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

BYU men's basketball stuns the college hoops world with the late addition of Michigan State transfer Jaxon Kohler, signaling a dramatic shift in the program’s Big 12 aspirations. Is a trip to the Sweet 16 now within reach? Jake Hatch unpacks how Kevin Young and his staff pulled off this incredible recruiting coup, landing a coveted big man at the eleventh hour after months of frustrating misses. Hatch explains why Kohler, a Utah County native and gifted offensive weapon, could instantly become one of the BYU Cougars' top scoring threats—perhaps even averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds—with his refined post moves, three-point touch, and ability to thrive in BYU’s spacing-focused system alongside shooters like Rob Wright, Collin Chandler, and Bruce Branch III. Yet, with Kohler not an elite rim protector and Jakub Urbaniak backing him up, will BYU’s defensive backbone hold up against the conference’s top frontcourts? The roster drama doesn’t stop there. With 14 scholarship slots filled, BYU is weighing whether to leave the 15th spot open for midseason flexibility or seal the deal with a fan favorite and proven Power 5 vet: Dallin Hall. After brief success at Virginia, Hall could be eyeing a return to Brigham Young University, and Jake Hatch analyzes what his reunion would mean for depth, leadership, and locker room chemistry. Would Hall strengthen BYU’s guard rotation, or should Kevin Young hold the slot for a potential midseason transfer—especially given last year’s injury woes and eligibility concerns? Switching to football, Jake Hatch delivers a firsthand scouting report on future Cougars star Uhila Wolfgramm, the 2027 four-star defensive line commit from Maple Mountain High School. Hatch spotlights Wohlgramm’s rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism, explaining how his dominance against double and triple teams hints at untapped potential and why recruiting analysts and blue-bloods like Oklahoma coveted his signature. BYU’s recruiting staff—credited by name, including Kalani Sitake, Jay Hill, Sione Po'uha, Kelly Poppinga, and Chad Kauha'aha'a—earns praise for their early identification and development pipeline. Join Jake Hatch for an energizing, in-depth analysis of recruiting, roster construction, and whether BYU basketball and football are poised to take the next leap in the NCAA landscape. 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

14h ago·28 min

Big 12 chaos looms as BYU and Texas Tech emerge as consensus favorites, but Utah’s bold push for the title stirs heated debate. Could the conference see not just two, but three playoff contenders, with Oklahoma State, Houston, Arizona State, and West Virginia all making their case? The Big 12 Squad breaks down quarterback battles, explosive offenses, and key schedule advantages in the race for Arlington. Intrigue grows as the crew spotlights the most pivotal matchups—BYU vs. Notre Dame, Oklahoma State vs. Oregon, and BYU-Arizona—all with playoff implications. Can Devon Dampier, Will Hammond, and Drew Mestemaker shine on the biggest stage? Will a revamped West Virginia or Arizona State’s stacked wide receivers change the conference dynamic? Don’t miss this comprehensive preview of the ultimate Big 12 football season and which dark horses might rewrite expectations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

22h ago·33 min

Kalani Sitake is the lifeblood of the BYU Football program, and his potential departure could shake the very foundation of the BYU Cougars. Jake Hatch opens with a hard-hitting assessment: Sitake is irreplaceable at BYU, not just for his coaching prowess but for his unique connection to the university’s culture and mission. From growing up a BYU fan to leading Brigham Young University's football program to some of its greatest heights since the 1984 national championship season, Sitake has embodied everything BYU stands for—loyalty, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Jake Hatch explores why replacing Sitake isn’t as simple as promoting coordinators like Jay Hill or courting BYU alums such as Jason Beck or Kelly Poppinga. The episode scrutinizes the rumored friction with athletic director Brian Santiago, the specifics of what BYU demands from its head coach, and how Sitake has built an environment that not only keeps coaches from leaving but continues to attract top-tier talent despite the unique requirements tied to BYU’s religious sponsor in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Off the field, BYU’s new “game day experiences” are making waves. Will paid field access, reserved front-row spots at the Cougar Walk, locker room tours, and even in-seat Cosmo visits enhance the fan experience—or are these new revenue streams risking alienation of the core of Cougar Nation? Jake Hatch assesses BYU’s strategy against larger NCAA trends, critically examining which traditions should remain accessible to every fan, and which are fair game for monetization in today’s college sports arms race. The episode breaks down pricing, including eyebrow-raising costs for previously free experiences, and why the athletic department’s financial pressures are pushing creative boundaries. Listener mailbag questions bring fast insights and updates on BYU’s football roster and recruiting. Get the latest on Parker Kingston’s appeal saga, the battle for backup quarterback reps behind Bear Bachmeier, and the outlook for rising talents like Nusi Taumoepeau—Jake Hatch’s pick for leading the team in sacks. The basketball update covers Jaxon Kohler’s hopeful return home, how BYU stacks up against blueblood suitors in terms of NIL deals, and whether Dallin Hall could still suit up this year for Kevin Young and the BYU men's basketball program. There’s also a spotlight on BYU’s expanding reach for diverse non-LDS athletes, with examples like Mory Bamba and Bear Bachmeier dispelling old stereotypes and reaffirming that BYU’s “big tent” culture is here to stay. Stay tuned for unrivaled Cougars analysis, roster scoops, and community Q&A—your front-row seat to everything BYU. 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1d ago·36 min

The BYU football program have a new look on their offense with major questions looming: Can their new-look wide receiver corps and veteran offensive line spark a playoff run in 2026? After losing their top three pass catchers—Chase Roberts, Parker Kingston, and Carsen Ryan, which accounted for roughly 80% of last season’s aerial production—the BYU Cougars face intense scrutiny about their ability to reload and compete in the Big 12 and against national powerhouses like Notre Dame. With Bear Bachmeier locked in as QB, Brigham Young University eyes impact transfers and highly touted freshmen, including Oregon transfers Roger Saleapaga and Kyler Kasper and speedster Legend Glasker, to step into featured roles. Will the sum of BYU’s new parts prove greater than the missing stars, or could their lack of a proven No. 1 receiver be their downfall when facing elite talent? Brian Smith and Jake Hatch dive into the layered strategy behind BYU’s rebuild, starting with the tight end duo of Saleapaga and Walker Lyons, poised to be focal points in Aaron Roderick’s scheme. The conversation highlights the offensive line’s experience, anchored by right tackle Andrew Gentry, whose run-blocking prowess should open holes for underrated running back LJ Martin. The hosts analyze how Kalani Sitake and BYU plan to balance Bear Bachmeier’s physical play and running ability with the need to keep him healthy for a potential postseason run, raising questions about situational quarterback runs and the long-term durability of their offensive centerpiece. The discussion pivots to BYU’s ability to execute in crucial games, with pressing matchups against teams like Notre Dame and Texas Tech—programs known for NFL-caliber secondaries and defensive lines. Can the new receiving corps, now billed as bigger and faster, hold their own against future pros? Will BYU’s offensive line reclaim its physical identity and dominate at the line of scrimmage after last year’s humbling at the hands of Texas Tech’s generational unit? Jake Hatch points to the players’ offseason focus and a hunger to prove doubters wrong, stressing the importance of controlling the trenches and hitting timely deep shots to change defensive game plans. Will the Cougars’ calculated portal moves, revamped attack, and physical mentality be enough to bridge the gap from good to elite in college 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 Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1d ago·15 min

