Aggie Pride Podcast

Fresh off watching the game, Dwight links up with former QB Danny Alfaro for immediate postgame reactions to UC Davis’ crucial road win over Idaho. The Aggies bounce back after last week’s sting, showing discipline, urgency, and a business-trip mentality. The guys break down Caden Pinnick’s poised performance, Gbatu's big-play consistency, Ian Simpson’s emergence, and the defense’s relentless response led by Captain Jayden Stanley.

With playoff positioning still in reach and Montana State looming, the Aggies have everything in front of them — and tonight’s win shows they’re ready for the stretch run.

• Why the early scripted drives set the tone

• Offense sharpening up with quick-game, ball-control calls

• Idaho’s defense on its heels for most of the first half

• Caden Pinnick’s composed 21/27 performance (3 TDs, 1 rushing TD)

• Repeated bang-post success to Gbatu

• Middle screen magic to Ian Simpson

• Using speed: fly sweeps, misdirection, spreading touches to 7+ receivers

• Red zone miscues and the “left points on the board” conversation

• Pressure all night from Sack Psyk, Carrade, and Cofield

• Multiple near-turnovers + physical secondary play

• Stanley’s game-sealing interception

• Why UC Davis’ defense continues to be the backbone of the season

• Punt downed at the 1

• Blocked field goal + one that sailed inches over the upright

• Team responds after last week’s loss

• Confidence + identity sharpened

• Positioning for playoff push

• Bozeman next week: the biggest game of the season

• Danny’s Pick: San Gbatu— consistent, electric, fearless, and the offense’s heartbeat
• Dwight’s Pick: Jayden Stanley — captain energy, physical all night, game-closing pick

• “It wasn’t the perfect game… but it was the perfect response.”

• “The business trip to Moscow — mission accomplished.”

• “If these guys play their game, they can beat anybody.”

Brock catches up with UC Davis football analyst Scott Gordon to break down a rollercoaster Aggie season. From the heartbreaking Idaho State loss to the upcoming must-win stretch against Idaho, Montana State, and Sacramento State, this conversation dives deep into the team’s mentality, coaching, and leadership. Scott shares inside insights from the booth, candid thoughts on the coordinators, and optimism around QB Caden Pinnick’s rise as a freshman leader.

Key Topics Covered:

• Scott’s reflections on the podcast’s impact and the UC Davis fan community

• What’s working and what’s breaking down defensively for the Aggies

• Injuries to key players (Rex & Porter Connors, Ty Richardson, Drew Cofield, Carter Vargas) and their ripple effects

• Why special teams miscues continue to haunt UC Davis

• The offensive red-zone identity and how Caden Pinnick’s mobility can help

• The mental reset after the Idaho State loss — and why the team’s leadership core still believes

• Preview of the road matchup at Idaho: the Vandals’ top defensive ends, QB Joshua Wood, RB Elisha Cummings, and the unique challenge of the Kibbie Dome

• What it’ll take to win two of the next three games and keep playoff hopes alive

• Unsung heroes: tight ends Ian Simpson & Mitchell Dixon, defensive linemen Trent Carrad, Sam Goligoski, Jacob Syke, and kicker Hunter Ridley

• Caden Pinnick’s poise, production (70% completion rate, 17 TDs), and why Scott believes “anything can happen” down the stretch

Memorable Quotes:

“Life is 10% what happens and 90% how you respond. I’m looking forward to seeing the 90% now.” — Scott Gordon
“People care — that’s what you want in a program. You’re creating a rabid fan base.” — Scott Gordon
“I still believe anything can happen because of Caden Pinnick.” — Brock Galvin

Brock, Dwight, Danny, and Nick return to break down UC Davis’ shocking 38–36 home loss to Idaho State — a game filled with turnovers, special teams miscues, and defensive lapses that left Aggie fans stunned. The crew processes emotions, analyzes key moments, and debates what this loss means for the rest of the season.

Opening Thoughts

• Danny Alfaro joins “right on time” and vents about the Dodgers before diving into UC Davis’ disappointing result.

• Nick calls it a “weird, seven-on-seven-style game” — empty stands, endless scoring, and no defense.

• The fellas points out mounting injuries to top players like Carter Vargas and Drew Cofield, calling it “49er injury vibes.”

Why the Aggies Lost

• Missed opportunities in the red zone: five second-half drives, only three field goals.

• Turnovers: two interceptions and a costly fumble by freshman QB Caden Pinnick.

• Special teams breakdown: a blocked punt returned for a touchdown and an early missed PAT.

