Iowa High School Sports Podcast

Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (2/25/26)

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:10:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs talk about Iowa high school final week of wrestling from the Iowa High School State Wrestling Tournament in Des Moines.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (2/17/26)

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:55:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs discuss the upcoming boys state wrestling tournament in Des Moines.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Jim Nelson (2/11/26)

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:45:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs discuss Iowa high school wrestling from the past week including IGHSAU girls state and the boys state duals at Xtream Arena.

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Call It Both Ways Podcast: Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson (2/9/26)

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:50:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talk basketball across Iowa over the past week including boys and girls high school basketball and Iowa Hawkeyes men's and women's basketball.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Jim Nelson (2/4/26)

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:30:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher is joined by Jim Nelson of The Courier to discuss Iowa high school wrestling from the past week and upcoming matchups including upcoming girls state wrestling.

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Call It Both Ways Podcast: Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson (2/2/26)

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:15:00 -0600

Call it Both Ways Podcast with Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talk Iowa high school and college basketball.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (1/29/26)

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:58:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs discuss Iowa high school wrestling from the past week and upcoming matchups.

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Call It Both Ways Podcast: Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson (1/22/26)

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:59:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talk about all Iowa basketball.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (1/21/26)

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:01:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs discuss the past week of wrestling with Iowa high schools and upcoming matches.

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Call It Both Ways Podcast: Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson (1/15/26)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:07:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson discuss news, updates and thoughts related to Iowa High School boys and girls basketball.

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Pinning Combination Podcast: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (1/14/26)

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:54:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs discuss Iowa high school wrestling.

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Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Brigs (1/8/26)

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 23:15:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs talk about all things Iowa high school wrestling.

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Pinning Combination Podcast - High School: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (12/23/25)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:29:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs go over last week's results in Iowa high school wrestling.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (12/17/25)

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:40:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher and Iowa wrestling legend Dick Briggs go over last week results in Iowa high school wrestling despite some postponements due to weather.

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Call it Both Ways Podcast: Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson (12/17/25)

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 14:51:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson dive into Iowa high school boys and girls basketball and touch briefly on Iowa Hawkeyes basketball so far this 2025-2026 season.

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Pinning Combination Podcast - High School: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (12/11/25)

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:18:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher has Dick Briggs on their weekly Pinning combinations podcast talking about Iowa high school wrestling.

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Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs (December 03, 2025)

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:47:00 -0600

Gazette sports writer K.J. Pilcher talks with Dick Briggs about the Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State match, the upcoming 2025-2026 season for Iowa, Iowa State and UNI as well as the upcoming 2025-2026 Iowa High School girls’ and boys wrestling season.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (November 19, 2025)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:18:00 -0600

Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and KJ Pilcher discuss the Iowa High School football state championship games at the UNI-dome Thursday and Friday.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (November 12, 2025)

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:46:00 -0600

Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss results from Iowa High School football playoffs from last week and upcoming playoff matchups Novemeber 12-14.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (November 5, 2025)

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:59:00 -0600

Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher discuss results from Iowa High School football playoffs from last week and upcoming playoff matchups Novemeber 6 and 7.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (October 30, 2025)

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:21:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa High School Football Week 9 results, upcoming playoff matchups in Week 10 and games to watch.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (October 22, 2025)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:26:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa High School Football Week 8 results, upcoming matchups in Week 9 and games to watch.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (October 8, 2025)

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:59:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa High School Football Week 7 results, upcoming matchups in and games to watch in Week 8.

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Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (October 8, 2025)

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 17:15:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa High School Football Week 6 results, upcoming matchups in Week 7, games to watch in Week 7 and the recently rankings.

Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (October 1, 2025)

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 18:04:00 -0600

With Week 6 of Iowa High School football ahead of us, The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss results from Week 5 and upcoming matchups for Week 6

Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (September 24, 2025)

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:43:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher talk about Week 4 results in Iowa High School Football and the upcoming Week 5 matchups.

Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (September 17, 2025)

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:51:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder, KJ Pilcher and Jeff Johnson discuss results from Week 3 and upcoming matchups in Week 4 of Iowa High School Football on the Triple Option Podcast presented by The Gazette.

Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher - September 10, 2025

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:26:00 -0600

The Gazette Sports writers Jeff Linder, KJ Pilcher and Jeff Johnson discuss results from Week 2 and upcoming matchups in Week 3 of Iowa High School Football presented by The Gazette.

Triple Option Podcast: Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher (September 3, 2025)

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:59:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson discuss Week 2 Iowa High School football and results from Week 1 on the Triple Option Podcast presented by The Gazette.

Triple Option Podcast: Iowa High School Sports August 27, 2025

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

The Gazette sports writers Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss the upcoming 2025 Iowa High School Football season, preseason rankings and games to watch in Week 1.

Park the Bus: Iowa Prep Sports Podcast May 27, 2025

Tue, 27 May 2025 17:33:00 -0600

A look at upcoming Iowa High School soccer playoffs from The Gazette correspondent Ryan Pleggenkuhle.

Park the Bus: Iowa Prep Sports Podcast May 9, 2025

Fri, 09 May 2025 15:50:00 -0600

The Gazette correspondent, Ryan Pleggenkuhle, talks about area high schools boys and girls 2025 soccer season so far.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, 3/5/25

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:31:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs recaps the NCAA Division III Region VI tournament and Upper Iowa’s performance at its D-II regional. They also break down the upcoming Big Ten, Big 12 and National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Championships.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast 2/28/25

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:33:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Gazette sportswriters Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talking area high school basketball on 2/28/25.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, 2/26/25

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:46:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs breaks down Iowa men's wrestling team's win over Oklahoma State, Iowa women's wrestling team's dominance at the national qualifier. It looks ahead at NCAA Division II and III regionals. They close with a recap of last week's IHSAA state tournament.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast 2/19/25

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:44:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Gazette sportswriters Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talking area high school basketball.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson, February 13, 2025

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:45:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Gazette sportswriters Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talking area high school basketball.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, 2/12/25

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:35:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs breaks down last weekend’s results and previews upcoming duals between Iowa and Minnesota and Iowa State at the University of Northern Iowa. They also highlight the IGHSAU state tournament and the IHSAA State Duals event.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson on February 5, 2025

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:04:00 -0600

The latest Prep Basketball podcast has Gazette sportswriters Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talking area high school basketball.

Pinning Combination: Iowa Girls’ Wrestling on the rise

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:41:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs welcomes Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Executive Director Erin Gerlich. They discuss the growth of girls’ wrestling in Iowa, the upcoming IGHSAU state tournament and how she developed a passion for the sport. Pilcher and Briggs also discuss last weekend’s college and high school results and the boys’ regional dual fields.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast with Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson on January 29, 2025

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:55:00 -0600

The latest Prep Basketball podcast has Gazette sportswriters Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson talking area high school basketball.

Pinning Combination Podcast: Cornell College Coach Brent Hamm on Wrestling Philosophy & Strong Season

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:14:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, along with Cornell College men’s wrestling coach Brent Hamm.

The trio discusses the Ram's strong season, the steady climb under Hamm, his philosophy, wrestling for Brad Smith and the late Mike Duroe, and the upcoming schedule.

