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!
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Episodes
How Tom Brady's Retirement Effects The Raiders Plan At Quarterback + PFF Analyst Trevor Sikkema From The Senior Bowl
February 04, 2023 04:08 - 43 minutes - 39.5 MBTom Brady has decided to retire from the NFL after 23 seasons. Many believed Brady could be an option to replace Derek Carr in Las Vegas. With that no longer a possibility what should be the new plan at Quarterback. Tune in to hear Evan's thoughts and in segment two, Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus joins the show to breakdown the Senior Bowl and give his take on this years QB draft class.
Would Trading Darren Waller or Hunter Renfrow Be A Wise Move?
January 28, 2023 02:47 - 44 minutes - 40.5 MBESPN Insider, Jeremy Fowler put Raider Nation into a frenzy this week with rumors that Dave Ziegler could tweak the roster this offseason and mentioned Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow as two players other teams will be keeping tabs on in a possible trade. Evan gives you his thoughts on the rumor and weighs the pros and cons of a potential trade for Waller or Renfrow. In segment two, College Football and NFL draft analyst, Thor Nystrom joins the show to preview next week's Senior Bowl and ...
How Should The Raiders Prioritize Positions of Need
January 21, 2023 03:51 - 38 minutes - 35.5 MBGeneral Manager, Dave Ziegler has his work cut out for himself as he looks to upgrade and improve the roster in free agency. This week on the show, Evan gives you his list of priorities as he sees it and the names of free agents that could help get the Raiders back into the playoffs in 2023. Also, Evan discusses the responses from his Twitter Questions of the Week.
The Off Season Is Underway in Las Vegas
January 14, 2023 02:56 - 38 minutes - 35.5 MBThe Raiders wrapped up a disappointing 2022 campaign with a 6-11 record and now enter the off season with many changes expected to be made. Priority number one for general manager, Dave Ziegler is to find a trade partner and new team for Derek Carr. Hear host, Evan Groat give you his best landing spots for Carr in a trade and why Raiders fans should be prepared for Carr to play hard ball with his old team. Also, this week Evan tells you the things he got right and wrong about the Raiders ...
Is Josh Jacobs The Key To Landing Brady?
January 07, 2023 00:45 - 32 minutes - 29.9 MBIn addition to finding a new quarterback, one of the biggest decisions that general manager, Dave Ziegler will have to make this off season is what to do with Josh Jacobs as he is set to hit free agency. Tune in to hear host, Evan Groat's thoughts on the topic and why he has had a change of heart. Other topics this week include, the bombshell report by beat writer, Vinny Bonsignore and why Davante Adams made a lot of Raiders fans happy this week
It's Strictly Business in Las Vegas: Derek Carr Gets Benched
December 30, 2022 01:33 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MBFollowing another deflating loss to the Steelers on Christmas Eve, the Raiders have decided to bench Derek Carr for the remainder of the season, signaling the end of the Derek Carr era. In this week's episode of Just Pod Baby, Evan gives you his thoughts on the news involving Derek Carr and discusses the fallout from the decision.
Cold Weather Carr and Co Head to Frigid Pittsburgh on Christmas Eve
December 23, 2022 02:46 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MBThis week marks the 50th Anniversary of the Immaculate Reception game and the Raiders travel to Pittsburgh on Christmas Eve for a primetime matchup with the Steelers. Temperatures are suppose to be frigid and Derek Carr has had struggles in cold weather games throughout his career. Also, the Raiders defense has shown some signs of improvement, host Evan Groat details why the defense has played better. In segment two, Steelers beat reporter, Gerry Dulac, from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette jo...
Final 4 Audition For Carr, Waller & Jacobs?
December 16, 2022 02:47 - 37 minutes - 34.8 MBThe Raiders are 5-8 and the season is on life support. Without much to play for what will you be looking for in the final four games of the season? Join host Evan Groat as he gives you his thoughts on what he will be watching for as the season comes to an end. Could offensive stars like Derek Carr, Darren Waller & Josh Jacobs be auditioning for a spot on next years roster? In segment two, long time Patriots beat writer from the Boston Herald, Karen Guregian joins the show to preview Sund...
Playoffs? Playoffs?! Can the Raiders Do The Improbable After a 2-7 Start?
December 08, 2022 02:31 - 30 minutes - 28 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan talks about the state of the Raiders and where they stand following the win over the Chargers to improve their record to 5-7. The Raiders are riding a three game win streak and the conversation surrounding the team has drastically shifted. Also, hear Evan give his thoughts on the possible return of Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow and why he believes it could disrupt the success the offense is currently having.
Pay or Not Pay Josh Jacobs. That is The Question.
