Locked On Cougars - Daily Podcast On BYU Cougars Football & Basketball

Big 12 teams unanimously reject Brett Yormark’s $30 million private equity offer—does this signal deeper issues within the conference’s financial strategy? The Big 12 Squad tackles the fallout from the Big 12’s capital proposal, exploring why schools like BYU, Colorado, and Houston turned down “free money.” The crew debates risk vs. reward, hidden contract fine print, and whether teams should gamble millions for a shot at football supremacy. Plus, a heated look at BYU and Baylor’s struggles on the baseball diamond, Oklahoma State’s home run barrage, and West Virginia’s dominance after sweeping Kansas. Is RedBird Capital’s involvement a missed opportunity or a warning sign? Get the full breakdown on NIL, TV revenue stakes, and the future of Big 12 power plays. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars claim their defensive tackle duo of Keanu Tanuvasa and Justin Kirkland could be the most dominant in the Big 12—a bold assertion that sets the stage for a pivotal season in Provo. Is the BYU football program finally positioned for a return to defensive prominence after years scraping for depth in the trenches? Jake Hatch breaks down how BYU’s interior line, headlined by Tanuvasa’s agility and Kirkland’s size, matches up with last season’s elite Texas Tech front. With both players touting their synergy and dominance, expectations skyrocket as BYU aims to rival conference powerhouses and push for College Football Playoff relevance. The episode spotlights BYU’s transformation on the defensive front, diving into the strategic shift under defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga and line coach Sione Po'uha—whose NFL pedigree and developmental approach have redefined the recruiting prototype for Cougars linemen. Jake Hatch outlines the meticulous build-up of depth behind the starting tandem, featuring the likes of senior Anisi Purcell, versatile Villiami Po'uha, and breakout prospect Ulavai "Vai" Fetuli, whose rapid rise mirrors the program’s renewed commitment to size and athleticism in the trenches. Up-and-comers like Nehemiah Kolone, Kelepi Latu-Finau, David Tangilanu, and Maverick McManus round out a loaded group built for both current impact and future sustainability, offering hope that BYU’s days of being overmatched in the Big 12 are waning. Compelling questions drive the conversation: Can Kirkland and Tanuvasa truly set the pace for the conference’s most feared defensive interior? Will Purcell, Po'uha, and Fetuli maintain the standard when called upon, and how will young names seize opportunities if injuries strike? Jake Hatch connects these personnel decisions to Kalani Sitake’s larger vision of “trench dominance”—a legacy inspired by rivals like Utah—and evaluates whether iron sharpens iron in a deep, competitive rotation. With season-defining showdowns ahead, and player development at a premium, the BYU Cougars have assembled the physical tools and depth chart flexibility to stake their claim among college football’s elite. Will this much-anticipated unit finally power BYU to new heights, or fall short of their own hype? Tune in for an analytical look at BYU’s defensive tackle renaissance and how it could shape the Cougars’ trajectory in the Big 12 race. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttps://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Wayfair - Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars defy long-standing media skepticism as Jon Wilner—once known for downgrading BYU—now ranks them atop his Big 12 power rankings, signaling a seismic shift in expectations for Kalani Sitake’s program. With veteran leadership from quarterback Bear Bachmeier, explosive running back LJ Martin, and a proven offensive line, BYU is positioned as the most complete team in the conference, even accounting for key departures like defensive coordinator Jay Hill. Jake Hatch explores how home-field advantage and a favorable schedule could propel BYU past conference rivals like Texas Tech and Houston, sparking discussion about a legitimate run at both the Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance. Is this the year the Cougars finally break their glass ceiling and chase another national championship, echoing the storied 1984 season? Kevin Young raises the bar for BYU men’s basketball by potentially sending two players into the NBA draft for the first time in the modern era, a feat never before achieved in school history. AJ Dybantsa is projected as a top-two pick, likely landing with the Utah Jazz or going number one overall to the Washington Wizards, while Richie Saunders, undeterred by an ACL tear, garners strong second-round interest. Young’s recruiting acumen is on full display, with Bruce Branch III slotted as a potential number one pick for the 2027 draft and momentum building for future NBA-caliber rosters. Can Young transform BYU into a true NBA pipeline and sustain this remarkable talent surge? On the women’s basketball front, Lee Kumard flexes his recruiting muscle by landing Australian blue chip Praysayus Notoa, who chose BYU over the likes of UCLA and TCU. Natoa’s two-way skill set and international experience promise to boost BYU after last season’s breakthrough run, as the Cougars look to build on their growing national reputation. Meanwhile, men’s golf celebrates Kihei Akina’s Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors and first-team selection, spotlighting the program’s bright future as it prepares for NCAA Regionals under outgoing coach Bruce Brockbank. Will BYU’s unprecedented success on the gridiron, hardwood, and fairway mark the dawn of a new powerhouse era in Provo? Can established stars and rising phenoms deliver hardware, draft buzz, and national headlines? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s energetic, in-depth analysis of BYU athletics’ rapidly ascending trajectory. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttps://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Wayfair - Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brigham Young University’s principled stand against debt is sending shockwaves through the Big 12’s financial playbook as RedBird Capital offers a game-changing $500 million private equity package. Jake Hatch and Drake Toll spotlight how the BYU Cougars’ deep-rooted commitment to fiscal discipline—anchored in the ethos of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—has made them one of the first schools to reject the enticing, no-strings-now, pay-later $30 million cash infusion. With a long history of raising all funds before breaking ground and a mandate to oerate in the black from the main campus, the BYU Athletic Department has little use for high-interest loans, especially with aggressive boosters capable of filling any revenue gap overnight. But the real intrigue? Most of the Big 12 is following BYU’s lead. Programs like UCF and Houston, both on the verge of full conference revenue shares like BYU, are also passing on RedBird’s offer—even though the 10% interest rate is far from a payday loan scenario. The podcast explores why schools with major growth opportunities are letting this “free money” slip, pondering if boosters and cautious long-term planning outweigh the lure of instant upgrades. Yet, as Drake points out, schools cutting programs or facing financial crunches, such as Iowa State, face a different calculus. What happens if, in six months, financial desperation sets in? Does the one-year window to accept the deal keep options open for a sudden pivot? Driving the conversation to its most provocative point: what if only a single school—say, Iowa State—accepts the full $500 million? Could such an unprecedented influx instantly transform a program into a juggernaut, landing three straight College Football Playoff titles, outspending even Alabama and LSU, and reshaping the national landscape? Jake and Drake weigh the potential for a Big 12 dark horse to buy its way to glory, dissect the risks of high-stakes borrowing versus organic growth, and speculate on why a “flush with cash” approach remains so controversial. Get the insights, the hypotheticals, and the real-world numbers behind college athletics’ evolving relationship with private equity—before the next power shift rocks the sport. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttps://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Wayfair - Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Utah Jazz face a pivotal moment as the NBA Draft approaches, with AJ Dybantsa emerging as the potential hometown hero BYU basketball fans are desperate to see in Salt Lake City. Can Ryan Smith and the Jazz front office, led by BYU legend Danny Ainge, swing a deal to secure Dybantsa, leveraging their impressive war chest of first-round picks and young talent, or will BYU Cougars faithful need to pivot their support to rising star Darryn Peterson—especially if Dybantsa gets drafted by the Washington Wizards at number one? The stakes are high, with Jake Hatch and Drake Toll breaking down the implications of either scenario for the Jazz, the ongoing BYU-Utah rivalry, and the commercial windfall that could accompany a local superstar's arrival in Utah Jazz colors. They debate jersey sales projections, franchise strategy, and whether Dybantsa’s local presence could ignite new levels of fan enthusiasm—or if Peterson’s national buzz will upstage the local favorite. Off the hardwood, the show explores BYU’s staunch refusal to accept the Big 12’s private equity deal, distancing itself from a potential $30 million influx with plenty of their conference peers also reportedly passing on taking the cash. Citing BYU’s culture of financial conservatism and a longstanding commitment to operating in the black—rooted in the values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—Hatch outlines how the school’s unique fundraising prowess and booster backing fill gaps without resorting to high-interest debt. The hosts contrast BYU’s position with schools like Iowa State and UCF, probing why so many universities are turning down the equity offer despite tight budgets and cutbacks in non-revenue sports. The discussion takes a hard look at why relative Big 12 newcomers BYU and Utah have struggled in baseball and softball, despite robust athletic traditions and solid facilities. Hatch offers insider perspective on how booster apathy, cold-weather recruiting challenges, and lackluster NIL investment leave these programs at a disadvantage—even with elite venues like Miller Park and Gail Miller Field at their disposal. The conversation examines whether one passionate donor could transform fortunes, referencing the Texas Tech model, and speculates on the not-so-distant future where financial pressures could force schools to cut baseball, softball, or other Olympic sports altogether. This episode is a can’t-miss for fans invested in the future of the Utah Jazz, BYU athletics, and the changing face of college sports, offering candid insight into the intersecting forces of tradition, money, and community pride shaping today’s games. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttps://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Wayfair - Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bear Bachmeier’s meteoric rise has BYU Cougars fans buzzing with visions of a new golden era at quarterback. After arriving from Stanford and leading BYU to a stunning 12-2 finish with over 3,500 total yards, Bachmeier is now set for his first full offseason in Provo. Can his rugged running style, fullback mentality, and deeper knowledge of Aaron Roderick’s high-powered offense propel the Cougars to a Big 12 title—and possibly even crack the College Football Playoff? Jake Hatch explores the immense potential Bachmeier brings to the table, from his arm strength showcased in wins like Iowa State and last season’s dramatic Pop-Tarts Bowl, to his physical edge that makes BYU’s play action and QB run concepts so dangerous. Injury concerns always loom with a tough-running quarterback, prompting a closer look at BYU’s quarterback depth. Who steps up if Bachmeier misses time—a steady hand in veteran Treyson Bourguet or the athletic, high-upside Enoch Watson? Jake Hatch compares their paths: Bourguet’s journey from Western Michigan to being a true ‘program guy’ in the transfer era, armed with ability to sling the ball all over the field; Watson’s athletic pedigree from Arizona’s ALA Queen Creek, his dual-threat skillset, and family ties that speak to his competitive drive. Could Watson surpass Bourguet before season’s end? The battle for QB2 may shape BYU’s fortunes in a tight Big 12 race. Forward-thinking recruiting keeps excitement high, with five-star prospect Ryder Lyons—the consensus top quarterback in his class—expected to arrive from his mission next season. Jake Hatch shares insider perspectives on Lyons’ NFL-caliber talent and what his timeline means for BYU’s future. The episode also spotlights designated player Emerson Geilman, a practice standout with the tools to challenge for the job, as well as younger prospects like Owen Geilman and Max Barker. As BYU navigates the new era of NIL, the transfer portal, and a 12-team national playoff landscape, Jake Hatch explains how Kalani Sitake and Aaron Roderick’s transparent approach to roster building is fueling unprecedented depth at quarterback. Can the Cougars sustain this pipeline with guys like Brody Rudnicki and stake their claim as a national contender? This Locked On Cougars analysis unpacks every angle of BYU’s quarterback future. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttps://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Wayfair - Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Special teams could define BYU Football’s season as the Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars undergo a near-total transformation in this crucial third phase of the game. After several years of standout performances and game-changing moments from names like Will Ferrin (kicker), Sam Vander Haar (punter), and star return man Parker Kingston, BYU now hands the keys to a fresh group of specialists. With Fulller Schurtz taking over at punter and Ty Smith at long snapper, plus a heated three-way battle among kickers Matthias Dunn, Ian Sanches, and recently returned Brody Laga, Cougar Nation is left wondering who will step up when the stakes are highest. Jake Hatch spotlights the unique pressure on special teams: make a big play and become a household name for all the right reasons, or suffer costly mistakes that echo throughout the program. The conversation details how a missed field goal, botched snap, or game-altering return instantly changes the narrative for both player and team. Coaching also steps into the spotlight as Justin Ena replaces Kelly Poppinga as special teams coordinator, bringing new philosophies and an NFL pedigree to a unit that has traditionally thrived under intense scrutiny. With the legal situation surrounding Parker Kingston unresolved, BYU faces further uncertainty in the return game. The open roles at both kick and punt returner promise to reshape field position dynamics in every contest. Jake Hatch discusses how this season will test the depth and resiliency of the roster—emphasizing that every hopeful specialist must not only earn their position but also prove invaluable in the moments that matter most. While the specialists might comprise only a small share of snaps, their impact will be felt on scoreboards and in the trajectory of BYU’s Big 12 campaign. As the Cougars chase a championship breakthrough, BYU fans are left to ask: Will these young and unproven special teams stars find their place among the program’s recent legends, or will their inexperience prove costly? Every game, every kick, and every snap could tilt the scales between glory and heartbreak this fall. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Arizona Wildcats’ dominant frontcourt sets them apart—are thye the archetype and model for BYU men's basketball to follow? Jake Hatch & Leif Thulin dissect Arizona’s impressive rise under Tommy Lloyd, focusing on the massive impact of retaining key talents like Mo Krivas, who is touted as an All-American candidate and possibly the best player on next year’s roster. The conversation spotlights Arizona’s recruiting wins—especially the ascent of five-star recruit Caleb Holt, now ranked number two in his class—and the crucial role of big men such as Ivan Karchenkov in their frontcourt rotation. The hosts highlight Tommy Lloyd’s consistent strategy of playing two traditional bigs, emphasizing how that approach has powered Arizona’s sharp rebounding edge, rim protection, and a high-octane offense capable of shooting 45% of their looks from five feet or fewer. Meanwhile, Thulin draws a sharp contrast with BYU, where injuries and roster gaps have left the Cougars scrambling for frontcourt size and physicality. Despite NIL resources and a commitment to building a “Big 3,” BYU still struggles to land enough impactful big men in the transfer portal to keep pace with national powerhouses. The hosts question whether BYU should pivot toward Arizona’s proven model—stacking the frontcourt and embracing a rebounding-first mentality—to close the gap in the Big 12. They critique BYU’s inability to secure high-impact post players, emphasizing how this shortcoming exposes their defense and limits second-chance scoring opportunities. Rounding out the discussion, Hatch & Thulin dig into the skyrocketing financial arms race in college basketball. With reports of more than 20 programs potentially spending $20 million or more on roster construction next season, the conversation explores whether Arizona, BYU, Kansas, and Texas Tech will crack that threshold—or whether Arizona’s value-driven approach, estimated around $13–15 million, can keep them atop the college hoops landscape. Will fit and chemistry win out over sheer dollar figures? And can teams like BYU adapt their recruiting and game strategies fast enough to keep Arizona and other heavyweights within reach as the sport enters a new era of supercharged spending? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars’ national championship hopes face a fascinating twist as two offensive stars vie for major hardware—but could their dominance actually hurt each other's chances for the Heisman Trophy or Doak Walker Award? Jake Hatch explores whether LJ Martin’s explosiveness or Bear Bachmeier’s quarterback leadership will earn the national spotlight, spotlighting the potential risk of hurting each other individual award candidacy even as both players anchor a stacked backfield. The show dives deep into ESPN’s latest college football preseason rankings, with BYU slotted at No. 12 and the spotlight shining on Martin as a potential Doak Walker winner after a 1,305-yard campaign and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors. Listeners are left to ponder: will the Cougars’ strength-in-numbers become their undoing in the race for football’s most prestigious awards? Turning to the hardwood, a passionate squad of BYU fans joins Jake Hatch to break down the Cougars’ basketball roster crisis at center. Despite recent success recruiting guards and wings—citing names like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III—the absence of a true big man looms large after last season’s struggles against top-level post players. Concerns run high as fans discuss whether Kevin Young and his staff can land a difference-maker from the international pipeline, and if BYU boosters are truly willing to outbid rivals for much-needed size. The roundtable reflects on recruitment philosophies, retention challenges in the transfer portal era, and the urgent need for a strong inside presence to free up offensive standouts next season. Excitement surges for the revived Utah State series, as fans debate the merits of moving games to the Delta Center for higher attendance and revenue, while reminiscing about the hostile environment in Logan. Meanwhile, lifelong Cougar supporters share personal stories of BYU fandom passed through generations, the meaning of season tickets, and storming the field after iconic wins. The episode concludes with spirited predictions for BYU football: is Notre Dame the must-win matchup, or will Utah or Arizona prove to be the true pivot point for College Football Playoff contention? As the BYU Cougars prepare for a pivotal season, can they capitalize on returning talent—or will a stacked schedule and internal pressures prove too much? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big 12 powerhouses rethink private equity as BYU and Houston reject RedBird Capital’s $30 million offer—could financial strategy shape the new conference elite? The Big 12 Squad dissects what BYU’s debt-averse philosophy means for their future, why Houston’s leadership is pressing pause, and whether Oklahoma State or Iowa State are positioned to take the risk, aiming to leap ahead in the evolving college sports arms race. Key segments explore how this RedBird deal differs from Utah’s approach, implications for NIL and facility upgrades, and the brewing ACC vs. Big 12 rivalry for Power Three status. Plus, get the latest on Big 12 baseball: West Virginia’s postseason surge, Oklahoma State’s must-watch battle with Arizona State, and whether coaching changes are on the horizon for BYU. Is this the start of a seismic shift in college sports funding? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

College Football Playoff expansion takes center stage as a proposed 24-team format raises questions about the sport’s competitive future. Is this massive playoff the answer to more inclusion or merely a ploy to pad resumes for Power Four coaches and programs on the fringe? Jake Hatch and Spencer McLaughlin dissect the AFCA board’s ambitious recommendations, spotlighting the motivations behind expanding playoff access and what it means for teams like BYU and head coach Kalani Sitake, who have narrowly missed out in the current 12-team system. The discussion explores whether expanding to 24 teams amplifies the drama or leads to a slate bloated with undeserving teams, such as last year’s 8-5 Duke and inconsistent Iowa squads. The hosts point out that, while Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars could benefit statistically, the move threatens to sap meaning from the regular season and invite forgettable first-round blowouts, echoing the college basketball tournament’s regular season irrelevance. There’s in-depth analysis on the downside of letting conference champions—regardless of strength—into the playoff, and the likely increase of lopsided matchups if FCS-style formats take hold. Meanwhile, positive suggestions emerge, including calls to eliminate conference championship games and move the College Football Playoff to an early January finish. Both Jake and Spencer express strong support for these changes, viewing them as wins for players, coaches, fans, and media alike. Yet, the specter of financial incentives looms large: a 24-team field could inflate bonuses and create artificial milestones for coaches, while athletic directors and agents capitalize on the new landscape. Is the driving force genuine competition or a relentless pursuit of revenue? Listeners are challenged to reconsider what they value most about college football’s postseason. Can traditions be preserved amid change, or is the sport destined to mirror the college basketball model—where March tournaments mean everything and regular-season stakes fade? Tune in for sharp insights, spirited debate, and a forward-looking take on where the College Football Playoff might be headed, and whether money, rather than merit, will ultimately decide the game’s future. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars are renewing their fierce rivalry with the Utah State Aggies, but the much-anticipated basketball series comes with a twist: no true home-and-home showdown. Jake Hatch dissects BYU’s strategic move to keep the first game in Provo’s Marriott Center and push the so-called “return” game to the neutral Delta Center in Salt Lake City. This setup stirs debate—does BYU’s insistence on avoiding the Spectrum in Logan signal a new era of Big 12 leverage, or is it a missed opportunity for testing the mettle of young stars like Bruce Branch III? With a 10-game win streak over the Aggies since 2013, the Cougars show their dominance, but the absence of a true road game raises questions about player development in high-pressure environments. Money talks in college basketball, and both programs stand to gain financially from a split-ticket arrangement at the 19,000-capacity Delta Center, as highlighted by Jake Hatch. More seats mean more revenue, crowd energy, and broader reach for the rivalry—but at what cost to tradition and home-court intrigue? The conversation doesn’t stop at Utah State; Jake Hatch advocates for expanding BYU’s non-conference schedule with more in-state clashes, including matchups with UVU, Weber State, Southern Utah, and Utah Tech. The goal: keep the non-conference slate compelling and let local fan bases rally around familiar faces, instead of scheduling lesser-known opponents for “money games” that lack excitement and history. Will Kevin Young’s leadership and BYU’s assertive scheduling philosophy rejuvenate the local hoops scene and help the Cougars prepare for the rigors of Big 12 play? Can the Cougars’ approach of dictating terms while embracing local rivalries set a winning formula for both financial success and on-court development? Jake Hatch provides a passionate, insightful look at how regional rivalries and smart scheduling could shape BYU’s basketball trajectory as they aim to extend their dominance over the Aggies and maximize fan engagement heading into a new season. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars find themselves at a pivotal crossroads, with national eyes on Kalani Sitake's team as they confront high expectations and pointed criticism. College football analyst Josh Pate directly challenges BYU, arguing that despite strong performances, the Cougars “didn’t really win anything” last year—but can the BYU football program's returning core silence the doubters and make a legitimate run at a Big 12 Conference title or even the College Football Playoff? With Bear Bachmeier set to lead the offense, dynamic LJ Martin anchoring the backfield after a standout season, and a staggering 63% of team production returning, BYU stands as CBS Sports’ #3 program nationally in that key metric. The Cougars aim to capitalize on Texas Tech’s turbulence surrounding Brendan Sorsby and leverage one of the nation’s most experienced rosters, setting the stage for potential statement wins, particularly in a top-10 showdown against Notre Dame. Jake Hatch turns his attention to hardwood drama as BYU renews its storied basketball rivalry with Utah State—but this time, the Cougars snub a return trip to Logan, fueling Aggie fan outrage. Instead, the series heads to the Marriott Center and the neutral Delta Center, reflecting both financial calculation and BYU’s evolving power position as a Big 12 program. Is this scheduling approach the best way to test BYU’s youthful roster—filled with up-and-coming names like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III—or does it signal a shift away from traditional home-and-home matchups with in-state rivals? Jake Hatch dissects what this means for local fan engagement and how Kevin Young balances marquee non-conference games against building relationships within Utah. The episode wraps with a critical look at BYU football's special teams overhaul. With Justin Ena taking the reins as coordinator and a wave of newcomers vying for punting, kicking, and return duties, Cougar success may hinge on untested faces like Fuller Schurtz, Ty Smith, and a three-way kicker battle featuring Matthias Dunn, Ian Sanches, and Brody Laga. Will the revamped special teams rise to the occasion and sustain BYU’s edge in complimentary football, or could inconsistency here threaten their championship ambitions? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s dynamic analysis as BYU football and basketball navigate the pressure—and opportunity—of a new era. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars make headlines as Ryan Wooten Jr., a highly-rated 6'2", 175-pound defensive back from Jersey City, New Jersey, committed to bringing his talents to Provo. Could this major recruiting win signal the start of a new era for Kalani Sitake’s program as they chase national relevance in the Big 12 Conference? With proven versatility and size perfectly suited to combat today’s bigger, stronger wide receivers, Wooten’s arrival may elevate BYU’s secondary—and recruiting profile—to unprecedented heights. Jake Hatch spotlights the seamless blend of skills that sets Wooten apart: the ability to lock down receivers in man coverage, read plays instinctively, and shift to safety if needed. Drawing parallels to Tre Alexander, another out-of-state standout, the conversation emphasizes that BYU’s staff, led by Lewis Walker’s East Coast connections and Kalani Sitake’s vision, is casting a wider and more potent net than ever before. The episode explores how Wooten’s commitment is about more than just individual talent—it’s a signpost of BYU’s rapidly expanding recruiting territory. For the first time this century, the Cougars nab a top-rated prospect from New Jersey, highlighting their national reach and ability to attract players who might never have considered Utah as a college football destination. Key talking points include the Big 12 effect on BYU’s recruiting power, the strategic importance of versatility at the cornerback position, and how Wooten’s rating—on the cusp of four-star status—sets a new standard for what BYU can achieve. Ryan Wooten Jr. also considers the program’s ongoing challenge: can they convert elite talent into consistent contenders against Big 12 rivals like Texas Tech, Utah, and Houston? As BYU’s recruiting floor rises with additions like Tytan DeJong and Ezra Sanelivi, the conversation turns to the big question: Will continued out-of-state signings help the Cougars realize long-held ambitions of contending for conference titles and college football playoff berths? Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU football’s evolving identity, as Ryan Wooten Jr. examines how one commitment could ripple through recruiting strategy, on-field performance, and the Cougars’ pursuit of sustained greatness. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Big 12 supremacy is up for grabs as BYU and Arizona square off in a pivotal Week 2 clash that could dictate the conference’s tone for the entire season. Will Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin propel the BYU Cougars to the front of the Big 12 race, or can Noah Fifita—Arizona’s reigning conference quarterback of the year—lead a Wildcats squad on the rise and prove they’re not being overlooked? Jake Hatch and Leif Thulin dissect the critical stakes, reflecting on last year’s double-overtime thriller and weighing how returning talent on both rosters positions each team as a serious contender. The discussion spotlights the wild cards hanging over the conference race—specifically, the eligibility of Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby and how that could shift the Big 12 hierarchy. Are BYU and Arizona quietly poised to seize control if the Red Raiders stumble? Jake Hatch and Leif compare the physical, veteran style of the Cougars—grounded by a proven quarterback and a formidable running attack—with the explosive, turnover-hungry Arizona defense and an offense centered around Fifita’s accuracy. Parity reigns supreme in the conference, but this early-season collision could give the winner a crucial advantage as national attention intensifies. Roster construction and coaching strategies come under the spotlight, with Arizona’s Brent Brennan attempting to cement his turnaround after last season’s 6-game conference win streak. Can the Wildcats’ rebuilt secondary and offensive line replacements uphold last year’s defensive breakthroughs? Will the emergence of young standouts make up for key departures to the NFL? On the BYU side, Jake Hatch examines the offensive question marks at wide receiver, tight end, and on the offensive line, and considers whether experience at quarterback and running back is enough for Kalani Sitake to offset those gaps. Switching to basketball, the podcast breaks down BYU and Arizona’s contrasting approaches in the transfer portal. Can BYU shore up a thin frontcourt and build a roster to match Tommy Lloyd’s deep, two-big rotation for the Wildcats, highlighted by Mo Krivas’s All-American buzz? How do NIL spending wars factor into roster building, and could Arizona or BYU leap into the upper echelon of college hoops budgets? With plenty of insider analysis and key names to watch, this crossover delivers the essential preview for fans eyeing both the gridiron and the hardwood this season. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU men's basketball program's search for a starting center intensifies as another high-profile target, Obinna Ekezie Jr., opts for Louisville, adding pressure on Kevin Young and his staff to secure a vital piece for next season’s roster. With top stateside names dwindling, BYU pivots its focus overseas, targeting promising international prospects like Michael Ružić—a 6'11" Croatian standout with professional experience in Spain alongside Ricky Rubio and Jabari Parker—and Egor Ryzhov, a rim-protecting Russian big man with prior interest from Florida State. Jake Hatch dissects why rim protection, defensive versatility, and three-point shooting are top priorities for Young’s NBA-inspired system, and how the hyper-inflated NIL market is shaping recruiting battles across college basketball. Can the BYU Cougars win out against schools with deeper pockets and fill their most glaring need before the portal dries up? Amid basketball recruiting drama, BYU football notches a significant recruiting victory as Ryan Wooten Jr., a 6’2”, 175-pound cornerback out of Jersey City, New Jersey, commits to Kalani Sitake’s program. Rated as one of the highest-rated cornerback prospects in school history, Wooten’s pledge signals a breakthrough in BYU’s national recruiting efforts since joining the Big 12 Conference. Jake Hatch highlights the influence of new defensive backs coach Lewis Walker—whose New Jersey ties were key—and breaks down how Wooten’s skills mirror BYU stars like Therrian "Tre" Alexander, giving the Cougars needed length and coverage flexibility against the Big 12’s evolving offenses. Can BYU continue to expand its recruiting footprint and attract elite talent from coast to coast? The episode also covers BYU baseball and softball’s late-season disappointments, as both teams struggle to meet postseason expectations—baseball’s RPI takes a hit from unfavorable losses, while softball deals with a rare under-.500 finish despite emotional senior day moments. Jake Hatch gives a nod to BYU track and field’s standout performances at the Robison Invitational, where Tayvon Kitchen and Isaac Hendengren break the elusive four-minute mile at elevation, and Jane Hendengren emerges as a star to watch. With conference realignment raising the bar, can BYU’s spring sports adapt and thrive 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU running back LJ Martin stands on the edge of history, poised to become the BYU football program’s all-time leading rusher while also carrying the title of reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. His journey is one marked by grit, ambition, and a hunger to elevate both his personal game and the fortunes of the BYU Cougars. Facing tough decisions after a breakout season, LJ Martin opens up to Jake Hatch about why he chose to forgo the NFL Draft—despite widespread speculation about his status as a priority pick—and return to Provo for one more run with his teammates. NFL scouts are watching closely: will LJ Martin match or surpass legends like Jamaal Williams, Harvey Unga, and Tyler Allgeier to set a new standard for Cougar running backs? Listeners get unprecedented access to LJ Martin’s mindset during this pivotal offseason. After missing spring ball to recover from shoulder surgery, he took on a mentoring role, helping younger running backs develop while staying engaged with the Cougar offense from the sidelines. This episode uncovers how that leadership experience has strengthened team unity and allowed Martin to forge deeper connections—including memorable moments off the field, like competitive all-you-can-eat pancake outings with quarterback Bear Bachmeier and teammates. The chemistry in BYU’s locker room is undeniable, fueled not only by shared triumphs but also the sting of close defeats, most notably back-to-back heartbreakers against Texas Tech. The conversation shifts to personal motivations: is breaking the rushing record truly Martin’s top priority? He reveals that team success and one last shot with his “guys” overrides individual milestones, even as his on-field production and durability are put to the ultimate test. As the fall season approaches, anticipation is building—can LJ Martin deliver another dominant campaign and lead BYU toward a Big 12 title or even a College Football Playoff berth? This candid interview provides a comprehensive look at LJ Martin’s BYU experience, his playful spirit, and what Cougar fans can expect from their star running back in a highly anticipated final season. Will he finish as the greatest runner in BYU Football history? Cougar Nation waits with bated breath. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Utah Tech is set for a high-stakes football campaign, launching their season with a daunting schedule highlighted by a marquee clash against BYU. Trailblazers head coach Lance Anderson offers a candid look at the strategic and cultural challenges his FCS program faces in the age of NIL and the transfer portal. How does a team like Utah Tech compete as standout players are routinely plucked by FBS programs, and what does roster retention look like when bigger stages—and bigger paydays—beckon? Anderson joined Jake Hatch to preview their BYU matchup and unloads on the shifting landscape of college football, emphasizing the ever-widening gap between FCS, FBS, and Power Four schools. He discusses open communication with players about jumping to higher levels, the musical-chairs nature of the transfer portal, and the ongoing struggle to develop and keep top talent. He highlights the importance of NIL investment for retention, while remaining realistic about the allure of programs like UCLA, Wake Forest, and Utah State for aspiring athletes. Attention then turns to the Trailblazers’ key playmakers and overall roster strategy. Quarterback Bronson Barben—an imposing local product—anchors an offense bolstered by running back Asa Chatman’s dual-threat capabilities. Wide receiver and BYU transfer Prince Zombo, and Texas/UConn export Dajon Harrison all promise to make noise in the open field, while tight end Kaden Eggett steps into a larger role. On defense, emerging talent Daylen Love brings instinct and athleticism to the linebacker corps. Coach Anderson also discusses the strategic necessity of mining Utah high schools for homegrown athletes and maintaining relationships across the state, despite increased recruiting restrictions. Anticipating the showdown in Provo, he weighs the difficulty of game-planning against BYU’s standouts Bear Bachmeier and reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin, while acknowledging his past recruiting ties to both stars. With respect for Kalani Sitake’s staff and authentic optimism for Utah Tech’s program growth, Anderson promises a Trailblazers squad that will compete hard and leave their mark this September. Who will seize the moment as Utah Tech ventures onto 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars stand on the brink of Big 12 history, poised to make consecutive championship game appearances while traditional powers stumble. With Texas Tech’s star quarterback Brendan Sorsby facing major eligibility setbacks, all eyes turn to Bear Bachmeier and BYU’s window of opportunity. Can the Cougars capitalize—and does Tech have enough firepower left with Will Hammond coming off injury? Jake Hatch and Spencer McLaughlin provide an engaging breakdown of the shifting Big 12 landscape. The discussion kicks off with the Sorsby controversy, an unexpected twist that threatens Texas Tech’s championship ambitions. Bear Bachmeier draws a compelling parallel to BYU’s own quarterback chaos from the previous year, emphasizing how quickly fortunes can change and why seizing these moments is crucial for championship-hungry programs. As Jake and Spencer debate BYU’s title hopes, they highlight both teams’ strengths and vulnerabilities. Texas Tech remains stacked with elite talent but must navigate the season with Hammond, a backup whose ACL injury and lack of significant game experience raise pressing questions. Yet, Hammond’s gritty performance—particularly his clutch victory against the Utah Utes in Salt Lake City—proves he’s no ordinary backup. Spencer breaks down his stats and the Utah upset, suggesting that Texas Tech’s championship path hinges on Hammond’s fitness and composure. Meanwhile, BYU’s optimism is fueled by Bear Bachmeier’s anticipated sophomore leap, a full offseason of development, and high expectations from fans who have watched the Cougars barely miss the College Football Playoff and Big 12 title game in recent seasons. Jake analyzes BYU’s revamped offense and their hunger to avenge last year’s losses to Texas Tech, picturing a high-stakes rematch in Arlington. Key discussion points include quarterback-driven success in modern college football, Texas Tech’s depth and defensive prowess, and the psychological boost BYU gains from knowing Tech’s roster may be diminished. With both programs teetering on the edge of greatness, the episode poses central questions: Will BYU make history and break through? Can Texas Tech defy the odds with a new starter at the helm? The answers could define the Big 12 title chase and reshape the playoff picture for the coming season. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