Pilcher and Briggs break down Friday’s Iowa at Penn State dual and look at last weekend’s college and high school results.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, 1/22/25

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:48:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs who are joined this week by Alburnett Coach Clayton Rush.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast 1/22/2025

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:43:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast. Gazette sportswriters Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk about area high school basketball on January 22, 2025

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast 1/16/25

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:56:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast. Gazette sportswriters Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk about area high school basketball on January 16, 2025

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs, 1/16/25

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:52:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs discusses Iowa’s win over Wisconsin and the upcoming dual with No. 9 Illinois. They also talk about UNI men and Iowa women winning NWCA titles, Iowa State’s lineup and high school results from last weekend and Saturday’s tournaments.

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:11:00 -0600

Call It Both Ways: High school basketball podcast. Gazette sportswriters Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk about area high school basketball.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher, Dick Briggs and the "Voice of College Wrestling" Tim Johnson

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:48:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and hall of fame coach Dick Briggs welcomes the “Voice of College Wrestling” Tim Johnson. The former Morning Sun and Coe wrestler and Mount Vernon wrestling coach turned broadcaster discussed his experiences and the return of wrestling to Iowa PBS. Pilcher and Briggs also highlight recent results and upcoming schedules.

Pinning Combination: K.J. Pilcher, Dick Briggs, Doug Schwab, December 18, 2024

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 14:32:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and hall of fame coach Dick Briggs welcomes the University of Northern Iowa Coach Doug Schwab. The trio talks about the Panthers’ strong start to the season, the Panthers’ culture and Schwab’s family experiences. The podcast concludes with a look at the past weekend's college and high school results and the upcoming schedule.

Pinning Combination: Breakdown UNI and Iowa State’s performance in Las Vegas and Iowa’s wrestling programs’ dominance in Missouri.

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:33:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and hall of fame coach Dick Briggs breakdown UNI and Iowa State’s performance in Las Vegas and Iowa’s wrestling programs’ dominance in Missouri. They also discuss highlights from last weekend’s high school season.

Pinning Combination: Previewing Boys' & Girls' Wrestling with K.J. Pilcher & Coach Dick Briggs

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:21:00 -0600

The start of the boys’ high school wrestling competition this week means the wrestling season is firing on all cylinders. The Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and hall of fame coach Dick Briggs takes a look ahead at the upcoming events for Iowa, Iowa State and UNI. They also discuss girls’ wrestling teams off to a good start and previews the beginning of the boys’ season.

Iowa high school state football championship picks | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:45:00 -0600

For the first time since 1977, there are no Gazette-area teams in the Iowa high school state football championships. But The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson are making picks for all seven of this week’s games anyway on the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look at successful seasons for Iowa City Liberty and Mount Vernon that ended with narrow semifinal losses last week.

Iowa high school football Dome preview: Picking the champions in all 7 classes | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 14:22:00 -0600

The UNI-Dome welcomes 28 teams for the Iowa high school state football semifinals this week.

The Gazette's Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher discuss last week’s quarterfinal results, preview some noteworthy semifinal matchups and pick the champions in all seven classes on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Iowa high school football playoffs: Round of 16 takeaways, plus the best quarterfinal games

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 14:11:00 -0600

With Iowa high school football teams one win away from the UNI-Dome, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher review last week’s playoff games and take a class-by-class look at this week’s quarterfinals on The Gazette’s Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, which games are we most looking forward to this week?

Previewing the Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 14:43:00 -0600

It’s all about the playoffs now with 16 teams remaining in each of the seven Iowa high school football classes. The Gazette's Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson take a class-by-class look at the brackets with games to watch and surprise teams to consider on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Week 8 Iowa high school football chaos sets up these playoff scenarios and previews | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 15:08:00 -0600

Iowa high school football’s Week 8 was full of surprises and The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher put them into perspective on this week’s episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Plus, a look at the playoff scenarios for 5A, 4A and 3A entering Week 9, intriguing first-round matchups in 2A, 1A, A and 8-Player, possible changes to the format and another round of trivia.

Iowa high school football playoff scenarios, Week 7 takeaways and a new trivia game | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:24:00 -0600

K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson take a look at playoff scenarios for area teams entering Week 8 on the Prep Football Huddle, The Gazette's Iowa high school football podcast.

Plus, a new trivia game and a look back at the key results from Week 7, including Williamsburg returning to the top of the Class 3A rankings with a 42-13 win over Solon.

Week 7 tests to monitor and more Iowa high school football trivia | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 15:40:00 -0600

Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson are ready for a big Week 7 where multiple ranked Iowa high school football teams will be tested.

The Prep Football Huddle discusses the biggest games, looks back at what happened in Week 6, updates the rankings and playoff picture and plays another game of “Who’s Got More?” on this episode.

What stood out in Iowa high school football Week 5, plus updated rankings and trivia | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 14:51:00 -0600

The Prep Football Huddle podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher reviews the notable games from Week 5 of the Iowa high school football season and the updated Gazette statewide rankings.

Plus, a look at the Class 5A RPI system and a trivia game of “Who’s Got More?”

Wild Week 4 in Iowa high school football, updated rankings and Match Game returns | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 14:53:00 -0600

A wild Iowa high schoool football Week 4 saw another No. 1-ranked Class 5A team fall, a two-point conversion decide one rivalry game and a failed two-point conversion determine another. The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder break it all down on the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look at the updated rankings and Class 5A RPIs, Week 5 games to watch and the return of Match Game!

Big wins in Iowa high school football Week 3: Prairie, Linn-Mar and more | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:21:00 -0600

Teams like Cedar Rapids Prairie, Linn-Mar and North Linn are climbing The Gazette’s Iowa high school football rankings after big Week 3 wins. The Gazette's Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher discuss what stood out last week and the Week 4 games that might shake up the next poll on the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a unique setting for volleyball at West Delaware and a rare playoff to decide a regular-season golf tournament in Cedar Rapids.

Statements made in Week 2, updated rankings and playing 'Who Has More?' | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 16:26:00 -0600

The second week of Iowa high school football games gives us double the data to help determine the pecking order of teams. Which teams made the biggest statements in Week 2? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Linder look back at some key Gazette-area games and how those results shook up the rankings on this week's episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Plus, a look ahead to the biggest Week 3 games and test your statistical knowledge with a game of “Who Has More?”

Iowa high school football Week 1 review: Xavier shows potential, CCA's new era and more takeaways | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 16:16:00 -0600

The Gazette's Prep Football Huddle podcast with Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher reviews Week 1 of the Iowa high school football season with takeaways including a young Cedar Rapids Xavier team’s potential, Clear Creek Amana’s new era, Class 5A rankings upheaval and more.

Plus, a conference realignment update, a game of “Would you rather?” and a look ahead to the best Week 2 games this Friday.

Most successful first-year head coaches? Week 1 Iowa high school football preview

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 19:00:00 -0600

The Gazette’s Prep Football Huddle podcast returns for the 2024 Iowa high school football season. This week, Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher take a look at the first-year head coaches. Who will have the most success this season?

Plus, games to watch in Week 1, Iowa Valley’s wild Week 0 win over BGM and answers to listener questions.

Iowa high school soccer postseason preview: Who makes it to state? | Park The Bus

Tue, 14 May 2024 19:37:00 -0600

It’s time for the postseason in Iowa high school soccer. Nathan Ford and Ryan Pleggenkuhle preview every substate and region involving Gazette area teams and makes state-qualifier predictions on this week's episode of Park The Bus.

