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 show
His journey from Massachusetts to UC Davis and 19 years in D-I coaching
Coaching philosophy centered on impact and relationship-building
How he and his staff individualize load management during the season
Handling player injuries and using technology (GPS, force plates) to prevent them
The art of motivation, playlist debates, and fostering trust
Insights on off-season development, flexibility, and integrating yoga
The 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 Smith
Buckhorn Meat Co. – Visit buckhornmeatco.com or stop by their Esparto shop for premium cuts and game-day tailgate essentials.
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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 State
This 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.
Fresh off watching the game, Dwight links up with former QB Danny Alfaro for immediate postgame reactions to UC Davis’ crucial road win over Idaho. The Aggies bounce back after last week’s sting, showing discipline, urgency, and a business-trip mentality. The guys break down Caden Pinnick’s poised performance, Gbatu's big-play consistency, Ian Simpson’s emergence, and the defense’s relentless response led by Captain Jayden Stanley.
With playoff positioning still in reach and Montana State looming, the Aggies have everything in front of them — and tonight’s win shows they’re ready for the stretch run.
Why the early scripted drives set the tone
Offense sharpening up with quick-game, ball-control calls
Idaho’s defense on its heels for most of the first half
Caden Pinnick’s composed 21/27 performance (3 TDs, 1 rushing TD)
Repeated bang-post success to Gbatu
Middle screen magic to Ian Simpson
Using speed: fly sweeps, misdirection, spreading touches to 7+ receivers
Red zone miscues and the “left points on the board” conversation
Pressure all night from Sack Psyk, Carrade, and Cofield
Multiple near-turnovers + physical secondary play
Stanley’s game-sealing interception
Why UC Davis’ defense continues to be the backbone of the season
Punt downed at the 1
Blocked field goal + one that sailed inches over the upright
Team responds after last week’s loss
Confidence + identity sharpened
Positioning for playoff push
Bozeman next week: the biggest game of the season
• Danny’s Pick: San Gbatu— consistent, electric, fearless, and the offense’s heartbeat
• Dwight’s Pick: Jayden Stanley — captain energy, physical all night, game-closing pick
“It wasn’t the perfect game… but it was the perfect response.”
“The business trip to Moscow — mission accomplished.”
“If these guys play their game, they can beat anybody.”
Brock catches up with UC Davis football analyst Scott Gordon to break down a rollercoaster Aggie season. From the heartbreaking Idaho State loss to the upcoming must-win stretch against Idaho, Montana State, and Sacramento State, this conversation dives deep into the team’s mentality, coaching, and leadership. Scott shares inside insights from the booth, candid thoughts on the coordinators, and optimism around QB Caden Pinnick’s rise as a freshman leader.
Key Topics Covered:
Scott’s reflections on the podcast’s impact and the UC Davis fan community
What’s working and what’s breaking down defensively for the Aggies
Injuries to key players (Rex & Porter Connors, Ty Richardson, Drew Cofield, Carter Vargas) and their ripple effects
Why special teams miscues continue to haunt UC Davis
The offensive red-zone identity and how Caden Pinnick’s mobility can help
The mental reset after the Idaho State loss — and why the team’s leadership core still believes
Preview of the road matchup at Idaho: the Vandals’ top defensive ends, QB Joshua Wood, RB Elisha Cummings, and the unique challenge of the Kibbie Dome
What it’ll take to win two of the next three games and keep playoff hopes alive
Unsung heroes: tight ends Ian Simpson & Mitchell Dixon, defensive linemen Trent Carrad, Sam Goligoski, Jacob Syke, and kicker Hunter Ridley
Caden Pinnick’s poise, production (70% completion rate, 17 TDs), and why Scott believes “anything can happen” down the stretch
Memorable Quotes:
“Life is 10% what happens and 90% how you respond. I’m looking forward to seeing the 90% now.” — Scott Gordon
“People care — that’s what you want in a program. You’re creating a rabid fan base.” — Scott Gordon
“I still believe anything can happen because of Caden Pinnick.” — Brock Galvin
Brock, Dwight, Danny, and Nick return to break down UC Davis’ shocking 38–36 home loss to Idaho State — a game filled with turnovers, special teams miscues, and defensive lapses that left Aggie fans stunned. The crew processes emotions, analyzes key moments, and debates what this loss means for the rest of the season.