As the BYU Cougars brace for a pivotal campaign as all eyes turn to Sione Moa—the under-the-radar linchpin whose health could tilt the balance of the entire backfield. While LJ Martin sits within striking distance of breaking the program’s all-time rushing record, BYU’s postseason hopes rest as much on the durability and availability of supporting backs as on Martin’s star power. After injuries to both Martin and Bear Bachmeier last season left the offense struggling, the Cougars’ coaching staff now places immense trust in Moa to serve as the “Robin” to Martin’s “Batman,” ensuring the running attack keeps humming no matter the setbacks. Jake Hatch breaks down the depth chart and reveals why Moa’s spring performance puts him atop the list of players BYU can’t afford to lose. He unpacks the importance of physical resilience and the pressing need for reliable backups if the Cougars are to weather another grueling Big 12 schedule. The spotlight also turns to rising talents—true freshman Devaughn Eka’s playmaking speed, Preston Rex’s adaptability after switching from safety to running back, and the grit of power runners Logan Payne and Micah Beckstead. Each brings a unique skill set, but questions remain: Who will seize the next-man-up role if the injury bug bites again? Can BYU’s recruiting pipeline and Harvey Unga’s coaching find the next “lead guy” for future seasons? Listeners get an exclusive chat with LJ Martin, where he discusses returning to Provo in pursuit of team goals and personal milestones, including his candid reflections on NFL ambitions and the brotherhood driving his comeback. He paints a picture of team camaraderie—from late-night guitar jams with Bear Bachmeier to pancake-eating competitions—while expressing the hunger across the roster to finally punch through to a Big 12 championship or College Football Playoff berth after two near-misses. With the stage set, Jake Hatch asks: Will Sione Moa stay healthy and deliver on his immense promise? Can BYU’s running back room provide the necessary depth to fuel a double-digit win season and cement Martin as the greatest rusher in Cougar history? Don’t miss this comprehensive preview of a backfield primed for both glory and adversity. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Texas Tech faces a major setback as star quarterback Brendan Sorsby is caught in a gambling controversy, casting doubt on his Big 12 future. Will Sorsby suit up this season, or has Tech’s shot at a championship vanished overnight? The squad unpacks how over a thousand wagers—many placed during Sorsby’s stints at Indiana and Cincinnati—sparked a full-blown crisis, igniting questions about competitive integrity, NCAA regulations, and the future of sports betting in college football. The Big 12 Squad debates whether institutional oversight failed, how Texas Tech might fight to keep Sorsby eligible, and if precedent from cases like Iowa State’s Hunter Dekkers offers Tech hope. With questions swirling around legal action, compliance systems, and evolving NCAA rules, the crew asks: Will sports betting become the next normalized aspect of college sports, or are even tougher restrictions inevitable? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars turn heads by refusing the Big 12 Conference’s bold Redbird Capital partnership, raising serious questions about the future of private capital in college sports. With Commissioner Brett Yormark pushing a $30 million credit line and fresh strategic alliances to keep pace in the relentless college athletics arms race, BYU’s principled stance—rooted in independence and deep donor ties—could set a precedent for powerful programs wary of outside control. Jake Hatch breaks down the pros and cons of the private capital offer, highlighting why BYU and the majority of other Big 12 members may opt out, and what this decision means for the conference’s upcoming media rights negotiations with giants like CBS and TNT. Is Redbird Capital the ticket to narrowing the gap with the SEC and Big Ten, or a financial risk that only a desperate handful will embrace? Shifting focus, Jake Hatch sits down with Utah Tech football coach Lance Anderson, who shares hard-won insights into building a competitive FCS football program in the era of NIL and transfer turmoil. Hear how Utah Tech recruits and retains top talent like quarterback Bronson Barben and running back Asa Chatman, while navigating a landscape where standout players often jump to larger schools like UCLA,, Wake Forest, and Oregon State for lucrative NIL opportunities. Coach Anderson’s transparent approach with players—embracing the likelihood of upward transfers and welcoming returnees—reveals the new normal for programs outside the FBS power structure. Get a complete Utah Tech Trailblazers opponent preview, including analysis of linebacker Daylen Love’s breakout potential, competition at quarterback between Barben, Deacon Hill, and CJ Tiller, and why improvements on both sides of the line will be critical against BYU’s talented roster. Jake Hatch explores how Bear Bachmeier, LJ Martin, and the Cougars’ explosive offense present a major test for Utah Tech’s defense, and what it will take for the Trailblazers to make a statement in Provo against Kalani Sitake's program. With deep ties among coaching staffs and ongoing recruiting battles for Utah’s best players, this matchup offers both familiarity and high stakes. Looking for an insider’s analysis of Big 12 financial strategy, real talk from the FCS trenches, and a detailed breakdown of BYU’s season opener? Locked On Cougars delivers everything fans need to know for the road ahead. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The NCAA’s radical “5 for 5” eligibility proposal has BYU Cougars fans buzzing—could this streamlined approach provide an answer to the Cougars’ recruitment and roster woes, or are its impacts overhyped? Jake Hatch breaks down the specifics: five years to play five, redshirt rules eliminated, and key exceptions for church missions, maternity leave, and military service. For BYU basketball, the stakes are high with star prospects like Obinna Ekezie Jr.—a phenom on the radar for NBA lottery status—top on Kevin Young’s wishlist. But with major departures and no retroactive application for outgoing stars like Richie Saunders or Keba Keita, is the “5 for 5” just an academic exercise, or a true game-changer? As the Cougars scramble to fill critical gaps at center, international talent like Luigi Suigo remains a tempting—if late—possibility, raising questions about BYU’s strategy and patience with NBA draft timelines. Hatch responds to listener questions, emphasizing the front office’s pursuit of both domestic and overseas options and asserting confidence in Kevin Young’s ability to assemble a competitive frontcourt. Meanwhile, BYU’s offseason narrative is shaped by the loss of key contributors and the relentless pursuit of standout big men, with the potential for multiple NBA-caliber players to anchor the lineup next season. Off the court, the Parker Kingston legal saga casts a shadow over BYU football. Hatch addresses listener speculation about Kingston’s potential return following a serious criminal charge that could carry life-changing implications. With a trial looming and Kingston’s eligibility in doubt, the legal process takes precedence over any discussions of on-field return, shifting focus to the broader impact on team morale and roster planning. The episode also spotlights Kihei Akina’s standout run for Big 12 golf medalist honors and BYU women’s tennis securing an NCAA tournament bid, highlighting rising stars and program momentum. Wrapping up, scrutiny of Cincinnati’s handling of Brendan Sorsby’s reported gambling surfaces questions about NCAA compliance at Cincinnati, while Texas Tech’s quarterback controversy could tilt the Big 12 football race. Can BYU capitalize on these shifting dynamics and maintain their competitive edge amid a season of uncertainty and change? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The Big 12 championship race takes a shocking turn as Brendan Sorsby’s betting scandal threatens Texas Tech’s QB1 status, creating a seismic opportunity for the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes to potentially ascend. With Sorsby likely sidelined and uncertainty surrounding Will Hammond's health status, the league’s presumed favorite suddenly looks vulnerable. Can BYU’s returning stars, including Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin, capitalize on this opening? Is this the moment BYU finally seizes a Power 4 conference title? Meanwhile, Utah retools under Morgan Scalley, looking to overcome wholesale changes on both the offensive and defensive lines while leaning on Devin Dampier and a promising, if untested, receiver corps. The question lingers: whose spring momentum—BYU’s stability or Utah’s reinvention—translates to fall glory? Jake Hatch and JT Wistrcill break down the ramifications for the Big 12 title picture, offering deep insights into quarterback growth, coach Kalani Sitake’s steady influence at BYU, and the impact of Utah’s new leadership. Can Utah’s young trenches survive the rigors of conference play? Will BYU’s tight end duo, Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga, offset any wide receiver uncertainty? The hosts debate spring “winners,” the importance of proven Power 4 talent, and if the Holy War rivalry matchup could tilt the balance of the entire Big 12 season. The conversation shifts to the basketball court, where both programs hustle to re-shape rosters through the transfer portal. BYU reloads under Kevin Young after AJ Dybantsa heads to the NBA, banking on the likes of Rob Wright III, Colin Chandler, and Jake Wahlin to keep NCAA Tournament dreams burning. Can the Cougars finally break through? Will they find a center to fill a critical hole in their lineup Utah, meanwhile, pivots under Alex Jensen, landing key additions like Jackson Holcombe and defensive standout TJ Burch while embracing a new team identity. Will Utah’s revamped approach restore national relevance, or is the rebuild still in its infancy? From gridiron drama to hardwood ambition, this episode is packed with insider analysis, bold predictions, and the questions every BYU and Utah fan wants answered heading into a season loaded with equal parts uncertainty and opportunity. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars’ NFL Draft prospects are heating up, fueling hopes for a transformative year that could put Provo on the professional football map. With top-tier talent like running back LJ Martin poised for a potential mid-round selection and ultra-productive defenders Isaiah Glasker and Evan Johnson attracting significant NFL attention, the Cougars’ strategy appears ready to pay off. Kalani Sitake’s program has long chased a large draft class, and now, with the continued rise of NIL keeping core players in school and a roster packed with high-upside prospects, BYU's ambitions are clear: send a record number of Cougars to the NFL. Jake Hatch spotlights the critical roles of players like Bruce Mitchell and Andrew Gentry on the offensive line, both draft-eligible and seen as strong athletic fits for the next level. Defensive linemen Keanu Tanuvasa and Justin Kirkland, who have set ambitious goals of being the Big 12’s most dominant duo, stand out as players to watch as they anchor BYU’s front. Jake Hatch breaks down how undrafted free agent opportunities for Tanner Wall, Chase Roberts, Garrison Grimes, and others with teams like the Raiders and Jets highlight BYU’s expanding NFL pipeline—even for those who don’t hear their names called on draft day. Tight ends Roger Saleapaga II and Walker Lyons, both praised by Aaron Roderick for their transfer impact, could elevate their stock if they capitalize on key opportunities in BYU’s offense. Jake Hatch also tracks rising underclassman Faletau Satuala, whose size and versatility draw Fred Warner comparisons and make him a potential early entry candidate should he post another standout season. As Sitake’s recruiting and player development efforts mature, the Cougars are positioned to challenge for a Big 12 title while boosting the draft profiles of their top contributors. Will BYU ride its momentum to achieve a banner 2027 NFL Draft class? Can these emerging stars not only make the leap but also reshape how the college football world views BYU’s pipeline to the pros? This episode breaks down all the names, storylines, and reasons BYU fans should believe the next big wave is finally here. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Basketball is on the brink of a bold youth movement, placing its center hopes on five-star prodigy Obinna Ekezie Jr. The 17-year-old, who plans to reclassify, has emerged as the leading candidate to fill the Cougars’ gaping hole at the five. Can head coach Kevin Young outmaneuver heavyweights like Arkansas and Louisville in a high-stakes recruiting battle to land Ekezie Jr., a potential lottery pick? Jake Hatch breaks down how Ekezie’s size, athleticism, and defensive reputation—highlighted by MVP honors at the Basketball Without Borders camp—could transform BYU’s frontcourt overnight. The episode also explores the significance of Bruce Branch III’s top-10 NBA potential and where transfers like Adam Stewart fit into the program’s rapidly evolving roster equation. As transfer portal season heats up, Jake Hatch investigates BYU’s pursuit of alternative bigs, examining why names like Julius Halaifonua and Luigi Suigo may be out of reach and what it means for the program’s depth if Ekezie Jr. is the final piece. The conversation pivots to BYU’s ascent in the Big 12’s national spotlight, emphasizing how a dynamic pairing of Ekezie Jr. and Branch could make the Cougars must-watch TV—even in the absence of AJ Dybantsa. With other schools stockpiling talent, will BYU’s calculated risk pay off or leave them scrambling for answers in the paint? Shifting focus to BYU Football, the program is primed for what could be its most impressive NFL Draft class in years. Jake Hatch highlights a robust list of prospects starting with running back LJ Martin, whose size and skill set could make him a mid-round selection. The episode spotlights defensive stars Isaiah Glasker, Evan Johnson, and Tre Alexander, along with linemen Bruce Mitchell, Keanu Tanuvasa, Justin Kirkland, and Andrew Gentry, all poised to catch the eye of pro scouts. Rising talents like safety Faletau Satuala and tight ends Roger Saleapaga II and Walker Lyons add depth to BYU’s NFL pipeline potential. Closing out, listeners get updates on BYU Baseball’s relentless Big 12 playoff push after a statement series win over Arizona, and recognition of legendary BYU men’s golf coach Bruce Brockbank’s retirement after 34 remarkable years. Will Todd Miller be his successor, and can the Cougars finish the season with a postseason berth? Get the essential insights and storylines shaping BYU sports this week. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU football stuns the recruiting world by securing a commitment from four-star defensive tackle Jeremiah Williams, a top-300 prospect out of Tustin High School. Could this signal the dawn of a new era for Kalani Sitake’s Cougars in the Big 12? Jake Hatch breaks down the impact of landing Williams—a dynamic 6’0”, 315-pound mauler who not only dominates as a defensive lineman but also proved his athleticism by running for double-digit touchdowns as a short-yardage fullback. The analysis explores how BYU, once limited by its independence and lack of Power 4 affiliation, is now battling and beating programs like UCLA, North Carolina, and Arizona State for elite talent. With Williams drawing comparisons to NFL superstar Aaron Donald in terms of build and leverage, can the Cougars parlay this recruiting win into lasting success and greater College Football Playoff aspirations? The spotlight shifts to Fan Friday, where Jake Hatch sits down for an inspiring conversation with Dan Johnson, who shares his journey from BYU baseball scholarship athlete to enduring decades as a devoted Cougar fan. Johnson reflects on suiting up with Hall of Famer Jack Morris, working under Glenn Tuckett and World Series legend Vernon Law, and how lessons learned at BYU shaped his resilience through major health setbacks. He recounts passing up early professional opportunities, choosing instead to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—an experience that led to his father’s baptism and created memories “no amount of fame or money could replace.” Johnson further examines the unique culture of BYU Athletics, emphasizing the power of the Honor Code and the program’s ability to build character beyond the scoreboard. The episode explores hot-button basketball topics as well—AJ Dybantsa’s NBA draft decision, the hopes for his return, and Rob Wright’s move to stay committed to BYU—asking whether the Cougar culture can entice top athletes to build legacies instead of chasing immediate pro paychecks. Through Johnson’s stories and Jake Hatch’s analysis, listeners gain a deeper understanding of BYU’s past, present, and future on the field and in the community, rounding out a compelling episode for Cougar fans and college sports enthusiasts alike. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Big 12 basketball’s NIL arms race intensifies as Oklahoma State and West Virginia surge past BYU and Texas Tech with headline-grabbing transfer portal moves. Can Oklahoma State’s spending power and West Virginia’s strategic recruiting vault them into the conference elite? Jake Hatch spotlights BYU’s portal strategy and lingering questions at center, while the squad debates if any team can keep pace with the league’s escalating competition. Off the court, rumors swirl around Cody Campbell’s son and the potential for seismic shifts in Big 12 football power dynamics. West Virginia baseball’s electric offense and pitching depth push them into the national conversation, even as BYU battles pitching concerns and Oklahoma State scrambles to rebuild a depleted staff. From Houston’s uneven portal rankings to the drama of Friday night games, every team is fighting for postseason position. Is a new Big 12 baseball hierarchy emerging—or will traditional powers reassert control as the season heats up? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU football program;s 2026 football campaign is loaded with intrigue as rising quarterback Bear Bachmeier preps for a potential breakout in his sophomore season. After transferring from Stanford and producing a 3,000-yard passing year as a true freshman, Bachmeier is focused on improved physical conditioning and taking the reins of BYU’s offense with more confidence and authority. The offseason spotlight shines on new weapons: tight end transfers Walker Lyons (USC) and Roger Saleapaga (Oregon) quickly became spring standouts, poised to offset concerns in the wide receiver room after the departures of Parker Kingston and Chase Roberts. Big-bodied Kyler Kasper aims for a comeback after injury-plagued seasons at Oregon, while Jojo Phillips looks to take a leap if he remains healthy. Meanwhile, can the Cougars’ evolving receiving threats open new dimensions for the offense, and will Bachmeier’s decision-making and full year in the system translate to real gains? Fans may wonder why running back LJ Martin remains relatively overshadowed despite being last season’s Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a top candidate to rewrite BYU’s all-time rushing records. Analysts question whether he’ll finally garner national attention or continue to fuel the offense quietly. On defense, a coaching shakeup brings new leadership: Kelly Poppinga steps in as defensive coordinator, joined by veteran analyst Gary Andersen to maintain continuity and discipline. Cade Uluave, a key linebacker transfer from Cal, joins forces with returning standout Isaiah Glasker, aiming to anchor one of the league’s top linebacker tandems and fill the void left by Jack Kelly’s NFL departure. While the front seven is loaded with experience, questions still loom about cornerback depth and whether new faces can add reliability behind starting duo Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander. Special teams undergo a complete overhaul with new starters at kicker, punter, long snapper, and punt returner. Will Justin Ena’s approach as new special teams coordinator prevent any hiccups? As the Cougars prep for a crucial early-season test against Arizona and dynamic quarterback Noah Fifita, the outcome could set the tone for a season with 23 wins in the last 2 years at stake. With AJ Dybantsa’s NBA Draft decision looming over the basketball program, BYU fans have plenty to watch this spring and summer—will the Cougars turn transition into triumph? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Basketball fans have reason to be excited as Collin Chandler returns home from Kentucky, ready to redefine his game under head coach Kevin Young. Previously limited mostly to a three-point specialist role at Kentucky, Chandler now has the chance to prove he’s more than just a perimeter threat. Averaging 9.7 points and shooting 41% from deep, Chandler showed impressive efficiency, but can BYU unlock his full potential as a three-level scorer, dynamic in transition and relentless at the rim? Kevin Young is known as one of college basketball’s most creative offensive coaches, and all eyes will be on his ability to help Chandler make the leap from role player to Big 12 star. With Robert Wright III returning and the arrival of highly-touted talent Bruce Branch III, the Cougars’ lineup looks primed for a statement season. Jake Hatch points to the remarkable parallel between Chandler’s progression and Richie Saunders’ game-changing junior year under his guidance—Saunders went from a solid contributor to All-Big 12 First Team and Most Improved Player. Could Chandler be next in line for such a transformation? The mix of skill sets is deliberate: both Chandler and Branch excel off the ball, sidestepping last year’s “too many cooks in the kitchen” issue and building potential for a balanced, explosive offense. Roster construction and chemistry loom large as BYU fills needs at center and polishes its game plan, but the foundation is set for a big leap. Chandler’s athleticism—on display since his high school days—sets him apart, and his two-year plan with BYU bodes well for both consistency and long-term growth. Returning home has already lifted his spirits and reinvigorated his drive, promising a statistically impactful season that could catch the attention of NBA scouts. Will Chandler’s transition from Kentucky’s system to BYU’s unlock a new superstar? Can Kevin Young guide the Cougars to contender status in the Big 12 and beyond? With a revitalized roster and sky-high expectations, BYU Basketball’s new era stands on the brink. Don’t miss this analysis of Chandler’s return, the potential of the new Big Three, and how BYU could finally realize its long-promised breakthrough. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Basketball’s recruiting stock is soaring as elite prospects take notice of Kevin Young’s transformational influence in Provo. Top 2027 recruit CJ Rosser highlights BYU’s dramatic development of AJ Dybantsa, crediting BYU men's basketball coack Kevin Young for rapidly elevating talent and boosting draft profiles. As Rosser considers programs like North Carolina, Kentucky, and Alabama, will BYU’s proven track record with stars like Dybantsa and the fast-rising Bruce Branch III give the Cougars a real shot against powerhouse programs? Jake Hatch unpacks Rosser’s telling remarks, Rob Wright III’s decision to stay in Provo, and why BYU is suddenly in the national conversation for blue-chip recruits—despite lacking obvious ties. Up front, the search intensifies for a game-changing center to anchor BYU’s 2024 roster. Eyeing reinforcements, BYU courts 7'2", 270-pound Anton Bonke, fresh off a breakout season with the Charlotte 49ers. How could Bonke’s inside-out game, rim protection, and ability to stretch the floor transform the Cougars’ offense? Jake Hatch weighs Bonke’s Big East and mid-major experience against contenders like Julius Halaifonua and Luigi Suigo, breaking down the archetype Kevin Young appears set on: size, shot-blocking, and strategic floor spacing. Would landing Bonke finally give BYU the type of true center needed to compete with Big 12 giants like Arizona? Off the court, closure appears imminent for Kennard “Moo” Davis Jr. after his initial DUI charge is reduced to speeding—a critical development as BYU’s roster plans solidify. Jake Hatch provides the full context on Davis’s legal outcome, why a return to Brigham Young University seems unlikely, and reflects on Davis' impact during a turbulent season. Will BYU’s recent successes keep luring top talent? Can Kevin Young’s NBA-style system and relentless recruiting overcome powerhouse competition? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s detailed analysis as the Cougars chase new heights on and off the court. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Basketball zeroes in on Georgetown’s 7-foot, 260-pound sophomore Julius Halaifonua as a marquee transfer portal target. With proven Power 5 production—averaging nearly 10 points, over four rebounds, and over 60% shooting in the rugged Big East for Georgetown University—Halaifonua emerges as a potential game-changer for Kevin Young’s program. Can the Cougars land this New Zealand native and transform their frontcourt into a Big 12 force? Jake Hatch examines the nuances of transfer portal recruiting, emphasizing the value of acquiring experienced big men in a market where top centers command staggering NIL deals. BYU’s willingness to invest, combined with the private institution’s “deep bag,” positions them as major players in this offseason tug-of-war. What makes Halaifonua even more intriguing is his possible eligibility for another year, his low turnover rate, and his stylistic similarities to NBA veteran Steven Adams—another New Zealand export whose quiet dominance is legendary. The discussion moves beyond statistics, homing in on cultural and institutional fit. Hatch details the significance of BYU’s honor code and how the program’s ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints could resonate with international players from the Pacific, particularly New Zealanders and Polynesians. Drawing parallels to AJ Dybantsa’s recent decision and referencing Kalani Sitake’s embrace of BYU’s unique standards, the episode sheds light on how the Cougar brand—inclusive of its values—can be a strength rather than a recruiting obstacle. Listeners also get a deep dive into roster composition and the lessons learned from last season’s Big 12 campaign. With gaps exposed when Keba Keita was off the floor and a need for multiple legitimate centers, BYU’s approach this cycle is both aggressive and pragmatic. The talk weighs the impact of potentially pairing Halaifonua with Luigi Siguo, creating competition, depth, and insurance against the demands of the nation’s toughest basketball conference. From NBA-level staffing to a relentless pursuit of on-court success, BYU’s recruitment of Halaifonua signals an ambitious next phase for Cougar Basketball. Will BYU’s upgraded pitch and championship culture prove enough to land a cornerstone piece for the program’s future? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars are once again fighting for the respect and recognition they’ve earned on the gridiron. Despite an impressive 23-4 record over the past two seasons and multiple close calls with the College Football Playoff, the BYU football program opens the year at 19th in FanDuel’s playoff odds, trailing behind programs like Big 12 Conference rival Texas Tech and even Penn State under new head coach Matt Campbell. Jake Hatch breaks down what these odds say about the persistent national perception of BYU and the Cougars’ battle against Big Ten and SEC favoritism. He highlights pivotal matchups, including a potential Big 12 title game clash with Texas Tech and a mid-October home showdown against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish that could define BYU’s playoff destiny. The discussion zeroes in on whether Kalani Sitake’s squad has the roster depth and top-end talent to finally shatter the glass ceiling and force national media to take notice. Switching focus to BYU Basketball, attention turns to the roster’s NBA potential under head coach Kevin Young. Jake Hatch explores why The Athletic praises Collin Chandler as an ideal transfer portal fit for BYU, spotlighting his three-level scoring ability cultivated at Farmington High and honed further at Kentucky. The episode draws intriguing parallels between Chandler’s anticipated leap and Richie Saunders’ meteoric junior-year rise, both shaped by Young’s player development philosophy. Listeners get an insider’s view on how Chandler, Rob Wright III, and five-star recruit Bruce Branch III could form a dynamic trio, potentially correcting last year’s issues with overlapping on-ball talents. Transfer portal action intensifies as Julius Halaifonua, a 7-footer from Georgetown, enters the mix as a prized big-man target. Jake Hatch outlines Halaifonua’s Power Five production at Georgetown in the Big East Conference, his fit as a potential BYU version of Steven Adams, and how his New Zealand roots might connect him to BYU’s broader mission linked with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the cost of adding elite centers skyrocketing, BYU’s recruiting strategy adapts, aiming to stockpile proven frontcourt talent for the grind of Big 12 play. Can Young’s aggressive approach in the portal build a Big 12 contender and unleash Chandler’s full potential? Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of BYU’s quest for national relevance in football and the mounting excitement around its basketball rebuild. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Basketball zeroes in on 7'2" center prospect Luigi Suigo, whose rare mix of size, mobility, and EuroLeague experience has put him at the very top of Kevin Young’s recruiting board. Suigo could be the perfect solution to BYU’s glaring hole at the five, offering rim protection, rebounding muscle, and a skill set that allows him to impact the game both in the paint and beyond the arc. With the crossroads of his career rapidly approaching, Suigo must decide between leaping straight to the NBA, where he’s projected as a second-round pick, or embracing a transformative collegiate season in Provo, where a competitive NIL deal and NBA-caliber development program await. Jake Hatch provides deep insight into Suigo’s skill set and explores why he stands out among other center prospects previously linked to BYU. The episode shines a spotlight on Suigo’s shot-blocking instincts, pick-and-roll versatility, and track record against elite competition—highlighting clips like his defensive stand against AJ Dybantsa during the U17 World Cup. The conversation covers BYU’s targeted recruiting approach, contrasting Suigo’s profile with alternatives, and touches on the unique challenges and opportunities with international prospects navigating NBA Draft timelines. Listeners get a breakdown of BYU’s high-stakes pitch: leveraging the program’s NBA-inspired system, robust player support staff, and a proven record of elevating international talent. Luigi Swigo discusses the strategic arguments laid out by Kevin Young and staff—from financial incentives that rival NBA rookie contracts to development infrastructure designed to fast-track players toward first-round draft status. If Suigo opts for BYU, could his presence catalyze a new era of Cougar Basketball dominance in the Big 12 and on the national stage? And if negotiations stall, what’s Plan B in the quest to anchor the paint for the Cougs next season? With deadline drama looming and suitors lined up, BYU’s future at center hinges on this pivotal decision. Will Luigi Suigo become the linchpin in Kevin Young’s vision, or will the search for an impact big man push deeper into summer? Cougar fans and college basketball insiders alike are watching closely for the answer. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU men's basketball eyes another leap as Bruce Branch III dazzles at the Jordan Brand Classic, posting a dominant double-double and fueling talk of a third straight lottery-caliber prospect for Kevin Young’s "NBA factory" in Provo. Can Branch be the latest in a rising line of BYU stars—following Egor Demin and AJ Dybantsa—projected to hit the NBA draft’s highest tiers? His impressive blend of length, three-level scoring, relentless rebounding, and natural fit in fast-break-heavy systems pairs perfectly with Kevin Young’s vision of an NBA-ready program. Jake Hatch breaks down how Branch’s skills, attitude, and upside fill the exact gaps BYU faces heading into the next season, especially at the forward spot. What does this mean for BYU’s one-and-done pipeline, and how will Branch elevate a roster already brimming with next-level talent? But the Cougars’ rebuild doesn’t stop at the wing. BYU’s biggest transfer portal target is 7’2” Luigi Suigo—a Euroleague-tested, physically imposing center whose NBA decision looms. Jake Hatch analyzes how BYU’s NIL offerings stack up against second-round draft projections and why Suigo’s rim protection, pick-and-roll skill, and offensive versatility make him the dream anchor for Kevin Young’s up-tempo attack. How realistic is landing Suigo, and what could his presence do for a BYU squad that needs interior muscle after last season’s shortcomings? Insightful details on coaching pitch, NIL economics, Euroleague background, and player development set the stage for a high-stakes recruiting battle. The podcast shifts to BYU baseball, where Trent Pratt’s team battles through a loaded Big 12 and eyes a potential NCAA Regional berth—can they maintain consistency after losing the Arizona State series? Also featured: the meteoric rise of freshman track star Jane Hedengren, who smashed her third NCAA record at the Brian Clay Invitational and looks set to become a "Jane-erational" figure on the national scene. With a jam-packed offseason swirling with transfer news, ongoing spring football notes, and Olympic sports highlights, Locked On Cougars keeps fans primed for all things BYU. Will the Cougars keep building their NBA pipeline and postseason credentials across every sport? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU Football is on a mission for greatness as right tackle Andrew Gentry, a national champion with Michigan, joins forces with Kalani Sitake and the Cougars to chase ultimate glory. Can Andrew Gentry’s winning mentality and the program’s emphasis on culture elevate BYU to the College Football Playoff? The energy surges as Jake Hatch and Gentry explore what it takes to build a championship team in Provo—and whether this group has the mentality to bring a national title back to Cougar Nation. The conversation unlocks insider insights into BYU’s offensive line, where Andrew Gentry credits coach TJ Woods' relentless standard and the squad’s unbreakable bond for their progress. Andrew Gentry explains how the Cougars might not match Alabama or Ohio State in five-star prospects, but they have all the necessary pieces thanks to a unique culture defined by “love and learning.” He reveals the difference between Big Ten and Big 12 battles in the trenches, highlighting the importance of adapting to faster edge defenders and improving his own pass protection since transferring from Michigan. Get a candid look at BYU’s locker room culture, where mutual care and accountability fuel buy-in at every position. Andrew Gentry compares Jim Harbaugh and Kalani Sitake, recognizing their shared passion for football and genuine care for their players. Gentry revisits his unusual recruiting path—from a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orem, Utah and a pivotal meal at Tucano’s with Harbaugh, to fulfilling a lifelong dream by coming home to BYU. As the Cougars eye an even stronger campaign after last season’s Big 12 title game appearance, Andrew Gentry makes his ambitions clear: to become one of the best offensive linemen in BYU history and to help deliver the program’s first national championship since 1984. The episode closes on tradition and legacy, as Andrew Gentry discusses the story behind his jersey number and the responsibility of carrying on a family and positional legacy. Will BYU’s blend of talent, culture, and championship mindset be enough to conquer the Big 12 and the nation? This episode offers an inside look at a team—and a leader—on the verge of something special. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars double down on their distinct identity, refusing to chase the private equity deals now reshaping college sports finances. BYU athletic direction Brian Santiago’s public commitment to independence comes as Big 12 rivals like Utah pursue staggering $500 million windfalls through Otro Capital, but BYU’s refusal raises the question: will values-driven leadership keep the Cougars in the national conversation or put them at a resource disadvantage? Jake Hatch unpacks why BYU’s fierce institutional independence—rooted in its ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and a powerful, deep-pocketed donor base—means they can call their own shots, sidestep external influence, and continue shaping their own trajectory in the Big 12 Conference. Listener insight spotlights how BYU’s current philosophy keeps power in Provo’s hands, even as conference peers and national programs jump headfirst into the private capital revolution. Recruiting battles intensify as BYU football pursues high-profile prospects Blake Wong and Sione Felila, locking horns with blue-blood programs like Ohio State, Oregon, UCLA, and Utah. How far can Kalani Sitake’s culture and BYU’s Big 12 rise carry them against collegiate recruiting giants? Jake Hatch examines the evolving landscape and the Cougars’ increasing relevance in major recruiting circles. BYU baseball enters the spotlight with a six-game win streak punctuated by a 19-9 rout over #23 Arizona State, signaling a program on the rise and strong NCAA regional potential. Team depth, explosive offense, and standout performances from players across the roster have set BYU apart. A pivotal story unfolds as Robert Wright III shuns Kentucky to stick with Kevin Young’s vision at BYU, marking a new era for Cougar hoops alongside talents like Collin Chandler and Jake Wahlin. What makes BYU suddenly a destination for both top LDS athletes and elite out-of-state prospects? Fan Friday guest Dave Bevan joins Jake Hatch to recount superfan adventures at over 50 venues, analyze why Big 12 membership is changing the game for BYU athletics, and share the “secret weapon”—his undefeated daughter—for must-win showdowns at Utah and Notre Dame. Is this truly a “golden age” for BYU fans? Don’t miss an episode packed with insider stories, roster insights, and future-shaping questions for Cougar Nation. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Big 12 football faces fan backlash as Texas Tech gets two Saturday games stripped, with a marquee matchup against Houston moved to Friday night. The Big 12 Squad debates the impact of weeknight games on local attendance, high school football culture, and the conference’s national exposure. Does this scheduling decision actually give Houston a major advantage, and why isn’t the Big 12 showcasing its top games on Saturdays like the SEC? The squad also explores massive shifts in college basketball: NIL deals and NBA draft prospects are reshaping Big 12 rosters as stars like Joseph Tugler and AJ Dybantsa weigh million-dollar decisions. Is college basketball’s calendar out of sync with the pros? Plus, Big 12 baseball’s heavyweights stumble while Kansas leads the standings—should athletic departments invest in sports beyond football and men’s basketball, or is NIL funding now changing the game for non-revenue sports forever? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome into a massive "Commitment Edition" of Locked On Cougars with your host Jake Hatch. We lead off today’s show with a definitive statement from the Transfer Portal: Robert Wright III is officially returning to Provo! This was the recruiting battle that had the entire fan base on edge, as Wright took a high-profile visit to Lexington to meet with former BYU head coach Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats. In an era where blue-blood programs often pick off the Big 12’s best talent, Kevin Young proved that BYU is now a destination that can hold its own against the giants. We dive deep into why Wright chose to spurn the allure of Rupp Arena to stay the course in Provo, discussing the "NBA-lite" development plan Young has implemented and how Wright’s All-Big 12 talent is the foundational piece for the Cougars' 2026-27 campaign. This isn't just a retention; it’s a massive win on the national recruiting trail that signals a shift in the hierarchy of college basketball. The momentum continues as we discuss a significant homecoming for a local star. Jake Wahlin, the 6-foot-10 forward and Provo native, has officially committed to play his final season of college basketball for his hometown team. Wahlin’s journey has come full circle after stops at Utah and Clemson, and he brings a much-needed veteran presence to the Marriott Center. We analyze the tactical advantages of adding a 6-10 player with Wahlin’s mobility; his ability to switch on the perimeter and provide secondary rim protection makes him a Swiss Army knife for Kevin Young’s defensive schemes. Being a local product, Wahlin understands the culture and the stakes of BYU basketball, making him a perfect locker-room fit for a roster that is being rebuilt with high-level talent from across the country. We wrap up the show by taking a hard look at the remaining scholarship spots and the clear priorities for the coaching staff as the portal window begins to narrow. While the backcourt is now one of the best in the Big 12, the frontcourt still requires heavy lifting. We examine the urgent need for multiple centers—specifically looking for a true "rim runner" and a physical "enforcer" who can bang with the elite bigs of the Big 12. Furthermore, we discuss why Kevin Young isn't done looking for perimeter shooting. To maximize the gravity and playmaking of Robert Wright III, BYU needs elite "knock-down" threats to prevent defenses from collapsing. We lay out the blueprint for the final three weeks of the recruiting cycle and what it will take for BYU to cement themselves as a Top-25 program heading into the fall. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