West Branch boys now No. 1 in 1A, plus previewing a big week of soccer | Park The Bus

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:07:00 -0600

The River Valley Conference’s hold on the top of the Class 1A Iowa high school boys’ soccer rankings didn’t change, but the team at the top did. Nathan Ford and Ryan Pleggenkuhle discusse West Branch’s rise to No. 1 and the notable results from last week, plus preview a big week of ranked matchups in the Gazette area on this episode of Park the Bus.

Linn-Mar girls face challenging schedule, new No. 1 teams in IHSAA rankings | Park The Bus

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 18:13:00 -0600

Iowa City Regina is the new No. 1 team in the Class 1A Iowa high school boys’ soccer rankings, but the Regals weren’t the only team that moved up. Nathan Ford and Ryan Pleggenkuhle detail the Gazette-area boys’ and girls’ teams on the move on this week’s episode of Park The Bus.

First IHSAA boys' soccer rankings, weekly team and player awards | Park The Bus

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:13:00 -0600

The Iowa High School Athletic Association’s first weekly boys’ soccer rankings provide some helpful talking points for this week’s episode of Park The Bus, The Gazette’s high school soccer podcast. Hosts Nathan Ford and Ryan Pleggenkuhle also take a look back at last week’s games by naming teams and players of the week in the area for boys and girls.

Introducing Park the Bus, a new Iowa high school soccer podcast

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 09:58:00 -0600

On the first episode of Park The Bus, a podcast covering Iowa high school soccer in the Gazette area, Ryan Pleggenkuhle details teams and players to watch in 2024 as well as some bold predictions.

2024 Iowa high school girls' state basketball preview | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0600

The field is set for the 2024 Iowa high school girls’ state basketball tournament and The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder take a class-by-class look at what to expect on this week’s episode of Call It Both Ways.

Plus, an update on the boys’ basketball postseason with state qualifiers soon to be determined.

2024 Iowa high school boys' state wrestling takeaways | Pinning Combination

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 20:00:00 -0600

After another unpredictable Iowa high school boys’ state wrestling tournament, the Pinning Combination with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs is here to break down all the top storylines.

Caitlin Clark set to make history, latest postseason updates | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0600

It’s set to be a historic basketball night in Iowa, so the Call It Both Ways podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder can only start this week’s episode by discussing Caitlin Clark on the verge of setting the NCAA women’s basketball scoring record.

Then, it’s back to high school basketball and updates from the IHSAA and IGHSAU tournament trails.

2024 Iowa high school boys' state wrestling tournament preview | Pinning Combination

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:08:00 -0600

In the high school segment of this week's Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs is a class-by-class preview of this week’s boys’ state wrestling tournament with a few predictions as well.

End of the NEIC? More conference realignment updates and postseason brackets | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:30:00 -0600

Conference realignment continues to be a topic on Call It Both Ways, The Gazette’s Iowa high school basketball podcast with Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder. This week’s episode begins with the latest updates as the Northeast Iowa Conference appears on the brink of collapse. Then, we take a look at more postseason brackets released by the IGHSAU (5A and 4A) and IHSAA (2A and 1A) and the big games involving top teams last week.

Final thoughts from girls' state wrestling tournament and boys' state duals | Pinning Combination

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs look back at last week's girls' state wrestling tournament and boys' state duals and preview this week's boys' district tournaments on this episode of the Pinning Combination.

Xtream week: Previewing girls' state wrestling and boys' state duals | Pinning Combination

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 21:00:00 -0600

It’s one of the busiest weeks of the Iowa high school wrestling season and the Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs breaks it all down. We recap last Saturday’s boys’ conference tournaments and Tuesday’s regional duals, then preview the Xtream Arena-hosted boys’ state duals (Saturday) and girls’ state tournament (Thursday and Friday).

Big games involving No. 1 teams before postseason brackets roll out | Call It Both Ways

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:45:00 -0600

No. 1-ranked teams in Iowa high school basketball picked up some big wins last week: Class 1A’s top-ranked North Linn girls beat 3A No. 1 Mount Vernon, while the 4A top-ranked Cedar Rapids Kennedy boys handled West Des Moines Valley. And there’s another big boys’ game on Friday, when 1A No. 1 Bellevue Marquette hosts No. 3 North Linn. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discusses those games, plus more notable performances on this week's episode of Call It Both Ways.

4A rankings shake-up, North Linn’s consistent success, conference realignment update | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:30:00 -0600

The Class 4A boys’ rankings had a big shake-up this week (though Cedar Rapids Kennedy is still the clear No. 1) and that leads this episode of Call It Both Ways with The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson.

Other topics this week include a big win for the Marion girls, North Linn’s consistent success, the Clear Creek Amana girls taking over the top spot in Class 4A and a conference realignment update in the northeast part of the state.

Previewing IHSAA conference tournaments and regional duals, IGHSAU regionals | Pinning Combination

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0600

It was only about a month or so ago when the Pinning Combination podcast had limited topics during a slow period of the wrestling schedule. That’s far from the case now.

This week’s episode with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs highlights the standouts from the weekend of high school tournaments and previews upcoming boys’ conference tournaments and regional duals and girls’ regional tournaments.

This week in basketball: Participation numbers, milestone wins, upcoming schedule | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson Call It Both Ways on their weekly high school basketball podcast. Lots of topics this week, including the Mount Vernon girls' rise from a one-win season to a No. 1 ranking, schedule changes, participation numbers, Eric Dettbarn's 500-win career and more.

Updated IHSAA dual rankings, J-Hawk Invitational takeaways | Pinning Combination

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 21:15:00 -0600

Weather wiped out much of the wrestling schedule in Iowa last week, but there still are a few topics to discuss on this week’s episode of the Pinning Combination with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs, including Monday's J-Hawk Invitational, updated IHSAA dual rankings and events to watch this week.

Snowed-in topics: Teams on the rise, MVC-CIML Shootout takeaways, conference realignment possibilities | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0600

The Call It Both Ways podcast is snowed in for the time being, but The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder still have a few topics to discuss despite the lack of games. Those include a look at the Cedar Rapids Washington girls, Lansing Kee boys and other teams on the rise, takeaways from last Saturday’s MVC-CIML Shootout and revisiting conference realignment possibilities.

Weekend wrestling takeaways from Anamosa, Benton, Highland and more | Pinning Combination

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0600

The first weekend of Iowa high school wrestling tournaments in 2024 gave the Pinning Combination podcast plenty to discuss this week. Tune in for takeaways and a look at the week ahead with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs.

First IHSAA basketball rankings, previewing a big Saturday | Call It Both Ways

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:30:00 -0600

The Call It Both Ways podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson is back from the holiday break with its first episode of 2024. They discuss Jim Dostal's legacy, the IHSAA's first basketball rankings and games to watch this week (including a full Saturday).

High School Basketball updates | Iowa Prep Sports Podcast

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 14:51:00 -0600

Gazette sportswriters Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk about some high school football coaching moves, and discuss the high school basketball scene as the December portion of the season winds down.