• Penalties and third-down struggles (2-for-8) stalling momentum.

• Idaho State’s running back gashed Davis for over 220 yards.

Leadership & Mindset

• Danny: “We just lost the ability to control our destiny. Now we’ve gotta go win three straight.”

• Dwight: “This was a lose-and-learn situation. The punch in the gut that wakes you up.”

• Nick: credits Pinnick for resilience — “He was 19-for-20 in the first half… we’ve got a dude at quarterback.”

• Brock: “We’re not robots. They’re college kids — it was the day after Halloween. We’re all human.”

Big Picture

• Discussion on Plough’s post-game accountability and the emotional handshake with former mentors.

• Parallels drawn between this loss and the 2021 Idaho State upset — and why this team’s DNA is different.

• Adversity, injuries, and the “rebel mentality”: “We’re the rebellion now — we have to fight back.”

• Star Wars analogy 👽: Danny compares UC Davis to the Millennium Falcon — “A bucket of bolts, but still the fastest ship in the galaxy.”

Looking Ahead

• The next three weeks define the season:

  1. at Idaho (Moscow) – dangerous matchup with their starting QB back.

  2. at Montana State (Bozeman) – playoff-level showdown.

  3. vs. Sac State – the Causeway Classic, likely with playoff implications.

• Brock previews his upcoming 24-hour documentary project on former Aggie Trevor Facy.

• Alumni shoutouts from the homecoming tailgate: Tony Kays, EJ Brown, JJ Barcy, Dalton Turay, Danny Hart, Reggie Mason, and more — “Aggie Pride alive and well.”

Final Thoughts

• Dwight: “How we respond is everything. Idaho is everything.”

• Danny: “We’ve got to dig deep and find it — all three phases.”

• Nick: “Adversity brings us together. Love you guys — that’s what Aggie Pride’s about.”

• Brock: “We’re 17-5 under Plow. We’re not invincible, but we’re built for the rebound. Go Ags.”

“You can’t always survive while making mistakes — this was a lose and learn situation.” – Dwight
“We’re the Millennium Falcon — it might look beat-up, but we can still do the Kessel Run in 12 parsecs.” – Danny
“We’ve got to take on the rebellion mentality and win the war.” – Dwight
“Life’s brutally hard — go do something fun with friends and family. Come to the Causeway Classic.” – Brock

• BPMNJ (Bold Polisner Maddow Nelson & Judson) – Plan for your future; get your life together.

• UCU (University Credit Union) – Support Aggie Athletics.

• BG Creative Co. – Follow Brock’s new documentary work @bg.creativeco on Instagram

UC Davis vs Idaho – November 9 in Moscow
Can the Aggies rebound and reclaim control of their playoff fate?

UC Davis team captain and redshirt senior safety Jayden Stanley joins host Brock Galvin for an inspiring conversation on football, faith, and family. From his late start in the sport to becoming a leader at every level, Jayden shares how loyalty, preparation, and resilience have shaped his journey — both on and off the field.

The two dive into Jayden’s upbringing in San Jose, the influence of his mom, his path through Independence and Menlo Atherton High Schools, and how he’s led the Aggie defense through a season full of adversity.

• Jayden’s football story — from a seventh-grader with a dream to UC Davis team captain

• His mother’s powerful influence and recovery during COVID-19

• Lessons learned from leadership and being “captain on every team”

• The mindset behind staying patient, loyal, and prepared

• Film study and communication as keys to defensive success

• The adversity of the 2024 season — from Alabama humidity to injuries

• Shoutouts to teammates: Rex and Porter Connors, Kalani, Grant Harper, Caden Pinnick, Drew Cofield, Cam Totten, and more

• Reflections on facing former head coach Dan Hawkins and his son Cody Hawkins

• Nutrition upgrades, the new E-Fact facility, and Aggie Pride culture

• Why Davis is “for the boys” — and how Jayden defines the Aggie Pride tradition

“Everything I do is for the boys. That’s who I am.”

“You gotta be cool and comfortable with not being recognized.”

“I’ve been a captain on every team I’ve ever played for — from Little League to UC Davis.”

“My mom calls me her miracle baby. I wasn’t supposed to be born, but here I am — living her dream, too.”

“Do good to Davis, and Davis will do good to you.”

• The Melt (Burgers by Trader Joe’s)

• Acai Fresh

• Froggy’s Grill

• Good Friends Poke

• Chipotle & Raising Cane’s

UC Davis vs Idaho State — a reunion with former coach Dan Hawkins and OC Cody Hawkins. Jayden shares why the team’s focus is internal:

“We can’t give power to things we don’t control. We’re just focused on playing our best football.”

