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

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

AM 1300 THE ZONE (KVET-AM)·Hosted by Mike Hardge and Mark Henry·1000 episodes

SportsAustin sportsTexas LonghornsDaily sports talkInterview clipsRadio-style episodesWrestling legend host

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

Why listen

The Morning Kick-Off puts Mike "Hardball" Hardge beside Olympic and WWE legend Mark Henry for a fast-moving Austin sports show built around Texas Longhorns, NBA, NFL, MLB, and local sports voices. Listeners get full morning-show episodes with recurring segments, opinionated banter, and frequent coach, reporter, and former athlete interviews. It is a strong fit for Texas sports fans who want daily energy, Longhorns context, and a radio-style mix of headlines and personality.

Episodes

54 min
Jul 21, 2026
Its a turn the page Tuesday on The Morning Kickoff!

Its 46 days until college football kickoff, the season is unofficially here! We are breaking down Day 2 of SEC Media Days live from Tampa, featuring massive podium pressers from Kirby Smart (Georgia), Alex Golesh (Auburn), Clark Lea (Vanderbilt), and Shane Beamer (South Carolina). Plus, Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns are bringing their absolute studs to the main stage. Later in the show, we play a round of Buy or Sell on the wildest storylines heading into fall camp, and discuss the massive conference realignment news: Texas State is officially in the Pac-12, and their first major test is a massive September 5th showdown right inside DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium!

11 min
Jul 21, 2026
Joe Cook

On today's show, we were joined by Joe Cook, who was on site at SEC Media Days to preview the upcoming season for Texas Longhorn Football. Joe provided insight from the event, discussing the expectations surrounding the Longhorns as they enter a new chapter in the SEC, key players to watch, and the biggest storylines coming out of the offseason. The conversation covered Texas' roster, coaching staff, position battles, and what it will take for the Longhorns to compete at the highest level in the SEC. It was a great inside look at the program as Texas prepares for a highly anticipated season.

12 min
Jul 21, 2026
Tommy Yarrish

On today's show, we were joined by a Cowboys beat reporter Tommy Yarrish to preview Dallas Cowboys training camp and discuss the biggest storylines heading into the new season. The conversation covered key position battles, players to watch as camp opens, expectations for Dak Prescott and the offense, and how the coaching staff plans to build on last year's foundation. We also discussed the team's biggest strengths, areas of concern, and what fans should keep an eye on as training camp unfolds. It was an insightful look at where the Cowboys stand entering a critical stretch of preparation for the upcoming NFL season.

1 hr 18 min
Jul 20, 2026
Morning Kickoff on a Longhorns Monday!

This episode covers the biggest storylines across football and beyond. We break down SEC Media Days and key matchups on the schedule, including Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kentucky, while counting down to kickoff. We also discuss the Texans opening training camp, Caitlin Clark making WNBA history, Yordan Alvarez's rise as one of baseball's elite hitters, and what's happened to the "Big Dumper." Plus, we recap an unforgettable World Cup third-place match, examine Cole Hutson's lawsuit for a fifth year of eligibility, and dive into the latest conversations surrounding the Texas high school transfer portal and NIL landscape.

1 hr 17 min
Jul 17, 2026
MKO on a feel good Friday!

On this Feel Good Friday edition of The Morning Kickoff, Mike "Hardball" Hardge and WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry break down the FIFA Club World Cup Final, discuss the favorites to win it all, and react to Giannis Antetokounmpo's new home in Miami and the story behind his new jersey number. They also preview Arch Manning's upcoming season and what Texas must do to navigate its challenging first SEC schedule. The show wraps up with a look ahead to the NFL season, analyzing the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys, their strength of schedule, and what each team needs to do to contend.

