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PODCAST · sports

The Morning Tailgate

Clay Baker and Vinny Bonsignore hosts your Morning Tailgate every weekday morning from 7am to 10am start your Raider Football day.

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  1. 50

    How Do the Raiders' Triplets Stack Up Against the NFL?

    Vinny and Clay kick off the show by breaking down the young core of Fernando Mendoza, Brock Bowers, and Ashton Jeanty, comparing the trio to the league's best while reacting to CBS Sports' rankings and discussing where the Raiders belong among the NFL's top "triplets". In Hour 2, Raider Nation joins the conversation as callers and texters share their opinions before KTNV Channel 13's Alex Eschelman stops by to discuss the NBA's expansion plans in Las Vegas and weigh in on the potential of the Raiders' young offensive stars. In Hour 3, Ralph Michaels of WagerTalk and CalSportsLV shares what he's seeing in the betting markets ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The show wraps up with Vinny responding to another journalist's take that if the Raiders don't start Fernando Mendoza in Week 1, they will have failed with the No. 1 overall pick, explaining why he believes that argument misses the mark. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. 49

    Fernando Mendoza's ESPY Sparks an Early NFL Awards Debate

    Clay and Vinny kick off the show by reacting to Fernando Mendoza being named the ESPY Award winner for Best Male College Athlete, discussing his poised acceptance speech and what his leadership could mean for Raider Nation. The guys then begin making their too-early NFL award predictions, starting with Offensive Rookie of the Year. In Hour 2, the Voice of the Raiders, Jason Horowitz, joins the show to share his expectations for Mendoza's rookie season, discuss the excitement surrounding training camp and joint practices, and weigh in on Mendoza's chances of bringing home OROY honors. Later, Clay and Vinny make their picks for Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year while also making the case for Brock Bowers as a legitimate Offensive Player of the Year candidate. In Hour 3, Case Keefer of the Las Vegas Sun joins the show to discuss the Raiders' roster heading into the season before the guys wrap things up by taking calls from Raider Nation and revealing the rest of their too-early NFL award winners.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. 48

    Who's the Raiders' Most Underrated Player?

    Vinny and Clay kick off the show by sharing the players they believe deserve more recognition as training camp approaches and discuss which overlooked contributors could play a major role this year. In Hour 2, Raider Nation joins the conversation as callers and texters weigh in with their own picks before Pro Football Talk's Myles Simmons stops by to discuss Fernando Mendoza's fit in Klint Kubiak's offense, the outlook for the Raiders' defense, what the future holds for Maxx Crosby, and his own choice for the team's most underrated player. Then in Hour 3, Marcus Johnson of the "Tape Don't Lie" podcast joins the show to break down the Raiders' wide receiver room, highlight players to watch during training camp, and identify who he believes is flying under the radar heading into the season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. 47

    When Should the Raiders Turn to Fernando Mendoza?

    Vinny and Clay kick off the show by comparing the Raiders' quarterback situation to the Giants' decision to replace Kurt Warner with rookie Eli Manning in 2004, debating whether gaining valuable experience now could pay dividends in the future. The guys then open the phone lines as Raider Nation weighs in on when Mendoza should take over. In Hour 2, Jesse Merrick of Silver & Black Sports Network joins the show to discuss Mendoza's ceiling, the impact he could have once he sees the field, and the position groups he'll be watching most closely as training camp approaches. In Hour 3, ESPN Raiders reporter Ryan McFadden previews the biggest camp storylines before Yahoo Sports' Jason Fitz explains why patience may be the best approach with Mendoza and discusses the pressure on Ashton Jeanty and Tyler Linderbaum to help the Raiders take a step forward next season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. 46

    Are the Raiders really the NFL's 25th-best team heading into the season?

    Vinny and Clay kick off the show by breaking down Bleacher Report's latest NFL power rankings, discussing whether the Raiders landed in the right spot after last year's disappointing finish and what expectations should realistically be heading into the new season. The guys also touch on Conor McGregor's failed comeback and what could be next for "The Notorious One." In Hour 2, KSNV Channel 3 sports reporter Alexa Belcastro joins the show to share her thoughts on both McGregor's future and the Raiders' early ranking heading into training camp. Then in Hour 3, former Raiders defensive back and professional chef Mark Millian stops by to discuss his new book chronicling his NFL journey and what he'll be watching from the Raiders' secondary and defense as the season approaches.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. 45

    What are 3 Keys For a Successful Raiders Season

    H1 Your Calls and Reactions H2 The Mendoza Factor H3 Ed Graney of the Review Journal and Matt Youmans from VSINSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. 44

    Who Are Your Breakout Candidates & Is Holding Mendoza Back, A Waste?