On today's episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch dives into the high-stakes world of the College Football Playoff and why the preseason polls might matter more for Kalani Sitake and the BYU Football program than ever before. With the 12-team format in place, we discuss the "prestige gap" and why the Cougars likely need to start inside the Preseason Top-25 to ensure they have the resume runway to crack the CFP field if they deliver the double-digit win season fans are dreaming of and expecting. Does a "power four" schedule in ghe Big 12 Conference provide enough of a boost, or is a Top 25 starting spot the only way to guarantee an at-large seat at the table in December? The conversation then shifts to the hardwood and the ongoing Transfer Portal saga surrounding Robert Wright III. We analyze whether Kevin Young and the BYU Men’s Basketball staff have "put all their eggs in one basket" regarding Wright's return. Is there a Plan B in place, or is the strategy entirely dependent on retaining Wright? We look at the potential roster implications and what it says about BYU's aggressive approach under their NBA-vetted leadership as they continue to remake the roster via the NCAA Transfer Portal. Finally, we address the noise coming from across the state and the conference. BYU’s NIL prowess is officially making rival fanbases uncomfortable. We break down why the "NIL envy" is reaching a fever pitch and why it is fundamentally spurred by jealousy. With wealthy BYU boosters and a unified donor base providing the Cougars with the financial firepower to attract and retain elite talent, the competitive landscape has shifted. We explain why BYU fans should embrace the "villain" role as the program uses its unique resources to build a powerhouse in the Big 12 era. Inside the Episode: CFP Path: Why the Preseason Top 25 is a must-have for BYU's postseason math. The Wright Watch: Evaluating the risk/reward of Kevin Young’s portal strategy. NIL Dominance: Why rival fans are angry at BYU's fundraising success and booster support. Big 12 Power Dynamics: How financial backing is changing BYU's recruiting ceiling. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

On the hardwood, Jake Hatch examines BYU men’s basketball’s aggressive pursuit of outside shooting talent. The addition of former Syracuse and Cincinnati three-point specialist Tyler Betsey signals a pivotal shift in strategy for Kevin Young’s roster construction, emphasizing Power 5 experience and reliable high-volume shooting. The breakdown explores why Betsy’s shooting prowess and Big 12 pedigree could be the missing ingredient BYU needs—especially after struggles with portal additions last season. With Collin Chandler and Betsy both bringing 40%+ from deep, will Young’s spacing and offensive philosophy finally click, allowing playmakers like Bruce Branch more freedom to attack? BYU football is poised to chase hardware as national champion Andrew Gentry brings instant credibility—and massive expectations—to Provo. With a strong belief in BYU’s championship-level culture under Kalani Sitake, Gentry opens up to Jake Hatch about lessons from his Michigan days, the power of genuine “love and learning,” and what it will take for this O-line to dominate in the Big 12 Conference. Can Gentry’s leadership and experience elevate BYU’s locker room from contender to true title threat? Along the way, they revisit Gentry’s unique path, his family ties to the BYU Cougars, and his ambition to leave a lasting legacy as one of the best offensive tackles in BYU history. The momentum continues as BYU baseball enjoys a historic Big 12 sweep over Houston and pushes its win streak to five with a victory at Lamar, sparking postseason hopes for the Cougars. Jake Hatch highlights the pitching resurgence, clutch hitting, and why timely wins over conference rivals could land Trent Pratt’s squad in an NCAA Regional for the first time in years. He also offers a candid assessment of what’s needed to close the gap—a physical, true big man for basketball, and sustained discipline on the diamond. Is BYU on the verge of breaking through in football, basketball, and baseball? From transfer portal moves to leadership in the trenches, Locked On Cougars serves up insight, optimism, and the scoop on what’s next for Cougar Nation’s ascent 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 SPONSORS Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU men's basketball makes a statement as Collin Chandler commits and returns to Utah, sending shockwaves across the Big 12. Can Kevin Young leverage Chandler’s dynamic skillset to elevate the Cougars to a Sweet 16? A proven 41% three-point shooter with the size and athleticism to play both guard spots, Chandler arrives not only to fill a critical roster need after a season of offensive inconsistency but also to bring local pride and high-level SEC experience back to Provo. With Rob Wright’s status still in flux, Chandler could emerge as either BYU’s starting two or be trusted with ball-handling duties if needed—an intriguing possibility considering his pick-and-roll game and high-volume, high-efficiency shooting, especially against top-tier competition. Jake Hatch spotlights the next potential roster domino: Keanu Dawes. After stints at Rice and Utah, Dawes could be a perfect modern four for BYU, fitting Kevin Young's NBA-style spacing and shooting demands. Hatch breaks down Dawes’ underappreciated contributions, including a surprising 37% clip from deep in Big 12 play, his physicality at 6’9”, and his competitive edge shaped by tough environments at Utah. Would playing alongside improved bigs and shooters in Provo unlock his full potential? Listeners get insider perspective on BYU’s evolving transfer portal strategy, what Chandler and Dawes would mean for future rotations, and the crucial balance between offensive firepower and much-needed defensive improvement on the perimeter. Rounding out the episode, Hatch celebrates BYU baseball’s unexpected surge after sweeping Houston, putting the "Bat Cats" in the top half of the Big 12 standings with real postseason aspirations under Trent Pratt. Could Miller Park’s iconic backdrop see meaningful games in May? BYU softball also gets a shout-out for its sweep over Houston as both programs pick up momentum after enduring rocky Big 12 transitions. With the transfer portal still buzzing and spring storylines heating up, don’t miss this fast-paced breakdown of Cougar athletics’ brightest headlines and turning points. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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. Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet. Performance medicine for men  FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game  Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON  Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

A roster upheaval signals new hope in Provo—can Kevin Young’s vision spark a revitalized era for BYU Cougars basketball? With just five holdovers from last season currently with most-recent portal exits like Tyler Mrus and KJ Perry, the Cougars are in reload mode, but fresh, high-upside talent is on the way. Collin Chandler headlines the reinforcements, making his long-awaited “homecoming,” joined by five-star recruit Bruce Branch and sharp-shooting Dean Rueckert. Jake Hatch argues this transformation isn’t a setback—it’s a launchpad, with the coaching staff targeting immediate-impact transfers and difference-makers to fill glaring roster needs, especially at center. Will BYU land a dominant big man out of the NCAA Transfer Portal to anchor Young’s system and drive success in the Big 12? The show also unpacks BYU’s ambitious non-conference schedule, featuring a heavyweight season opener against Ohio State at the Delta Center and prime matchups at the Maui Invitational with Arizona, Clemson, and more. Hatch details how these high-profile games will challenge a new-look lineup, test BYU’s revamped recruiting class, and position the Cougars for NCAA Tournament success. Could new additions like Bruce Branch and a healthy Dawson Baker push BYU up the national ranks and reframe expectations for the program’s trajectory under Kevin Young? Special guest Chris Keller, a prominent Cougar Club member, joins for a Fan Friday segment to reveal the behind-the-scenes impact of NIL and the financial commitment from BYU boosters. Keller explains how NIL not only elevates BYU athletics but also extends the university’s reach and aligns with the broader mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With insights on NIL-fueled recruiting, donor culture, and both football and basketball’s outlook, the conversation explores why BYU may be poised for sustained success despite challenges from the transfer portal. Will BYU’s roster overhaul and enhanced financial strategy bring long-term gains? Can the Cougars’ aggressive scheduling and recruiting approach fuel a breakthrough year in the Big 12? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s comprehensive analysis and insider access on Locked On Cougars as a new era dawns in BYU athletics. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Big 12 transfer chaos signals seismic shifts—can new executive orders curb college athletes’ free agency, or will the player movement frenzy continue? Anthony Roy and Rob Wright headline heated debates over multimillion-dollar transfers, while experts question President Trump’s new transfer portal restrictions and their real-world enforceability. The Big 12 Squad weighs in on loopholes and the NCAA’s antitrust concerns, spotlighting BYU, West Virginia, and Arizona State’s unique stakes in the chaos.  The saga of Rob Wright III has become the primary Exhibit A for critics who argue that the current NIL landscape has devolved into a series of short-term "heists" rather than meaningful athletic partnerships. After a single, highly-compensated season at Baylor followed by a lucrative jump to BYU, Wright’s decision to re-enter the transfer portal in the spring of 2026 has left both programs feeling less like collaborators and more like ATM machines. This "mercenary" approach is precisely what prompted the recent federal push for NIL reform. Critics argue that players like Wright are "stealing" money not by breaking laws, but by violating the spirit of the agreements. When a collective pours seven figures into a player under the assumption of a multi-year build, and that player exits the moment a higher bidder appears, it creates a "hollow" investment. For the donors at Baylor and BYU, Wright represents the ultimate "NIL bust"—a player who took the maximum payout and provided zero long-term stability in return UConn’s rumored Big 12 addition sparks clashing opinions: would adding the Huskies’ basketball legacy push the conference to new heights, or stretch its identity past the breaking point? The panel head-to-head on tradition versus expansion and Big 12 baseball storylines from TCU’s rise to Oklahoma State’s power surge and West Virginia’s underdog run. The heated banter leaves one pressing question: can the Big 12 thrive amid rapid transformation? 