LJ Martin’s preseason All-American nod sets the stage for the BYU Football program’s ambitions in the Big 12 Conference, but is one Cougar star enough to satisfy the fanbase in this heated Utah-BYU rivalry? Jake Hatch and JT Wistrcill kick off this crossover episode by analyzing Martin’s Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year status and questioning which other BYU and Utah players—like Bear Bachmeier of Cade Uluave—deserved a spot on the Associated Press lists. Does the AP’s limited roster leave Big 12 standouts underrated, and can Utah’s Devon Dampier crash the postseason All-American conversation with a breakout season? The debate intensifies as BYU edges Utah in the preseason AP Top 25, with BYU ranked 14th to Utah’s 21st. Jake Hatch calls this the "Goldilocks zone" for the Cougars and explains how Kalani Sitake can use this “under-respected” status as motivation on the campaign for a College Football Playoff berth. Meanwhile, JT Wistrcill pushes back, arguing that Utah—whose quarterback situation feels more secure than Tennessee’s—could outperform its ranking by season’s end. Both hosts agree that making the Big 12 title game is no small feat, but punching a ticket to the College Football Playoff remains the real goal for both programs. With the rivalry game on the horizon, attention turns to whether the Holy War could tip playoff scales for either squad. A convincing win at Rice-Eccles Stadium could catapult either Utah or BYU into a two-team Big 12 playoff scenario, but both teams know that winning isn’t enough—they need statement victories to sway national perception. Jake Hatch and JT Wistrcill weigh whether fans would rather take extra losses and a rivalry win, or endure defeat to their rival in pursuit of playoff glory, inviting listeners to join the debate. Off the field, the drama is equally intense. Kalani Sitake’s pointed comments about resource gaps ignited a firestorm around BYU athletic director Brian Santiago, echoing the public fallout Utah just experienced between Mark Harlan and Kyle Whittingham. The hosts dissect how AD-coach power dynamics play out, the unique pressures on BYU’s leadership pool, and why public opinion often aligns with the football coach in moments of institutional strife. As both programs navigate these controversies, one question looms: whose athletic department can weather the storm and deliver on championship aspirations? Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of both the on-field battles and off-field intrigue shaping Utah and BYU’s 2026 seasons. 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2d ago·32 min

The college basketball landscape has been completely upended by massive legal rulings, and the BYU Cougars are right at the center of the storm! On this episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch dives deep into the latest preliminary injunctions shaking up the NCAA transfer portal and what it means for Kevin Young’s program and the current roster construction in Provo. We open with the massive news surrounding former Michigan State standout big man Jaxon Kohler. Kohler secured a legal injunction allowing him to enter the transfer portal for a fifth year of eligibility, and the Utah native—who prep-starred locally at Wasatch Academy and American Fork—has immediately put BYU right at the forefront of his recruitment. However, the Cougars are battling heavyweight competition for his signature, with Louisville, Kentucky, and Kansas all laying serious groundwork to land the elite forward. We break down Kohler’s fit in Provo, his impressive skill set coming off a stellar season in East Lansing, and whether BYU can fend off college basketball's blue bloods to secure a massive frontcourt upgrade. If that wasn't enough frontcourt drama, former BYU starting center Keba Keita also received clearance through similar legal maneuvering to evaluate his options and enter the portal. With Keita’s proven familiarity with the program coupled with Kohler's high-ceiling talent, Cougar Nation is left asking the ultimate roster question: Can BYU realistically find a way to land and add both big men, or does this shape up to be a strict "one or the other" situation in the frontcourt? Join Jake Hatch as we analyze the roster math, the legal battles reshaping college athletics, and what a potential double-big haul would mean for BYU's outlook in the Big 12. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for all your daily BYU sports coverage on Locked On Cougars—your first listen every single day! 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2d ago·31 min

The BYU football program lands at No. 14 in the AP Top 25 preseason poll, and the placement sparks debate—are the BYU Cougars being underestimated, or is this their ideal launch position? Jake Hatch argues that Kalani Sitake is uniquely positioned to spin the ranking to BYU’s advantage, either fanning the flames of the perennial “disrespect” card or building on newfound national recognition. With Texas Tech, Utah, and Houston as the other notable Big 12 teams in the poll, can BYU leverage this top-15 ranking into a legitimate College Football Playoff run? The narrative focuses on BYU’s strengths as an underdog and their proven ability to climb from unranked to playoff contention over the past two seasons. The episode breaks down the recently announced scheduling move for 2027, with BYU shifting its game against Oregon State to late August. This strategic change, likely in anticipation of broader NCAA scheduling shifts, creates the potential for double bye weeks and sets up one of the most demanding schedules the Cougars have faced since joining the Big 12. Fans can look forward to home games against Utah, Colorado, Texas Tech, and Kansas, plus a road trip to face Notre Dame—an iconic college football venue. Jake Hatch spotlights the loss of veteran staples like Keanu Tanuvasa, Isaiah Glasker, and LJ Martin, and explores how the Cougars will reload with emerging talent headlines by Bear Bachmeier under center. With rising programs like Oklahoma State and West Virginia on the docket, will BYU’s depth and evolving roster be enough to meet the moment in 2027? Jake Clifton, the Kansas State transfer linebacker, joins to provide an insider’s view on BYU’s retooled, veteran defense. Clifton shares how his Big 12 experience calms the nerves in Provo and believes the revamped linebacker unit—stacked with starters from several Power 4 teams—could transform BYU’s defensive identity. With Kelly Poppinga reworking the schemes and Kalani Sitake emphasizing humility and hunger, BYU looks primed for another statement season. Can BYU capitalize on its momentum and depth to secure a Big 12 title shot and a College Football Playoff berth, or will the rigorous schedule test their limits? 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

