STATEMENT SEASON? Why BYU’s Bear Bachmeier & LJ Martin Could FORCE Their Way Into the CFP Spotlight | BYU's Transfer Portal World Laud-Worthy | Will Big 12 Break Through This Fall?

The BYU Cougars have positioned themselves as serious College Football Playoff contenders—can this be the year they crash the big stage? Hosts Jake Hatch and Brian Smith go all-in on the Cougars’ prospects, identifying Bear Bachmeier’s growth at quarterback and the return of standout linebacker Isaiah Glasker as pivotal factors. This episode offers sharp insight into BYU’s off-season moves, including their highly targeted approach in the transfer portal, led by the impactful addition of Cade Uluave from Cal. Listeners get first-hand analysis on why retaining LJ Martin—last year’s Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year—could propel BYU’s ground game to record-shattering heights and make him a Cougar legend.The conversation dives into BYU’s unique roster construction, faith in Kalani Sitake’s coaching prowess, and how the Cougars’ culture of execution puts them in the Big 12’s upper tier. Critical questions emerge: Will holdovers like Parker Kingston, JoJo Phillips, and incoming freshmen like Legend Glasker and Jaron Pula offer the speed and playmaking ability to outpace man coverage at wide receiver? Can BYU’s developing defensive line take the next step and match up with the conference’s best after learning tough lessons from clashes against Texas Tech? Hatch breaks down the linebacker unit’s potential, arguing BYU could field the best trio in the conference with Glasker, Siale Esera, and Uluave anchoring the defense.Beyond Provo, the hosts scan the Big 12 for challenger programs. Utah and Arizona draw attention for their possible jumps into the trenches’ elite, while intrigue surrounds Arizona State’s high-upside offense and Kansas State’s coaching transition. The debate intensifies: Which Big 12 programs, besides BYU and Texas Tech, have a legitimate shot at a playoff run or even a postseason victory? Can rising stars and transfer arrivals tip the balance of power, or is the road to playoff success still a two-team race?From roster depth and injury concerns in the running back room to the impact of transfer retention, this analysis offers a comprehensive look at BYU’s biggest questions—and their path to a breakthrough season. Will the Cougars’ blend of veteran leadership, calculated portal moves, and proven execution finally earn them respect on the national stage?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
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That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected] of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.