High school basketball rankings and Caitlin Clark's continuing influence | Iowa Prep Sports

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 13:06:00 -0600

Calling it both ways: Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk area high school basketball and current rankings for girls and boys basketball.

They also dive into insights on the current state for area teams, game formats, the use and non-use of the shot clock and Caitlin Clark's enduring influence on the game for young players.

High school wrestling results and Battle of Waterloo brackets

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 17:14:00 -0600

Host KJ Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs discuss high school wrestling .We talk weekend results and upcoming tournament, including the Battle of Waterloo dual tournament.

Weekend takeaways from Dan Gable Donnybrook, Independence Invitational and more | Pinning Combination

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 21:00:00 -0600

On this week's Iowa high school wrestling segment of the Pinning Combination podcast, The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs have takeaways from the Dan Gable Donnybrook, Cliff Keen Independence Invitational, Dubuque Hempstead's big week and more from last week.

Catch the full show, talking all things college and high school wrestling in Iowa, on The Gazette's YouTube page.

Iowa high school boys' wrestling 2023-24 preview | Pinning Combination

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 21:58:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs have a class-by-class preview of the 2023-24 Iowa high school boys' wrestling season on this week's Pinning Combination podcast.

Previewing the state championships | Prep Football Huddle

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 20:00:00 -0600

There’s one week left in the Iowa high school football season. The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Linder talk about what to expect in the seven state championship games and what happened in last week’s semifinals on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Dome bound: Reacting to the state quarterfinals, previewing the semifinals | Prep Football Huddle

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 20:00:00 -0600

The Prep Football Huddle podcast is Dome bound. So are 28 Iowa high school football teams. The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Linder review last week’s quarterfinal games and preview this week’s UNI-Dome semifinals on this episode.

Who goes to the Dome? Previewing the state quarterfinals | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 20:00:00 -0600

Who will advance to the UNI-Dome? Those 28 state semifinal spots will be determined this week. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher preview the Iowa high school state football quarterfinals on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Round of 16 playoff preview and picks | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:00:00 -0600

It’s all about the playoffs now on the Prep Football Huddle podcast. After quickly reviewing the Round of 32, The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Linder preview the Round of 16 in all seven Iowa high school football classes on this week’s episode. Plus, their picks for the 28 teams that will advance to the UNI-Dome.

What’s on the line in Week 9 and previewing the 2023 playoffs | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 19:15:00 -0600

It’s playoff time in Iowa high school football, at least for Class 2A, 1A, A and 8-Player. K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder preview the Round of 32 in those classes and looks at what’s at stake in the final week of the regular season for 5A, 4A and 3A teams on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Plus, stick around for our trivia game of “Who Wants More?” and a prep football edition of “Match Game.”

Solon’s big win and a look at the playoff picture entering Week 8 | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0600

It’s getting down to crunch time on the Prep Football Huddle podcast. This week’s show with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder delves into eye-opening Week 7 wins from Solon, Marion and more, the updated playoff picture and Week 8 games to watch.

We take time to remember Wally Sheets, the former Cedar Rapids Washington coach who died last week.

At the end of this episode we play a trivia game of “Who’s Got More?”

Cedar Rapids Kennedy, West Branch and more teams gaining mid-season momentum | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Cedar Rapids Kennedy and West Branch started the 2023 Iowa high school football season 0-2 against tough schedules but have won every game since, including a pair of eye-openers last week. The Prep Football Huddle podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher discusses those teams and more noteworthy resurgences this week.

Plus, a look around the area for Week 6 takeaways, RPI and district standings and games to watch in Week 7.

Exploring parity in Iowa high school football | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Parity has been one of the main storylines of this Iowa high school football season. What were the most surprising developments in Week 5? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discuss on the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look at the updated rankings, both from The Gazette and the Iowa High School Athletic Association, our midseason MVPs and Week 6 games to watch.

Week 4 includes eye-opening wins for Starmont, Solon and West Delaware | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0600

The Iowa high school football regular season is basically halfway over and still surprising us. This week’s Prep Football Huddle podcast includes reactions from The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson to eye-opening wins for Starmont, Solon West Delaware and more.

We have a full look back at Week 4 takeaways and also look ahead to the best Week 5 games.

Don’t miss the end of this week’s episode, where we play a prep football version of Match Game.

Class 4A Top 10 turmoil, Cedar Rapids Jefferson’s resurgence | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Another week of turmoil in the Class 4A Iowa high school football top 10. Among a big group of really good teams, which ones are set to emerge as the best? That’s how this episode of the Prep Football Huddle podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson kicks off.

Also included this week: Cedar Rapids Jefferson’s resurgence continues, Marion opens its new stadium and Mount Vernon says goodbye to its old facility, plus games and players to watch this week.

Williamsburg knocks off Xavier, Jefferson wins again, class-by-class rankings update | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0600

A couple big results in Week 2 of the Iowa high school football season caused a bit of a rankings shake-up in this week’s Gazette poll. The Prep Football Huddle podcast breaks it all down, including:

• Williamsburg’s win over Cedar Rapids Xavier

• Iowa City Liberty’s win over Iowa City High

• Cedar Rapids Kennedy starts 0-2 against a tough schedule

• Cedar Rapids Jefferson improves to 2-0

• A class-by-class look at the updated rankings

• How well do you know your stats? We play a game of “Who has more?”

Who were the most impressive teams in Week 1? | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Plenty of teams impressed in Week 1 of the 2023 Iowa high school football season. Who stood out? K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Linder discuss their top takeaways and look ahead to Week 2 on the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

The 2023 season preview show | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 19:00:00 -0600

It might not feel like football season outside, but take one look at the Week 1 Iowa high school football schedule and the anticipation will ramp up quickly.

There are plenty of standout games Friday night (and Saturday) that we preview in the first Prep Football Huddle podcast of the season. Plus, a class-by-class look at our preseason rankings and storylines to watch.

Takeaways from the Iowa boys' state wrestling tournament | Pinning Combination

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:30:00 -0600

After a few days to reflect, the Pinning Combination is ready to break down an expanded Iowa high school boys’ state wrestling tournament.

Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs helps us determine the standout teams and wrestlers from each of the three classes. Plus, where does Ben Kueter rank among the all-time greats?

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

Who will advance to state? | Prep Basketball

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0600

The weather will affect some postseason Iowa high school boys’ basketball games Thursday night, but by this time next week the girls’ state tournament field will be set and the boys’ substate tournaments will be underway in all four classes.

With a lot of postponements Thursday, basketball fans can spend their night with the latest episode of The Gazette’s Prep Basketball Podcast, where we discuss the postseason paths for favorites and dark horses.

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» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Iowa Prep Sports episodes on YouTube

Boys' state wrestling preview and predictions | Pinning Combination

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0600

It’s time for the traditional Iowa high school boys’ state wrestling tournament, this year in an expanded, four-day format. The Gazette’s K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs have a class-by-class preview on this week’s episode of the Pinning Combination.

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

A look at the postseason picture as February begins | Prep Basketball

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 14:03:00 -0600

This week’s episode of the Prep Basketball Podcast begins with a look at the Iowa high school girls’ basketball regional brackets in 3A, 2A and 1A. Who are the favorites to advance to state?

