1. Bad to the Bone

The contestants kick off the competition by cooking a bone-in protein and two side dishes that reflect their unique styles and personal stories.

2. Brew and ‘Cue

Legendary pitmaster Tuffy Stone joins the judging panel as the cooks prepare beer-infused dishes that hop with flavor.

4. Friday Night Bites

Facing elimination, two pitmasters duel it out in a fiery fish cook-off. Afterward, the remaining contestants gear up to satisfy hungry tailgaters.

5. Slow Fast Food

Chef Matty Matheson ("The Bear") encourages the pitmasters to turn down the heat and whip up an original fast-food recipe using slow-cooking techniques.

6. Brisket Battle

In their toughest challenge to date, the final four attempt to out-smoke their fellow competitors in an epic beef brisket showdown.

7. Go Pig or Go Home

Chef and acclaimed author Kwame Onwuachi joins the judges for a Sunday supper that showcases each pitmaster's family traditions.

8. The Final Stand

The finalists craft dream menus for their very own barbecue joints in a head-to-head battle to claim the coveted grand prize and title.