Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast

In this episode of Aggie Pride, Brock Galvin and Dwight Smith sit down with former UC Davis standout and current Baltimore Ravens linebacker Teddye Buchanan. The conversation traces his football journey from the Bay Area to UC Davis, his breakout season at Cal, and his rookie year in the NFL — along with the mindset, relationships, and habits that shaped him along the way. Teddye shares how his father introduced him to football at a young age and how playing multiple sports helped shape his instincts and versatility as a linebacker. He reflects on the recruiting process and why Davis stood out — not just for football, but for its people, culture, and genuine investment in him as a person. Teddye discusses arriving as a freshman during COVID, learning a complex defensive system, and eventually becoming a playmaker and team leader on defense. He shares what it was like navigating the transfer portal, preparing for his former team in Week 1, and delivering standout performances — including a defining game at Auburn that elevated his NFL profile. Teddye explains how he learned to stop trying to “act like an NFL player” and instead lean into the version of himself that got him there. From draft-day emotions to playing alongside Roquan Smith and meeting legends like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, he reflects on the intensity and privilege of playing in Baltimore’s linebacker tradition. Teddye talks about drawing as a creative outlet, how art helps him find flow and balance, and the importance of becoming a “total person.” He shares insights into NFL-level preparation, including meditation, red-light therapy, and optimizing sleep to stay sharp during the long season. Staying grounded through rapid successThe power of relationships and cultureGrowth through discomfortBalancing identity beyond footballGratitude and perspective at the highest level“I realized I just had to be me — that’s what got me here.” “The people I met at Davis are people I’ll know for life.” “You only get to be a rookie once.” Follow, rate, and share the podcast to support UC Davis football and the Aggie community.

Brock Galvin and Dwight Smith sit down with UC Davis legend Mike Moroski, aka Coach Mo: former Aggie star quarterback, longtime UC Davis assistant coach, NFL quarterback (Falcons, Oilers, 49ers), and now the head coach at the College of Idaho.Coach Moe takes listeners from his early days falling in love with football, to the electric 1977 UC Davis vs Nevada Reno game at The Tomb, to lessons learned inside the 49ers organization during the Bill Walsh era. The conversation also dives into his return to UC Davis as a coach, the leap to building a startup program at the College of Idaho, and why relationships, leadership, and fundamentals still beat shortcuts.• The origin story: youth football, big dreams, and finding the right fit at UC Davis• The 1977 Nevada Reno showdown at The Tomb and why it still stands out above everything• What the NFL taught Coach Moe about leadership, standards, and preparation• The 49ers influence: Ronnie Lott, Bill Walsh, and teaching quarterbacks with methodology• Coaching at UC Davis: learning the trenches, developing players, and the beauty in the details• Building College of Idaho football from scratch: culture, community, and belief• The modern era: NIL, the portal, and what players risk losing when they keep moving• Program identity: “Yote Steel,” treat people well, and empowering emerging leadersMike Moroski is a former UC Davis quarterback, NFL quarterback (including time with the Falcons, Oilers, and 49ers), longtime UC Davis assistant coach, and the head football coach at the College of Idaho. He helped build the College of Idaho football program from the ground up and continues to lead the Yotes with a focus on fundamentals, leadership, and culture.• “The most exciting competitive situation I’ve ever been in” (1977 Nevada Reno game)• On the 49ers: leadership from within the team and standards set daily• On teaching: the West Coast offense as a method for teaching quarterbacks• “No shortcuts, no complaining” (Yote Steel)• “It’s their team. It’s not my team.”• “The magic is the relationships”• Jim Sochor (Coach Soak)• Ronnie Lott• Bill Walsh• Steve Young• Jeff Kemp• Chris Petersen• Coach Biggs (Bob)• Ron Gould• Dan Hawkins• Tim Plough• Tim Keene• Mike Cody• Ishman Anderson• Lan Larison• How elite organizations build leadership and clarity without overcomplicating things• Why fundamentals and player ownership can flip a season• How a coach builds a culture when there is no field, no facility, and no blueprint• Why staying put can still be a competitive advantage in a world built on movementIf you love UC Davis football history and coaching stories, share this episode with an Aggie teammate, alum, or coach. And if you ever find yourself in Idaho, Coach Moe says you’ve got seats at the 50.