November 29, 2022 03:06 - 34 minutes - 32.1 MBOn this victory Monday episode of Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the Raiders second consecutive overtime win. Josh Jacobs got it done once again on the ground with a career high 228 yards rushing, capped by his walk-off touchdown run of 86 yards. The Raiders now find themselves with a (good) dilemma on their hands, should they or should they not pay Josh Jacobs at the end of the season.
Have the Raiders Hit Rock Bottom? Plus Mark Anderson of the Associated Press
November 18, 2022 02:37 - 37 minutes - 34.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the State of the Raiders following the 25-20 loss to the Colts and where the Raiders go from here. Is Derek Carr broken mentally? And what does the future hold for him beyond this year with the Raiders? In segment two, Mark Anderson from the Associated Press joins the show to discuss the news from the week.
Waller & Renfrow Headed To IR + Raiders Vs Colts Preview
November 11, 2022 00:56 - 39 minutes - 35.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat gives you his thoughts on the Raiders loss to the Jaguars in week 9 and discusses the news and notes from the week including Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow being placed on the injured reserve. In segment two, Kevin Bowen from 105.7 the Fan in Indianapolis joins the show to preview the matchup between the Raiders and Colts.
Raiders Last Stand In Week 9? Plus Ziegler Speaks & Jaguars Preview W/ Mark Long Of The Associated Press
November 04, 2022 01:48 - 47 minutes - 43.1 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the comments made by general manager, Dave Ziegler this week when he met with members of the media. Also, at 2-5 is this the Raiders last stand in the 2022 season? In segment two, Mark Long from the AP joins to preview the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Just Pod Baby Back With Sportsnaut + Saints Preview W/ Beat Writer Luke Johnson Of The New Orleans Advocate
October 28, 2022 02:37 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MBJust Pod Baby is back on the air part of the Sportsnaut podcast network. On this week's preview episode, Evan talks about the trade of Johnathan Hankins as well as the illness that is working it's way through the Raiders locker room and has jeopardized the status of Davante Adams for Sunday's game. In segment two, Saints beat writer Luke Johnson, who covers the Saints for the New Orleans Advocate joins the show to talk all things Saints.
BIG NEWS...Plus 53-Man Roster Predictions & Thoughts
August 30, 2022 02:07 - 22 minutes - 20.4 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan shares a big announcement on the future of the podcast. Just Pod Baby is joining SB Nation as a part of the Silver & Black Pride podcast network. Also this week, Evan discusses the 53-man roster and how he sees it potentially shaking out for roster hopefuls like Luke Masterson, Darien Butler, Sam Webb and Tashawn Bower.
Raiders Move to 3-0 in Preseason + What About Right Tackle?
August 22, 2022 12:18 - 29 minutes - 27.4 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the Raiders' 15-13 preseason win over the Miami Dolphins with his positive and negative takeaways from the game. Also, do the Raiders need to address the right tackle position through a free agent signing or trade as Alex Leatherwood continues to struggle? Evan also looks ahead to the upcoming week of joint practices with the New England Patriots.
Analysis: Las Vegas Raiders Win First Preseason Game + Offensive Line Questions
August 08, 2022 10:00 - 18 minutes - 16.9 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps and gives his analysis of the Hall of Fame game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Good Retires So What's Next for Raiders Offensive Line?
July 29, 2022 12:24 - 34 minutes - 31.7 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the fallout from Denzelle Good’s surprise retirement and what it means for the rest of the offensive line. The pads came on this week and the battle for positions along the right side of the offensive line is heating up. In segment two Evan gives his top three players who are receiving the most hype after one week of training camp.
Training Camp Preview & Pro Football Focus' Ben Linsey Ranks Raiders 21st Best Roster
July 15, 2022 02:26 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat dives into what he is most excited about heading into training camp. The discussion includes the reworked interior defensive line, a crowded running back room and some questions in the secondary. In segment two, PFF analyst, Ben Linsey joins the show to discuss his roster rankings and defends his position of ranking the Raiders as the 21st best roster in the NFL.
Raiders 3-Headed Monster in Passing Game + NFL Insider Adam Caplan
June 10, 2022 02:07 - 40 minutes - 36.7 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby host Evan Groat discusses the trio of Raiders pass-catchers in Davante Adams, Hunter Renfrow and Darren Waller and where they stack up among others in the NFL. Joining the show in segment two is guest, NFL insider, Adam Caplan to give his opinion on Josh McDaniels as the new head coach of the Raiders as well as the addition of Davante Adams and Chandler Jones and how he sees the new look AFC West division shaking out.
Will The 2022 Las Vegas Raiders Win More than 8 Games?
