Ball Games And Beyond
176 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 days ago -Hosted by Evan Groat, segment producer for Sportsnaut.com, Ball Games and Beyond is a podcast dedicated to sports junkies who prefer to take a deeper dive into prominent headlines and trending topics in the world of sports. Whether it's the NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA, or NCAA we have you covered. Weekly shows will incorporate interviews with expert guests including local and national writers, team reporters, and insiders who will bring their insights and opinions to the conversation. Take your passion for sports to the next level and tune in to Ball Games and Beyond!
Homepage Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Top Storylines From MLB's First Half
July 09, 2024 20:05 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MBDiscussing the top storylines from MLB's first half with USA Today baseball writer, Gabe Lacques
Top NBA Draft Prospects
June 25, 2024 22:16 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBThis week on Ball Games & Beyond, host Evan Groat discusses the top prospects in this year's NBA draft with College basketball writer, Cameron Salerno from CBS Sports.
Caitlin Clark Olympics Snub And Her WNBA Perception
June 12, 2024 22:14 - 22 minutes - 21.1 MBAP National Women's Basketball writer Doug Feinberg joins Ball Games and Beyond to discuss why Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark was left off the USA Women's Basketball Olympic Team. He also discusses Caitlin Clark's treatment so far in the WNBA and if the other players are actually jealous of her.
2024 NBA Finals Preview w/ Justin Termine
June 04, 2024 16:12 - 23 minutes - 21.1 MBThis week on Ball Games & Beyond we discuss the many storylines of the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks with guest Justin Termine host of "NBA Today" on SiriusXM's NBA radio channel.
Has The NFL WR Market Reached A Breaking Point w/ Randy Mueller
May 25, 2024 01:43 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MBOn this week's episode of Ball Games and Beyond former NFL GM, Randy Mueller joins the show to discuss his latest story for the Athletic detailing the NFL's wide receiver market and the rising cost of the position.
All Eyes On Mystik Dan: Preakness Stakes Headlines w/ Steve Byk
May 16, 2024 02:40 - 30 minutes - 27.9 MBSiriusXM host of "At The Races", Steve Byk joins the show to discuss the latest headlines ahead of the 149th Preakness Stakes. Morning line favorite, Muth was scratched from the race on Wednesday after coming down with a fever. Hear Steve's opinion on which horse will benefit the most from the absence of Muth as well as other race related topics.
Full Court Press Director Kristen Lappas
May 10, 2024 00:47 - 22 minutes - 20.6 MBDirector Kristen Lappas joins the show to discuss the debut of "Full Court Press" a new ESPN+ original four part series that chronicles the ongoing journeys of Caitlin Clark, Kamilla Cardoso and Kiki Rice.
NFL Draft Winners, Losers & QB Talk w/ Eric Edholm
May 02, 2024 08:25 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MBThis week on Ball Games and Beyond, Evan recaps the NFL Draft with Eric Edholm from NFL.com. It was a historic draft which saw a record 23 offensive players selected in round one, including six quarterbacks, the most since the 1983 draft. The Atlanta Falcons made the surprise pick of the draft by selecting Michael Penix 8th overall.
Celtics: Championship or Bust
April 24, 2024 02:03 - 24 minutes - 22.3 MBThe Boston Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in sports but they have not won a championship since 2008. After coming short the last two years the Celtics had a dominate 64 win season and are in position for a championship run. NBA writer for the Boston Globe, Gary Washburn joins the show to answer the question: Is it championship or bust for the Boston Celtics.
Scottie Scheffler's Dominance & Tiger Comparisons w/ Bob Harig
April 18, 2024 00:46 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MBGolf writer & author, Bob Harig from SI.com joins the show to discuss Scottie Scheffler's win at the Masters and chat's about his new book titled "Drive: The Lasting Legacy of Tiger Woods"
MLB's Elbow Injury Epidemic
April 11, 2024 00:41 - 30 minutes - 27.8 MBThe MLBPA and the league are at odds over the root causes of one of the games biggest problems: arm injuries to pitchers. Over the years there has been a steady rise in the number of Tommy John surgeries being performed on pitchers and since the start of the season, just a couple of weeks ago, there are already a significant number of pitchers who are dealing with season-ending elbow injuries. Senior writer from The Athletic, Andy McCullough joins the show to give his take on the issue.