13 min
Jul 16, 2026
Eric Henry

Eric Henry joins the show to break down the latest around Texas Longhorn football, focusing on why the defensive line must become the team's biggest strength this season. The discussion centers on whether Will Muschamp can elevate the unit and restore a dominant defensive identity, along with expectations for the Longhorns heading into the season, key storylines to watch, and where Texas stands as it prepares for its schedule

1 hr 3 min
Jul 16, 2026
Hour 1 MKO 2.0

Texas football: The defensive line needs to become the team's strength, with hopes that Will Muschamp can revitalize the unit and make dominant defensive line play a key identity again.Soccer: A reminder that defensive, "prevent" tactics often backfire. England scored first but lost 2–1 to Argentina, with Lionel Messi providing two assists. Argentina advances to face Spain on Sunday.ESPY Awards: The Texas Longhorns were well represented at the annual awards.NFL: George Pickens is playing under the franchise tag.College football: A ranking of the Texas football schedule from easiest to toughest is mentioned.MLB: The second half of the Major League Baseball season begins today.

1 hr 17 min
Jul 15, 2026
WayBack Wednesday: 52 Days To Texas Football, World Cup Updates, NFL

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and guest host Eric Henry of Horns247 count down the days to Texas Football, talk World Cup updates, and more. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 18 min
Jul 14, 2026
Turn The Page Tuesday: 53 Days To Texas Football, NFL, Home Run Derby

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry talk countdown the days to the start of Texas Football, talk NFL, recap the Home Run Derby and more. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 18 min
Jul 13, 2026
Longhorns Monday: Texas Baseball, MLB, Taylor Rodeo

It's a Longhorn Monday with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry! They talk Texas Baseball, MLB, Taylor Rodeo, and more, here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 16 min
Jul 10, 2026
The Morning Kickoff with Mark Henry and Eric Henry filling in for Mike Hardge

Today's show was packed with Texas sports discussion as we broke down the biggest headlines around the Longhorns. We opened with Marcus Spears Jr.'s commitment to Texas basketball and what his addition means for the future of the program. With just 57 days until kickoff, we also debated what would define a successful 2026 season for Texas football and the expectations surrounding the Longhorns heading into the year.We also discussed the NBA Summer League, highlighting the top storylines and players to watch, before wrapping up the show by identifying the biggest X-factors for Texas football in 2026. From emerging playmakers to key position battles, we examined the players who could have the greatest impact on the Longhorns' success this season.

10 min
Jul 10, 2026
Isaac Trotter

Isaac Trotter joins the show to break down the Texas Longhorns basketball team, discuss the program's newest addition, and analyze how the latest roster move could impact the Longhorns heading into the upcoming season.

14 min
Jul 10, 2026
Chip Brown

Chip Brown joins the show to break down the latest Texas Longhorns basketball recruiting news, discussing the newest addition to the program and the impact this recruit could have on the team's future. Tune in for expert insight, recruiting analysis, and what it all means for the Longhorns moving forward.

18 min
Jul 9, 2026
Legends Of The Locker Room: James Silas

Mark Henry and Eric Henry talk with San Antonio Spurs legend James Silas and give him his respect here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 18 min
Jul 9, 2026
Thirsty Thursday: Kinfolk! It's A Henry Takeover!

Mark Henry and Eric Henry of 24/7Sports talk Will Muschamp, Texas Football, Lebron James, and more! It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!

12 min
Jul 8, 2026
David Eckert

David Eckert joins the show to break down the latest headlines surrounding Texas Longhorns athletics. From the hottest storylines in Longhorn baseball to the biggest developments in Texas football, David and the crew deliver expert analysis, insider insight, and everything Longhorn fans need to know.

1 hr 4 min
Jul 8, 2026
The Morning Kickoff! Whats better than one? Two! Thats right! Eric Henry joins The Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Henry for todays show!

Eric Henry joins Mark Henry for another can't-miss episode as they break down the biggest stories in sports.The guys discuss the standout performers on the Texas Longhorns football team, debate whether Austin is ready for a professional hockey franchise—and where a team could call home—and dive into today's NBA landscape, including potential landing spots for the looming free agent LeBron James.Plus, don't miss Mark Henry's World's Strongest Take, where Mark shares his thoughts on a topic he rarely discusses. It's an episode packed with insight, debate, and plenty of surprises.