Also:

Cascade girls’ basketball coach Mike Sconsa steps away as he awaits a kidney transplant.
Big wins for the Mount Vernon boys.
The top-ranked Cedar Rapids Kennedy boys keep rolling.
Games to watch this week.

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» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Iowa Prep Sports episodes on YouTube

Previewing IGHSAU state wrestling, IHSAA state duals | Pinning Combination

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0600

This week’s episode of the Pinning Combination podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs previews three big days at Xtream Arena, starting with the first IGHSAU state tournament and followed by the IHSAA state duals tournament.

Also: Takeaways from the girls’ regional tournaments, boys’ conference tournaments and boys’ regional duals.

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

What happened in City High-Fairfield game, plus a look at surging teams | Prep Basketball

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

This week’s episode of the Prep Basketball Podcast begins with a discussion about the controversy surrounding Monday night’s Iowa City High-Fairfield game.

Also:

Which teams are hot right now? Including the Marion and Linn-Mar boys and North Linn and Elkader Central girls.
Is attendance in high school basketball down? Will it ever recover?
A look at this week’s top games to watch.

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» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Iowa Prep Sports episodes on YouTube

Previewing boys’ wrestling conference and girls’ wrestling regional tournaments | Pinning Combination

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 19:15:00 -0600

This week’s episode of the Pinning Combination podcast with Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs looks ahead to a big weekend of Iowa high school wrestling, previewing regional tournaments for the girls and conference tournaments for the boys.

Also:

Breaking down the boys’ wrestling regional dual assignments.
Takeaways from last week’s tournaments, including the Prairie Title Tournament, Clyde Bean Duals and Ed Winger Classic.

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

New boys' basketball No. 1s and notable milestones | Prep Basketball

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Cedar Rapids Kennedy is the new No. 1-ranked team in Class 4A boys’ basketball. The Cougars backed it up in their first game since the rankings release with an impressive win at Dubuque Senior. This week’s Prep Basketball Podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson delves into the Cougars’ strengths, including their depth.

Benton Community and Marion also have new all-time scoring leaders, notable accomplishments for Jenna Twedt and Brayson Laube.

Plus, a look at some upcoming games to watch.

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» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Iowa Prep Sports episodes on YouTube

Are IWCOA rankings the best way to determine regional duals? | Pinning Combination

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

With regional duals sites out this week and Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association rankings now determining qualifiers in all three classes, The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs discuss whether the current system could be improved.

Plus, a look back at the week in Iowa high school wrestling, including a close J-Hawk Invitational team race and what makes Wilton so impressive.

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

Who should be No. 1 in 4A boys' hoops? | Prep Basketball

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 17:00:00 -0600

There are more rankings to discuss on this week’s Prep Basketball Podcast with The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson. Will we see shake-ups at the top?

Last week’s River Valley Shootout made us wonder if there is room for more events like this — or even conference tournaments.

Plus, our Subtext subscribers chimed in with their questions: What are the best neutral sites for postseason games? Can anyone in the MVC beat the Cedar Rapids Kennedy boys?

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» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

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Standouts from a weekend of big tournaments | Pinning Combination

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

On this episode of the Pinning Combination, The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs highlight the standouts from another big weekend of high school wrestling for boys and girls, including tournaments at Benton Community, Anamosa and Ames.

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» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

Conference realignment wish list, shot clock implementation, new rankings | Prep Basketball

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder bring back the Prep Basketball Podcast in 2023 with a loaded first show.

First up, a quick run through the season so far — which boys’ and girls’ teams have stood out? Then, it’s on to the season’s new elements. How has the shot clock affected play? How have the Iowa High School Athletic Association’s official rankings worked?

Finally, we discuss Linder’s conference realignment wish list. How would these changes benefit the Iowa high school sports landscape?

» Follow Iowa Prep Sports on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

» Iowa high school basketball coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Iowa Prep Sports episodes on YouTube

Back from break with midseason wrestling awards | Pinning Combination

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination podcast is back from the holiday break!

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs hand out their midseason awards — MVP, coach of the year and team of the year — and take a look at the duals and tournaments to watch during the first week of January.

» Follow Iowa Prep Sports on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

» Iowa high school wrestling coverage on The Gazette.com

» Full Pinning Combination episodes on YouTube

United World Wrestling’s World Cup Impressions | Pinning Combination

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 16:54:00 -0600

K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs share their impression of the United World Wrestling’s World Cup, breakdown college and high school results and look ahead to upcoming tournaments.

Dan Gable Donnybrook standouts | Pinning Combination

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 19:30:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs discuss who stood out at the Dan Gable Donnybrook and other Iowa high school wrestling tournaments last weekend on this week's Pinning Combination podcast.

Start of IGHSAU wrestling is rejuvenating for the sport | Pinning Combination

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 21:30:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination is back! The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs talk all things Iowa wrestling.

In the first Iowa Prep Sports segment of 2022-23, the start of IGHSAU wrestling has been rejuvenating for the sport. And, a look at the top Gazette area boys' teams to watch this winter.

Previews and picks for the Iowa high school state football championships | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 19:00:00 -0600

There are seven games left in the 2022 Iowa high school football season. Which seven teams will leave the UNI-Dome with state championship trophies? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher make their picks for all seven and break down the Gazette-area games on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

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Dome bound! Previewing the Iowa high school state football semifinals

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 19:00:00 -0600

The Iowa high school football playoffs move to the UNI-Dome this week with the semifinals in all seven classes. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher help kick off the week with the Prep Football Huddle podcast. We look back at the quarterfinals, discuss the top storylines and break down this week's matchups

Previewing the Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Who got a promising draw? Who got the “Group of Death”? The Gazette’s K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder break down the Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 pairings on this week’s Prep Football Huddle.

First, a look at the Linn-Mar at Cedar Rapids Prairie rematch. Could the IHSAA have avoided pairing the two one week after their regular-season finale? Then, it’s on to the other notable Week 9 results, who’s going where in the playoffs and our Round of 16 picks.

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What's on the line in Iowa high school football Week 9? | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Week 9 of Iowa high school football is the last week of the regular season for some (5A, 4A, 3A), the first round of the playoffs for others (2A, 1A, A, 8-Player). The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher break it all down on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

From playoff scenarios and the RPI impact to the most-intriguing Round of 32 games and predictions, this episode has talking points for every class.

Week 7 Iowa high school football takeaways: Top-tier teams separating | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0600

At this point in the Iowa high school football season, we have enough data points to know some tiers have emerged in most classes. It looks like there is a clear top four in Class 5A, with Pleasant Valley backing up its spot there last Friday against Iowa City High. Harlan seems to be in a tier of its own in 3A. And in 1A, well, there are a lot of really, really good teams and West Branch is certainly one of them.

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss the top teams and their top takeaways from Week 7 on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Plus, a look ahead to the biggest Week 8 games and what's on the line playoff-wise.

RPI reactions + Week 6 Iowa high school football takeaways | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0600

With the release of the first official Iowa high school football RPI standings of the season, The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson break down what stands out on this week's Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look at the most compelling districts, deepest classes, biggest wins of Week 6 and the top Week 7 games to watch.

Iowa high school football's Week 5 blowouts + Kingston Stadium memories | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Did it seem like there were more blowouts than usual in Iowa high school football last Friday? The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder consider whether that’s a trend or an anomaly on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle and discuss what else stood out in Week 5, including Sigourney-Keota knocking off 1A No. 1 Pella Christian.