this special offseason episode of Aggie Pride, Brock Galvin sits down with UC Davis alum and newly appointed Arizona Cardinals Offensive Coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.From growing up in an NFL coaching family to eventually suiting up for the Aggies himself, Hackett’s football journey is deeply rooted in Davis. In this wide-ranging conversation, he reflects on:His father’s coaching legacy and winning a Rose Bowl three weeks after Nathaniel was bornGrowing up in NFL locker rooms with legends like Joe Montana and Marcus AllenHis five unforgettable years as an AggieThe mentors who shaped him, including Mark Johnson, Lou Bronson, and Bob BiggsSending 50 letters to land his first coaching opportunityWhy relationships—not schemes—define his coaching philosophyWhat he sees in today’s UC Davis program under Tim PloughWhy he calls Aggie football a “utopia” in today’s changing college landscapeHackett opens up about resilience, thick skin in the NFL, empowering players to own the system, and the importance of building culture the right way—even when results take time.This episode is a reminder that Aggie Pride is more than a slogan. It’s a way of doing football.

This conversation includes discussion of concussions, suicide and mental health. We share these topics with care and hope, but we encourage listeners to take care of themselves while listening. In this powerful and wide ranging conversation, Brock sits downTwith former UC Davis defensive lineman Todd Shaner (Football Class of 82) to reflect on Aggie football in the early 1980s, the influence of legendary coaches, and life long lessons that extended far beyond the field .Todd shares his unique journey from junior college to Davis, what it was like playing under Jim Sochor and Fred Arp, and how those experiences shaped his leadership style in a successful career in brewing and management.But this episode goes deeper.Todd opens up about fatherhood, loss, concussion awareness, and why he chose to participate in clinical research through the Boston University CTE Center. He speaks candidly about the emotional realities of contact sports and his hope that football can continue safely for future generations.The conversation also covers:​Arp’s Army and defensive line culture in the early 80s​Ken O’Brien, Bo Eason, and UC Davis’ rise to national prominence​The transition from player to coach to father​Supporting the Aggies from the East Coast​The future of UC Davis football and potential FBS movementThis is more than a football episode.It is about legacy, resilience, and staying connected to something bigger than yourself.​Growing up in Washington​Leaving junior college to walk on at UC Davis​Receiving a letter from defensive line coach Fred Arp ​Playing undersized but competing at a high level​Being part of the foundation that led to a national championship appearance​Leadership through dignity and intelligence​Treating players like adults​Carrying those principles into corporate management​Coaching defensive line at Davis​Coaching his own sons​The difficulty of transitioning away from competitive sports​Personal family impact​Participation in research with the Boston University CTE Center​The difference between big hits and repeated smaller impacts​Why awareness matters without fear​Wanting the game to become safer, not disappear​Attending the Mercer game​Watching games from the East Coast on ESPN Plus​Belief in Coach Plough and the direction of the program​Thoughts on potential FBS movement​“Arp’s Army” and shade drills​A practice story involving Ken O’Brien and a raised arm​The evolution of tackling techniques over generations​Watching the Aggies while living 3000 miles awayTodd represents a bridge between generations of Aggie football. His story reminds us that the program’s strength has always been about more than wins. It is about mentorship, integrity, and lifelong community.For former players, this episode will feel familiar.For parents, it will feel honest.For current players, it is a reminder of the legacy they carry.If you enjoyed this episode:​Share it with a former teammate​Leave a five star review​Support UC Davis Football in whatever way you canGo Ags.