Opening Thoughts
Danny Alfaro joins “right on time” and vents about the Dodgers before diving into UC Davis’ disappointing result.
Nick calls it a “weird, seven-on-seven-style game” — empty stands, endless scoring, and no defense.
The fellas points out mounting injuries to top players like Carter Vargas and Drew Cofield, calling it “49er injury vibes.”
Why the Aggies Lost
Missed opportunities in the red zone: five second-half drives, only three field goals.
Turnovers: two interceptions and a costly fumble by freshman QB Caden Pinnick.
Special teams breakdown: a blocked punt returned for a touchdown and an early missed PAT.
Penalties and third-down struggles (2-for-8) stalling momentum.
Idaho State’s running back gashed Davis for over 220 yards.
Leadership & Mindset
Danny: “We just lost the ability to control our destiny. Now we’ve gotta go win three straight.”
Dwight: “This was a lose-and-learn situation. The punch in the gut that wakes you up.”
Nick: credits Pinnick for resilience — “He was 19-for-20 in the first half… we’ve got a dude at quarterback.”
Brock: “We’re not robots. They’re college kids — it was the day after Halloween. We’re all human.”
Big Picture
Discussion on Plough’s post-game accountability and the emotional handshake with former mentors.
Parallels drawn between this loss and the 2021 Idaho State upset — and why this team’s DNA is different.
Adversity, injuries, and the “rebel mentality”: “We’re the rebellion now — we have to fight back.”
Star Wars analogy 👽: Danny compares UC Davis to the Millennium Falcon — “A bucket of bolts, but still the fastest ship in the galaxy.”
Looking Ahead
The next three weeks define the season:
at Idaho (Moscow) – dangerous matchup with their starting QB back.
at Montana State (Bozeman) – playoff-level showdown.
vs. Sac State – the Causeway Classic, likely with playoff implications.
Brock previews his upcoming 24-hour documentary project on former Aggie Trevor Facy.
Alumni shoutouts from the homecoming tailgate: Tony Kays, EJ Brown, JJ Barcy, Dalton Turay, Danny Hart, Reggie Mason, and more — “Aggie Pride alive and well.”
Final Thoughts
Dwight: “How we respond is everything. Idaho is everything.”
Danny: “We’ve got to dig deep and find it — all three phases.”
Nick: “Adversity brings us together. Love you guys — that’s what Aggie Pride’s about.”
Brock: “We’re 17-5 under Plow. We’re not invincible, but we’re built for the rebound. Go Ags.”
“You can’t always survive while making mistakes — this was a lose and learn situation.” – Dwight
“We’re the Millennium Falcon — it might look beat-up, but we can still do the Kessel Run in 12 parsecs.” – Danny
“We’ve got to take on the rebellion mentality and win the war.” – Dwight
“Life’s brutally hard — go do something fun with friends and family. Come to the Causeway Classic.” – Brock
BPMNJ (Bold Polisner Maddow Nelson & Judson) – Plan for your future; get your life together.
UCU (University Credit Union) – Support Aggie Athletics.
BG Creative Co. – Follow Brock’s new documentary work @bg.creativeco on Instagram
UC Davis vs Idaho – November 9 in Moscow
Can the Aggies rebound and reclaim control of their playoff fate?
UC Davis team captain and redshirt senior safety Jayden Stanley joins host Brock Galvin for an inspiring conversation on football, faith, and family. From his late start in the sport to becoming a leader at every level, Jayden shares how loyalty, preparation, and resilience have shaped his journey — both on and off the field.
The two dive into Jayden’s upbringing in San Jose, the influence of his mom, his path through Independence and Menlo Atherton High Schools, and how he’s led the Aggie defense through a season full of adversity.