    Vinny and Clay take your potential breakout candidates for the Raiders and would holding Fernando Mendoza back, in his rookie year, be a waste? Hour 1 - Jeanty and Nailor leading the clubhouse for potential breakout seasons. Hour 2 - Jason Horowitz, Voice of the Raiders, @HorowitzJason on X Hour 3 - More of your calls and texts on the potential breakout candidates and how the Raiders could approach Mendoza's playing time in Year One. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. 43

    What Are Your Off-Season Grades For The Raiders

    H1 - Looking at Coaches and the Offense H2 - Adam Hill from the RJ H3 - Marcus Johnson from Tape Don't Lie on YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  9. 42

    USA's World Cup Exit & Raiders Camp Storylines

    In the wake of Team USA's 4-1 loss to Belgium in the Round of 16, Vinny and Connor kick off the show by sharing their reactions before asking listeners to relive the sports moments that still sting the most. In Hour 2, Jesse Merrick of Silver & Black Sports Network joins the show to break down Team USA's exit, discuss expectations for the Raiders heading into the season, and share his thoughts on the Silver & Black's pass catchers and secondary. In Hour 3, ESPN Raiders reporter Ryan McFadden previews what the Raiders' defense could look like under first-year defensive coordinator Rob Leonard, while Yahoo Sports' Jason Fitz weighs in on Team USA's loss, the latest Brandon Aiyuk drama in San Francisco, and what Fernando Mendoza needs to accomplish during training camp to earn the Week 1 starting job.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  10. 41

    Who belongs on the Raiders' Mount Rushmore?

    Vinny, Vince, and Connor kick off the show by revealing their personal Mount Rushmore's of the greatest Raiders of all time, breaking down each selection and the legacy that earned them a spot among the franchise's elite. In Hour 2, the Voice of the Raiders, Jason Horowitz, joins the show to discuss his offseason, share his own Raiders Mount Rushmore, and preview the storylines he'll be watching as training camp sits just three weeks away. The guys then open the phone lines to hear who Raider Nation believes deserves a place among the franchise's all-time greats. In Hour 3, the conversation shifts to a variety of sports topics, including whether LeBron James has done enough to earn a statue in Los Angeles, an update on the FIFA World Cup following Team USA's red-card controversy, and a final recap of the Raiders Mount Rushmore selections submitted by listeners throughout the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  11. 40

    Reliving the Greatest Sports Moments & Looking Ahead to Raiders Camp

    Vinny and Vince kick off the show by sharing some of the most unforgettable moments they've seen live or in real time before opening the phone lines for listeners to relive their favorite memories from sports history. In Hour 2, Las Vegas Review-Journal's Adam Hill joins the show to discuss the Raiders' upcoming kicking competition, the importance of building strength in the trenches, and the key position battles to watch as training camp approaches. Then in Hour 3, Marcus Johnson of the "Tape Don't Lie" podcast breaks down the offensive line, focusing on the battle at guard, shares his expectations for fourth-round rookie cornerback Jermod McCoy, and discusses the long-term potential of the Raiders' defense as the young core continues to develop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  12. 39

    Who belongs on the Mount Rushmore of No. 1 overall picks?

    Vinny, Vince, and Connor kick off the show by revealing their honorable mentions before counting down their No. 4 and No. 3 selections, explaining what separates the greatest top picks in sports history. In Hour 2, Jesse Merrick of Silver & Black Network joins the program to discuss Fernando Mendoza's development, why gaining experience as a rookie could be invaluable, and the unique opportunity Mendoza has to learn from Tom Brady through his role with the Raiders organization. The guys then complete their Mount Rushmore by unveiling their No. 2 and No. 1 picks. In Hour 3, ESPN's Ryan McFadden joins the show to discuss the Wizards' No. 1 overall pick, react to the latest news surrounding LeBron James' future, and preview Raiders training camp. The show wraps up with Yahoo Sports' Jason Fitz, who shares the biggest storylines he'll be watching as the Raiders prepare to open camp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  13. 38

    The Brady Standard: Are the Raiders Turning the Corner?