3d ago·28 min

Kalani Sitake’s leadership of the BYU football program enters a critical phase, as mounting scrutiny surrounds whether BYU administration—especially Brian Santiago—will provide the competitive resources promised in Sitake’s contract. Is Brigham Young University truly positioned to break through college football’s upper ranks, or will internal debates over NIL dollars and staff support threaten to stall a potential College Football Playoff run? Tensions and expectations are explored in light of Adam Rittenberg’s ESPN article, which features pointed comments from both Sitake and Santiago, revealing the stakes for retaining high-caliber coaches and players. Sitake’s priorities are clear: securing not only his own future, but also robust backing for assistant coaches and players, particularly through NIL and infrastructure, to compete at the highest level in the Big 12. Jake Hatch breaks down the first pivotal team scrimmage of fall camp, where BYU’s offense emerged victorious—a result that both excites and prompts caution among fans. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier’s strong play, highlighted by precise throws to targets Reggie Frischknecht and Kyler Casper, raises hopes that the BYU Cougars' wide receiver and tight end units may be ready to shed offseason doubts. The scrimmage showcased big moments from Devaughn Eka’s rushing and Sione Moa’s contributions, suggesting depth in BYU’s offensive weapons. Yet, questions linger: Can these playmakers consistently outduel a formidable secondary, and will their production translate under Big 12 lights? Defensively, BYU boasts a secondary anchored by veterans Evan Johnson—an NFL prospect—and Tre Alexander, both of whom provide stability and leadership. New cornerbacks coach Lewis Walker offers insider perspective, discussing the challenge of following Jernaro Gilford, the development of depth pieces like Jayven Williams, Kevin Doe, Jordan Criss, and Matthias Leach, and the potential for a new generation of cornerbacks to become household names. The linebacker group, dubbed the "Avengers" for their versatility and toughness, features standouts like Siale Esera, Isaiah Glasker, and Cade Uluave; their ability to challenge BYU’s pass catchers in practice is sharpening both sides of the ball. With the season opener fast approaching, Hatch addresses fan excitement and anxiety: Will the promising signs from the offense and the growing confidence in the secondary sustain when actual games begin? Can Bear Bachmeier take the next step and push BYU closer to a College Football Playoff berth? All eyes are on whether BYU can fulfill its championship ambitions—and if the administration will fully back Sitake’s vision for sustained excellence in Provo. 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! 5-Hour ENERGY: Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4d ago·30 min

The BYU Cougars are charging into the 2026 season with momentum, experience, and high expectations—could this be the year the Cougars break through to the College Football Playoff? Jake Hatch takes you inside the latest projections and in-depth analysis from Bill Connelly’s ESPN Big 12 preview, where BYU faces off against the likes of Texas Tech and Houston as one of the league’s favorites. With Bear Bachmeier under center and LJ Martin powering the backfield, the Cougars are primed to unleash their most dynamic offense since Zach Wilson and Dax Milne led the memorable 2020 campaign. Four veteran linemen, anchored by All-Conference center Bruce Mitchell and bolstered by Kalani Sitake’s aggressive transfer additions, set the stage for an explosive season. The question remains: can new pass catchers step up and help BYU match its recent string of top-20 seasons and double-digit win totals? The defense isn’t far behind in the conversation. Despite Jay Hill’s departure for Michigan, the unit brings back 10 defenders with over 200 snaps each, featuring leaders like Isaiah Glasker Siale Esera, Evan Johnson, and Tre Alexander. Kelly Poppinga now faces the tough task of maintaining and even elevating the group’s high standards. Pressure is mounting on edge rushers Nusi Taumoepeau and Tausili Akana to turn last season’s promising pressure rates into big-time sack numbers and drive the Cougars’ defense into the league’s elite. With BYU returning a staggering number of career starts, Hatch notes that the Cougars’ “winning is a skill” mantra remains their secret weapon as they look to topple heavyweights—including a crucial non-conference showdown with Notre Dame and major matchups against Texas Tech. But the buzz doesn’t stop at the college level—future blue-chip Cougars are making noise across the Utah high school gridiron. Jake Hatch delivers a comprehensive recruiting guide to track 2027 commits in action. Get the inside scoop on where to watch talents like Uhila Wolfgramm (Maple Mountain), Moa Havili (Granger), Peyton Higginson (Salem Hills), Lakepa Satuala (Bountiful), Jag Ioane (Orem), and Tytan DeJong (Mountain Ridge) as they headline their teams this fall. Plus, hear which out-of-state standouts could shape BYU’s future roster, from California’s Jeremiah Williams and Blake Wong to New Jersey’s Ryan Wooten. Locked On Cougars keeps you ahead of the curve with bold predictions, real-time recruiting insights, and a front-row seat to BYU’s season—plus, a special announcement from Jake Hatch about dedicating his full focus to delivering even more daily content. Can BYU turn experience and talent into a landmark Big 12 run? The road to dominance starts 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 14·30 min

Big 12 conference realignment chaos looms as the Protect College Sports Act threatens to trigger a wild reshuffling of teams. Could Clemson, Florida State, and Miami bolt for the SEC or Big Ten, while the Big 12 hunts for programs like Virginia Tech and Pitt? The Big 12 Squad weighs the potential fallout, debate league size caps, and question whether this shakeup finally returns tradition—or drives conferences further apart. Tensions rise as Iowa State head coach Jimmy Rogers stirs controversy by picking his own Cyclones to win the Big 12 after losing over 50 players to the transfer portal. The crew analyzes Rogers’ bold prediction, discusses BYU athletic department drama on Cougar Board, and the sustainability behind surprise AD hires. With candid takes and inside scoops, the Big 12 Squad tackles whether fan bases can find stability amid constant change or if college sports is forever spinning into uncertainty. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 13·31 min