Recorded in San Francisco during Super Bowl weekend, this episode of Aggie Pride blends breaking FCS news, UC Davis football momentum, and a powerful in-person conversation with longtime campus minister Will Clear.🏈 Segment 1: FCS Landscape ShiftNorth Dakota State to the Mountain WestThe Bison are officially heading to the Mountain West Conference.What this means for UC Davis and the FCS hierarchy.The financial implications of conference movement.Does this create a clearer path for the Aggies to rise?Is FBS in UC Davis’ Future?Revisiting the “first right of refusal” clause.Sacramento State and Tarleton State as potential movers.Timelines and realistic expectations.Why Davis may be the least likely — but still in the mix.🐻 Big Sky Coaching ShakeupsBobby Hauck Leaves MontanaHis public comments on NIL and the state of college football.What this means for the Grizzlies.Does this open the door further for Davis?The Big Sky Power ShiftMontana State reloading.South Dakota State’s trajectory.Where UC Davis now stands nationally.🐴 Tim Plough’s ExtensionFive-year contract extension through 2031.What this signals about stability and long-term belief.Confidence for recruits, alumni, and current players.Why this feels like a defining moment for the program.🌉 Live from San Francisco: Super Bowl BreakfastBrock sits down in person with Will Klier, longtime campus minister at UC Davis and supporter of Aggie athletics.Highlights from the Morning:Christian McCaffrey receiving the Bart Starr Award.Stories of faith, adversity, and identity beyond football.Bryant Young’s powerful testimony about grief and purpose.The intersection of influence, platform, and faith.💛 Faith & Football at UC DavisWill shares:His 20+ year journey serving student-athletes.What pregame chapel means to players.Conversations around identity, pressure, injury, and purpose.Unique life moments — including officiating a wedding on Alcatraz.🌅 A New ChapterWill and his wife will be launching a new campus ministry at Cal State Fullerton this summer, while continuing strong ties to Davis.Themes of:Calling and transition.“Let There Be Light” — the UC motto.Finding joy beyond wins and losses.🔑 Episode ThemesIdentity beyond performanceLeadership stabilityThe future of FCS footballFaith in the public squareCommunity impact🎧 Sponsor SpotlightNext Level SportsYouth flag football at UC Davis Health Stadium.Coached by current Aggie players.Skill-building, mentorship, and community.Learn more at: nextlevelsports.com🏆 Final TakeThis isn’t a quiet offseason.Between conference realignment, coaching shifts, Tim Plough’s extension, and rising national respect — UC Davis football is positioned at a pivotal moment.And beyond the field, stories like Will’s remind us why Aggie Pride runs deeper than wins.

It’s Super Bowl week, and we’re diving deep into UC Davis football with longtime Sacramento Bee columnist Joe Davidson, alongside returning co-host Dwight. From recruiting philosophy to transfer portal chaos, quarterback turnover, Big Sky power shifts, and Sacramento high school football, this episode covers it all.Joe brings decades of perspective on Northern California football and helps frame where UC Davis stands in a rapidly changing college football landscape.UC Davis Football & RecruitingReaction to QB Caden Pinnick's transfer and what it says about today’s portal eraCoach Tim Plough’s development-first recruiting philosophyWhy UC Davis continues to prioritize high school recruiting over portal volumeEarly thoughts on the Aggies’ 2026 roster and quarterback competitionPortal “plug-and-play” vs long-term program buildingBig Sky Conference & CoachingImpact of Bobby Hauck stepping down at MontanaHow NIL and the transfer portal are wearing down old-school coachesWhy Tim Plough’s approach may be more sustainable long-termSkill Positions & Roster BreakdownFreshmen who could see the field earlyNew wide receiver and running back additionsOffensive and defensive line depth as the key to postseason successTransfers “coming home” to California to finish their careersSacramento High School FootballStandout NorCal recruits to watchWhy great players still get found regardless of school prestigeHow the portal is shrinking traditional signing classesReality checks for families navigating the recruiting processSuper Bowl TalkPatriots vs Seahawks breakdownFCS and Big Sky representation on NFL rostersScore predictions and game-day vibesWhy UC Davis may be built better than ever for the portal eraThe hidden risks of entering the transfer portal too earlyWhy California remains the most important recruiting base in the FCSA surprisingly favorable early look at UC Davis’ upcoming scheduleIf you love UC Davis football, Big Sky coverage, and smart conversations about the future of college football, Aggie Pride is your home.🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.