Plus, a look at 70 years of high school football at Kingston Stadium and what that facility means to Cedar Rapids.

Then, previewing the biggest Week 6 games.

Best of Iowa high school football Week 4 + Week 5 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 19:00:00 -0600

From Iowa City Liberty and Marion, to Cascade, East Buchanan and more, The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson run through the most-impressive wins of Iowa high school football Week 4 on the latest episode of the Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look ahead to the biggest Week 5 games, including the Battle for the Boot between Iowa City High and Iowa City West.

Are you part of our Iowa Prep Sports text group? Sign up for free to chat about Iowa high school football.

Who's No. 1 in 1A? Week 3 Iowa high school football takeaways | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Who should be the No. 1-ranked team in Class 1A of Iowa high school football? The latest Gazette poll has five different teams getting No. 1 votes, with Dyersville Beckman getting the nod.

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss that parity, more takeaways from Week 3 and Week 4 games to watch on the latest Prep Football Huddle podcast.

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Best of Iowa high school football Week 2 + NIL in IHSAA? | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 19:00:00 -0600

The Prep Football Huddle with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discusses the best of Week 2 of the Iowa high school football season, including Mount Vernon stunning Solon, Iowa City Liberty beating Linn-Mar and Williamsburg ending Van Meter's regular-season win streak.

Plus, will the IHSAA's guidelines for NIL have any impact on Iowa high school sports? And a look at the top Week 3 games to watch.

Most impressive Week 1 wins + Week 2 games to watch | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Which Iowa high school football teams impressed us the most in Week 1? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa City Liberty's eye-opening win over Iowa City High in the Clash at Kinnick, Williamsburg shutting down Iowa City Regina and more on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Plus, a look at the games to watch in Week 2, our Survivor game and answering questions from our text group (join here).

Friday Night Lights at Kinnick + Week 1 Iowa high school football preview

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 19:00:00 -0600

The Prep Football Huddle is back!

The Gazette's Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher preview the 2022 Iowa high school football season and Week 1's top games, including the Iowa City Liberty-Iowa City High clash at Kinnick Stadium.

Among the topics covered on this week's podcast:

How the Clash at Kinnick was set up and if it will continue
Big games on Thursday night this week
Cedar Rapids Jefferson's rebuilding project
The Gazette's preseason rankings
A closer look at Williamsburg, Cedar Rapids Xavier, Cedar Rapids Prairie and more
The first week of our Iowa high school football "Survivor" predictions game

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What "We Wave" means to Dalles Jacobus and his budding music career

Thu, 12 May 2022 06:00:00 -0600

Former Iowa and Cedar Rapids Kennedy football player Dalles Jacobus joins The Gazette's John Steppe on the Hawk Off The Press podcast to discuss his new single, "We Wave" and his budding music career.

(From the On Iowa Sports network)

Tyler Linderbaum's high school coach explains what makes him a special NFL prospect

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Former Solon High School football coach Kevin Miller is the guest on this week's Hawk Off The Press podcast. Ahead of the NFL Draft, Miller explains what it was like coaching Tyler Linderbaum in high school and what NFL teams can expect to get from Iowa's All-America center.

(From The Gazette's On Iowa Sports podcast network)

Girls' state basketball field is set! | Prep Basketball Huddle

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 18:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson break down the girls' state basketball tournament that starts next week and discuss the regional finals from Tuesday and Wednesday. Plus, a look at what's happened in boys' basketball district and substate games and what's coming up.

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State wrestling in review | Pinning Combination

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 19:30:00 -0600

The Iowa high school state wrestling tournament delivered once again. The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher (@kjpilcher) and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs (@JHawkforever) break it all down, from the team races to the standout individual performances on this segment of the Pinning Combination, a show about all things wrestling in Iowa.

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Small-school Iowa high school basketball postseason storylines | Prep Basketball Huddle

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:00:00 -0600

From East Buchanan to Springville and many more, The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discuss the latest boys' and girls' basketball storylines as the postseason rolls on. And by the way, the shot clock era is approaching. "Savor" these last few games without it ...

Takeaways from sectionals and regional duals and previewing districts | Pinning Combination

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:45:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs discuss the standout performances from the sectional tournaments and regional duals and preview Saturday's districts on this segment of the Pinning Combination podcast.

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Regional pairings for girls and district, substate assignments for boys | Prep Basketball Huddle

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 18:30:00 -0600

The regional pairings are in for Iowa girls basketball, and so are the district and substate assignments for boys basketball. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discuss on the latest Prep Basketball Huddle.

Girls' wrestling is sanctioned in Iowa! What's next for the sport? | Pinning Combination

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 19:00:00 -0600

It was a historic weekend for wrestling in Iowa as the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union announced it would sanction the sport for the 2022-23 season. The Gazette's J.R. Ogden was at Xtream Arena in Coralville for the announcement during the Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association state tournament and joins The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs on the Pinning Combination to talk about the scene.

Now, what's next? There are a few questions to answer as the IGHSAU prepares for its first wrestling season and we break them down one by one.

Plus, it was another busy weekend of boys' wrestling tournaments and we preview this Saturday's conference tournaments.

AP? BC Moore? IGHSAU? Who has the best rankings and how should they be used in the postseason? | Prep Basketball Huddle

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:30:00 -0600

In Iowa high school boys' basketball, we have the Associated Press poll. BC Moore and Varsity Bound have metrics-based rankings. Prep Hoops Iowa has its own set of rankings. So who does it best, and how should sportswriters rank teams in different parts of the state? The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union ranks teams itself and uses that for the postseason. What are the pros and cons of that system? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discuss on the latest Prep Basketball Huddle after talking about the notable games of the week. That includes Cedar Rapids Kennedy's convincing boys' win over Dubuque Hempstead and Iowa City High taking its first two losses on the girls' side.

MVC boys' basketball parity continues, Wamac adds Grinnell | Prep Basketball Huddle

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 20:00:00 -0600

Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson take a look at Gazette area Iowa high school basketball storylines on the Prep Basketball Huddle podcast. Iowa City West knocked off 4A No. 4 Cedar Rapids Prairie on Tuesday, continuing the parity in the Mississippi Valley Conference. It's a similar story for the girls in the Wamac as Solon beat Marion. Speaking of the Wamac, Grinnell will make the move there in 2023 from the Little Hawkeye Conference. What's next for conference realignment?

Ben Kueter dominates, teams shuffle schedules and more weekend wrestling takeaways | Pinning Combination

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 19:30:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs look at the weekend that was in Iowa high school wrestling, including takeaways from Cedar Rapids Jefferson's J-Hawk Invitational, Marion's Loyd Shaffer Invitational and Solon's Ed Hadenfeldt Invitational. Plus, a look at the week ahead.

Midseason check-in: Top Gazette area Iowa high school basketball storylines | Prep Basketball Huddle

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 19:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder are bringing back the Prep Basketball Huddle! In the first episode of 2022, a look at the top storylines in each of the Gazette area conferences (Mississippi Valley, Wamac, River Valley, Tri-Rivers, Northeast Iowa, Upper Iowa and South Iowa Cedar). Plus, the depth of Class 2A boys, Hannah Stuelke's record-breaking night for Cedar Rapids Washington and more.

