The competition BBQ world was rocked late last week by the tragic news that Ercole Chila from Uncle Pigs Barbecue Pit from Paulsboro, N.J., had been killed in an automobile accident. Two of Ercole's shining accomplishments on the competition trail was Uncle Pig's 2022 KCBS Team of the Year award and the 2023 Jack Daniels World BBQ Invitational championship. But beyond the smoke and tasty proteins was a man who was a friend to so many across the land. On Episode 315 of the Tailgate Guys BBQ Podcast we visit with two of Ercole's close BBQ friends, Mike Licciardello and Dave Travis. They provide some insight on the man Ercole was and what made him special. We send our condolences to Ercole's family and many friends.

We also take a trip to Republic, Mo., for the latest happenings from The Grill Guys of Missouri and co-owner Charlie Wallace. Tailgate Guys co-host Lyndal Scranton reviews the team's doubleheader last weekend at Smokin' on the Osage, where the Tailgate Guys brought home a first-place in brisket. We also recap the latest episode of BBQ Brawl on Food Network where our buddy Brad Leighninger is headed to the three-person finale this Sunday.

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Have a great week! #SmokeEmIfYouGotEm