Get ready for an exciting episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with BYU's newest defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa. After three successful seasons at Utah, his surprising transfer to BYU was guided by more than just football - it was about finding the right environment for his future growth both on and off the field.

Known for his infectious smile off the field and tenacious play on it, Keanu brings a unique perspective on what makes a championship culture. Through stories of rivalry games, mission experiences in Provo, and his journey through the transfer portal, Keanu shares how focusing on becoming the "one" while uplifting others around you can create lasting impact beyond the game. His insights on being a "pillar" rather than just a player reveal wisdom beyond his years and give Cougar fans plenty to be excited about for the upcoming season.

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Get ready for an engaging episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with Marc Lyons, whose journey from BYU quarterback to beloved broadcaster spans over four decades of Cougar football history. From running the belly series offense in the late 1960s to becoming the trusted voice alongside Paul James in the broadcast booth, Marc's story weaves together the evolution of BYU football with personal tales of faith and transformation. The conversation explores pivotal moments in BYU football history, including fascinating stories about Tommy Hudspeth's "Marine invasion" of 1965 that led to BYU's first conference championship, and how one tough Marine named Perry Rodriguez discovered the unique spirit of BYU years later during a conversation with Bronco Mendenhall.

Marc shares intimate details about his transition from non-member athlete to converting to the LDS Church during his time at BYU, and how that transformation shaped his life's trajectory. From his years balancing roles as Olympus High School's head football coach while traveling to broadcast BYU games, to his special relationship with broadcasting partner Paul James, Marc provides unique insights into both sides of the microphone. He reveals the art of color commentary, including his strategy of explaining football concepts "as if I was explaining it to my wife" and the occasional playful moments when he and offensive coordinator Norm Chow would give Paul James the wrong opening play prediction just to keep things interesting.

Through heartwarming stories about LaVell Edwards' remarkable memory for players' families and clever tales of creative play-calling at Olympus High ("Mudcat up the river" for a quarterback sneak), Marc illustrates how football can build lasting connections and create unforgettable memories. His journey exemplifies the special bond between BYU football and its community, from the electrifying atmosphere of LaVell Edwards Stadium to the far-reaching radio waves that kept countless fans connected to their beloved Cougars across the country, even helping some stay awake during long road trips through the power of his storytelling alongside Paul James.

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Get ready for an inspiring episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with Vic Tarleton, whose journey exemplifies the transformative power of community and service through football. From star quarterback at Rancho Cordova High School in California to cornerback at BYU in the 1990s, Vic's path demonstrates how diverse experiences shape character and create opportunities to impact others.

The conversation explores how the unique athletic culture at Rancho Cordova High School, enriched by the diverse community including families from Mather Air Force Base, laid the foundation for Vic's inclusive worldview.

Drawing from his 30-year career as a juvenile probation officer in Salt Lake County and his current role as a college football official in the Big Sky Conference, Vic illustrates how establishing positive relationships can transform lives. Through moving stories of former probationers who've reached out years later to thank him, he demonstrates how investing in others creates ripples of positive change that extend far beyond the original interaction. His experiences on both sides of the whistle - as player and official - provide unique insights into how sports can build character and community. His journey embodies the principle that success isn't measured by personal achievements alone, but by the lives we touch and the positive impact we have on others. Follow Beyond the Game on Social Media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hoo.be/btg45podcast⁠⁠

Get ready for a heartwarming episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with Layne Batty, father of BYU defensive end Tyler Batty. From his authentic ranching lifestyle to the devastating early morning accident that nearly ended Tyler's football career, Layne shares intimate details of his son's remarkable journey back to the field.

The conversation reveals the powerful story behind Edwards Hands (https://edwardshands.org/), a nonprofit organization providing equine therapy for special needs individuals, inspired by Coach Ed Lamb's son Edward. Through personal stories of determination, faith, and the healing power of horses, Lane illustrates how maintaining authenticity and dedication to service creates lasting impact in the community. He also offers unique perspective on BYU's current football season and the transformative effects of NIL on student-athletes.