Where is Cinderella w/ NY Post Sportswriter Zach Braziller
March 27, 2024 13:52 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MBThe Sweet 16 is set but where is the Cinderella story in this years NCAA tournament? This week on Ball Games and Beyond, host Evan Groat examines whether or not a lack of underdogs in the tournament is a good thing and why has this been the case this year. Sportswriter from the NY Post, Zack Braziller joins the show to recap the opening weekend of the tournament, preview the Sweet 16, and gives his take on why we have seen a lack of Cinderella's advance in this years tournament.
NCAA Tournament Snubs w/ Adam Zagoria
March 19, 2024 00:37 - 27 minutes - 25.1 MBThe bracket is out and the field of 68 has been selected but not without some controversy. This week on Ball Games and Beyond, host Evan Groat breaks down the biggest tournament snubs and other tournament related topics. In segment two, college basketball insider Adam Zagoria joins the show to give his thoughts on Big East teams St. John's, Seton Hall and Providence not making the tourney.
NFL Free Agency-Running Backs Get Paid
March 15, 2024 00:44 - 25 minutes - 23.1 MBThis week on Ball Games and Beyond, host Evan Groat talks NFL free agency and the shift we have seen in the running back market from 2023 to 2024. Several free agent running backs were signed to lucrative contracts on day one of free agency which is a drastic change from past years. Why the change in Philosophy? Tune in to hear why. NFL writer from Yahoo Sports, Frank Schwab joins the show to weigh in on the conversation and discusses Kirk Cousins to the Falcons, why he believes running ...
Lakers, LeBron, Legacy
March 06, 2024 23:44 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MBOn this week's episode of Ball Game And Beyond, host Evan Groat discusses LeBron James and his milestone achievement of scoring 40,000 career points as he continues to add to his legacy as one of the all-time greats in NBA history. NBA insider, Mark Medina joins the show to give his take on James reaching 40k points and if he has finally surpassed Michael Jordan as the greatest of all time.
Court Storming Controversy
March 06, 2024 22:30 - 23 minutes - 21.2 MBOn this week's episode of Ball Games And Beyond, host Evan Groat discusses the topic of court storming in college basketball. Does the NCAA need to make a change to it's current policy of fans taking the court following an upset win to ensure the safety of players, coaches and officials? We dive into that topic and more with guest Steve Wiseman, Duke men's basketball beat writer for the Raleigh News & Observer.
First Episode Of The Off Season + Vinny Bonsignore from the LV Review Journal
January 12, 2024 02:18 - 45 minutes - 41.4 MBThe off season is upon us and there is plenty to discuss. On this week's episode of Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat recap's the 2023 season, runs down the list of soon to be free agents and in segment two is joined by Vinny Bonsignore from the Las Vegas Review Journal talk about everything from the search for a new head coach to the plans at quarterback in 2024.
2023 Regular Season Finale
January 05, 2024 13:18 - 39 minutes - 36.2 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the 2023 regular season finale versus the Denver Broncos and why the game matters even though the playoffs are no longer an option. Davante Adams says the Las Vegas locker room is in full support of their interim head coach but would you expect anything else to be said at this point? In segment two, Evan makes his case for Jim Harbaugh to be the next coach of the Raiders and plays audio from Aaron McMann, Michigan football beat writer for the Ann A...
Antonio Pierce Continues To Make His Case
December 22, 2023 01:04 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MBIt's Chiefs week and the Raiders playoff pulse is still alive. Fresh off their dominating win over the Chargers the Raiders look to keep it rolling as they head out on the road to face the Chiefs at Arrowhead stadium. Will a win over the Chiefs be enough to convince even the biggest Pierce skeptics that he deserves the job?
What Are You Looking For In The Final Five Games?
December 08, 2023 00:57 - 42 minutes - 38.9 MBFresh off the bye week the Raiders are ready to take on the Minnesota Vikings and host Evan Groat is ready to talk about it this week on Just Pod Baby. The main topic of the show is, what to look for in the final five games of the season. Mathematically the Raiders season is still alive but getting to the playoffs will require something very special by Las Vegas in the next five games. In segment two, Matthew Coller who covers the Vikings for PurpleInsider.com joins the show to discuss hi...
How Attractive Is The Raiders Coaching Vacancy?