Jayden’s football story — from a seventh-grader with a dream to UC Davis team captain
His mother’s powerful influence and recovery during COVID-19
Lessons learned from leadership and being “captain on every team”
The mindset behind staying patient, loyal, and prepared
Film study and communication as keys to defensive success
The adversity of the 2024 season — from Alabama humidity to injuries
Shoutouts to teammates: Rex and Porter Connors, Kalani, Grant Harper, Caden Pinnick, Drew Cofield, Cam Totten, and more
Reflections on facing former head coach Dan Hawkins and his son Cody Hawkins
Nutrition upgrades, the new E-Fact facility, and Aggie Pride culture
Why Davis is “for the boys” — and how Jayden defines the Aggie Pride tradition
“Everything I do is for the boys. That’s who I am.”
“You gotta be cool and comfortable with not being recognized.”
“I’ve been a captain on every team I’ve ever played for — from Little League to UC Davis.”
“My mom calls me her miracle baby. I wasn’t supposed to be born, but here I am — living her dream, too.”
“Do good to Davis, and Davis will do good to you.”
The Melt (Burgers by Trader Joe’s)
Acai Fresh
Froggy’s Grill
Good Friends Poke
Chipotle & Raising Cane’s
UC Davis vs Idaho State — a reunion with former coach Dan Hawkins and OC Cody Hawkins. Jayden shares why the team’s focus is internal:
“We can’t give power to things we don’t control. We’re just focused on playing our best football.”
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — search Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast.
Follow on Instagram → @UCDavisFootballPodcast
Website → aggiepridepodcast.com
In this powerful and candid conversation, UC Davis Head Coach Tim Plough joins hosts Dwight Smith and Brock Galvin during the Aggies’ bye week to reflect on leadership, purpose, and the grind of the season. Plough opens up about balancing family life with coaching, his long-term vision for the program, and why he’s committed to Davis despite outside interest from major FBS programs.
He also shares exclusive details about a new UC Davis Football fundraising event coming February 28, 2026 in San Francisco, offering alumni and fans a chance to rally together around the future of Aggie football.
This episode covers it all — belief, legacy, the anchor vs. the sails, player leadership, and how the Aggies are finding ways to win through adversity.
Leadership and Family Balance: How Plough recharges through time with his family and his daily routine for mental and physical health.
Building UC Davis Football: Reflections on progress, vision, and the next steps needed to compete with the top FCS programs.
The Anchor and the Sails: Coach Plough’s metaphor for purpose, priorities, and staying grounded amid external job offers.
Adversity and Resilience: Overcoming season-ending injuries, staying unified, and the “Aggie Pride” mindset that drives the team.
Leadership Council: Spotlight on the seven-player group leading the locker room, including Mitch Dixon, the Conners Twins, Sam Gbatu, Jayden Stanley, and others.
Caden Pinnick’s Rise: How the freshman QB’s work ethic and development have fueled his breakout season.
Exclusive Announcement: Details on the upcoming UC Davis Wine & Football Fundraiser – February 28, 2026 at Local Edition Bar, San Francisco.
Brock Galvin, Dwight Smith, Nick King, and Daniel Alfaro reunite for a packed Aggie Pride homecoming edition after UC Davis defeated Northern Arizona 45–24 at UC Davis Health Stadium. The guys break down the game from every angle — offense, defense, and special teams — while weaving in stories from the alumni tailgate, locker room access, and classic Aggie nostalgia.
Final Score: UC Davis 45, Northern Arizona 24
Record: 5–0 vs. FCS opponents, 3–0 in Big Sky play
Theme: Slow start, strong finish.
The Aggies turned a 10–7 halftime deficit into a dominant second half, putting up 38 unanswered points led by QB Caden Pinnock’s clinical performance.
Caden Pinnock (QB): 25/29, 348 yards, 5 TDs — calm, poised, and in full command of the offense.
Gattu Batu (WR): Breakout statement game with multiple big catches and yards after the catch.