Wyatt Voelker continues to dominate as West Delaware wins at Benton | Pinning Combination

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 20:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs take a look at the weekend wrestling action, including West Delaware’s win at the Benton Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational, Vinton-Shellsburg’s potential and takeaways from Ames’ Jack Mendenhall Invitational. Plus, is Linn-Mar a wrestling school now? And a trophy idea for the Cedar Rapids Kennedy-Cedar Rapids Xavier dual.

Wrestling tournaments to watch to begin 2022 | Pinning Combination

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 19:45:00 -0600

It's the first episode of the Pinning Combination in 2022! The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher and Hall of Fame coach Dick Briggs preview the Benton Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational and other big tournaments coming up this weekend.

Dan Gable Donnybrook, Cliff Keen Independence Invitational takeaways and weekend preview | Pinning Combination

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 11:45:00 -0600

K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs look back at the first big weekend of high school wrestling tournaments and previewing this week's action on the Pinning Combination!

Wrestling season is here! | Pinning Combination

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:00:00 -0600

The Pinning Combination returns with K.J. Pilcher and Dick Briggs talking all things Iowa high school wrestling.

Iowa high school football state championship picks | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 19:00:00 -0600

In the final Prep Football Huddle of the 2021 season, The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher preview this week's Iowa high school state football championship games and make their picks. Plus, another look at the gap between Central Iowa and Eastern Iowa in the state's biggest class, and a look back at how our preseason rankings held up.

Iowa high school football state semifinals preview and picks | Prep Football Huddle

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 19:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher break down the Iowa high school football state semifinals, with predictions for each game in all seven classes on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle.

Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 scoreboard show | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 23:57:00 -0600

All the scores from the Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16, plus a look at the quarterfinal matchups in all seven classes.

Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 18:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, K.J. Pilcher and Nathan Ford have a class-by-class preview of the Iowa high school football playoffs Round of 16 on this week's Prep Football Huddle.

Iowa high school football Round of 32, Week 9 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 23:56:00 -0600

All the scores from the first round of the Iowa high school football playoffs in 2A, 1A, A and 8-Player and postgame reports from key Week 9 regular-season games on our Friday night postgame show.

Iowa high school football playoffs 2021: Previewing 2A, 1A, A, 8-Player | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0600

It's time for the postseason in four Iowa high school football classes. The round of 32 is this week in 2A, 1A, A and 8-Player. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss the most intriguing matchups on this week's Prep Football Huddle. Plus, a look at some of the big Week 9 regular-season games in 5A, 4A and 3A and what's at stake.

Iowa high school football Week 8 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 00:21:00 -0600

Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Ryan Pleggenkuhle bring you scores, stats, highlights and more on our Week 8 Iowa high school football postgame show.

Iowa high school football Week 7 takeaways, Week 8 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 18:34:00 -0600

As the Iowa high school football regular season winds down, The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss the latest storylines on this episode of the Prep Football Huddle. That includes Cedar Rapids Prairie nearly taking down Southeast Polk and Iowa City High suffering its first loss against Pleasant Valley in Week 7. Also, a preview of Week 8, including a highly-anticipated rivalry game in Eastern Iowa between West Delaware and Independence. Plus, a look at how the playoffs will work in the smaller four classes.

Iowa high school football Week 7 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 23:52:00 -0600

Highlights, scores and postgame reports from Week 7 of the Iowa high school football season.

Iowa high school football Week 6 takeaways, Week 7 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss Iowa high school football storylines on the Prep Football Huddle.

Week 6 saw Cedar Rapids Kennedy thump Cedar Falls for a statement win, Williamsburg rally to beat Mid-Prairie and much more. Plus, the IHSAA gave us our first look at RPI standings for the playoffs in 5A, 4A and 3A.

Also in this episode: Cedar Rapids Jefferson's perseverance, Coach of the Year front-runners and a Week 7 preview, including Cedar Rapids Prairie's chances against Southeast Polk.

Iowa high school football Week 6 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 01:02:00 -0600

Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and Ryan Pleggenkuhle have highlights, postgame reports and scores from Week 5 of the Iowa high school football season, including Cedar Rapids Kennedy's win over Cedar Falls.

Iowa high school football Week 5 takeaways, Week 6 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 21:21:00 -0600

The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher are back for another Prep Football Huddle. Up first: A look back at Week 5, including Iowa City High leaving a huge impression with a blowout win over Iowa City West, Cedar Rapids Xavier handling Cedar Rapids Washington, Benton Community rallying to beat Mount Vernon and more.

Then, it's on to Week 6 and a look at the biggest games in the Gazette area, including multiple top-10 matchups in Class 5A.

Finally, a roundtable to close it out with K.J. having Jeff and Jeff guess some stats and the guys choosing their midseason MVPs.

Iowa high school football Week 5 scores and highlights | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:45:00 -0600

Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Ryan Pleggenkuhle have highlights, postgame reports and scores from Week 5 of the Iowa high school football season, including Iowa City High's win over Iowa City West in the Battle for the Boot.

Iowa high school football Week 4 takeaways, Week 5 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 19:15:00 -0600

OK, Iowa City High is definitely for real. The Little Hawks proved that with their 21-17 win over West Des Moines Dowling last Friday. The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss that big win and much more from Week 4 on this week's Prep Football Huddle. Also discussed: City High's Ben Kueter announced his commitment to Iowa for both football and wrestling. Plus, a look at the Class 5A contenders after more rankings shake-up this week, and previewing Week 5's schedule.

Iowa high school football Week 4 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 23:41:00 -0600

Join The Gazette's Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher, Ryan Pleggenkuhle and Jeff Johnson for highlights, scores and postgame reports from a wild Week 4 in Iowa high school football.

Iowa high school football Week 3 takeaways, Week 4 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0600

Dyersville Beckman, legit? Is Cedar Rapids Kennedy really the No. 2 team in Class 5A? Can Iowa City High beat West Des Moines Dowling this week? The Gazette's Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder and K.J. Pilcher discuss their biggest Week 3 Iowa high school football takeaways and look ahead to what they'll be watching in Week 4 on the Prep Football Huddle.

Iowa high school football Week 3 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 00:11:00 -0600

The Gazette's Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher, Jeff Johnson and Ryan Pleggenkuhle have highlights, postgame reports and scores from Week 3 of the Iowa high school football season.

Iowa high school football Week 2 takeaways, Week 3 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 20:30:00 -0600

Week 2 of the Iowa high school football season saw multiple No. 1-ranked teams fall and plenty of upsets elsewhere. The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson share their takeaways on this episode of Prep Football Huddle and look ahead to Week 3's biggest games. They also take a closer look at the 2-0 Cedar Rapids Metro teams: Xavier, Kennedy, Washington, Prairie and Linn-Mar, plus Iowa City High.

Iowa high school football Week 2 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 00:54:00 -0600

Join The Gazette's Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder and Ryan Pleggenkuhle for highlights, scores and postgame reports from Week 2 of the Iowa high school football season.

Roundup: Week 2 Iowa high school football scores, stats and more

Iowa high school football Week 1 takeaways, Week 2 preview | Prep Football Huddle

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 17:09:00 -0600

Now that we’ve had time to take an in-depth look at Week 1 of the Iowa high school football season, The Gazette’s Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson share their biggest takeaways on this week’s Prep Football Huddle podcast.