Distraction threatens to overshadow the BYU football program as head coach Kalani Sitake faces ongoing rumors of friction with athletic director Brian Santiago. Can the BYU Cougars maintain their focus and cohesion with the season around the corner, or will internal power struggles derail a promising season? Jake Hatch breaks down Kalani Sitake’s latest media appearance, where he deflects questions regarding resources and administration, choosing to emphasize the need to avoid distractions and keep attention on the players. The podcast scrutinizes the implications of Sitake’s comments about “letting my agent handle it,” likening his stance to a pro athlete shutting off negotiations to focus on game results—a move indicating growing frustration and the need for clarity within BYU Athletics. The episode also unpacks fan concerns about coach-administrator relationships, focusing on the importance of unity at the top as BYU looks to deliver on its high expectations this season. Shifting to basketball, Brigham Young University finds itself at the center of intriguing transfer portal drama. Former Michigan State standout Jaxon Kohler reportedly favors the BYU basketball program as the frontrunner for his talents, but legal hurdles remain as a California injunction could be the key to unlocking his eligibility. Meanwhile, Cougar Nation buzzes at the possibility of a reunion with former BYU center Keba Keita—now exploring a college return after a stint with the Indiana Pacers. Jake Hatch analyzes how head coach Kevin Young’s calculated approach to roster moves might pay off big, potentially transforming BYU’s inside presence in the Big 12 with the addition of high-caliber big men. The episode explores NIL realities and urges BYU not to hesitate in making strong financial offers—arguing that the market dictates value and highlighting the impact of current NCAA legal battles on future athlete movement and compensation. The Everyday Club mailbag segment rounds out the conversation, with Jake Hatch fielding questions on topics such as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ evolving support for major athletics spending, the nuances between revenue sharing and NIL deals, and insights into the impact of new hires like Marc Hill as deputy AD. Listener questions probe potential breakout seniors, competition for starting jobs, and where BYU stacks up financially among Big 12 and national powers. With rapid-fire insights, pointed commentary, and a finger on the pulse of both football and basketball developments, Locked On Cougars delivers everything BYU fans need to know as the season heats up. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 13·37 min

The BYU football program stands at a crossroads as Kalani Sitake’s candid remark about needing to “do the most with the least” ignites debate within Cougar Nation. Are the BYU Cougars positioned to compete with college football’s top-tier programs, or does their budget reality put a ceiling on championship ambitions? Jake Hatch unpacks the national conversation, examining BYU’s $44.5 million football operating expenses that stand in stark contrast to blue bloods like Ohio State, Alabama, and Miami—programs spending upwards of $90 million annually. With rising costs and shifting Power 4 dynamics, can increased booster support and Big 12 revenues truly bridge the resource gap, or are the Cougars destined to remain underdogs on the national stage? The episode dives into ESPN’s revealing breakdown of what it costs to assemble a Power 4 roster—tens of millions in guaranteed compensation for starting lineups, with quarterback salaries alone expected to surpass $2 million. Jake Hatch does the math: even BYU’s most conservative estimates mean nearly $11 million is needed on the low end just to keep pace on the recruiting front, with total roster costs for national contenders climbing toward $50 million or more. As NIL collectives and multimedia rights deals up the ante, listeners are challenged to consider how long donor support can hold strong before fatigue sets in. Is the era of donor-driven parity a mirage, or sustainable fuel for BYU’s Big 12 journey? Off the field, BYU makes headlines by hiring Marc Hill from Kentucky, where he played a central role in multimillion-dollar facility projects and was seen as a rising administrative star. Does Hill’s background in the SEC and deep experience in both football and basketball signal a renewed commitment to making BYU football the marquee program in Provo? With whispers of internal tension over resource allocation between Kalani Sitake and Brian Santiago, Jake Hatch analyzes whether Hill’s family ties, fundraising prowess, and history as football administrator offer exactly the leadership needed for Brigham Young University Athletics’ next phase. Will his SEC-tested perspective redefine what’s possible in terms of investment, facilities, and on-field success? Key discussion points include comparisons between BYU and other Big 12 rivals, how Mark Hill could impact LaVell Edwards Stadium upgrades, and why transparency and context matter when evaluating Sitake’s comments. As the Cougars prep for another season with a fresh set of expectations, the future of BYU Football hangs in the balance. Is this the moment BYU breaks through, or will budget constraints keep Cougar fans wondering “what if?” Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s sharp analysis and inside perspective on Locked On Cougars. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 12·29 min

The BYU football program stands at an apparent inflection point as Kalani Sitake publicly presses the BYU administration for additional Big 12-level resources, making it clear that doing “more with less” is no longer an option if BYU wants sustained relevance on a national stage. With overt comparisons to Penn State and inside knowledge about what other programs offer, Sitake’s pointed demands spotlight the widening gap between the BYU Cougars and their conference peers. Can BYU step up before another ambitious program lures their head coach away? Jake Hatch breaks down how Sitake’s recent comments constitute the most direct challenge yet to the Brian Santiago and BYU administration, and why securing additional NIL funding, revenue share, and increased investment matters more than ever for postseason aspirations. Will this internal standoff resolve in time to keep Brigham Young University competitive at the highest level? A new offensive threat emerges as Walker Lyons joins the Cougars after transferring from USC, teaming up with fellow transfer Roger Saleapaga to revitalize BYU’s tight end corps. Lyons offers rare player-perspective insight, explaining how a focus on synergy over individual stats could unleash BYU’s offensive potential—especially vital if wide receiver production lags. From recruiting relationships to behind-the-scenes stories, hear how connections between Lyons, Bear Bachmeier, and others are strengthening the locker room as training camp intensifies. Is this the duo that returns BYU to tight end prominence reminiscent of legends like Chad Lewis and Itula Mili? On the basketball front, BYU and Kevin Young face their own offseason drama with the pursuit of Michigan State standout Jaxon Kohler. With Judge Charlotte Sweeney’s injunction giving fifth-year players hope—and the NCAA’s appeal waiting in the wings—this eligibility case could define the Cougars’ frontcourt fortunes. Will Kohler make his homecoming to Provo, and could he elevate the Cougars’ NCAA Tournament ceiling from NCAA Tournament-caliber to Sweet 16 contention or beyond? Meanwhile, Australia’s David Okwera is officially off the board, heading to Europe after the NCAA rejected his eligibility waiver. The pressure mounts for BYU to secure additional size, with updates on international targets like Pavle Backo and Xu Xin still in flux. Will BYU football get the full backing it deserves? Can Kevin Young assemble a winning frontcourt in time for Big 12 play? Locked On Cougars delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and sharp analysis on the high-stakes moves shaping the future of BYU Athletics. Don’t miss the latest on your Cougars as the fall season approaches. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 11·31 min