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — search Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast.

Follow on Instagram → @UCDavisFootballPodcast
Website → aggiepridepodcast.com

In this powerful and candid conversation, UC Davis Head Coach Tim Plough joins hosts Dwight Smith and Brock Galvin during the Aggies’ bye week to reflect on leadership, purpose, and the grind of the season. Plough opens up about balancing family life with coaching, his long-term vision for the program, and why he’s committed to Davis despite outside interest from major FBS programs.

He also shares exclusive details about a new UC Davis Football fundraising event coming February 28, 2026 in San Francisco, offering alumni and fans a chance to rally together around the future of Aggie football.

This episode covers it all — belief, legacy, the anchor vs. the sails, player leadership, and how the Aggies are finding ways to win through adversity.

• Leadership and Family Balance: How Plough recharges through time with his family and his daily routine for mental and physical health.

• Building UC Davis Football: Reflections on progress, vision, and the next steps needed to compete with the top FCS programs.

• The Anchor and the Sails: Coach Plough’s metaphor for purpose, priorities, and staying grounded amid external job offers.

• Adversity and Resilience: Overcoming season-ending injuries, staying unified, and the “Aggie Pride” mindset that drives the team.

• Leadership Council: Spotlight on the seven-player group leading the locker room, including Mitch Dixon, the Conners Twins, Sam Gbatu, Jayden Stanley, and others.

• Caden Pinnick’s Rise: How the freshman QB’s work ethic and development have fueled his breakout season.

• Exclusive Announcement: Details on the upcoming UC Davis Wine & Football Fundraiser – February 28, 2026 at Local Edition Bar, San Francisco.

Brock Galvin, Dwight Smith, Nick King, and Daniel Alfaro reunite for a packed Aggie Pride homecoming edition after UC Davis defeated Northern Arizona 45–24 at UC Davis Health Stadium. The guys break down the game from every angle — offense, defense, and special teams — while weaving in stories from the alumni tailgate, locker room access, and classic Aggie nostalgia.

• Final Score: UC Davis 45, Northern Arizona 24

• Record: 5–0 vs. FCS opponents, 3–0 in Big Sky play

• Theme: Slow start, strong finish.

• The Aggies turned a 10–7 halftime deficit into a dominant second half, putting up 38 unanswered points led by QB Caden Pinnock’s clinical performance.

• Caden Pinnock (QB): 25/29, 348 yards, 5 TDs — calm, poised, and in full command of the offense.

• Gattu Batu (WR): Breakout statement game with multiple big catches and yards after the catch.

• Stacy Dobbins (WR): First career touchdown and several highlight plays, including an acrobatic sideline grab.

• Jordan Fisher & Carter Vargas: Electric combo in the backfield; big special teams contributions.

• Defensive Front: 9 team TFLs, relentless pressure, and a crucial forced fumble recovery by Kalani Riddick to swing momentum.

• Jackson Sievers (LB): Emerging as the glue of the defense, filling in for injured starters and earning Before the Big Sky Player of the Game.

Brock: UC Davis is on the rise but must stop the run and establish consistency to become a tier-one FCS program.
Dwight: Emphasizes special teams consistency and the importance of finishing games cleanly.
Nick: Praises the defensive line’s bounce-back performance and calls for improvement in kickoff coverage.
Danny: Notes the need for faster starts and for the team to “put their foot on the gas early.”

• Brock: Jackson Sievers (LB, Capistrano Valley HS) — Tough, fast, filling a huge gap for the defense.

• Dwight: Stacy Dobbins (WR, St. John Bosco) — First TD, elite burst, and strong blocking.

• Nick: The Entire Offensive Line — Protecting Pinnock and opening lanes for the run game.

• Danny: Caden Pinnick — The maestro of the offense and potential Walter Payton Award candidate.

• Locker room access with Coach Plowright’s fiery pregame speech.

• Cameos from UC Davis legends: Taylor Sloat, Bakari Grant, E.J. Brown, Reggie Mason, Jimmy Kunkel, and more.

• Shoutout to the Krieger Terrace reception and the growing alumni community.

• Dwight’s idea: keep building the “alumni caravan” — show up, reconnect, and represent Aggie Pride.

• Brock: “You’ll go through the dark night of your soul — so go through it. Be humble and fearless. Go for it.”

• Dwight: “This team iced a game for the first time all year. Build on that.”

• Nick: “Nothing beats homecoming, a Froggy’s burger, and a UC Davis win.”