Stacy Dobbins (WR): First career touchdown and several highlight plays, including an acrobatic sideline grab.
Jordan Fisher & Carter Vargas: Electric combo in the backfield; big special teams contributions.
Defensive Front: 9 team TFLs, relentless pressure, and a crucial forced fumble recovery by Kalani Riddick to swing momentum.
Jackson Sievers (LB): Emerging as the glue of the defense, filling in for injured starters and earning Before the Big Sky Player of the Game.
Brock: UC Davis is on the rise but must stop the run and establish consistency to become a tier-one FCS program.
Dwight: Emphasizes special teams consistency and the importance of finishing games cleanly.
Nick: Praises the defensive line’s bounce-back performance and calls for improvement in kickoff coverage.
Danny: Notes the need for faster starts and for the team to “put their foot on the gas early.”
Brock: Jackson Sievers (LB, Capistrano Valley HS) — Tough, fast, filling a huge gap for the defense.
Dwight: Stacy Dobbins (WR, St. John Bosco) — First TD, elite burst, and strong blocking.
Nick: The Entire Offensive Line — Protecting Pinnock and opening lanes for the run game.
Danny: Caden Pinnick — The maestro of the offense and potential Walter Payton Award candidate.
Locker room access with Coach Plowright’s fiery pregame speech.
Cameos from UC Davis legends: Taylor Sloat, Bakari Grant, E.J. Brown, Reggie Mason, Jimmy Kunkel, and more.
Shoutout to the Krieger Terrace reception and the growing alumni community.
Dwight’s idea: keep building the “alumni caravan” — show up, reconnect, and represent Aggie Pride.
Brock: “You’ll go through the dark night of your soul — so go through it. Be humble and fearless. Go for it.”
Dwight: “This team iced a game for the first time all year. Build on that.”
Nick: “Nothing beats homecoming, a Froggy’s burger, and a UC Davis win.”
Danny: “The vibe was special — let’s pack the stands and keep showing up for these guys.”
#UCDavisFootball #AggiePridePodcast #Homecoming2025 #GoAgs #FCSFootball #BigSkyFootball #CadenPinnick #GotoGbatu
In this week’s episode, Brock and Dwight sit down with two of the most spirited voices in UC Davis athletics, Michael Lee (current Aggie Pack MC) and Scott Judson (former Aggie Pack MC and past UC Davis Alumni President).
Together, the crew dives into the past, present, and future of Aggie fandom — from the rowdy Toomey Field days and legendary “Aggie Pack Extremists,” to the growing energy around UC Davis Health Stadium.
You’ll hear stories about:
How Michael Lee went from unpaid sports intern to the face of the modern Aggie Pack.
The legacy of the Toomey Field North End Zone and how it built Aggie tradition.
The challenges of rebuilding student engagement post-COVID.
What it means to keep the Aggie Spirit alive — from the student section to alumni tailgates.
Plus: shoutouts to Woodstock’s Pizza, Hunan, and a few well-earned Aggie Pack ego boosts.
Whether you remember the Toomey Tunnel or just showed up for BrewFest, this one’s a fun, nostalgic, and honest look at what makes UC Davis football our community team.
The Aggies keep the Golden Horseshoe in Davis with a gritty 34–27 win over Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo! Brock and Dwight break down the rivalry game, share stories from the road, and highlight the standout performances that defined the night.
Victory in SLO – UC Davis earns its ninth straight win over Cal Poly, keeping the Golden Horseshoe streak alive.
Caden Pinnock’s Breakout Game – Over 300 yards passing, a rushing TD, and absolute command of the offense.
Playmakers Everywhere – Zach Jones’ two touchdowns, big catches from Stacey Dobbins and Ian Simpson, plus tough blocking from the WRs and TEs.
Defense Rising Up – Despite key injuries (Connors brothers, Cam Totten), young players like Jackson Sievers and Jaden Stanley stepped up in big moments.
On the Road in San Luis Obispo – Brock and Dwight talk about the Cal Poly gameday experience, running into Aggie families, and what it’s like celebrating with Aggie fans away from home.
