of the most talented in the country.


Can Texas Dominate Both Sides of the Ball? NFL Rosters Are Coming Together & Is Harden Worth the Investment?
Can Texas Dominate Both Sides of the Ball? NFL Rosters Are Coming Together & Is Harden Worth the Investment? episode artwork
08/21/2026

Cam Coleman is looking to lead by example and embrace a team-first mentality, while Will Muschamp is already making his presence felt on the defensive side of the ball. Plus, the Cowboys and Texans continue to sort through key position battles and finalize roster spots as the NFL season approaches. We also dive into whether giving James Harden $97 million was the right move. All that and much more on this Feel Good Friday edition of The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!


Chaos Continues in College Sports, Texas Faces the SEC Challenge, and the NFL Injury Crisis Continues
Chaos Continues in College Sports, Texas Faces the SEC Challenge, and the NFL Injury Crisis Continues episode artwork
08/20/2026

The madness of college athletics continues to steamroll forward. Will the Texas Longhorns finally put it all together and make a run through the loaded SEC? Meanwhile, NFL teams just can't seem to escape the injury bug, as key players continue to go down across the league. Plus, would you like to see Mexico or Canada land an NFL franchise someday? Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry break it all down and share their thoughts on these hot topics in this Thirsty Thursday edition of The Morning Kickoff!


Fantasy Football Guru Michael Fabiano Joins the Show (8-19-26)
Fantasy Football Guru Michael Fabiano Joins the Show (8-19-26) episode artwork
08/19/2026

With fantasy football draft season right around the corner, fantasy football expert Michael Fabiano joins the show to help the fellas get prepared. From sleepers and breakout candidates to draft-day strategy, Fabiano offers plenty of advice for fantasy managers and shares how fans can play fantasy football alongside him this season.


Legendary Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. James Andrews Joins The Morning Kickoff (8-19-26)
Legendary Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. James Andrews Joins The Morning Kickoff (8-19-26) episode artwork
08/19/2026

World-renowned sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews joins the show to discuss his role in one of the most significant moments in sports medicine history: the first Tommy John surgery. He reflects on his legendary career helping countless athletes return from career-threatening injuries, shares stories from decades at the forefront of sports medicine, and pays tribute to his dear friend Tommy John, whose groundbreaking procedure changed the game forever


Longhorns' Next Man Up Mentality, Cowboys Exploring Every Tackle Option & MLB Madness Picks Up Steam
Longhorns' Next Man Up Mentality, Cowboys Exploring Every Tackle Option & MLB Madness Picks Up Steam episode artwork
08/19/2026

The "next man up" mentality is alive and well in Austin as the Longhorns gear up for the season. The Cowboys are evaluating every possible combination at offensive tackle, and Pete Crow-Armstrong keeps making a strong push for MVP honors. Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry tackle those stories and much more on this action-packed Wayback Wednesday edition of The Morning Kickoff!


Marc Vandermeer Joins the Show | 8.18.26
Marc Vandermeer Joins the Show | 8.18.26 episode artwork
08/18/2026

Marc Vandermeer, the voice of the Houston Texans, joins the guys to discuss Houston's preseason outlook, the reunion with Jadeveon Clowney, the team's most impactful offseason additions, and the latest update on Tank Dell. Get ready for a deep dive into one of the AFC's top contenders as the season draws near.


Texas Lands at No. 5, Dallas Isn't Finished Yet, and MLB Award Battles Take Shape
Texas Lands at No. 5, Dallas Isn't Finished Yet, and MLB Award Battles Take Shape episode artwork
08/18/2026

Sark weighs in on the significance, or lack thereof, of the preseason polls as the Longhorns prepare for their final dress rehearsal and scrimmage before the season kicks off. Plus, are the Cowboys done making moves after adding Von Miller, or is there more to come? We'll also break down the NFC East outlook and take a look at MLB's award races as they begin to take shape. And don't miss our conversation with Austin Gamblers CEO JJ Gottsch. All that and more on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!


Texas Football Takes Shape, Cowboys Push Their Chips In & an MLB Debut to Remember
Texas Football Takes Shape, Cowboys Push Their Chips In & an MLB Debut to Remember episode artwork
08/17/2026

Coach Steve Sarkisian shares his thoughts on the Longhorns following the first scrimmage of fall camp, giving fans an early look at where Texas stands heading into the season. Plus, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys are finally pushing their chips to the center of the table in an effort to become legitimate Super Bowl contenders. We'll also discuss Joshua Baez's unforgettable Major League debut and everything else making headlines on a Longhorn Monday edition of The Morning Kick-Off with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!


Longhorns Defense Ready to Take The Charge, Jayden Daniels Is Tripping, Rookies QBs Showing Something This Preseason
Longhorns Defense Ready to Take The Charge, Jayden Daniels Is Tripping, Rookies QBs Showing Something This Preseason episode artwork
08/14/2026

Rasheem Biles & Lance Jackson are ready to lead the longhorns defense this season, Jayden Daniels team messed up big time, Drew Allar & Fernando Mendoza showed something in their preseason debuts, & much more here on a Feel Good Friday here at The Morning Kick-Off With Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry!


