Dawson Baker: Grateful for Adversity

Andrew Mikkelsen grew up a massive BYU football fan and dreamed of playing for the Cougars. But when a terrible accident derailed his football career, how did he still accomplish his goal of playing Division I football? In this podcast episode, Andrew shares his journey from growing up in a large family in rural Oregon to overcoming a life-changing car accident and ultimately earning his spot as a kicker for BYU. He opens up about the challenges and blessings of serving a mission in Samoa, the twists and turns of his athletic career, and how he found a new competitive outlet in MMA after football. Along the way, Andrew reflects on the lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks, the importance of family and faith, and what drives him to keep pushing forward.

Marc Lyons wanted to be a basketball player. So how did a kid from Arvada, Colorado—who wasn’t a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—end up as the quarterback at BYU? In this episode of Deep Blue, Marc shares the story of his conversion to the Church and his legendary, decades-long radio career calling games for the Cougars.

Michael Davie has helped the best basketball players in the world elevate their game through nutrition and sports science. But when the opportunity came to leave the NBA lifestyle behind and join BYU, why did he jump at the offer? In this episode of Deep Blue, Michael discusses pursuing the dream of working for an NBA team, winning the NBA Finals, and chasing a new dream with the BYU Cougars.

Deep Blue producer Cleon Wall interviews Matt Mitchell about what it's like to coach BYU's prolific quarterbacks, and how his faith in God keeps him grounded.

Join host Jason Shepherd on this episode of Deep Blue as he sits down with BYU football legend and three-time Super Bowl champion Bart Oates. Bart reflects on his journey from a small-town Georgia high school to BYU, his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the foundation he helped lay for BYU’s football legacy. Bart shares insights on playing under legendary coach LaVell Edwards, memories of the Miracle Bowl, and his transition to a professional career in the USFL and NFL, including championship runs with the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. Hear about the mentors who shaped him, the challenges of life in pro football, and how faith and family have guided his path beyond the field. W

Lee Johnson didn’t grow up dreaming of being a football player. So how did a soccer kid from Houston, Texas, end up becoming one of the best punters in BYU history — and last nearly two decades in the NFL? In this episode of Deep Blue, Lee shares how LaVell Edwards’ faith in him changed the course of his life — and how he’s paying that trust forward today through his work with BYU.

Mihailo Boskovic was living his dream as a pro basketball player in Europe — and had never even heard of BYU. So why did he leave it all behind and take a leap of faith in Provo? Discover his incredible journey in this episode of Deep Blue.

In this episode of Legends of '84, we delve into the world of Trevor Matich, BYU’s stalwart center and a key figure in the Cougars’ unforgettable championship run. From being the last kid picked at recess to earning a scholarship at BYU, Matich shares his inspiring story of perseverance, sacrifice, and brotherhood. He reflects on the lessons learned under LaVell Edwards, the unbreakable bond of the 1984 team, and how their unity propelled them to greatness. Along the way, Matich recounts pranks, rivalries, and the fierce loyalty that made the national title possible. This is more than a football story—it's a testament to faith, hard work, and the power of never giving up.

Dawson Baker didn’t take the typical path to BYU basketball. In this episode of Deep Blue, the Cougar guard opens up about battling through early injuries, adjusting to new roles, and finding peace through patience. From growing up the youngest of seven in Southern California to serving a mission in Micronesia, Baker reflects on his decision to stay at BYU, the impact of Coach Kevin Young, and how he's seen God's hand in helping him grow through adversity.

John Wardenburg is a natural fit as a coach. But when he was let go from his dream job, how did he recalibrate? Find out in this episode of Deep Blue.