Plus, a look ahead to Week 2, including which games we’ll have an eye on.

Subscribe to the Iowa Prep Sports newsletter for more Iowa high school football coverage.

Iowa high school football Week 1 recap | Iowa Prep Sports Postgame

Sat, 28 Aug 2021 02:26:00 -0600

Join The Gazette's Nathan Ford, Jeff Linder, Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher for highlights, scores and postgame reports from Week 1 of the Iowa high school football season.

» Roundup: Week 1 Iowa high school football scores, stats and more

Iowa high school football preseason rankings reaction

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:30:00 -0600

It's Week 1 of the Iowa high school football season and The Gazette has been rolling out its preseason rankings for all seven classes. Nathan Ford and Jeff Linder discuss the Top 10s in each class on this episode of the Iowa Prep Sports Podcast, plus look ahead to some of the top area games scheduled for Friday.

» 12 Gazette-area Week 1 games to watch

Pinning Combination: Sectionals recap, districts preview

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0600

The Iowa high school wrestling postseason rolls on and the Pinning Combination is here to discuss the latest, with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, The Predicament's G. Wyatt Schultz and former coach Dick Briggs.

On this week's show:

• Recapping last Saturday’s Class 1A and 2A sectional tournaments and Tuesday’s regional duals

• Previewing Saturday’s district tournaments.

• The IHSAA’s decision to keep restrictions in place at state despite Gov. Kim Reynolds removing statewide mandates.

Subscribe to On The Mats by K.J. Pilcher on Facebook or The Gazette on YouTube to watch the full show.

Pinning Combination: West Delaware Coach Jeff Voss + What's next for girls' wrestling?

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0600

Listen to the high school portion of this week's Pinning Combination Iowa wrestling podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, The Predicament's G. Wyatt Schultz and former coach Dick Briggs.

This week:

• An interview with Jeff Voss, the head coach of the 2A No. 1-ranked West Delaware Hawks

• After another successful state tournament, what's next for girls' wrestling in Iowa?

• Full weekend recap and preview

• The weekly "You Make The Call" segment

Pinning Combination: Girls' wrestling keeps growing in Iowa; Weekend recap + preview

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0600

The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, The Predicament's Wyatt Schultz and former coach Dick Briggs recap the weekend that was in Iowa high school wrestling and look ahead to this week's action on the Pinning Combination.

Included is a look at girls' wrestling in Iowa with the state tournament set for this weekend. Participation numbers continue to grow, showing the interest is there. But it still isn't sanctioned by the IHSAA or IGHSAU and the wrestling community is making sure girls have opportunities to compete at a high level in the meantime.

Subscribe to On The Mats by K.J. Pilcher on Facebook or The Gazette on YouTube to watch the full show.

Pinning Combination: Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational doesn't disappoint; Weekend preview

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 20:36:00 -0600

Listen to the high school portion of this week's Pinning Combination Iowa wrestling podcast with The Gazette's K.J. Pilcher, The Predicament's G. Wyatt Schultz and former coach Dick Briggs.

This week:

• A Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational with eight ranked teams and around 60 ranked wrestlers did not disappoint. Plus a look around the state at last weekend's results

• What the IHSAA state wrestling schedule and format could look like this year (no changes have been determined yet)

• Weekend preview, including the J-Hawk Invite at Cedar Rapids Jefferson

Subscribe to On The Mats by K.J. Pilcher on Facebook or The Gazette on YouTube to watch the full show.

Iowa high schools will play baseball and softball: Initial reactions + questions we still have

Thu, 21 May 2020 20:38:05 -0600

Wednesday morning, Gov. Kim Reynolds gave the green light for high school summer sports in Iowa. Within hours, the state’s governing bodies for interscholastic athletics proceeded. As a result, high school baseball and softball are all systems go. According to the Iowa Department of Education, team-organized practices for baseball and softball may begin June 1 “unless circumstances dictate a change in date.” Games may begin June 15. In both cases, a long list of mitigation efforts are required — in the words of the Department of Education — “to help ensure player, coach, and spectator safety during games.” After Reynolds’ announcement, the IGHSAU board of directors and IHSAA board of control met, and both voted to approve resuming the 2020 summer seasons under Department of Education guidelines. In this podcast, The Gazette's Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher and Jeff Johnson react to the news and discuss ongoing questions about what this season will look like. Read more: Jean Berger, Tom Keating and the aftermath of the decision to open up Iowa high school sports https://www.thegazette.com/subject/sp... It's 'PLAY BALL' for Iowa high school summer sports https://www.thegazette.com/subject/sp... Follow: Twitter https://twitter.com/iowaprepsports Facebook https://www.facebook.com/iowaprepsports/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iowaprepsports/

First reactions to 2020 Iowa high school football schedules

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 01:17:42 -0600

We got a glimpse of fall Thursday when the Iowa High School Athletic Association released teams’ schedules for the 2020 prep football season. Here to discuss their initial reactions on the Iowa Prep Sports Podcast and takeaways are The Gazette’s Jeff Johnson and K.J. Pilcher. From Class 4A to 8-Player, it’s a look at the most notable games and overall schedules.

State basketball rewind, IHSAA's decision to finish tournament, all-area teams

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 22:47:43 -0600

It was a surreal scene on Friday, March 13 at Wells Fargo Arena as the Iowa high school boys' state basketball championship games were played with limited fans in attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has now suspended spring sports. On the latest edition of Call It Both Ways, The Gazette's Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder discuss how the IHSAA made the decision to finish the tournament while other states postponed or canceled. They also talk basketball, recapping both the boys' and girls' 2020 state tournaments and discussing The Gazette's all-area teams. Hopefully this helps pass some time as we commit to social distancing!

Girls' state basketball tournament preview

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 21:36:32 -0600

The field for the 2020 Iowa high school girls' state basketball tournament is set, with 40 teams advancing to Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson preview the tournament on the latest episode of Call It Both Ways and break down how Clear Creek Amana upset No. 2 Marion in a Class 4A regional final. There are more regional recaps, plus an update on the boys' basketball postseason, with substate finals coming up shortly.

Examining the IHSAA's 2020 football setup

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 23:14:58 -0600

Now that we’ve had a week to digest the Iowa High School Athletic Association’s plans for the 2020 football season, The Gazette’s Jeff Johnson and Jeff Linder talk about what it all means on the latest Call It Both Ways podcast. The basketball postseason tips off for Class 1A girls Thursday night and will soon be underway for teams around the state. There are a few seeding scenarios to discuss there, namely Cedar Rapids Prairie being ranked No. 9 and thus drawing a 2-seed. The final segment looks at some of the top upcoming regular-season games this weekend.

Latest on IHSAA's football decision + WFA Shootout shot clock reviews

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 22:39:50 -0600

We'll have to keep waiting for the next Iowa high school football classification, district and playoff formats. The Gazette's Jeff Linder and Jeff Johnson discuss the latest they've heard on the latest Call It Both Ways podcast. There's basketball talk, too, including a look back at the use of a shot clock at the Wells Fargo Advisors Shootout, the City High-Dowling and Marion-CPU girls' games and examining the area conference races.