Brock Galvin and Nick King dive headfirst into the chaos of transfer portal season, unpacking what it really means for UC Davis football and the FCS landscape as a whole. From surprise departures and massive returners to NIL realities and program culture, this episode is equal parts therapy session and strategic breakdown.The emotional whiplash of transfer portal season and why it feels like reality TVWhy Drew Cofield and Winston Williams returning matters more than headlinesCarter Vargas to Cal and what it says about UC Davis player developmentThe quarterback conversation: mobility, upside, and what Plough might prioritize nextDefensive line turnover and the challenge of reloading vs rebuildingNIL, collectives, and revenue sharing explained in plain EnglishHow UC Davis can compete without billionaire donorsAlumni impact beyond money: careers, mentorship, and long-term valueThe FCS National Championship spectacle and why it still mattersRemembering winter conditioning, leadership moments, and the grind of January footballAs college football continues to shift under our feet, the guys zoom out to ask a bigger question: how does a program like UC Davis stay competitive without losing its soul? The answer lives somewhere between culture, development, and the people who choose to stay.Buy a Hat: https://aggiepridepodcast.com/product/aggie-pride-hat-two-tone-tan/

The offseason began earlier than expected for Aggie Nation.In this reaction-style episode of Aggie Pride, Brock Galvin is joined by Scott Gordon and Dwight Smith to unpack the shockwaves following UC Davis quarterback Caden Pinnick entering the transfer portal. Rather than a traditional season recap, this conversation dives deep into what Pinnick’s decision means for the program, the quarterback room, and the broader landscape of college football.The trio explores the rapidly changing realities of NIL, the transfer portal, and what this environment is teaching (or not teaching) young men about resilience, development, and long-term decision-making. Drawing from personal experience, institutional knowledge, and first-hand observation, they also look ahead to what comes next for UC Davis under Coach Tim Plough.The episode closes with a preview of the FCS National Championship and reflections on what UC Davis can learn from programs still playing deep into December and January.00:00 – Welcome & Episode FramingWhy this is a reaction and preview episode, not a traditional season recap02:30 – Breaking News: Caden Pinnick Enters the Transfer PortalInitial reactions and what surprised everyone most06:00 – Inside the QB RoomFrom depth to uncertainty: Pinnick, Grant Harper, David Raser, Damon Reister, and what’s left12:00 – Trainer Cleveland: Next Man Up?Why the coaching staff has been so high on Cleveland and what his development could look like16:30 – NIL, the Transfer Portal, and Young MenAre players being given informed choices, or rushed decisions in a chaotic system?22:00 – Resilience vs. OpportunityWhat staying, transferring, or waiting actually teaches players long-term28:30 – Coach Plough’s Philosophy Under PressureDevelopment, grad transfers, stability, and whether the approach needs to evolve35:00 – The Role of Collectives & The Aggie Football FundWhy financial support matters and why it’s complicated37:30 – FCS National Championship PreviewMontana State vs Illinois State: contrasting program models and what UC Davis can learn46:00 – Looking AheadOffseason storylines, alumni voices, and what Aggie Pride wants to explore next49:00 – Final Thoughts & Go AgsThe volatility of modern college footballQuarterback development vs. portal economicsNIL as both opportunity and riskResilience, patience, and long-term growthWhat it takes to build a sustainable FCS contenderHave a story worth telling?Whether you’re an alum, former player, or part of the Aggie football community, we want to hear from you.📩 Reach out at AggiePridePodcast.com💛 Support UC Davis football and learn more at AggieFootballFund.com

In this conversation, Scott Marsh discusses the current state of UC Davis football, including the upcoming season, key players, and the impact of coaching stability. The dialogue also touches on rivalries, the significance of NIL in college sports, and the future of stadium expansion. Additionally, the hosts reflect on the new uniform changes and their reception among fans, emphasizing the importance of tradition in college athletics.