    Has Tom Brady's arrival truly raised the standard inside the Raiders organization? Vinny and Vince open the show by breaking down Brady's role as the Raiders' Director of Football Operations, discussing what his responsibilities are behind the scenes and how much influence he can have on the franchise moving forward. In Hour 2, KSNV Channel 3 sports reporter Alexa Belcastro joins the show to recap her experience covering Battle 4 Vegas and share her early expectations for the Raiders as training camp quickly approaches. Then in Hour 3, the conversation shifts to the future of the NFL as the guys explore what league expansion could look like, and which locations might make the most sense if the NFL ever decides to grow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  14. 37

    What Would You Sacrifice for a Raiders Super Bowl?

    How much would you be willing to give up to see the Raiders hoist the Lombardi Trophy? Vinny and Vince kick off the show with the latest NFL wide receiver rumors, including Brandon Aiyuk's recent Instagram activity, what it could mean for the 49ers, and whether the Raiders should explore a trade for one of the league's premier pass catchers. In Hour 2, the conversation turns to the show's big question: what would you be willing to do—or lose—to see the Raiders win a Super Bowl? KTNV Channel 13's Alex Eschelman joins the show to share her answer while also previewing what to watch for as Raiders training camp approaches. The guys wrap up the show by opening the phone lines and text line, giving Raider Nation the chance to weigh in on just how much a championship would be worth to them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  15. 36

    The Business of Being Hated

    Why do some of sports' biggest stars attract so much criticism? Vinny and Vince kick off the show by discussing the latest WNBA controversy involving Caitlin Clark and Alyssa Thomas, examining the attention surrounding Clark and whether rivalries with players like Angel Reese help or hurt the league's growing popularity. In Hour 2, the conversation shifts to soccer as the guys debate why the sport remains one of America's most popular youth activities, yet struggles to maintain the same level of passion and participation as other major sports. Throughout the show, listeners weigh in on a central question: who is the most hated player in Raiders history or among Raider Nation? Then in Hour 3, Vince, Vinny, and Connor discuss why many of today's biggest stars choose to skip marquee events such as dunk contests and all-star competitions, and whether sports are losing some of the moments that helped build legends in previous generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  16. 35

    10 Wins Now or Hope for the Future: What Would You Choose?

    Would you rather take a guaranteed 9–10 wins with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins under center, or endure a rebuilding season with Fernando Mendoza knowing the future of the franchise could be on the line? Vinny and Vince kick off the show by discussing the NFL's decision not to hold a Supplemental Draft and the latest surrounding Brandon Sorsby before diving into the quarterback debate that had Raider Nation buzzing. In Hour 2, the phone lines light up as fans share their opinions on the Cousins-versus-Mendoza dilemma, followed by a conversation with Adam Hill of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, who joins the show live from Western Michigan during Kirk Cousins' youth camp. Then in Hour 3, Marcus Johnson of the "Tape Don't Lie" podcast stops by to discuss the Raiders' outlook and biggest storylines as training camp draws closer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  17. 34

    Training Camp Is Near: What's Left on the Raiders' To-Do List?

    With training camp approaching, Vinny and Vince examine the biggest remaining needs for the Raiders and debate whether the roster is truly ready for the season ahead. The conversation begins with the possibility of adding a veteran wide receiver and the impact an experienced playmaker could have on the offense. In Hour 2, Jesse Merrick of Silver & Black Nation joins the show to break down the latest Raiders storylines and offer his outlook on the team's progress. Then in Hour 3, the guys address lingering concerns along the offensive line before welcoming Jason Fitz of Yahoo Sports, who shares the biggest questions and challenges that still concern him about the Raiders heading into camp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  18. 33

    The Raiders Need More Pressure—Who's Stepping Up?

    Maxx Crosby remains one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers, but can the Raiders generate consistent pressure from the rest of the defense? Vinny and Vince examine the defensive line and linebacker groups, discussing who needs to step up and whether the Raiders have enough playmakers to complement Crosby’s production. In Hour 2, the conversation continues with a lighter detour into NBA basketball as the guys debate how some of the game's legends would stack up against today’s stars. Then in Hour 3, the crew breaks down the Raiders agreeing to terms with third-round pick Keyron Crawford out of Auburn, evaluating his potential impact opposite Crosby and what he could bring to the future of the Raiders' defense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  19. 32

    From Brady's Call to QB1: Fernando Mendoza and the Raiders' Future

    Fernando Mendoza’s FaceTime call with Tom Brady at the NFL Scouting Combine sparked a conversation about a moment many fans never forget: meeting their idol. Vinny and Vince discuss Mendoza’s memorable interaction with the legendary quarterback and ask listeners to share their own stories of meeting athletes, celebrities, and personal heroes. The show also examines the Raiders’ front office, scouting department, and ability to identify and develop talent. In Hour 3, JT The Brick joins the conversation as the Raiders Nation Radio crew debates whether the No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, should start immediately or benefit from time to develop before taking the reins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  20. 31

    Earning Trust: Can the Raiders' Offensive Line Deliver?