June 03, 2022 03:02 - 31 minutes - 29 MBOn the latest episode of Just Pod Baby hear host Evan Groat break down the Raiders 2022 schedule and discuss just how many games the Raiders can win this season. Las Vegas sportsbooks set their futures win total for the Raiders at 8.5. If you were a betting man are you taking the over or under?
EXCLUSIVE: Memphis OL Coach Jim Bridge Talks Raiders Draft Pick Dylan Parham
May 05, 2022 12:57 - 20 minutes - 19.2 MBOn this special edition of Just Pod Baby, hear host Evan Groat’s conversation with the University of Memphis offensive line coach, Jim Bridge. Coach Bridge was the position coach for the Raiders third round draft pick, Dylan Parham since 2019. Hear insight you won’t get anywhere else in this exclusive interview.
Raiders Draft Redux: Exploring 2022 Picks w/College Beat Writers
May 04, 2022 03:15 - 45 minutes - 41.9 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the 2022 draft and all six of the Raiders selections. Joining Evan this week are guests Frank Bonner II from the Daily Memphian, Seth Emerson from the Athletic, and Wilson Alexander from the Advocate to take an in-depth look at Dylan Parham, Zamir White, and Neil Farrell Jr.
Tour of AFC West & Raiders Targets for NFL Draft
April 22, 2022 03:01 - 57 minutes - 52.3 MBEvan is back from vacation with a brand new episode of Just Pod Baby. In segment 1, hear his thoughts on the Derek Carr extension and what positions the Raiders should target in next week's draft. In segment two, Evan goes behind enemy lines by speaking with beat writers from all three divisional opponents including Gilbert Manzano from the So Cal Newsgroup, Troy Renck Broncos insider for ABC Denver 7, and Adam Teicher ESPN NFL Nation reporter covering the Chiefs.
Raiders Free Agent Free-For-All + Guests Kevin Bowen & Karen Guregian
March 26, 2022 14:00 - 40 minutes - 36.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, hear host Evan Groat discuss some of the new free-agent additions made this past week by general manager Dave Ziegler. Evan raises the question, have the Raiders done enough to address the offensive line issues that plagued the team in 2021? Also hear interviews with guests Kevin Bowen of 107.5 The Fan in Indianapolis as he fills Raider Nation in on Rock Ya-Sin and Karen Guregian from the Boston Herald joins the show to talk Brandon Bolden, Josh McDaniels, and OL ...
New-Look Raiders: Patrick Finley of Chicago Sun-Times, Jonas Shaffer of Baltimore Sun & Alain Poupart of SI
March 19, 2022 02:07 - 44 minutes - 40.6 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, free agent frenzy 2022 is underway and Dave Ziegler has made huge waves in his first free agency by trading for superstar wide receiver, Davante Adams and cornerback Rock Ya-Sin. Hear Evan give his thoughts on the additions of Chandler Jones, Bilal Nichols, and Anthony Averett as well. This week’s episode includes interviews with multiple guest including Patrick Finley of the Chicago Sun Times, Jonas Shaffer of the Baltimore Sun, and Alain Poupart of Sports Illust...
Anthony Treash of PFF on Start of NFL Combine
March 04, 2022 00:47 - 37 minutes - 34.2 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, it’s time to talk NFL Scouting Combine. The combine kicks off this week in Indianapolis and Evan will speak with guest, Anthony Treash, lead college football analyst for Pro Football Focus. Other topics include Dave Ziegler and Josh McDaniels press conferences with members of the media.
NY Post's Ryan Dunleavy on Raiders DC Patrick Graham
February 11, 2022 04:24 - 36 minutes - 33 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan takes a look at some of the new coaches on the staff with a focus on defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. In segment two, NFL writer from the NY Post, Ryan Dunleavy joins the show to give his thoughts on Patrick Graham’s philosophies on defense and why Raiders fans should be excited about the hire.
The New Era Has Begun in Raider Nation w/Boston Herald's Karen Guregian
February 04, 2022 16:40 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, hear Evan discuss the new era that is underway in Las Vegas with the hiring of general manager Dave Ziegler and head coach Josh McDaniels. Also, Karen Guregian, a columnist with the Boston Herald joins to give an insider perspective of what Raiders fans can expect to see from their new GM & head coach.
Raiders 2021 Recap w/Kevin Bolinger & Aaron McMann of Ann Arbor News on Jim Harbaugh
January 21, 2022 03:33 - 47 minutes - 43.6 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, hear Evan recap the playoff loss to the Bengals and preview what’s in store for the Raiders this offseason with Kevin Bolinger, sports director at Fox 5 in Las Vegas. In segment two, Aaron McMann, who covers Michigan Wolverines football for the Ann Arbor News joins Evan to address the rumors surrounding Jim Harbaugh and his potential return to the NFL.