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU men's basketball program reloads with a major addition as former Kentucky Wildcats guard Collin Chandler enters the transfer portal, strongly expected to join Kevin Young’s roster in Provo. Can Chandler fill the void left by Richie Saunders and anchor the next era of BYU hoops? Jake Hatch breaks down how Chandler’s impressive sophomore stats at Kentucky—9.7 points per game, shooting 41% from three—could mirror Saunders’ own meteoric junior-year rise, fueling excitement for yet another LDS mission returnee who’s proven his talent on the big stage. As BYU eyes more consistent shooting and culture fits in the Big 12, Chandler’s arrival sets sky-high expectations with the promise of both elite production and locker-room leadership. Roster turnover also dominates the conversation as BYU faces the departures of Rob Wright III, Kennard Davis Jr., and Dominique Diomande. Is this mass exodus cause for concern? Jake Hatch unpacks the realities of modern college basketball, where nearly half of all Division I scholarship players are entering the portal, most chasing lucrative NIL offers. He provides perspective on Wright’s move, referencing reports of multimillion-dollar offers for top guards and the strong likelihood that market forces—not a lack of program loyalty—drive such decisions. While challenging for coaches, BYU’s deep-pocketed boosters may give the Cougars an edge in retaining high-impact players or luring new talent ahead of the portal closure. On the football side, recruiting momentum continues as BYU snags commitment number two for the 2027 cycle: running back Ezra Sanelivi from Liberty High School in Nevada. Could Sanelivi—built in the mold of Tyler Allgeier and LJ Martin—keep BYU’s NFL running back pipeline alive? Jake Hatch breaks down Sanelivi’s vision, size, and fit in BYU’s zone-heavy rushing attack, while highlighting the staff’s strategic focus on both high-upside prospects and plugging upcoming roster gaps. Discussion also turns to BYU’s ambitions for regular Big 12 contention and College Football Playoff berths, emphasizing how both culture and NIL are intertwined with on-field and on-court success. Locked On Cougars delivers a fast-paced analysis of roster moves, recruiting wins, and big-picture trends shaping BYU’s future in the Big 12 and beyond. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU men's basketball program faces a recruiting crossroads as four-star Utah Prep standout Anthony Felesi hits the open market after decommitting from Pittsburgh. With deep ties to BYU and AJ Dybantsa, Felesi’s elite defensive prowess could reshape Kevin Young’s roster and set the Cougars up for a powerhouse freshman class. Will BYU’s connection to Felesi, local roots, and robust boosters be enough to outmaneuver heavy competition and secure a cornerstone for future success? Jake Hatch kicks off with an urgent look at Felesi’s must-get status, breaking down the guard’s strengths—size, tenacious perimeter defense, and potential as a 3-and-D game-changer. The discussion covers how Felesi’s relationship with AJ Dybantsa might influence his decision, and why BYU’s recruiting strategy needs to leverage both financial backing and program culture. The episode investigates the potential freshman trio of Felesi, Bruce Branch, and Dean Rueckert, examining how their defensive capabilities could become BYU’s backbone after a disappointing NCAA tournament exit. Shifting to the gridiron, Jake Hatch welcomes exclusive insights from Isaiah Glasker, BYU’s veteran linebacker who surprises fans by returning for another season. Glasker addresses his comeback after battling injuries and sets ambitious goals for BYU’s Big 12 championship hopes. He details the depth and versatility of BYU’s linebacker unit—highlighting contributors like Cade Uluave, Ace Kaufusi, and Miles Hall—and explains how new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga’s leadership is impacting the room with a player-centered approach and tactical flexibility. The episode also celebrates BYU women’s basketball star Delaney Gibb, who captivated a national audience on Fox and Friends. Jake Hatch reflects on Gibb’s viral press conference statement about not practicing on Sundays and her open discussion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, team culture, and representing something bigger than basketball. The conversation digs into how Coach Lee Cummard fosters a supportive environment for all beliefs and why BYU athletes stand for more than just wins on the scoreboard. Can BYU capitalize on its recruiting momentum and transfer defensive depth into lasting success? Catch insider interviews, recruiting news, and a behind-the-scenes look as the Cougars gear up for a pivotal offseason in both basketball and football. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

BYU men's basketball faces a transformative portal season as head coach Kevin Young navigates one of the most decisive offseasons in program history. With former four-star prospect Xavion Staton announcing his intent to transfer, the Cougars find themselves re-evaluating roster priorities and the backbone of next year’s team. Jake Hatch spotlights the “keep at all costs” group—Rob Wright, Aleksej Kostic, Khadim Mboup, and Dawson Baker—while examining which other players, including KJ Perry and Nate Pickens, could stay in Provo if the NIL price is right. As Young works to retain his brightest prospects, several names could be on the way out, leaving BYU with a thin frontcourt and new holes to fill in the Big 12. The portal’s opening creates an arms race for elite big men, and BYU’s frontcourt pipeline is under scrutiny. With Keba Keita graduating and both Abdullah Ahmed and Staton evaluating their futures, the Cougars could be eyeing rim protectors like Magoon Gwath from San Diego State—a defensive standout with three-point range. Will Young land a true five who can anchor BYU’s paint defense while stretching the floor offensively? The search doesn’t stop there: consistent perimeter shooting and tenacious wing defenders headline the Cougars’ recruiting blueprint. As Young points out, shooting woes and lackluster defense hampered BYU’s Big 12 hopes last season. Can the staff attract top shooters and “3-and-D” specialists ready to raise the program’s physical and competitive ceiling? Off the court, a new executive order from President Donald Trump threatens to shake up traditional NCAA eligibility, potentially impacting BYU athletes who serve missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With mission deferrals for student-athletes now in question, could BYU have to adjust its recruiting model and long-term athlete development strategies? Jake Hatch breaks down the lingering uncertainty, the role of congressional action, and how the Cougars can safeguard their pipeline of mission-driven talent. As BYU basketball steps into a period of flux, booster support and recruiting acumen will determine whether the Cougars can adapt and thrive. Who stays and who goes? Which new faces might define Kevin Young’s second season in Provo? The stakes have never been higher in Cougar Nation 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

Bear Bachmeier commands the headlines as he embraces his role as BYU Cougars’ starting quarterback. Is he prepared to push the program to new heights and deliver a Big 12 championship or a College Football Playoff appearance? Jake Hatch spotlights Bachmeier’s maturing leadership, expanded comfort in the spotlight, and his sharpened command of Aaron Roderick’s offense. With Chase Roberts and other senior voices gone, Bachmeier has captured the confidence of teammates and coaches this offseason. He now shoulders lofty expectations after a record-setting campaign, as he aims for statistical excellence—chasing 4,000 yards, 70% completions, and a run at postseason glory—all while handling the unique pressure of being BYU’s most visible athlete in Provo. The conversation turns to critical depth at the quarterback position. If disaster strikes and Bear misses time, can Treyson Bourguet or Enoch Watson keep the Cougars’ dynamic attack on track? Hatch breaks down each backup’s skill set, with insight into BYU’s player development and the pivotal contributions of the running game led by LJ Martin. The show also celebrates the enduring spirit of BYU football, with reflections from the annual Alumni Game. Hatch shares takeaways after talking with former players ranging from the 1970s to today, emphasizing the strong bonds, traditions, and legacy that fuel the program. Whether reliving the glory days of the 1984 National Championship, connecting with teammates, or seeing the deep connection to the university, the alumni experience remains a vital part of what sets BYU apart—underscoring Kalani Sitake’s role in keeping those traditions alive. On the basketball front, AJ Dybantsa earns another coveted accolade as the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year and stands at a career crossroads. Does he have anything left to prove in Provo, or is it time to seize the mantle as a future NBA star? Hatch explores what’s at stake for Dybantsa, weighing the allure of a top draft pick and the appeal of an NBA career against one more season with the Cougars under new coach Kevin Young. With the transfer portal open and roster changes looming, the episode rounds out with speculation on BYU’s strategy and how both football and basketball are poised for the next chapter in their Big 12 journey. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

A seismic shift is on the horizon for college football as the NCAA eyes strict penalties—including suspending head coaches for up to half the season and slashing program budgets by 20%—to crack down on players using the unenroll-re-enroll loophole to transfer outside official portal windows. With high-profile examples like Jake Retzlaff’s departure from BYU to Tulane, the conversation intensifies around whether these enforcement actions can stick, or if the legal system will ultimately tip the scales in favor of student-athletes’ rights. Programs across the country, including BYU, are openly anxious about rampant poaching and player movement after spring practices, as these window workarounds increasingly feel like unrestricted free agency that leaves coaches, teammates, and fans in the lurch. Jake Hatch and Spencer McLaughlin dissect Charlie Baker’s ambitious reform agenda and the likelihood of NCAA rules withstanding court challenges. With Aaron Roderick, BYU’s offensive coordinator, admitting he’s stopped discussing young talent to avoid fueling transfer rumors, the pressure on coaches to adapt is palpable. The episode also spotlights the financial conundrums facing the sport—namely, whether conference championship games should be axed to streamline the playoff and finish the season around New Year’s Day. Major voices like Alabama’s AD and Kirby Smart have ignited debate as the SEC and others confront scheduling headaches, shrinking the window between the end of the regular season and a playoff that now threatens to stretch into late January. Listeners get a candid look at how the new transfer policies—combined with the influence of NIL compensation and shifting postseason structures—are forcing schools to rethink everything from roster management to contract incentives. As Jake Hatch and Locked On’s host explore possible solutions, including advancing Week 1 or abolishing title games altogether, they break down the ripple effects on recruiting, team chemistry, and college football’s place in the American sports calendar. Will the NCAA finally draw a legal and financial line, or is a new era of player movement and postseason chaos just beginning? Get all the context, controversy, and expert insight you need to stay ahead of the next college football revolution. 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.

The BYU Cougars exit spring camp with momentum and a clear sense of purpose, poised as genuine contenders for the Big 12 title and perhaps even a spot in the College Football Playoff. Tight ends Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga emerge as offensive game-changers, drawing unanimous praise from coaches and teammates alike, while quarterback Bear Bachmeier leverages his first full offseason in Provo to elevate his game to a new level. Is this the year BYU’s veteran core and new talent finally combine for a deep postseason run? Jake Hatch delivers a fast-paced breakdown of spring camp’s top revelations, including awards for MVPs, emerging freshmen, and most improved position groups. Young linebacker Braxton Lindsey grabs headlines with electric playmaking ability, and the offensive line, led by Andrew Gentry and Bruce Mitchell, sets its sights on becoming one of the nation’s elite units. Yet, lingering questions remain: Can the Cougars build enough depth at cornerback and running back to withstand the inevitable injuries of a grueling Big 12 campaign? How will new faces like Jayven Williams and Paki Finau respond when called upon in high-pressure moments? The theme of “dynamic” surfaces again and again from the BYU coaching staff, especially with new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga promising multiple defensive looks—from 4-3 to 3-3-5—to keep opponents guessing. Aaron Roderick’s offense remains as flexible as ever, matching tactical creativity with execution. As BYU aims for another shot at the conference championship and greater national relevance, the pressure is on veteran leaders to push standards higher and avoid complacency as the hunted, not the hunter. A candid one-on-one interview with Justin Kirkland, BYU’s anchor at nose tackle, offers insight into the Cougars’ locker room camaraderie and high-energy culture. Kirkland outlines his partnership with Keanu Tanavasa and explains how their chemistry could form the Big 12’s most dominant interior duo. He also discusses his NFL ambitions, the importance of team-first mentality, and praises Sione Po'uha’s player-centric coaching style. Get the pulse of BYU football’s spring evolution, analyze strengths and vulnerabilities, and see how this squad plans to break through 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/everydayerclub Jake 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 apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
Wins define the moment.
Putting in the work –
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 you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL 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]. Part 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.