Controversy erupted over the weekend around BYU Athletics as rumors swirl over athletic director Brian Santiago’s employment status. Over the weekend, speculation ran rampant on message boards, with some BYU fans convinced of Santiago’s firing—prompting an almost unheard-of move by the BYU athletic department: an official statement on CougarBoard. Jake Hatch unpacks the origins of the frenzy, examining whether taking to message boards sets a risky precedent for college athletic departments and what it reveals about the power of fan-driven media in the age of instant online reactions. Is Brigham Young University’s embrace of direct, transparent communication with its base a smart adaptation or a move that risks further amplifying unfounded rumors? Jake Hatch discusses how this moment could mark a major shift in how schools like BYU interact with their invested, passionate fanbases. Meanwhile, the football field offers reasons for real excitement. True freshman wide receiver Legend Glasker stakes his claim as a breakout contender after a highlight one-on-one win against defensive veteran Evan Johnson in fall camp. Jake Hatch analyzes Glasker’s recruiting journey, performance trajectory, and why he might become the BYU Cougars’ next impact star. Glasker isn’t just a hype machine; his camp reps, high school versatility, and immediate chemistry with quarterback Bear Bachmeier suggest he’s ready to step up in a BYU receiving corps left wide open after top pass catchers Chase Roberts, Parker Kingston, and Carsen Ryan departed. Can Glasker set a new standard for BYU football freshman receivers and make a case for immediate playing time this season? The episode also unpacks new national data on homegrown roster construction. BYU emerges as a Big 12 outlier, ranking fifth in the conference and 23rd nationally with over 53% of its talent drawn from in-state. Jake Hatch explains how Kalani Sitake’s focus on cultivating local standouts—while still stretching BYU’s recruiting reach into California, Texas, and beyond—has positioned the Cougars for sustained success. The discussion contrasts BYU’s approach with rivals like Utah, who trail far behind in local talent retention, and explores why Utah’s high schools are quietly fueling one of the nation’s most underrated football pipelines. With crucial storylines on and off the field, this podcast offers essential analysis for Cougar fans hungry to understand BYU’s evolving identity, top prospects, and the new rules of engagement in the social media era. Will BYU’s transparency pay off? Are future stars ready to step in and deliver winning seasons under the spotlight? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s sharp insights on these pivotal questions. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10 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 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 10·28 min

Training camp is officially heating up in Provo, and Kalani Sitake’s squad faces crucial roster questions as preparation intensifies. On this episode of Locked On Cougars, we dive deep into the players who must step up and assert themselves during camp to solidify their starting roles and key rotation spots for the upcoming season. From finding depth in the trenches to identifying dynamic playmakers on the outside, we examine who needs to turn offseason potential into tangible production before the Cougars officially take the field for a grueling Big 12 schedule. We also take a fascinating look at a recent piece from ESPN examining college football's historical villains and archenemies, breaking down who they labeled as BYU’s ultimate foil and why that ghost from the past still resonates deeply with Cougar Nation. Plus, we shift gears to the national landscape to analyze major legislative moves in Washington. With the proposed Protect College Sports Act making massive waves across the collegiate athletics landscape—including strict conference size caps and new provisions attempting to curb unchecked roster movement—could a newly floated amendment inadvertently trigger one final, chaotic round of college football realignment before the door slams shut on future conference expansion?   Tune in for complete BYU football coverage, training camp updates, Big 12 insights, and an exploration of the macro-level changes threatening to reshape the sport as we know it. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 7·33 min

Big 12 and SEC football programs face a seismic shift as the Protect College Sports Act threatens to slash NIL budgets, capping them at $48.8 million. Will powerhouse teams like Ohio State and LSU maintain dominance with less cash, or does this level the playing field for underdogs like Houston and BYU? The Big 12 Squad breaks down how donor strategies, transfer rules, and the new public NIL deal mandate will reshape college football and basketball recruiting. The hosts tackle tough questions about the survival of non-revenue sports, with baseball and track rosters poised to take significant hits. As schools wrestle with funding decisions—prioritizing football and men’s basketball—return on investment becomes king. Plus, the chaotic rollout of the 5-and-5 eligibility rule leaves coaches and players scrambling before the season kicks off. Don’t miss this fast-moving analysis of the NIL era’s next chapter in Big 12 and SEC athletics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 6·31 min

The BYU Cougars set the stage for a potentially historic season, entering the national spotlight with a Preseason Coaches Poll ranking of #15 and eyes on a College Football Playoff bid. Is the ranking too low for a roster rich in experience, or is it the ideal spot for a team ready to shatter expectations? Jake Hatch breaks down how Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program, fueled by two straight years of double-digit wins and an upperclassman-laden core, is embracing the pressure of big-time aspirations—including a quest for the Big 12 Conference title and a shot at playoff glory. The Cougars’ uphill battle for recognition against blue blood programs like LSU and USC takes center stage, raising the stakes for every upcoming matchup, most notably against Notre Dame and in early Big 12 showdowns. Key storylines emerge from training camp at Brigham Young University, where concerns about receiver and tight end productivity are answered by a wave of promising performances. Standouts like Legend Glasker, Walker Lyons, Roger Saleapaga, Reggie Frischknecht, and Kyler Kasper flash reliable hands and big-play potential during the first day of drills, while Bear Bachmeier asserts his status as BYU’s clear QB1. The camp insight also spotlights impressive depth across the wide receiver and tight end rooms—despite the loss of major contributors from last season—and hints that Fesi Sitake’s recruiting may have quietly cultivated the program’s most explosive set of pass-catchers in recent memory. Team speed becomes a defining narrative, with Kalani Sitake declaring this group the fastest he’s coached, signaling a major evolution from BYU’s old “finesse” reputation. Leadership and motivation run high; players like Isaiah Glasker and Andrew Gentry openly pursue national championship dreams, a tangible shift in attitude given the new playoff format and Big 12 membership. Off the field, the podcast dives into notable roster updates, including the departures of Kaden Chidester and Andrew Williams, a sharpened kicking battle, and the additions of running back Journee Tonga and multisport talent Fisher Ingersoll—who arrives after a collegiate baseball career and brings prep football pedigree back to Provo. Will this blend of raw athleticism, veteran leadership, and renewed ambition finally catapult the BYU Cougars into college football’s elite? With offensive stars like LJ Martin poised for a breakout and coaches fine-tuning a balanced attack, the stage is set for a season packed with intrigue, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of a legacy-defining championship run. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 6·28 min