December 02, 2023 00:43 - 28 minutes - 25.8 MBOver the next five weeks interim head coach, Antonio Pierce will be looking to make a case for himself to become the Raiders next full time head coach. This week on Just Pod Baby, with Las Vegas on the bye week host Evan Groat assesses Coach Pierce's job over the last four weeks and gives him a grade. In segment two, the conversation turns to where the Raiders coaching vacancy and if it is an attractive destination.
Raiders Entering Tough Stretch Of Games
November 17, 2023 00:56 - 35 minutes - 32.6 MBThe Raiders improved their record to 5-5 with a 16-12 win over the New York Jets but now they enter a very tough stretch of games starting this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. Alain Poupart of SI's Fan Nation joins the show in segment two to preview the matchup between the Raiders and Dolphins.
The Rejuvenated Raiders
November 09, 2023 23:27 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses the rejuvenated Raiders following their win over the NY Giants. Interim head coach, Antonio Pierce has the players buying in and the fan base believing but what does Pierce need to do to have the interim tag removed and become the full time coach of the Raiders next year? In segment two, Evan previews the week 10 matchup with the Jets with Dan Leberfeld of Jets Confidential.
Smartened Up! Mark Davis Fires Josh McDaniels & Dave Ziegler
November 03, 2023 00:03 - 46 minutes - 42.4 MBAfter going 9-16 in 25 games together the Josh McDaniels & Dave Ziegler era in Las Vegas is officially over. Following a second consecutive embarrassing defeat on Monday Night football to the Detroit Lions, Mark Davis had seen enough of the Patriot Way and made the announcement that he was relieving his head coach and general manager of their duties. Host, Evan Groat discusses the many changes that were made this week in this week's episode of Just Pod Baby. Logan Reever, sports anchor fr...
Should The Raiders Be Trade Deadline Buyers or Sellers w/ Moe Moton
October 26, 2023 23:22 - 41 minutes - 38 MBThe trade deadline is quickly approaching and Hunter Renfrow is rumored to be potentially on the move. With the Raiders season seemingly in a downward spiral should they be looking to buy or sell? Bleacher Report columnist and good friend of the show, Moe Moton joins host Evan Groat to give his thoughts on what the Raiders plans should be at the trade deadline.
Week Seven Aftermath w/ Lincoln Kennedy
October 24, 2023 01:20 - 30 minutes - 27.7 MBDiscussing the Raiders 30-12 defeat to the Chicago Bears with former Raiders right tackle and now color commentator for Compass Media, Lincoln Kennedy.
Is The Patriot Way A Myth & It's Impact On The Raiders
October 13, 2023 01:05 - 35 minutes - 32.3 MBThe Raiders are set to take on the New England Patriots in week six, a matchup that reunites Josh McDaniels with his old boss Bill Belichick. This week on Just Pod Baby, Evan raises the question: Is the Patriot way a myth? Hear Evan's take on this and how it relates to what we are seeing unfold in Las Vegas under Dave Ziegler and Josh McDaniels. In segment two, staff writer for Patriots.com, Evan Lazar joins the show to preview Sunday's game between the Raiders and Patriots.
Should The Raiders Consider Trading Davante Adams? Plus Mike Spofford from Packers.com
October 06, 2023 00:24 - 34 minutes - 32.1 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses why he believes trading Davante Adams is something that the Raiders should consider if the losing continues ahead of the trade deadline. Mike Spofford from Packers.com joins the show in segment two and previews the Raiders-Packers Week 5 matchup.
Is Josh McDaniels Running Out Of Time In Las Vegas?
September 29, 2023 23:30 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses Josh McDaniels decision to kick a field goal on 4th and 4 versus the Steelers and why it was the wrong choice. Is the seat of Josh McDaniels getting warmer and will he make it through the season as the Raiders head coach.
Detailing The Raiders Run Game Issues + Week 3 Preview
September 22, 2023 01:43 - 41 minutes - 37.6 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat recaps the Raiders embarrassing loss to the Bills and details the teams struggles on offense and defense. In segment two, Steelers reporter, Ray Fittipaldo from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette joins the show to preview the Raiders-Steelers primetime matchup.