38 min
Jul 7, 2026
Hour 2 MKO

The Safety position is going to be key today Texans defense under Demeco is top level.  World Strongest Take!

36 min
Jul 7, 2026
Hour 1 of MKO!

60 DAYS UNTIL Kickoff and The Texas Defense WILL, be at the top of Mind USA FALLS TO Belgium and now the world wonders, is this best we can do? HC $6mJoe Cook of Inside TexasTexas Baseball picks up the #8 Transfer Portal player, UCLA Payton Brennan 9 hr’s and 51 rbi’s

39 min
Jul 6, 2026
Hour 2 of MKO!

The TE position is an important part of the Texas offense, but what has it been over the last few years  Cowboys  Texans  WSTJOEY CHESTNUT WINS AGAIN. Chokes someone out and keeps chasing the crown

34 min
Jul 6, 2026
Hour 1 of TMK!

Texas Football Continues its assault on the recruiting trail. USA v Belgium tonight and they got great news on the move. Striker Folarin Balogun is eligible to play tonight  Bryce Hager Former Baylor Bear 2x Big12 Champ Spent time in NFL w/Rams and Jets. Now has a FB Camp for Girls  Texas Baseball lands 2 on Team USA

9 min
Jul 2, 2026
Worlds Strongest Take

Worlds Strongest Take presented by Mark Henry. Mark, Mike, and Cole all discuss potential landing spots for Lebron James.

9 min
Jul 2, 2026
Hardge and Henry preview the new look of the Pac12

Hardge and Henry preview the new look of the Pac12 and what the upcoming football season will look like with the new teams.

11 min
Jul 2, 2026
NBA heats up Jaylen Brown to Philly for Paul George. Tobias Harris to Spurs

NBA heats up Jaylen Brown to Philly for Paul George. Tobias Harris to Spurs

17 min
Jul 2, 2026
Anthony Williams of Connected Athletics

Anthony Williams of Connected Athletics  The Connected Camp July 11th  Register at connectedathletics.org

9 min
Jul 2, 2026
Texas Football is 65 days away from kickoff.

Texas Football is 65 days away from kickoff. Texas' biggest question mark? OL

11 min
Jul 2, 2026
World Cup Updates

World Cup Updates  England outlast DR Congo 2-1 Harry Kane Senegal falls to Belgium 3-2 extra time USA beats Boznia 2-0 but not without controversy

1 hr 17 min
Jul 1, 2026
Way Back Wednesday: 66 Days To Texas Football, World Cup Updates

The Morning Kickoff hosts continue counting down the days to Texas Football, give FIFA World Cup updates and more! It's all here on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!

1 hr 16 min
Jun 30, 2026
World Cup Updates, Latest in Texas Commits, Serena Williams Return

The hot topics today are the latest in the FIFA World Cup, the latest in commits to Texas Football, Serena Williams Return to tennis, and more! It's all here on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!

1 hr 18 min
Jun 29, 2026
Texas Football, World Cup Knockout Round, MLB Labor Dispute

Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry talk Texas football, the World Cup knockout round, the MLB labor dispute, and more. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 17 min
Jun 26, 2026
Recapping USA vs Türkiye, Commits to Texas Football, Terrion Arnold

Mike "Hardball" Hardge, Mark Henry, and Cameron Parker recap the nail-biting USA vs Türkiye match, talk recent commits to Texas Football, and the Terrion Arnold story. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff!

1 hr 18 min
Jun 25, 2026
Texas Football, Lamelo Ball to Charlotte Hornets, Austin Gamblers

The hosts of The Morning Kickoff talk Texas football, the latest on Lamelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets, and the Austin Gamblers. It's all here on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!

17 min
Jun 24, 2026
Danny Davis Joins The Show!

Danny Davis joins the The Morning Kickoff hosts for a riveting discussion about all things sports!

1 hr 16 min
Jun 24, 2026
NBA Draft, NCAA Eligibility Rule, World Cup

The hosts of The Morning Kickoff speak on the NBA Draft, the NCAA Eligibility Rule, The World Cup and more! It's all here on The Morning Kickoff with Mike "Hardball" Hardge and Mark Henry!