• Danny: “The vibe was special — let’s pack the stands and keep showing up for these guys.”

#UCDavisFootball #AggiePridePodcast #Homecoming2025 #GoAgs #FCSFootball #BigSkyFootball #CadenPinnick #GotoGbatu

In this week’s episode, Brock and Dwight sit down with two of the most spirited voices in UC Davis athletics, Michael Lee (current Aggie Pack MC) and Scott Judson (former Aggie Pack MC and past UC Davis Alumni President).

Together, the crew dives into the past, present, and future of Aggie fandom — from the rowdy Toomey Field days and legendary “Aggie Pack Extremists,” to the growing energy around UC Davis Health Stadium.

You’ll hear stories about:

• How Michael Lee went from unpaid sports intern to the face of the modern Aggie Pack.

• The legacy of the Toomey Field North End Zone and how it built Aggie tradition.

• The challenges of rebuilding student engagement post-COVID.

• What it means to keep the Aggie Spirit alive — from the student section to alumni tailgates.

• Plus: shoutouts to Woodstock’s Pizza, Hunan, and a few well-earned Aggie Pack ego boosts.

Whether you remember the Toomey Tunnel or just showed up for BrewFest, this one’s a fun, nostalgic, and honest look at what makes UC Davis football our community team.

The Aggies keep the Golden Horseshoe in Davis with a gritty 34–27 win over Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo! Brock and Dwight break down the rivalry game, share stories from the road, and highlight the standout performances that defined the night.

• Victory in SLO – UC Davis earns its ninth straight win over Cal Poly, keeping the Golden Horseshoe streak alive.

• Caden Pinnock’s Breakout Game – Over 300 yards passing, a rushing TD, and absolute command of the offense.

• Playmakers Everywhere – Zach Jones’ two touchdowns, big catches from Stacey Dobbins and Ian Simpson, plus tough blocking from the WRs and TEs.

• Defense Rising Up – Despite key injuries (Connors brothers, Cam Totten), young players like Jackson Sievers and Jaden Stanley stepped up in big moments.

• On the Road in San Luis Obispo – Brock and Dwight talk about the Cal Poly gameday experience, running into Aggie families, and what it’s like celebrating with Aggie fans away from home.

• Looking Ahead – With Homecoming on deck and injuries piling up, how will UC Davis respond?

• Aggie families and alumni who showed up in force in SLO

• Woodstocks Pizza & a special Ethiopian-inspired old fashioned

• Sponsors like BPM & Jay and everyone supporting Aggie Pride

The Aggies move to 4–1 (4–0 vs. FCS) and now look ahead to a huge Homecoming matchup against Northern Arizona.

👉 Follow us on Instagram [@AggiePridePodcast] for recap videos, behind-the-scenes, and new Aggie Pride hats.
🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Shoutouts

Our 6th year Senior Captain, Mitchell Dixon, joins the show to preview the dominant 34-12 win over the Weber State Wildcats. He speaks about the challenge Coach Tim Plough gave the TE Room, how the team is responding to the Winston Williams injury, and what it will take to beat Cal Poly in this weekend's Battle for the Golden Horseshoe.

This week on Aggie Pride: A UC Davis Football Podcast, we bring you a special two-part episode.

First, Brock sits down with Meghan Robinson, Director of Broadcast & Digital Media for the Big Sky Conference. Meghan shares her incredible journey from ESPN’s College GameDay—where she produced some of the show’s most moving features—to leading Big Sky storytelling today. She opens up about:

• How a New England Patriots fan from Philly found her way into college football media.

• Memorable behind-the-scenes GameDay stories (including Lee Corso, Tom Rinaldi, and the Navy goat 🐐).

• The power of storytelling in sports and why FCS football deserves the spotlight.

• What excites her most about the 2025 Big Sky season and the players to watch.

Then, Brock is joined by fellow Aggie alums Daniel Alfaro (QB10) and Brad Bispo (TE) for a nostalgic, fun, and football-filled conversation. Together, they:

• Share their UC Davis football stories and memories from the locker room to the tunnel.

• Reflect on the brotherhood, road trips, and unforgettable games that shaped their time in Aggie blue.

• Break down the upcoming UC Davis vs. Weber State matchup—what to expect from both sides of the ball, key players to watch, and what it will take for the Aggies to win.

• Roast each other a little along the way (including Brad’s blocking skills and Danny’s QB takes).

Whether you’re here for the inside look at college sports media or the Aggie football nostalgia and game preview, this episode has a little something for everyone.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube for more Aggie Pride content, and follow us on social @AggiePridePod for updates all season long.