    Has the Raiders' offensive line earned your trust? We break down the projected starters and position battles, debate Brandon Sorsby's future and whether teams should believe in him, and welcome Vince Sapienza and Adam Hill in Hour 3 for an inside look at all things Raiders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  21. 30

    Questions, comments, concerns

    With the offseason officially over, Vinny talks about the outlook for the Raiders going into the upcoming season and what people are optimistic about or what their concerns are. Vinny also weighs in on the o-line and QB room with the many questions surrounding both.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  22. 29

    Observations from Mandatory Mini Camp

    H1 - Vince Sapienza on VGK H2 - Jason Horowitz, Klint Kubiak Press Conference H3 - Levi Edwards From Raiders.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  23. 28

    Raiders MiniCamp Observations Day 1

    Vinny provides the MiniCamp observations from Caleb Rogers vs JPJ at RG to Cody Lindenberg getting reps with Quay.  Marcus Johnson from Tape Don't Lie on YT Interview in the third hour. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  24. 27

    Mini Camp: Who Do You Want To Hear About, Good or Bad?

    Mini Camp:  Who Do You Want To Hear About, Good or Bad? Hour One:  Fernando Mendoza interview from Raiders Media Day Hour Two:  Jesse Merrick from Silver and Black Sports Network Hour Three:  Jason Fitz From Yahoo SportsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  25. 26

    Who Are The 3 Names We'll Be Talking About From Mini Camp?

    Hour One - Your calls and texts  Hour Two - Dissecting the Offensive Line, WR Room and Donte Thornton, Jr's progression.  Hour Three - Willie Ramirez from Ball Is Life discussed Las Vegas pro sports moments, the Golden Knights and Raiders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  26. 25

    Who Are Your Raiders Sack Leaders Next Season

    H Your Calls and Texts H2 Mark McMillian former NFL DB, Alex Eschelman from ABC Las Vegas H3 Chris Thomas former SB Champion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  27. 24

    What Are Your Expectations For The Raiders Defense

    H1 - Rob Leonard on Kubiak H2 - Jason Horowitz Radio Voice of the Raiders H3 - Case Keefer from LV SunSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  28. 23

    What's The Ideal Offensive Line for The Franchise

    H2 - Adam Hill From The Review Journal H3 - Marcus Johnson from Tape Don't LieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  29. 22

    After Myles Garrett trade are Raiders hearing or listening to Maxx offers

    H1 Your Reactions H2 Jesse Merrick from SBSN  H3 Ryan McFadden from ESPN and Jason Fitz from Yahoo sportsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  30. 21

    Could The Raiders Be The Next Big Thing With Jeanty, Bowers and Mendoza

    H1 - Your Reactions For Mayer Big Year H2 - Alexa Belcastro from News 3 H3 - Chris Bumbaca from USA TodaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  31. 20

    Takeaways from OTA's

    H1 - Your Reactions H2 - Dave Bartoo from CFB Matrix, Alex Eschelman from KTNV H3 - Brady's Influence and Raiders Mt. RushmoreSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  32. 19

    What's Your Confidence Tier For Raiders Defense in May

    H1 - Your Reactions H2 -= Jason Horowitz voice of The Raiders H3 - Case Keefer of the Las Vegas SunSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  33. 18

    Confidence Level - The OLine being top half in the NFL or Mendoza winning QB job out of camp

    H1 - Your Reactions H2 - Adam Hill from the Review Journal H3 - Marcus Johnson from Tape Don't Lie on YTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  34. 17

    How Many Games will the Raiders have a QB Advantage

    H1 - Your Reactions H2 - Jesse Merrick from Silver and Black Sports Network and Jason Fitz from Yahoo Sports H3 - Ryan McFadden from ESPNSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  35. 16

    How Should The Raiders Players Earn Their Sheild

    H1 Your Reactions H2 Jason Fitz from Yahoo Sports, Alex Eschelman from Ch 13 H3 Your Reactions on Living in the PastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  36. 15