The BYU football program kicks off training camp with one goal: break through as Big 12 Conference champions and crash the College Football Playoff for the first time. Can Kalani Sitake’s team shake off the “bridesmaid” label after two near-miss seasons? Jake Hatch sets the tone with a no-nonsense look at Brigham Young University's championship mindset, spotlighting the urgency for every player from Bear Bachmeier at quarterback to LJ Martin, the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. Leadership, buy-in, and daily focus become non-negotiables as the BYU Cougars aim to rewrite the program’s history. Position battles and roster questions crowd the spotlight, especially at receiver and tight end. Who becomes Bachmeier’s go-to target—will Jojo Phillips and Kyler Kasper step up, or will tight ends Roger Saleapaga and Walker Lyons, praised as elite transfer additions, dominate the passing game? Jake Hatch analyzes depth, potential, and production, explaining why BYU could lean on multi-tight end sets if pass catchers emerge. Young talents like Legend Glasker and Jaron Pula add intrigue, but consistency and health remain critical factors. BYU’s offensive line draws optimism, with Kyle Sfacioc and Sonny Makasini set to anchor the guard spots alongside All-Big 12 center Bruce Mitchell, yet the loss of Kaden Chidester and another unnamed player to mission service leaves the unit thin and hungry for step-ups. Everydayer Club member questions fuel debate: Will there be last-minute position switches to shore up depth? Is LJ Martin being held back in camp or ready to run wild? Who emerges as QB2, can Sione Moa hold onto RB2, or will Devaughn Eka seize the role? Jake Hatch praises offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick’s adaptability and teases a more open playbook with Bachmeier now experienced. On defense, Kelly Poppinga’s first campaign as coordinator looms large—can BYU’s “K-pop Demon Hunters” identity inject attitude and consistency, taking advantage of star power in the front seven to stifle high-powered Big 12 offenses? Finally, can BYU deliver the vertical explosiveness and mental toughness needed when every opponent treats them as the hunted? Jake Hatch doesn’t shy from skepticism, recalling moments from past camps where doubts lingered but champions proved him wrong. From multi-tight end sets to the pressure of preseason expectations, this episode lays out everything Cougar Nation must watch as BYU’s quest for history begins. Will this finally be the season fans remember forever? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 5·32 min

Congressional reform could upend college football finances—does BYU have what it takes to match the nation’s elite? Jake Hatch unpacks the Protect College Sports Act’s journey to the Senate floor, explaining how new federal guidelines may expand and enforce a nearly $50 million cap on athlete retention and revenue sharing. As the arms race intensifies, Big 12 programs like BYU face hard questions: Are boosters ready to step up? Will BYU’s unique institutional philosophy, guided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, allow the Cougars to play on even footing with SEC and Big Ten rivals? Hatch explores the delicate balance between tradition and the necessity for bold financial moves, emphasizing how the outcome of this legislation could impact not only recruiting and NIL deals but the long-term national relevance of BYU sports. Listeners get a deep dive into what differentiates BYU’s cautious approach—insisting on black-and-white compliance over the riskier gray areas common elsewhere—and ponders if a federal backbone to enforcement will finally bring stability after a decade of chaos in college athletics. This episode poses critical questions about whether BYU’s leadership and supporters understand the high stakes—and if they’re willing to adapt and fully invest in the future. Switching gears to on-field action, the spotlight turns to BYU football’s running back rotation. With LJ Martin established as the Big 12’s reigning Offensive Player of the Year and the offense’s undisputed workhorse, who can claim the vital backup role? Hatch evaluates top candidates: Sione Moa’s gritty style and inspiring comeback after a traumatic injury; Preston Rex’s transition from defense and his family legacy at BYU; breakout true freshman Devaughn Eka’s speed, lateral movement, and college readiness honed at Lehi High School; and the intriguing power offered by returned missionary Micah Beckstead, now tipping the scales near fullback size. Each contender brings unique strengths—and faces key questions of health, reliability, and adaptability as fall camp begins. As training camp kicks off in Provo, Jake Hatch sets the stage for potential breakout stars, reminding listeners how every camp showcases unexpected all-stars—like Moa before them—who could shape the season’s outcome. From financial futures to on-field competitions, Locked On Cougars delivers essential insight on BYU’s next critical moves. Don’t miss analysis that cuts through the hype to address what’s at stake for BYU on and off the field. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 4·30 min

The BYU football program faces a season of sky-high expectations as sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier enters training camp with the weight of history on his shoulders—can he match the benchmarks set by the likes of Zach Wilson and Jaren Hall? Jake Hatch breaks down the key standards laid out by BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick: a 70% completion rate, 30+ touchdowns, and single-digit interceptions. With Bachmeier’s 64.9% completion percentage and 15 TD's as a freshman, is a leap into the national spotlight realistic or is Cougar Nation getting ahead of itself? The episode explores how mastery of the BYU Cougars' offense, leadership on the field, and a potent run game anchored by LJ Martin could position the Cougars not just for a Big 12 title run, but as dark horses in the College Football Playoff race. As football anticipation builds, uncertainty rocks BYU basketball’s offseason. New NCAA rulings and a Colorado judge’s injunction throw transfer eligibility into chaos, leaving Jaxon Kohler’s potential arrival from Michigan State in doubt. Jake Hatch unpacks the constantly shifting legal landscape, examining how the latest eligibility decisions could affect BYU’s lineup and why hopes for Kohler—and even players like Keba Keita or Richie Saunders—hang in the balance. With the Protect College Sports Act and class-action lawsuits in motion, the future remains unpredictable; how will head coach Kevin Young navigate this tempest as BYU assembles its roster? Off the court and field, student engagement takes center stage as Brigham Young University rolls out new rules for ROC Passes, aiming to prioritize the most dedicated Cougar fans for premium game-day experiences. Jake Hatch asserts that incentivizing attendance at a wide variety of BYU sporting events—from women’s volleyball to soccer and baseball—is the right move, urging students to embrace the challenge rather than boycott the changes. With thousands of students vying for prime spots at LaVell Edwards Stadium, who will answer the call to become the heartbeat of Cougar home games? Can Bear Bachmeier elevate the Cougars into Big 12 and national contenders? Will legal battles reshape BYU basketball’s roster before tip-off? And as the Rock evolves, will student fans rise to fill every seat with unrivaled energy? Locked On Cougars delivers sharp analysis, inside scoops, and passionate takes to keep Cougar Nation locked in with your team every day. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 3·29 min

