In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura break down Iowa’s dominant shutout win over Wisconsin and look ahead to a pivotal matchup against a reeling Penn State team. Defensive back TJ Hall joins the show for an exclusive interview, sharing insight on the Hawkeyes' mindset, his growth in the secondary, and when he decided to focus on football.Matt and Laura also dive into the postgame drama around James Franklin’s firing at Penn State, reflecting on the Nittany Lions’ unexpected three-game skid and the fan unrest that’s shaken the program.From defensive linemen grabbing interceptions to a screen game firing on all cylinders, this episode covers:Iowa’s smothering defense and complete shutdown of Wisconsin’s offenseMark Gronowski’s resilience in the pocket and RPO progressPraise for Reece Vander Zee, Xavier Williams, and a gritty offensive lineT.J. Hall’s continued dominance on the outside—and why quarterbacks avoid his sideThe Big Ten Championship path: what Iowa needs to clinch a spotWhy Penn State’s collapse might be more about mentality than matchupsDon’t miss the laughs, analysis, and stories behind the stats— Oh, and bring your raincoat—this next night game at Kinnick might get wet.🎧 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe and join the conversation!
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Koen Entringer, Iowa defensive back and emerging force in the Hawkeye secondary, for a conversation that dives into his journey from the soccer pitch to the gridiron.Koen opens up about his late transition into football, what drew him to defense, and the mentality it takes to play physical, disciplined football in the Big Ten. He also shares how growing up as an only child shaped his focus and independence, and what it’s like to be part of Iowa’s tight-knit defensive unit.Matt and Laura recap the bye week and catch fans up on what’s happening across Iowa athletics—from women’s basketball’s top recruit McKenna Woliczko to early buzz around men’s hoops and wrestling season—before turning their attention to this week’s matchup against Wisconsin.Whether you’re here for behind-the-scenes stories or thoughtful insight into Iowa’s defense, this episode captures the balance of grit, heart, and humor that defines Talkin’ Hawks.
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Trevor Lauck | Hoosiers Game Recap & Hawkeye Lore
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura welcome Trevor Lauck, standout Iowa offensive lineman, for a conversation that blends game-day insight with plenty of laughs.The VandeBergs open with a recap of Iowa’s hard-fought matchup against Indiana, breaking down the highs, the frustrations, and the standout defensive performances that kept the Hawks in striking distance. With the bye week now on deck, they discuss what the team needs most in this critical stretch before a gauntlet of Big Ten opponents.Then, Trevor joins the show for a lively interview that had Matt in tears from laughing. He shares stories about life in the trenches, the bond within Iowa’s offensive line, and what it’s like carrying the black and gold on Saturdays. His mix of humor and honesty gives fans a glimpse at both the grind and the fun of being a Hawkeye.Whether you’re here for the X’s and O’s, the behind-the-scenes stories, or just a good laugh, this episode delivers a little bit of everything—along with that signature Hawkeye pride.🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!
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Callie Levin | Rutgers Win & Indiana Preview
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura recap Iowa’s big win over Rutgers before welcoming Iowa women’s basketball guard Callie Levin to the show. From game-changing plays on the football field to the excitement building around women’s hoops, it’s an episode packed with Hawkeye pride.Callie shares her journey growing up in Solon with a sports-driven family, her love for both athletics and the performing arts, and how she balances basketball with passions like musicals, music, and social media. With her upbeat personality and energy, Callie gives fans a glimpse into what makes Iowa women’s basketball such a special community.To wrap up, the VandeBergs preview Iowa’s upcoming matchup with Indiana and look ahead to what’s next for the Hawks on the field and the court. Whether you’re locked in on football season or counting down to tip-off, this conversation delivers the heart, humor, and Hawkeye spirit fans love.
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Zach Twedt | Umass Win & Rutgers Preview
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura recap Iowa’s big Saturday night win over UMass at Kinnick Stadium, a historic evening that secured Coach Kirk Ferentz’s 206th victory and cemented his legacy as the winningest coach in Big Ten history. From offensive rhythm and defensive dominance, the Hawkeyes put together a statement performance heading into their upcoming Friday Night Lights matchup with Rutgers.The VandeBergs are joined in-studio by Zach Twedt, Iowa linebacker and Story City native, for a conversation that goes far beyond the field. Zach opens up about his small-town roots, growing up on a fourth-generation family farm, and how that work ethic has shaped both his football career and his life. He also shares stories about balancing farming and sports, his passion for serving veterans, and the faith and values that keep him grounded.The interview offers a raw and inspiring look at what it means to wear the black and gold while staying true to where you came from. Whether it’s leadership on the field, discipline built through farming, or the humility to stop and help a stranger change a tire, Zach embodies the spirit of Iowa athletics and community.Matt and Laura conclude the podcast by previewing the upcoming Rutgers game. Go Hawks!🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!
If you’re a Hawkeye football fan, you’ll love Talkin’ Hawks with the Vandebergs, a podcast hosted by Matt and Laura Vandeberg, two Hawkeye fanatics who have a lot of experience and knowledge about the game. They will give you a weekly update on the previous game, the upcoming matchup, and their predictions. They will also chat with Hawkeye football players and other Iowa athletes, and share their enthusiasm and insights on everything Hawkeye football. Listen every Monday morning and be part of the conversation. Let’s go Hawks!
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