    What Are Your Takeaways from Raiders OTAs

    H1 Offensive Line groupings, Jermod McCoy H2 Levi Edwards from Raiders.com H3 David Syvertsen from Ourlads.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  37. 14

    What Aspect of the Raiders Organization are you Most Excited about for the Future

    H2 - Adam Hill of the Review Journal H3 - Marcus Johnson of Tape Don't lie on YTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  38. 13

    Your Top 3 SB Destinations and New Raiders Nicknames

    H1 - Vinny B from Owners Meetings H2 - Jessie Merrick from Silver and Black Sports Network H3 - Ryan McFadden from ESPNSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  39. 12

    When Does Fernando Mendoza Start

    H1 - Your Reactions H2 - Alexa Belcastro from News 3 H3 - Cousins and Fernando working togetherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  40. 11

    Raiders Schedule Release Recap

    H1 - Vince from the Road and Your Reactions to Zero Primetime H2 - Former NFL DB Mark McMillian and Alex Eschelman from Channel 13 H3 - Paul Gutierrez from Raiders.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  41. 10

    Did The Raiders Do Enough To Close The Gap With The Broncos

    H1 - Vince Sapienza from Anaheim and Your Reactions H2 - Jason Horowitz, Voice of The Raiders H3 - Chad Andrus from 104.3 in DenverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  42. 9

    AFC West Update Chargers

    H1 Mike McDaniel Influence on Chargers H2 Fernando Ramirez - Chargers Sporting Tribune, Adam Hill from Review-Journal H3 Marcus Johnson from Tape Don't Lie on YTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  43. 8

    After the Offseason Moves, Have the Raiders Closed the Gap on the Chiefs

    H1 Comparisons and Reactions H2 Jesse Merrick from SBSN, Jason Fitz from Yahoo Sports H3 Ryan McFadden from ESPNSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  44. 7

    What's Your Most Anticipated Opponent For The Raiders in 2026

    H1  Vince on the road, what if Raiders were road opponents internationally  H2 - Alexa Belcastro from News 3 H3 - More from Vince and your reactions to opponentsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  45. 6

    What Is The Biggest Hole In The Raiders Roster

    H1 - Your Reactions between LB and WR H2 - Garrett Podell form CBS, Joel Corry from CBS Sports H3 - Looking At Free Agent WR's, Keenan AllenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  46. 5

    Which 3 Players Will Lead The Raiders Rookies in Snap Counts

    H1 Reactions to Top 3 H2  Jason Horowitz, Raiders Radio Play by Play Announcer H3 Case Keefer of the LV Sun and LV WeeklySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  47. 4

    Try and Poke Holes Into Mendoza's Game

    H1 - Albert Breer from MMQB H2 - Shawn Syed of Sumersports.com, Adam Hill of the Review Journal H3 - Marcus Johnson of Tape Don't Lie on YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  48. 3

    On a Scale from One to Five

    On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest level of confidence in the current direction of the Raiders, how many glasses of kool-aid are you on right now? H1 - Reactions on Expectations H2 - Jesse Merrick from Silver and Black Sports Network H3 - More Reactions and Is There a "Yeah, But" feeling this year?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  49. 2

    Mendoza's Rookie Minicamp Has RaiderNation Hyped

    H1 - Reactions to Mendoza's Work Ethic H2 - Alexa Belcastro from News 3 and Reactions H3 - Mendoza's Press Conference showed Work Ethic and HumilitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  50. 1

    What about the Raiders D - Is It Set - More National Perspective on Raiders Draft

    Hr 1 - Vince from Salt Lake Hr 2 - Ian Cummings from Prom Football Sports Network recaps Raiders Draft Hr 3 - Chris Thomas on Raiders Offense and Vince from Salt LakeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Clay Baker and Vinny Bonsignore hosts your Morning Tailgate every weekday morning from 7am to 10am start your Raider Football day.

HOSTED BY

Clay Baker, Vinny Bonsignore

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Morning Tailgate have?

The Morning Tailgate currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Morning Tailgate about?

Clay Baker and Vinny Bonsignore hosts your Morning Tailgate every weekday morning from 7am to 10am start your Raider Football day.

How often does The Morning Tailgate release new episodes?

The Morning Tailgate has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Morning Tailgate?

You can listen to The Morning Tailgate on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Morning Tailgate?

The Morning Tailgate is created and hosted by Clay Baker, Vinny Bonsignore.
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