Legends Of The Locker Room: Mark Boswell
Legends Of The Locker Room: Mark Boswell episode artwork
08/13/2026

UT Legend & Olympian Mark Boswell joins the show!


What is Westbrook's Legacy?, NFL Preaseon Is Upon Us, The Longhorns Are DEEP & Ready To Set The Tone
What is Westbrook's Legacy?, NFL Preaseon Is Upon Us, The Longhorns Are DEEP & Ready To Set The Tone episode artwork
08/13/2026

Russell Westbrook's legacy as he walks away from the game of basketball, Coach sark thinks the longhorns are deep & eager to set the tone early & often this season, NFL pre-season action is here & UT Legend & Olympian, Mark Boswell joins the show! All here & more on a Wayback Wednesday on The Morning Kick-Off With Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry!


Sark On Player & Coach Accountability, Kyler's Redemption Arc Loading?, Is Caleb Williams Underrated?
Sark On Player & Coach  Accountability, Kyler's Redemption Arc Loading?, Is Caleb Williams Underrated? episode artwork
08/12/2026

The turnover margin is key in both directions for Coach Sark & The Longhorns, Kyler Murray is the new QB1 for Minnesota, Is Caleb Williams underrated? , Danny Davis of the Austin-American Statesman joins the show, & BREAKING NEWS! Tune in to hear what's next here at The Morning Kick-Off w/Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry


Physicality is the name of the game for Coach Sark & the Longhorns, The Cowboys Paid SOMEBODY, & Injuries Starting To Pile Up
Physicality is the name of the game for Coach Sark & the Longhorns, The Cowboys Paid SOMEBODY, & Injuries Starting To Pile Up episode artwork
08/11/2026

Coach Sark is puuting a tsrong emphasis on physicality & depth at every position, Jerry Jones paid somebody, just not who you think, Injuries & next man up are the name of the game at this stage of preason & training camp, & Mark blames WHO for the NBA season schedule hold up? All & more on a Turning The Page Tuesday edition of The Morning Kick-Off with Mike Hardball Hardge & Mark Henry!


The Morning Kick-Off With Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry- 8/10/26
The Morning Kick-Off With Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry- 8/10/26 episode artwork
08/10/2026

Longhorn Monday On The Morning Kick-Off With Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry- 8/10/26

Cowboys & Texans look to lean on their defenses to make things happen this year. Longhorns have too much talent to not make the absolute most out of this season.


It's A Texas Football Friday!
It's A Texas Football Friday! episode artwork
08/07/2026

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry talk all things Texas Football as we count down the days to kickoff. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!


Football In Texas Is Fast Approaching!
Football In Texas Is Fast Approaching! episode artwork
08/06/2026

TMike "Hardball" Hardge and The World's Strongest Man, Mark Henry, are gearing up for Texas Football, and the NFL season. Get the latest on how things are heating up here on The Morning Kickoff!


The Preseason hype surrounding the Longhorns, Did Zay really deserve THIS bag?, & NFL Training Camp is Upon Us.
The Preseason hype surrounding the Longhorns, Did Zay really deserve THIS bag?, & NFL Training Camp is Upon Us. episode artwork
08/05/2026

Can the Longhorns cash the checks that the college football world are cashing on their behalf this season? Is Zay Flowers THAT nice? Both the Houston Texans & Dallas Cowboys looking for fast starts this season. All of this & more on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge & The World's Strongest Man, Mark Henry!


Bijan Got PAID, Biggest Winners & Losers from MLB Trade Deadline, Can Texas finally put it all together?
Bijan Got PAID, Biggest Winners & Losers from MLB Trade Deadline, Can Texas finally put it all together? episode artwork
08/04/2026

Texas' championship aspirations this upcoming season, NFL running back market may be shifting in a positive light, Are the Dodgers already crowning themselves? Plus Coach Bates from the Longhorn soccer team joins the show. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge & Mark Henry.


Longhorns Monday: 33 Days To Texas Football, Rangers v Astros, NFL Latest
Longhorns Monday: 33 Days To Texas Football, Rangers v Astros, NFL Latest episode artwork
08/03/2026

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and guest co-host Eric Henry of Horns247 continue counting down to Texas Football, recap the Rangers vs Astros series, talk Cowboys and Texans, and more. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!


Feel Good Friday: All Things Football
Feel Good Friday: All Things Football episode artwork
07/31/2026

Mike "Hardball" Hardge talks all things football as we count down the days to the start of Texas Football and the NFL season. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!


Texas Hall Of Honor: Michael Williams
Texas Hall Of Honor: Michael Williams episode artwork
07/30/2026

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and The World's Strongest Man, Mark Henry, talk with Hall Of Honor Inductee Michael Williams, here on The Morning Kickoff!