Follow Beyond the Game on Social Media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hoo.be/btg45podcast⁠⁠

Get ready for an exciting episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with Greg Wrubell, the beloved "Voice of the Cougars." From his early days as a Canadian student arriving at BYU in 1984 to becoming one of college sports' most respected broadcasters, Greg's journey showcases the evolution of BYU athletics across four different conferences. The conversation reveals fascinating insights into sports broadcasting, including Greg's "Three P's" philosophy of Passion, Preparation, and Presentation, his meticulous pre-game preparation routines, and the challenges of memorizing entire football rosters weekly.

Greg shares how he transitioned from student reporter to sideline reporter under legendary broadcaster Paul James, before taking over as the lead voice for both football and basketball. Through personal stories of working with coaching icons like LaVell Edwards, Greg illustrates how maintaining authenticity and dedication to craft creates lasting connections with fans across generations. He also offers unique perspective on BYU's transition to the Big 12 Conference and the evolving landscape of college athletics.

Follow Beyond the Game on Social Media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hoo.be/btg45podcast⁠⁠

Join us for a special Christmas devotional episode of Beyond the Game where host Mike Lacey and his wife Diana share their heartfelt holiday message and explore a fascinating scriptural connection.

Through a unique perspective bridging the Book of Mormon and Biblical accounts, they examine an intriguing possibility about the identity of the wise men who followed the star to Bethlehem. This thoughtful discussion weaves together prophecies from two continents, offering a fresh look at the traditional Christmas story while maintaining deep respect for diverse faith traditions.

As we share this special perspective on the Christmas story, we hope it brings added meaning to your holiday season. From all of us at Beyond the Game to you and yours, Merry Christmas!

Get ready for an inspiring episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey welcomes Mel Farr, a beloved figure from BYU football's golden era. From his start as an equipment manager in 1977 to his pivotal role in the legendary 1980 Holiday Bowl, Mel's journey exemplifies the heart and spirit of BYU athletics!

Standing at just 5'4", Mel earned the respect of players like Jim McMahon through his unwavering determination and ability to stand up for himself. The conversation reveals compelling behind-the-scenes stories, including Mel's famous phone book-tearing tradition that became a team ritual, his iconic leap onto LaVell Edwards after the Miracle Bowl victory, and how his "never give up" mantra inspired one of college football's greatest comebacks.

Through stories of working with legendary figures like Floyd Johnson and the 1980 championship team, Mel illustrates how size and physical limitations never defined his impact on BYU football. His story has captured such attention that a screenplay about the 1980 Miracle Bowl, told through Mel's perspective, is currently in production. Drawing from his experiences managing equipment for stars like Jim McMahon and Clay Brown, Mel opens up about the special brotherhood of BYU football and how choosing to persist through challenges creates lasting impact beyond the game itself.

Vai Sikahema's article on Mel Farr: https://www.deseret.com/2019/8/05/20247856/vai-s-view-vai-s-view-story-of-team-manager-mel-farr-miracle-behind-byu-s-miracle-bowl/

Get ready for an exciting episode of Beyond the Game as host Mike Lacey sits down with Val Hale, former BYU Athletic Director and author of the newly released book "Out of the Blue." From his early days as an intern in the sports information office during Jim McMahon's junior year to his transformative tenure as Athletic Director from 1999-2004, Val's journey showcases the evolution of BYU athletics from "plain vanilla" to a modern powerhouse.

The conversation reveals fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including BYU's pursuit of Andy Reid as head football coach, the controversial "bibs" uniform experiment, and the strategic shift from royal to navy blue that revolutionized BYU's merchandise sales. Val shares how he helped oversee major facility developments including Miller Park, the Student Athlete Building, and the Indoor Practice Facility, while navigating the complex intersection of faith, academics, and big-time college athletics.

Drawing from his recently published memoir, Val opens up about the abrupt end to his BYU career and how choosing to be "better not bitter" opened doors to new opportunities, including roles as UVU Vice President and head of Utah's Office of Economic Development. Through stories of working with legendary figures like LaVell Edwards and Floyd Johnson, Val illustrates how maintaining perspective and positive relationships - even through challenging transitions - creates lasting impact beyond wins and losses.

Purchase Val's book "Out of the Blue" at: https://www.outofthebyublue.com/