In this episode of the Aggie Pride podcast, host Brock Galvin and guest, Scott Gordon, discuss the current state of UC Davis football, focusing on the comnpletion of spring ball practices, the quarterback competition, and the potential of new players like Caden Pinnick. They also touch on the challenges of player development in a changing football landscape and the prospects of UC Davis players in the NFL.

Recorded right on the field at UC Davis Health Stadium, Brock and Dwight are joined by an all-star panel of Aggie legends — Coach Biggs, Coach Smyte, QB Danny Alfaro, and Tailgate captain David Hultman— to break down UC Davis’ first-round playoff win over Rhode Island.This is raw, in-the-moment celebration and analysis: what went right, how the Aggies responded, who stepped up, and why this team feels dangerous heading into the quarterfinal matchup vs Illinois State.We also share:Player shoutoutsCoaching insightsTailgate recap and call-to-action for next weekReflections on community, culture, and Aggie PrideA note about the overwhelming response to the short documentary Callahan CallsKey Topics1. Rapid Reactions to the WinTale of two halvesThe defense’s near shut-out second halfCaden Pinnick’s legs, leadership, and poiseJordan Fisher’s explosive running gameBig second-quarter momentum swing2. Coaching PerspectiveComplementary footballAdjustments at halftimeThe “next man up” mentality after losing key playersThe team’s belief system and composure3. Player & Unit ShoutoutsScott Nixon (first career touchdown)Jordan Fisher (long TD run out of halftime)Wide receiver room, defensive front, and DB groupCoach Coombs and the defensive staff’s adjustments4. Fan Experience + Tailgate ReportHultman's tailgate culture and community buildingShoutout to the women’s tennis team for showing upBuckhorn next weekCall for all Aggie fans, alumni, and families to pack the stadium on Saturday5. Looking Ahead: Illinois StateWhat the coaches would say in the locker roomHow this team has matured through adversityThe path ahead in the playoffsWhy the group believes UC Davis is built for a run6. Special NotesRecognition of podcast sponsors for ESPN WeekInvitation to watch the short documentary Callahan CallsGratitude for the Aggie community and the response to the filmFeatured GuestsCoach Bob Biggs — UC Davis Hall of Fame CoachCoach Steve Smyte— Former UC Davis and Davis HS CoachDanny Alfaro — People’s QuarterbackDavid Hultman— Tailgate Captain & Community Connector🙌 Thanks to Our SponsorsLarison Real EstateJason Moon Real Estate GroupScott Judson & BPMNJ. These partners made our entire ESPN Week coverage possible.

In this episode of Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast, Dwight sits down with one of the most electric players in FCS football — Sam Gbatu Jr. Known for his toughness, precision, and quiet swagger, Sam opens up about his journey from Japan to California, his growth as a receiver, and his love for the UC Davis community.With the Aggies preparing for a primetime playoff matchup on ESPN2, Sam talks finals week, preparation, leadership, confidence, and the decision to return to Davis next season — a move that has the entire Aggie community buzzing.Growing up in Japan and discovering footballHis bond with family and influence of Coach BellsHow confidence is built through preparationFilm study, weekly prep, and developing mastery at receiverLeadership in the WR room and mentoring younger playersKey mentors like CJ Hutton, Chaz Davis, Lance Babb, and othersWhy he chose to stay at UC Davis despite transfer-era pressuresRelationship with Coach Plough and Coach TreyIn-game adjustments, working with Caden, and the value of iPads on the sidelineFavorite routes, toughest DB matchups, and slot developmentWhat the team feels heading into the playoffsA message to Aggie NationFavorite DB matchups: Tiko, Marquis, Drew, TyFavorite route: Take 4 (deep post)Most improved area: Playing the slot + reading defensesFavorite food in Davis: Alibaba, Guads, and a new ramen spot by Trader Joe’sA heartfelt shout-out to his parents, siblings, teammates, and the Aggie community — plus a call to pack UC Davis Health Stadium for Saturday night’s playoff game.🎧 Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football PodcastAvailable on: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify

In this episode, Brock sits down with former UC Davis quarterback Brock Johnson for a deep, insightful, and funny conversation about football, family legacy, mental health, and building a massive business in his 20s. The two Brocks talk QB rooms, pressure, perfectionism, Tim Plough stories, Instagram growth, and how football shaped every part of Brock Johnson’s professional success today.You’ll hear:Growing up in a three-generation quarterback familyHis grandfather becoming one of the winningest coaches in CaliforniaLife as a Mission Viejo quarterback under intense expectationsStarting 0–2 and then never losing again in high schoolTransferring from Georgetown to UC Davis and joining the Hawkins/Plough eraBecoming Tim Plough’s “assistant” for a year and how that changed everything How therapy helped him uncouple his identity from footballLearning to let go of perfectionism and people-pleasingWhat he learned from big “valley moments” between Georgetown and DavisWhy “Find Joy” is tattooed on his ribs and how it became his life mantra Starting his first business as a college freshmanHow UC Davis compliance supported his entrepreneurial pathWhat he learned from posting every day and embracing “cringe”How he stays mentally healthy on social media (don’t read the comments!) Brock’s take on Caden PinnickWhy this year’s Aggie team has “dudes” he wishes he played withLove for Tim Plough’s creativity and wrinkles on offenseScore prediction for Saturday: 26–14 UC Davis (with at least one missed PAT, obviously) Brock closes the episode with two words that changed his life: Find Joy.Detach from outcomes. Control your effort. Live in the moments that spark you. That’s his challenge to players, fans, parents, creators—everyone listening.Follow Brock on IG if you've been living under a rock: https://www.instagram.com/brock11johnson/

Watch Callahan Calls: https://youtu.be/Bn1j0wQCS6EIn this special ESPN Week episode, Brock sits down with former UC Davis running back Trever Facey—a player whose story, heart, and resilience run far deeper than anything that happened on the field.Trever shares his journey from small-town Northern California to the UC Davis backfield, his tight bonds with legends like Ulonzo Gilliam, Lan Larison, PJ Dixon, and Jeremiah Chukwudobe, and how the running back room shaped him as both an athlete and a man.But this conversation goes beyond football.Trever opens up about the loss of his father, the profound grief he walked through, and the healing and hope he’s found in the years since. He and Brock revisit their 24-hour one-day documentary shoot—returning to the exact place his father passed—and reflect on faith, legacy, and the belief that life is worth living, even in the darkest seasons.The episode also hits on:Trever’s path as an ICU nurse at Vanderbilt Medical CenterHis dream of becoming a CRNA (and his goal to attend UC Davis’ new program)The parallels between football and critical-care nursingWhy relationships, mentorship, and community matterThe possibility of UC Davis making a playoff run all the way to… NashvilleAnd yes—Turkey Bowl highlights, hamstring pulls, and staying “young” in the mid-20sThis is one of the most emotional and meaningful conversations of our season. If you or someone you love is struggling with grief, loss, or thoughts of suicide, Trever reminds listeners they are not alone and that hope is real.Trever’s Instagram: @faceytrever(Reach out—he genuinely means it.)If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available:📞 988 — Suicide & Crisis LifelineYou are seen. You are loved. You are not alone.

UC Davis quarterback legend Jake Maier joins Aggie Pride during ESPN Week to break down the Aggies’ playoff run, share wisdom from the CFL, and give a detailed look at quarterback Caden Pinnick’s development. Fresh off a Grey Cup championship, Jake talks life in the CFL, fatherhood, quarterback coaching, and what makes this year’s Aggie team special.What We Cover:Jake’s unforgettable CFL season and life after winning the Grey CupCoaching young QBs and raising his daughter during football seasonInsight on Caden Pinnick’s growth, confidence, and late-game clutch momentsGrant Harper, the QB room dynamic, and what real leadership looks likeHow Davis stacks up stylistically vs. Rhode IslandWhy this team plays with more heart and toughness than any in recent yearsJake’s message to Aggie fans, parents, players, and alumniHis official score prediction for SaturdayPrediction:Jake calls it: Aggies 31 – Rhode Island 21Sponsors:Brought to you exclusively this week byThe Larison Real Estate Group, BPMNJ, and Moon Real Estate Group