PLAYOFFS ROUND 1: Chargers Vanquished & Jay Morrison Previews Bengals
January 13, 2022 03:12 - 39 minutes - 35.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan celebrates the Raiders victory on SNF and gears up for the Wildcard matchup with the Bengals. Evan discusses the performance of Maxx Crosby, Josh Jacobs, Daniel Carlson, and Derek Carr and how each of these players rose to the occasion when their team needed them most. In segment two, Bengals beat writer, Jay Morrison joins the show to give his insight on the Cincinnati Bengals.
Week 18: LA Times Jeff Miller, Raiders Win and They're In the Playoffs, Jim Harbaugh Next Coach?
January 07, 2022 02:46 - 37 minutes - 34.1 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the news and notes from the week including Darren Waller’s return to the lineup and the Nate Hobbs arrest. Also in segment one, Evan poses the question: Has Rich Bisaccia earned the job as the full-time head coach? Jim Harbaugh is rumored to be interested in returning to the NFL, should the Raiders pursue him? Jeff Miller, Chargers beat writer for the LA Times joins the show to preview the week 18 matchup.
Raiders Roundtable with Moe Moton & Scott Gulbransen
December 24, 2021 02:30 - 42 minutes - 39.3 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan welcomes in Scott Gulbransen and Moe Moton for a Raiders Round Table discussion. The trio will touch on and discuss several different topics relating to the Las Vegas Raiders including the future of Derek Carr and whether or not the Raiders can win out in the remaining three games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Raiders Playoff Chances Improve & Pete Hailey Previews Washington
December 03, 2021 02:39 - 42 minutes - 38.8 MBEvan is back at it following the Raiders win on Thanksgiving versus the Cowboys. This week on Just Pod Baby, Evan gives you the news and notes from the week and takes an in-depth look at the playoff picture in the AFC as the calendar turns to the month of December. In segment two, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports in Washington joins to preview the week 13 matchup between Las Vegas & Washington.
Week 11: Raiders Gut-Check Time, Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com
November 19, 2021 03:38 - 39 minutes - 35.8 MBIt’s gut check time for the Raiders and on this weeks episode of Just Pod Baby as Evan discusses where the Raiders go now following the loss to the Chiefs. Will they show some heart and bounce back in week 11 versus the Bengals? Also, what’s up with Darren Waller, it’s been a quite season for the star TE and he was very much a non factor against the Chiefs. Hear Evan’s opinion on why it’s imperative to make Darren Waller the centerpiece of the offense once again. Guest this week is Geoff Hob...
Week 10: Release of Damon Arnette, Week 9 Loss to Giants, Preview Chiefs w/Blair Kerkhoff of KC Star
November 12, 2021 03:10 - 32 minutes - 30 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the loss to the Giants in week 9 and talks about the addition of DeSean Jackson. Later in segment one, Evan discusses the AFC playoff picture at the halfway point in the year. Sportswriter, Blair Kerkhoff from the Kansas City Star joins the show to break down the Chiefs matchup with the Raiders on Sunday Night Football.
Life for the Raiders After Ruggs, Say NO to OBJ & Paul Schwartz of NY Post
November 05, 2021 02:12 - 40 minutes - 36.8 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses life after Henry Ruggs and how the Raiders offense will fill his shoes. Also, hear Evan explain why he feels it would be a mistake to bring in Odell Beckham Jr should he be released by the Browns. Special guest this week is long-time NY Giants beat writer, Paul Schwartz from the NY Post.
Mark Davis Speaks, Surprises & Disappointments, Anthony Galaviz
October 29, 2021 01:33 - 38 minutes - 35.3 MBOn this week's episode of Just Pod Baby, the Raiders are on the bye week. Evan discusses Mark Davis’s comments from the owner's meetings and has some harsh words for Commissioner Roger Goodell. Also in segment one, Evan gives you his list of three surprises and three disappointments. With the trade deadline approaching will the Raiders deal former first-round pick Clelin Ferrell and guest Anthony Galaviz of the Fresno Bee joins to give his thoughts on the Raiders 5-2 start to the season.
Resilient Raiders Bounce Back | NFL Insider Adam Caplan
October 22, 2021 01:31 - 41 minutes - 38.1 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan recaps the win against the Broncos and discusses just how good the defense has been through six games. Also, hear Evan praise Henry Ruggs and Derek Carr for the work they have put in to build trust and confidence in each other. Special guest this week is NFL Insider, Adam Caplan. Hear Caplan’s thoughts on the Raiders win and his insight on the Philadelphia Eagles.