Buffalo Bills Preview with Ryan O'Halloran of the Buffalo News
September 15, 2023 01:03 - 42 minutes - 38.7 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the Raiders Week one win versus the Broncos and gives his thoughts on the performance of Tyree Wilson and why he believes Wilson is the ultimate boom or bust player. In segment two, Bills reporter, Ryan O'Halloran from the Buffalo News joins the show to preview the Raiders-Bills matchup.
Week One Preview + The Chandler Jones Situation And What It Means For Tyree Wilson
September 08, 2023 00:48 - 46 minutes - 42.2 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses the fallout from the Chandler Jones situation and what it means for youngsters like Tyree Wilson and Malcolm Koonce. Other topics on the show this week include, Josh Jacobs and how much of a workload he will receive after missing all of training camp. Case Keefer from the Las Vegas Sun joins the show in segment two to preview this weeks matchup versus the Denver Broncos.
Game Recap: Jimmy Garoppolo Gets The Start In Raiders 34-17 Win
August 20, 2023 20:45 - 30 minutes - 28.2 MBThe Raiders were victorious again in their second preseason contest with a 34-17 win over the Los Angeles Rams. This week on Just Pod Baby, hear Evan's thoughts on the debut of Jimmy Garoppolo, the legend of Aidan O'Connell that continues to grow, and two other players who helped their case to make the roster. Other discussion this week includes what position battles remain in the final preseason game and weeks of camp.
Game Recap: Aidan O'Connell Shines in Raiders 34-7 Preseason Win
August 14, 2023 04:06 - 20 minutes - 19 MBJust Pod Baby recaps the Raiders preseason week one win over the 49ers. Hear host, Evan Groat, give his thoughts on the game including the performances by the defense, Aidan O'Connell and Zamir White.
Is The Raiders Defense For Real? Plus Guest Logan Reever
August 12, 2023 03:00 - 39 minutes - 36.4 MBThe Raiders wrapped up two days of joint practices with the 49ers ahead of Sunday's preseason game and the major storyline continues to be the Raiders defense and their ability to create turnovers. While the reports have been mostly positive with the are you buying the hype surrounding the Raiders defense? In segment two, sports reporter from News 8 Now in Las Vegas, Logan Reever joins the show to give his thoughts on what he has observed at training camp.
First Show of Training Camp 2023 w/ Mario Tovar From The Raider Ramble
August 01, 2023 01:57 - 48 minutes - 44.8 MBJust Pod Baby is back with the first new episode since the start of training camp 2023. It's a season of change and transition for the Raiders with several new faces on the roster as year two of the Josh McDaniels era begins. On this episode, host Evan Groat discusses the news and headlines from the first few days of camp and is joined in segment two by guest MarioTovar, founder of the Raider Ramble.
Josh Jacobs and The Raiders Take It Down To The Wire w/ Guest Alex Monfreda from The Raider Ramble
July 15, 2023 03:27 - 36 minutes - 33.3 MBOn the latest episode of Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat focuses on the contract stalemate between the Raiders and Josh Jacobs. The two sides have until Monday, July 17th to work out a long term deal. In segment two, reporter and editor at the Raider Ramble, Alex Monfreda joins the show to discuss why he believes the Raiders mishandled the entire situation with Jacobs as well as other training camp headlines.
Will Josh Jacobs Holdout? Plus Behind Enemy Lines w/ Tyler Schoon
June 30, 2023 19:32 - 40 minutes - 36.7 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses the contract situation with Josh Jacobs as he still has yet to sign his franchise tag. Evan examines the possibility of a training camp holdout by Jacobs and what should the Raiders plan B at running back be if Jacobs misses games to start the season. In segment two, the behind enemy lines tour continues with Tyler Schoon, host of the Guilty As Charged podcast, covering the Los Angles Chargers.
What We Learned This Offseason + Behind Enemy Lines w/ Chiefs Beat Writer Jesse Newell
June 17, 2023 17:42 - 35 minutes - 32.3 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses his biggest takeaways from the past offseason and what it means for the 2023 season. Also this week Just Pod Baby goes behind enemy lines and welcomes in Chiefs beat writer, Jesse Newell, from the KC Star to give an update on the Chiefs.
Raiders Wrap Up Mini Camp + Is Divine Deablo Ready To Take On New Role
June 10, 2023 03:06 - 36 minutes - 33.7 MBThe Raiders wrapped up their mandatory three day mini camp this week and on this new episode of Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses the headlines from camp including Divine Deablo's new role on defense. Other topics on this episode include the latest with Josh Jacobs contract situation, an update with Jimmy G's timetable to return, and why Evan refuses to drink the Aidan O'Connell kool-aid.