Coach Plough on the Bye Week, Sac State, Rhode Island, & ESPN2 HistoryIn this special post-Thanksgiving episode, Brock and Danny sit down with Head Coach Tim Plough to break down a massive week for UC Davis Football: the win over Sac State, the program’s second straight top-8 seed, the healing impact of the bye week, and the historic upcoming first-ever home ESPN2 playoff game at UC Davis.The guys dive deep into:How the bye created space for rest, recovery, and much-needed family timeWhy the team desperately needed a reset after playing for weeks with only ~50 healthy playersWhy even though no major injured players are returning, the team feels rejuvenated and locked inWhy Coach Plough calls it one of the greatest Causeway Classics everThe defensive masterclass vs. an explosive offenseCaden Pinnick’s most poised, complete performance of the seasonMitch & Jaden’s emotional trophy moment with CoachWhy that win meant so much culturally, personally, and programmaticallyWhat national exposure means for UC Davis, the program, and recruitingWhy this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase ShredvilleA direct call to students, alumni, parents, locals, and the Sacramento/Bay Area community:“Every seat matters. Don’t let this opportunity go to waste.”Alumni buying student tickets so the game can be free for studentsStrengths of Rhode Island’s offense: experienced QB, explosive receivers, slippery RBDefensive keys to slowing their QB’s improvisationOffensive keys for Davis: protect the ball, run efficiently, spread it outWhy special teams will quietly be decisiveHow he’s balancing his natural playmaking with learning the offenseWhy his Sac State performance was a breakthroughWhat “four or five missing touchdowns per game” really meansWhy Coach believes Pinnick’s ceiling could be national-championship levelCoach Plough announces on the pod:⭐ Sam Gbatu Jr. is officially returning for 2026⭐ Grant Gerritsen is returning as wellWhy Sam’s decision reflects the culture UC Davis has builtHow these players could’ve chased big NIL elsewhere, but chose DavisCoach Plough shares a powerful closing reflection on:Why he and his family sacrifice for this programWhat it means to represent every alum who ever wore the gold helmetWhy the “army is growing”Why Saturday is a defining moment for UC Davis athleticsUC Davis Student Tickets: Free (thanks to alumni donors)Saturday Kickoff: 7:00 PM PT — ESPN2 National BroadcastLocation: Shredville (UC Davis Health Stadium)Thank you to our generous sponsors, BPMNJ, Moon Real Estate Group, and Larison Real Estate

This week, Brock and Dwight sit down with UC Davis starting center Zaire Collier fresh off the epic Causeway Classic win and the Ags locking in a Top-8 seed in the FCS Playoffs.Zaire takes us inside:– Selection show reactions– Why the team wasn’t surprised by the 8-seed– Banquet moments and seeing Aggie legends in the room– The fast start, the rough patch, and the “Mo Bamba Moment”– Why the sideline’s energy down 10 was the difference– Breaking down Sac State’s front and where the Ags took control– What it’s like blocking for an improviser– Adjusting from Miles Hasting to Caden Pinnick– How the O-line plays in space on scrambles– Growing up near Sac State but knowing he wasn’t “green”– First exposure to UC Davis culture and what pulled him in– Learning the rivalry from the inside– Zaire opens up about confidence, doubt, and finding joy– The backstory behind his viral mental-health films– Why he sees his calling as helping people, not chasing titles– Blue Force stepping up again– J Fish’s hat trick– Sievers + Rutchena flying around– And what lies ahead in the playoffsOne of the most thoughtful, grounded, and self-aware players we’ve ever had on the pod — perfect episode for the bye week and holiday drive.