Looking Ahead – With Homecoming on deck and injuries piling up, how will UC Davis respond?
Aggie families and alumni who showed up in force in SLO
Woodstocks Pizza & a special Ethiopian-inspired old fashioned
Sponsors like BPM & Jay and everyone supporting Aggie Pride
The Aggies move to 4–1 (4–0 vs. FCS) and now look ahead to a huge Homecoming matchup against Northern Arizona.
👉 Follow us on Instagram [@AggiePridePodcast] for recap videos, behind-the-scenes, and new Aggie Pride hats.
🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Shoutouts
Our 6th year Senior Captain, Mitchell Dixon, joins the show to preview the dominant 34-12 win over the Weber State Wildcats. He speaks about the challenge Coach Tim Plough gave the TE Room, how the team is responding to the Winston Williams injury, and what it will take to beat Cal Poly in this weekend's Battle for the Golden Horseshoe.
This week on Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast, we bring you a special two-part episode.
First, Brock sits down with Meghan Robinson, Director of Broadcast & Digital Media for the Big Sky Conference. Meghan shares her incredible journey from ESPN’s College GameDay—where she produced some of the show’s most moving features—to leading Big Sky storytelling today. She opens up about:
How a New England Patriots fan from Philly found her way into college football media.
Memorable behind-the-scenes GameDay stories (including Lee Corso, Tom Rinaldi, and the Navy goat 🐐).
The power of storytelling in sports and why FCS football deserves the spotlight.
What excites her most about the 2025 Big Sky season and the players to watch.
Then, Brock is joined by fellow Aggie alums Daniel Alfaro (QB10) and Brad Bispo (TE) for a nostalgic, fun, and football-filled conversation. Together, they:
Share their UC Davis football stories and memories from the locker room to the tunnel.
Reflect on the brotherhood, road trips, and unforgettable games that shaped their time in Aggie blue.
Break down the upcoming UC Davis vs. Weber State matchup—what to expect from both sides of the ball, key players to watch, and what it will take for the Aggies to win.
Roast each other a little along the way (including Brad’s blocking skills and Danny’s QB takes).
Whether you’re here for the inside look at college sports media or the Aggie football nostalgia and game preview, this episode has a little something for everyone.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube for more Aggie Pride content, and follow us on social @AggiePridePod for updates all season long.
In this episode of Aggie Pride, hosts Brock Galvin and Nick King reflect on UC Davis's impressive 50-34 victory over Southern Utah. They discuss personal highlights from the game, including interactions with coaches and alumni, and delve into the game's key moments, standout performances, and the overall atmosphere. The conversation covers the effectiveness of the Aggies' offense, the challenges faced by the defense, and the impact of special teams. They also analyze the performance of quarterback Caden Pinnick and the contributions of freshmen players, concluding with their players of the game and thoughts on the team's future.
UC Davis football is finally back home at UC Davis Health Stadium, and Brock and Nick are breaking down everything you need to know heading into the matchup against Southern Utah. From explosive quarterbacks to defensive playmakers, this episode dives deep into the keys for both sides of the ball.
Southern Utah Recap – A wild first three weeks for the Thunderbirds, including their 50–49 shootout against Northern Arizona.
Offensive Breakdown – Why QB Bronson Barron and RB Joshua Dye make SUU a dangerous opponent, and how their offense mirrors UC Davis with motion, play-action, and rhythm.
Defensive Preview – Spotlighting linebacker Sebastian Adamski, edge rusher Lando Jones, and transfer talent that gives SUU grit despite giving up big points.
Keys to the Game – What UC Davis must do on offense, defense, and special teams to secure the win at home.
Caden Pinnick Factor – Why this could be the week for Aggie fans to see Pinnick’s dual-threat ability shine.
Memories & Rivalry Vibes – Brock and Nick reflect on their playing days against Southern Utah, road trip horror stories, and why this matchup always feels tricky.