Kalani Sitake makes it clear: for the BYU Cougars, the standard is a Big 12 championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. As the BYU football program gears up for another season in Provo, the message from both coaches and players is unmistakable—complacency has no place in the program. With a 23-4 record over the past two years, but only an Alamo Bowl and Pop-Tarts Bowl to show for it, the team’s leaders are determined to turn near-success into tangible national relevance. Sitake, reflecting on his journey at Brigham Young University and his connection with LaVell Edwards, emphasizes that being “good enough” isn’t good enough; he wants comfortable wins and concrete progress toward titles, not just moral victories. Jake Hatch spotlights the voices shaping BYU’s rise. Offensive lineman Andrew Gentry, a former national champion at Michigan, champions a new championship mindset, insisting that only a playoff run will satisfy team goals. With Bruce Mitchell and Gentry anchoring the line, the offense is set for toughness and leadership by example. Hatch also examines the defensive transformation under new coordinator Kelly Poppinga. Raider Damuni, now stepping out of the shadows to become a leading safety, embraces both the legacy of former teammates like Tanner Wall and the challenge of leading younger players. His focus on finishing strong and fighting complacency shows up in how the roster attacks offseason conditioning, guided by Skyler Mayne and Ryan Phyllis—positioning BYU for late-season success where, in the past, they’ve faltered. Are the Cougars finally ready to shatter historical barriers? With upperclassmen like Faletau Satuala, Tommy Prassas, and Damuni combining experience and hunger, BYU’s deep, veteran roster looks poised to chase down the program’s first-ever Power Four conference crown and return to the heights they’ve not reached since 1984. Hatch explores how player-driven accountability under Sitake’s philosophy could be the X-factor, as athletes are encouraged to police issues internally before coaches step in—a model that has produced successful leaders before. Hatch also discusses the mindset shift away from settling for bowl games and toward demanding trophies and national prominence. Will this be the BYU Cougars’ breakthrough year—a season where close games transform into dominant wins and whispers of potential finally become championship reality? The pursuit is on, and the stakes have never been higher in Provo. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 31·30 min

Big 12 programs face a seismic shift as discussions of a $51 million NIL salary cap and athlete unionization threaten to reshape college football's power dynamic. Could these sweeping changes spell trouble for schools like Iowa State and Houston, while cementing the SEC and Big Ten’s dominance? Panelists question whether the proposed College Sports Act and emerging player associations, highlighted by Stanford’s union effort, will truly level the playing field or make the gap even wider. The Big 12 Squad breaks down the potential fallout—debating player protections, enforcement loopholes, and the future of revenue sharing as media rights deals climb ever higher. Will the Big 12 survive this arms race, or will backdoor deals and financial inequity push some teams to the brink? The conversation blends insider analysis with hard-hitting questions about what’s next for college athletics and the fate of the Big 12. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 30·30 min

The BYU Cougars are primed to shake up the Big 12, ranking among conference favorites thanks to Kalani Sitake’s steady leadership and a roster brimming with explosive talent. With the likes of charismatic Bear Bachmeier at quarterback and dynamic running back LJ Martin—last year's Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year—the Cougars are building more than just a winning team. They’re creating a true family atmosphere that fuels confidence on and off the field. Can this unique blend of culture and playmaking be the key that propels BYU to the College Football Playoff? Jake Hatch hosts a compelling conversation with Pete Sousa, ESPN Big 12 analyst, who shares his on-the-ground insights from Big 12 Media Days. The discussion kicks off with Sousa’s bold take: BYU and Texas Tech are the teams to beat this season in the Big 12 Conference, with Texas Tech’s QB drama—centered on Will Hammond’s health and readiness—set to shape the conference landscape. Listeners get exclusive looks at how Joey McGuire’s trust in Hammond could elevate Tech’s offense and how BYU uses its close-knit locker room to gain a competitive edge. Sousa raves about interactions with Bachmeier and Martin, noting their infectious personalities and leadership potential, traits that have peers and pundits believing BYU can go further than ever. The episode also offers rare insight into Sitake’s values, including his handling of a whirlwind Penn State coaching offer. Instead of jumping ship, Sitake negotiated not just for himself, but for increased program and staff support—a move that exemplifies BYU’s commitment to continuity and excellence. The podcast explores broader themes affecting the Big 12, such as coach retention in the face of constant Big Ten and SEC poaching and the unique camaraderie among league coaches. Listeners will hear about how text threads, off-field banter, and mutual respect are changing the Big 12’s culture for the better. Key games, including the clash against Notre Dame, are highlighted as make-or-break moments for BYU’s Playoff aspirations. Don’t miss this high-energy, expert-driven analysis of BYU football’s rise and the key players and stories shaping the new Big 12 hierarchy. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 30·11 min

The BYU Cougars brace for a seismic shift in the economics of college football as new NCAA legislation threatens to raise the annual price tag of competing at the highest level to over $46 million. Jake Hatch opens with the financial tsunami looming over BYU Athletics: the Protect College Sports Act (PCSA), if passed, will give programs an additional $20 million retention pool, separate from the existing $21.3 million revenue-sharing cap set by the House Settlement, and $5 million earmarked specifically for female athletes. That means BYU – and programs like it – could see costs eclipse $50 million within a few years, pushing all but the richest schools to the brink. Are deep-pocketed boosters enough to keep BYU in the Big 12’s upper tier, or could escalating demands force the Cougars—and countless others—out of true contention? The realignment of college football finances isn’t the only pressing headline. Jake Hatch also addresses disappointing legal trouble for linebacker Ephraim Asiata, who was arrested on suspicion of DUI, forgery, and possession-related charges in early July. As Asiata’s status with the team remains uncertain, BYU faces uncomfortable questions about discipline, player support, and roster depth—especially after recent off-field controversies involving other players like Parker Kingston and Jake Retzlaff. Is there a breaking point for the program, or can grace and accountability help BYU weather the storm and refocus on football? As training camp approaches, the spotlight turns to BYU’s special teams—a unit critical to Kalani Sitake's philosophy of "complementary football." The Cougars must replace key contributors across the board, with a wide-open three-way kicker battle (Matthias Dunn, Ian Sanches, Brody Laga) and unproven options at punter (Fuller Schutrz, Braden Gilbert) and long snapper (Ty Smith). Returner duties remain in flux after Parker Kingston’s departure. New coordinator Justin Ena faces enormous pressure: can he rebuild a unit that’s been vital to BYU’s recent run of success, or will special teams slip from asset to liability as the Cougars open camp? From escalating financial demands and roster uncertainty to urgent questions on special teams, Jake Hatch delivers a no-holds-barred analysis of BYU’s roadmap for staying competitive in the new era of college football. Can the Cougars hold their ground in the high-stakes Big 12 landscape—and what will it take to turn these looming challenges into opportunities for success? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 29·28 min