Buy Last Causeway T-Shirt: https://aggiepridepodcast.com/product/the-last-causeway-shirt/It’s the final Causeway Classic ever, and the boys break down the matchup, recap the Montana State game, honor Coach John Beam, and sit down with UC Davis senior athletic administrator Josh “Flush” Flushman for one of our best interviews yet.Montana State Recap: Strong defensive showing, missed opportunities, and why the score doesn’t tell the story.Causeway Classic Preview: Rivalry memories, keys to the game, and what’s at stake for playoffs.Tribute to Coach John Beam: Reflecting on his legacy and impact in Oakland.Interview with Flush:His path from Berkeley to UC Davis18 years inside Aggie AthleticsCulture, coaching transitions, and building game-day experienceStories from behind the scenes and why this season means so muchPure rivalry energy, real emotion, inside access to the program, and a fantastic long-form conversation with one of the most respected figures in UC Davis athletics.

It’s a big week in the Big Sky, and the Aggies are heading to Bozeman for a top-10 showdown with Montana State on national TV. Brock and Dwight break down what’s on the line, the weather forecast, key matchups, and the mental edge needed for UC Davis to pull off the upset.Then, they’re joined by one of the most respected voices inside the Aggie football program — Assistant AD and Director of Sports Performance, Coach Jeff Bourque — for a deep conversation about leadership, training philosophy, injuries, and how trust and culture drive performance.(0:00) – Intro & personal check-ins(3:30) – Brock previews his Bozeman trip and tailgate plans(6:00) – Dwight on what’s at stake and how Davis can still fight for a Big Sky title(10:00) – Injury updates, roster depth, and Caden Pinnick’s growing leadership(15:00) – Mentality heading into Bozeman: believing vs. knowing you can win(19:00) – Stopping the run and key X-factors for the Aggies(25:00) – Buckhorn Meat Co. ad read & score predictions (Brock 31-17 Bobcats; Dwight 22-20 Aggies)(27:00) – Guest segment: Coach Jeff Bourque joins the showHis journey from Massachusetts to UC Davis and 19 years in D-I coachingCoaching philosophy centered on impact and relationship-buildingHow he and his staff individualize load management during the seasonHandling player injuries and using technology (GPS, force plates) to prevent themThe art of motivation, playlist debates, and fostering trustInsights on off-season development, flexibility, and integrating yogaThe culture behind Aggie strength & conditioning and what keeps him inspired“My one-word philosophy is impact — I want to make a positive impact on every player I work with.” – Coach Bourque“We’re the process. Every day in the weight room is the process.” – Coach Bourque“The football gods are setting up the last Causeway Classic to be pressure-filled and high-stakes.” – Brock Galvin“If we can make special teams a net positive and protect the pocket, we’ll be right there with a shot.” – Dwight SmithBuckhorn Meat Co. – Visit buckhornmeatco.com or stop by their Esparto shop for premium cuts and game-day tailgate essentials.Instagram: @aggiepridepodcastTwitter/X: @aggiepridepodWebsite: aggiepridepodcast.comYouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts: Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast

Learn more about Next Level: https://nxtlvls.co/AggiePrideIn this special in-season bonus episode, Brock and Dwight sit down with one of Aggie Pride’s cornerstone sponsors and a true Aggie himself: Lance Smith, CEO of Next Level Sports.Lance shares his winding path from Redding to UC Davis, how intramural wall-fame accidentally set the stage for his entrepreneurial life, and how Next Level grew from a single site to a nationwide youth sports movement. He also opens up about the future of flag football, the sport’s upcoming Olympic moment, and why UC Davis still sits at the center of his story.• Lance’s early football roots, Pop Warner lore, and Jason Sehorn obsession• How UC Davis shaped his worldview, career path, and leadership style• The origin story of Next Level Sports and why community-based youth sports matter• Girls flag football, Olympic growth, and the global future of the game• How UC Davis football fits into the national FCS picture• A challenge to Aggie alums: pick up a shovel and build• A fiery look ahead to this weekend’s showdown with Montana StateThis pod is all heart. All community. All Aggie DNA. It’s a chance to hear from someone who believes deeply in UC Davis athletics, youth development, and the power of sport to shape lives. And it’s a thank-you to a sponsor who doesn’t just write checks — he invests in culture.New episode drops tomorrow featuring UC Davis Strength Coach and a deep dive into development, preparation, and building the Aggie blueprint from the weight room out.