5 min
Jun 23, 2026
OU Baseball National Champs

OU Baseball National Champs

4 min
Jun 23, 2026
The Worlds Strongest Man gives his strongest take of the day!!

The Worlds Strongest Man gives his strongest take of the day on the NBA draft.

16 min
Jun 23, 2026
Lifetime Longhorn and Newley Inducted College Baseball Hall of Famer Huston Street

Lifetime Longhorn and Newley Inducted College Baseball Hall of Famer Huston Street joins the show and talks about his days at Texas, fatherhood, and shares an intersting story that taught him a vaulable lesson.

10 min
Jun 23, 2026
NBA draft preview

NBA draft preview and who are our standouts so far?

53 min
Jun 23, 2026
Joe Cook from Inside Texas joins the program to talk everything Texas Football

Joe Cook from Inside Texas joins the program to talk everything Texas Football and gives us an inside look at how the team and coaches are coming aling just ahead of season.

10 min
Jun 23, 2026
Dusty May wins Natty now headed to Big D!!!

Dusty May wins Natty now headed to Big D!!! NBA Talk, Trae Young Re-signs with Wizards and much more NBA talk!

11 min
Jun 23, 2026
Giannis finds a home and NBA trade and draft conversation

Giannis finds a home and NBA trade and draft conversation as we head into the NBA draft night 1.

9 min
Jun 22, 2026
USA World Cup experience has been GREAT. Jamies continues his correspondent role to a tee.

USA World Cup experience has been GREAT. Jamies continues his correspondent role to a tee.

6 min
Jun 22, 2026
Texas Basketball has hoped for a call early on Tuesday. Dailyn Swain is ready

Texas Basketball has hoped for a call early on Tuesday. Dailyn Swain is ready. Plus, is Giannis on the move? Possible trade talks and early predictions for the Greek Freak!

8 min
Jun 22, 2026
Dallas Cowboys are ready and Dak finally gets love, but who will be RB2

Dallas Cowboys are ready and Dak finally gets love, but who will be RB2? Hardge goes over the options!

16 min
Jun 22, 2026
Zach Symm from Orangebloods joins the show

Zach Symm from Orangebloods joins the show to talk about the departures and arrivals for Texas Baseball.

7 min
Jun 22, 2026
THE CWS comes down to this. UNC and OU play for all the MARBLES Tonight. OU took game 1 and UNC took Game 2

Hardge talks about the College World Series heating up and the unbeleavable performaces hes seen so far.

8 min
Jun 22, 2026
HKL

Hardge talks about Texas Baseball assosciate head coach Nolan Cain leaving for Texas A&M and who can possibly replace him.

9 min
Jun 22, 2026
Wydham Clark wins US open

Wydnham Clark overcomes the crowd and battles thru adversity in New York to win the US Open.

12 min
Jun 22, 2026
Texas gets a 5 star commit!

The Texas Longhorns land a 5 star commit out of Louisianna, John Meredith.

1 hr 19 min
Jun 18, 2026
Thirsty Thursday: Texas Remains the Gold Standard, Brendan Sorsby Drama, Cowboys Offensive Outlook

Today is “Thirsty Thursday.” The University of Texas continues to be the gold standard in college athletics. Brendan Sorsby’s agent goes after The University of Cincinnati. While everyone is focusing on the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive improvements, the offense remains a constant threat. The World Cup is bringing in all the stars, with Jameis Winston continuing to entertain. The Cleveland Browns continue to have a quarterback controversy.  “The World’s Strongest Take!”  Plus, a conversation with Eric Henry of Horns 24/7 to talk about the Brendan Sorsby case, Texas Athletics domination, and the latest in Texas football news. We also have Texas Baseball Head Coach Jim Schlossnagle on to talk about the team going forward. For “Legends of the Locker Room,” we have Lifetime Longhorn Legendary Pitcher and General Manager of the Texas Volts, Cat Osterman, on to talk about the team. You can hear it all here on “The Morning Kickoff Show!”