Score Predictions – Will the Aggies blow the doors off, or is this a game that comes down to the final drive?
Two special interviews you won’t want to miss:
Carter Vargas – The young Aggie linebacker shares insight on the team’s preparation and mindset.
Ari Osier – Assistant AD and equipment room legend gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what keeps the program running.
In this episode, Brock is joined by former UC Davis defensive standout and team MVP Bobby Erskine as guest co-host. Together, they walk down memory lane—from Bobby’s recruiting story and early years at Davis to his role on the search committee that helped bring in the next UCD Head Coach. Bobby shares candid stories about playing against NFL talent, the “Lost Boys” defensive unit, and how Aggie Pride has stuck with him long after his playing days.
The episode also features a special guest interview with Defensive Coordinator Matt Coombs, who reflects on:
Building a new-look defense with young and transfer players.
Teaching resilience, fundamentals, and staying calm under pressure.
Preparing to face a Washington team just two years removed from the national championship game.
Returning home to Husky Stadium, where his own love for football began.
Finally, Brock and Bobby break down UC Davis’ matchup with Washington:
Key players to watch, including the Connors brothers and new defensive standouts.
Early season takeaways and what’s impressed so far.
Score predictions and what it will take for the Aggies to compete at a Power 4 level.
In this episode of Aggie Pride, Brock catches up with former UC Davis quarterback and current sideline correspondent Daniel Alfaro. Danny brings his unique perspective as both a player and analyst, sharing what it’s like to travel with the Aggies, sit in on team meetings, and feel the pulse of the program on game day.
Behind the Scenes – Danny breaks down Fast Friday, pregame routines, and the energy that carries the team from meetings to kickoff.
Game Recap – A detailed look at UC Davis’s performance in St. George, including offensive sparks, defensive resilience, and special teams momentum shifts.
QB Room Discipline – Insights into Caden Pinnick’s growth, the pressure of being QB1, and how the coaching staff balances development with game-day execution.
Defensive Adjustments – How the Aggie D stood tall in the second half, dealt with field position battles, and made key stops when it mattered most.
Faith, Adversity & Brotherhood – Danny and Brock reflect on the bigger picture: how Aggie Pride extends beyond the field into life, resilience, and community.
Personal Reflections – From childhood memories of Friday night lights to the ongoing bond between alumni and current players, Danny shares what makes UC Davis special.
This conversation shows how Aggie Pride isn’t just about wins and losses — it’s about the lifelong network, lessons of resilience, and passion for football that stays long after the final whistle.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why This Episode Matters
In this week’s episode of Aggie Pride, Brock and Dwight sit down with two rising stars of the UC Davis defensive line: Sam Goligoski (Serra High School) and Trent Carrade (Marin Catholic). Best friends off the field and impact players on it, Sam and Trent share their football journeys, their bond as roommates, and what fuels their drive as Aggies.
Football Origins – How both Sam and Trent went from undersized high school athletes during COVID to carving out roles as preferred walk-ons at UC Davis.
High School Influences – The life-shaping lessons from legendary Bay Area coaches Patrick Walsh (Serra) and Mazi Moayed (Marin Catholic).
Stepping Into the Spotlight – Reflections on last year’s opportunities, including battling through injuries and sudden call-ups, and how those moments prepared them for bigger roles in 2025.
Mercer Game Chaos – Their first-hand reactions to the bizarre “no contest” opener in Montgomery and how the team is channeling that experience heading into Utah Tech.
Faith, Family, and Brotherhood – The inspirations that drive them daily, from chapel gatherings with teammates to setting examples for their families.
Aggie Pride Defined – What the brotherhood at UC Davis means to them, and how the connection between players, coaches, and community fuels their commitment.
Fan Questions – From Pokémon favorites and In-N-Out orders to the weirdest college food concoctions, Sam and Trent have some fun with questions submitted by Aggie fans.