Gruden Fallout: What's Next for Raiders Plus Broncos Insider Troy Renck
October 15, 2021 01:53 - 37 minutes - 34.1 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, host Evan Groat discusses the resignation of Jon Gruden and what it means for Derek Carr going forward. In segment two, Broncos insider Troy Renck from ABC News 7 in Denver joins to break down the Broncos & Raiders matchup in week six.
Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Talks Bears Plus Shakeup on Raiders OL?
October 08, 2021 01:57 - 40 minutes - 36.9 MBIn this weeks episode of Just Pod Baby, Evan discusses the fallout from the loss to the Chargers on Monday Night Football, including a possible shake up on the offensive line. In segment two, Jeff Dickerson of ESPN NFL Nation joins the show to discuss the matchup between the Raiders and Bears.
Raiders vs. Chargers Preview: Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Moe Moton
October 01, 2021 03:55 - 46 minutes - 42.5 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan welcomes in special guest Moe Moton to get his take on the Raiders 3-0 start, the play of Derek Carr, and the improvement on defense. In segment two, Daniel Popper, Chargers beat writer for the Athletic joins the show to preview Monday Night's clash between the Chargers and Raiders.
Can Carr Continue to Carry Offense? Plus: Alain Poupart Previews Dolphins
September 24, 2021 16:28 - 39 minutes - 35.9 MBIt’s Dolphins week on Just Pod Baby. Evan discusses the red hot start by Derek Carr and the offense but raises the question: Can Derek Carr continue to carry the offense without a consistent run game? In segment two, Evan is joined by Alain Poupart, who covers the Dolphins for Sports Illustrated.
Raiders Win + Clay Baker of Raider Nation Radio, Ray Fittipaldo of Pittsburgh Post Gazette
September 17, 2021 02:56 - 45 minutes - 41.5 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan welcomes in two guests. In segment one Clay Baker, host of the Morning Tailgate on Raider Nation Radio joins to recap the Raiders victory on MNF. And in segment two, Ray Fittipaldo, Steelers beat writer for the Pittsburgh Post Gazette previews the matchup between the Raiders and Steelers.
Ravens Week Break Down with Todd Karpovich of SI.com's Ravens Country
September 10, 2021 15:12 - 38 minutes - 35.6 MBThis week host Evan Groat kickoffs his 2021 game preview episodes of Just Pod Baby by giving his overview of the Baltimore Ravens as well as his three keys to victory. In segment two guest Todd Karpovich of SI.com’s Ravens Country joins Evan to break down the Monday Night matchup between the Raiders and Ravens.
Does Raiders 53-man Roster Equal a Playoff Team? Plus: Jesse Merrick
September 03, 2021 00:19 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MBThis week Evan discusses all the latest news including the additions at LB, the release of the 53 man roster, and gives you his win-loss prediction for the Raiders in 2021. This week's guest is Jesse Merrick of KSNV News 3 in Las Vegas.
Depth Chart Surprises + Guests Marcus Johnson and Levi Edwards
August 13, 2021 11:44 - 51 minutes - 47.2 MBThis week Evan takes a look at the depth chart as the Raiders prepare for their week one preseason game versus the Seahawks. Joining Evan this week are guests, Marcus Johnson of Tape Don’t Lie and Levi Edwards of Raiders.com to discuss all things Raiders.
How Much Could Gerald McCoy Help the Defense? Plus: Training Camp Week 2
August 07, 2021 11:50 - 38 minutes - 35.5 MBThis week on Just Pod Baby, Evan brings you the latest from week two of training camp including the news and notes, the addition of Gerald McCoy, and plays a game of Pretender or Contender with the listeners. In segment two, Evan gives you his early 53 man roster projection. (Episode 109)
The Gus Bradley Hype - Do Raiders Finally Have Defensive Leader They Need?
July 30, 2021 12:20 - 46 minutes - 42.7 MBOn this week’s episode Evan gives you the news and notes from the early days of training camp and gives you his thoughts on the hype surrounding new defensive coordinator, Gus Bradley. In segment two, Evan gives you his two camp battles to monitor and wraps up the show by previewing the other three teams in the AFC West division.
Is Now the Right Time to Extend Derek Carr? Plus: Will Raiders Win 8 Games?
July 09, 2021 02:42 - 32 minutes - 29.7 MBEvan is back after two weeks off and he is discussing the pros and cons of getting a Derek Carr extension done sooner rather than later. In segment two, Evan asks the question is the Raiders futures win total of 7.5 is too low?