News From Raiders OTA's, Jimmy G Had Foot Surgery + Kris Knox From Bleacher Report
May 26, 2023 02:32 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MBThis week the Raiders began their offseason training activities at team headquarters in Henderson and there was plenty to talk about as we learned that QB Jimmy Garoppolo had foot surgery in March. Josh McDaniels and Davante Adams addressed the media, host Evan Groat gives his thoughts on some of the comments that were made. In segment two, Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report joins the show to discuss three candidates that he believes are primed for a breakout seasons in Las Vegas.
We've Got The Dates: My Thoughts On The 2023 Schedule
May 13, 2023 17:28 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan breakdown the Raiders 2023 schedule including games he is most looking forward to and discusses where the Raiders rank according to strength of schedule. Also, Evan gives his way too early win loss record for the Raiders following the release of the schedule.
Draft Recap + Getting To Know Michael Mayer w/ Pete Sampson of The Athletic
May 06, 2023 16:08 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBThe 2023 NFL draft is now in the books and on this episode of Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat gives you his his thoughts on the Las Vegas Raiders rookie class. Notre Dame football beat writer, Pete Sampson, from The Athletic joins the show to give an insiders perspective on who the Raiders are getting in tight end Michael Mayer both on and off the field.
Instant Reaction: Tyree Wilson Is A Las Vegas Raider
April 28, 2023 02:56 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MBThe Raiders made Tyree Wilson, edge rusher from Texas Tech their selection in round one of the 2023 NFL draft and Evan breaks down the pick in this instant reaction episode of Just Pod Baby
My Five Round Mock Draft + Eric Edholm From NFL.com
April 22, 2023 02:29 - 52 minutes - 47.7 MBThe NFL Draft is less than a week away and on this episode of Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat completes a 5 round mock draft and gives his analysis on each pick. In segment two, Eric Edholm, lead draft writer from NFL.com joins to show to give his thoughts on the latest draft rumors and what the Raiders need to accomplish in the 2023 draft.
Raiders Draft Overview-Positions of Need & Preferred Prospects + Brent Sobleski from Bleacher Report
April 15, 2023 03:13 - 55 minutes - 51 MBHost Evan Groat is back at it this week on Just Pod Baby. With the draft less than two weeks away, hear Evan give you his overview of the Raiders draft and his list of top five positions of need and which prospects he has highlighted on his list. In segment two, Senior NFL analyst from Bleacher Report, Brent Sobleski joins the show to give his take on all things related to the draft including the top quarterbacks, Jalen Carter and much more.
Making Sense Of The Raiders Moves In Free Agency
March 25, 2023 17:36 - 30 minutes - 27.6 MBDave Ziegler and the Raiders have been busy in free agency adding many new players to the roster. This week on Just Pod Baby, Evan tries to make sense of some of the moves and discusses why the pressure is on Ziegler and company to draft well.
Does Carolina's Trade Effect The Raiders Draft Plans + Free Agency Talk
March 11, 2023 23:34 - 46 minutes - 42.4 MBCarolina and Chicago executed a blockbuster trade and now the Panthers hold the number one pick in April's draft and are expected to select a QB. Will the trade effect the Raiders plans of drafting a QB in round one. Ted Nguyen of the Athletic joins the show to discuss what he sees on film from Anthony Richardson and Will Levis. In Segment two, Evan previews the start of free agency.
It's Combine Week & It's All About The Quarterbacks!
March 04, 2023 16:06 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MBJust Pod Baby is back after a two week vacation and it's NFL combine week. The quarterback prospects take center stage on Saturday when they hit the field for their workouts. Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler met with the media this week in Indianapolis and answered several questions pertaining to their plans at the quarterback position. On this week's show you will hear audio from the pressers and host Evan Groat's thoughts on what the Raiders should do at quarterback.
Derek Carr Meets with the Saints
February 11, 2023 03:44 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBNew Orleans Saints insider, John Hendrix from the Saints News Network joins Just Pod Baby to discuss the latest from Derek Carr's visit with Dennis Allen and other Saints brass as the February 15th deadline approaches.