Sam and Trent represent the next wave of UC Davis football — gritty walk-ons turned difference makers, bonded by shared stories of resilience, faith, and relentless work. Their perspective gives fans an inside look at the defensive line room and the culture of Aggie Pride that continues to grow stronger
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why This Episode Matters
Sam and Trent represent the next wave of UC Davis football — gritty walk-ons turned difference makers, bonded by shared stories of resilience, faith, and relentless work. Their perspective gives fans an inside look at the defensive line room and the culture of Aggie Pride that continues to grow stronger each season.
The Aggies were up 23–17 with 7:30 left when the FCS Kickoff in Montgomery was called a no contest after lightning delays. Mother Nature won the night, but UC Davis showed plenty worth talking about.
In this episode, Brock is joined by Nick King — UC Davis alum, former All Big Sky Honoree , and Team Defensive Player of the Year — for an in-depth breakdown and reaction show.
Game Day Experience – Nick’s fan perspective from kickoff confusion to watching the game with fellow Aggies.
Quarterback Spotlight – Freshman Caden Pinnick’s breakout first half, dual-threat ability, and what Mercer did to slow him down.
Defensive Breakdown – Strong linebacker play from Porter Connors, standout moments from freshman CB Drew Cofield, and Nick’s expert analysis of the D-Line unit.
Running Game & Offense – The three-back rotation, Jordan Fisher’s explosive playmaking, and questions about pass protection.
Special Teams & Momentum Shifts – How missed field goals and blocked kicks shaped the second half.
The No Contest Decision – Why the ADs landed on option four, and how this impacts UC Davis moving forward.
Looking Ahead – Concerns and optimism for the Utah Tech matchup and the rest of the season.
Defense: Porter Connors – physical, tone-setting linebacker play.
Offense: Jordan Fisher – impact as both a runner and special teams spark.
Whether you’re a diehard Aggie, Big Sky follower, or just love college football chaos, this episode has everything — analysis, laughs, and plenty of Aggie Pride.
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What we cover in this episode:Players of the Game (sponsored segment):
In this week’s episode of Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast, Brock and Dwight are joined by Anthony Soto — former UC Davis wideout and current Offensive Coordinator at Mercer.
We cover:
Soto’s journey from Aggie receiver to D2 coach and now OC at Mercer
Coaching philosophies shaped by UC Davis greats like Pat McCann
Inside look at Mercer’s program, culture, and offensive identity
Key names to watch for the Bears on Saturday, including RBs CJ Miller and Tavius Eisen
A breakdown of UC Davis’ two-deep, from Caden Pinnick at QB to a deep RB room
How both programs mirror each other heading into the FCS Kickoff on national TV
Plus:
Our Buckhorn Grill Score Predictions
Fan questions from Instagram and Aggie Sports Talk
A giveaway update (hats are 🔥 — order at AggiePridePodcast.com)
In this episode of Aggie Pride, Brock and Dwight sit down with Sacramento Bee Hall of Fame sportswriter Joe Davidson, a legendary voice in Northern California athletics. From decades of covering high school football and UC Davis athletics to NBA seasons with the Kings, Joe shares stories, insight, and history only he can recall—often down to the exact year and score.
We talk about:
Joe’s journey from small-town athlete to one of the most trusted names in local sports journalism
The growth of Northern California high school football, from Folsom’s rise to Grant’s proud tradition
UC Davis football’s evolution under Dan Hawkins and Tim Plough
Big Sky and FCS storylines to watch this season
Sac State’s bold moves, Jaden Rashada’s arrival, and the “Go-Go” offense
Why curiosity fuels great storytelling — and what keeps Joe passionate after decades in the business
Notable Moments:
How a student referendum once saved UC Davis and Sac State football from being cut
The “family” approach to recruiting that sets UC Davis apart
Joe’s Hall of Fame induction and the relationships behind his reporting
Predictions for the 2024 high school season, including dark horse contenders
Inside look at the future of the Causeway Classic rivalry
Links & Resources:
Follow Joe Davidson on X (Twitter): @SacBee_JoeD
Follow us on Instagram: @ucdavisfootballpodcast
Watch on YouTube: @AggiePridePOD