The BYU Cougars face mounting expectations as national analysts like Joel Klatt project them as top contenders for a breakthrough College Football Playoff appearance. With a 23-4 record over the past two seasons, Kalani Sitake’s program is earning respect for its consistency and toughness against the Big 12’s best. Standout players such as quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year in the Big 12 Conference, headline a roster loaded with talent and depth on both lines. The discussion centers on how BYU’s elite defense, improved cohesiveness, and smart recruiting could finally push them past being the “bridesmaid” and into the national spotlight. Can BYU capitalize on momentum and deliver that elusive playoff berth—and could this be the year they not only qualify but make noise against the nation’s elite? Jake Hatch offers critical analysis of BYU’s playoff chances, emphasizing how the Cougars have embraced Big 12 competition, arguably arriving ahead of schedule after transitioning from Independence. He examines Klatt’s bullish take on BYU’s steadiness and why this could be a “payoff year” for Provo. With the Big 12 seeking its first win in the expanded playoff era, the pressure is on not just to qualify, but to perform and validate the conference’s national standing. Key questions loom: Will BYU’s stacked offense and generational-level defense be enough? Can Sitake’s leadership carry the Cougars to a historic season, or will familiar hurdles reappear when the stakes are highest? Shifting to the hardwood, BYU basketball is gearing up for a transformative year under Kevin Young. The spotlight shines on Rob Wright III, an electric point guard tagged by Young as a possible best-in-the-nation talent and projected Big 12 Player of the Year. Jake Hatch breaks down Wright’s evolution as both scorer and facilitator, his NBA aspirations, and the challenge of replacing NBA-bound star AJ Dybantsa. The addition of Jakub Urbaniak, a high-motor European big man, is seen as a tailor-made fit for Young’s vision, potentially giving BYU the physical edge and versatility needed to compete deep into March. Roster construction and chemistry dominate the late summer storylines, with uncertainty surrounding remaining scholarships and lingering intrigue over incoming transfers. Wright’s leadership, the growth of talents like Collin Chandler and Bruce Branch III, and how BYU adapts post-Dybantsa will define this pivotal campaign. Will the Cougars finally seize their shot at glory—on the gridiron and the court? Jake Hatch frames the stakes and sets the stage for a can’t-miss BYU 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon KALSHI: Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25 Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 27·29 min

SEC threats to split from the NCAA spark fierce debate—could college football’s balance of power be shifting for good? Greg Sankey’s comments at SEC Media Days, ongoing frustration over the College Football Playoff Committee, and heated discussions about FPI, strength of schedule, and realignment have the sports world buzzing. Are Alabama, Georgia, and Texas fans playing the victim, or is the SEC’s dominance under real threat? The Big 12 Squad breaks down how SEC posturing could impact the Big 12 and the broader college football landscape. Key topics include the future of conference championships, star ratings favoritism, media influence from ESPN, and whether regional loyalty still matters in an era where Rutgers faces Oregon and Texas escapes the SEC label. As government intervention looms and realignment rumors swirl, the crew asks: Is the SEC ready to stand alone, or just flexing for leverage? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 23·30 min

Big 12 chaos or calculated depth? As the conference races into an era of unprecedented transformation, executive insights from Vice President for Football Scott Draper set the stage for a season where every team, including Brigham Young University, stands on equal footing. Draper praises the “age-based eligibility (5-for-5) model” for restoring long-term certainty and highlights the vital push for federal legislation like the Protect College Sports Act, noting that perfection is less important than meaningful progress. He credits recent changes, sustained leadership of Brett Yormark, and competitive offseason moves for fueling a Big 12 where up to six different teams have reached the conference championship in recent years. “No one starts on second base,” Draper says—implying that parity and depth, although chaotic, generate November drama and persistent championship hopes. Jake Hatch spotlights the BYU Cougars' evolution within this landscape, singling out Kalani Sitake’s authenticity and connection to Bronco Mendenhall and LaVell Edwards’ leadership tree. Draper calls Sitake genuine and lauds BYU’s culture, supportive university leadership, and their loyal fanbase. As the Cougars enter their fourth Big 12 year, both Draper and media voices argue the BYU football program’s talent has risen, while leadership remains elite. International expansion also gets attention, with Draper sharing details on the league’s London and Dublin initiatives. These international showpieces—tied to Monster Energy’s global brand—are more than exposure; they’re life-changing student-athlete experiences, highlighted by Arizona State launching a London campus during game week. Shifting to NIL and the financial arms race, John Kurtz (Open for Business) explains how Texas Tech’s innovation is raising the bar. He points to BYU and Utah as schools ready to compete, referencing conversations with Kalani Sitake and Brian Santiago that reveal BYU’s full-throttle approach to football investment. Pete Nakos’ NIL reporting suggests BYU’s compensation packages rival Texas Tech’s—proof the Cougars aren’t content to trail financially or on the field. The conversation also teases the possible renewal of the BYU-Notre Dame football series beyond 2027, with both schools sharing global reach, religious affinity, and dynamic young coaches. Could this become a signature rivalry? To close, Dustin Smith of QB Elite describes the new landscape for high school quarterbacks. Despite transfer portal challenges bumping prep QBs down college recruiting lists, Utah’s signal-callers are earning national attention. Smith details how his system prioritizes decision-making, timing, accuracy, and—crucially—mental resilience in an era dominated by NIL and instant social media fame. With mentorship from icons like Ty Detmer, Kurt Warner, and Mark Brunell, QB Elite is redefining prep development. Are age-old college football pipelines becoming obsolete as adaptability and “it factor” take center 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 23·32 min

BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker returns for a pivotal final season, determined to turn last year’s injury frustration into a springboard for both personal achievement and team success. After offseason surgery and an intense rehabilitation supported by the BYU football program’s sports science staff, Glasker reflects on his physical transformation—now weighing in at nearly 250 pounds—and the leadership void left by former teammate Jack Kelly. He opens up about mentoring younger teammates and transfers within a suddenly deep linebacker group, embracing the challenge of helping BYU’s defense thrive under new wrinkles from coach Kelly Poppinga. Double-digit sack goals, dreams of the NFL, and a drive for a Big 12 championship are all on the table as Glasker details his mindset, preparation, and focus on “game-changing plays.” With workouts monitored by cutting-edge technology, the BYU Cougars aim to stay healthy and maximize performance all season. CBS Sports’ Shehan Jeyarajah joins host Jake Hatch to dissect the sense of optimism surrounding Brigham Young University at Big 12 Media Days. Jeyarajah highlights Kalani Sitake’s underrated football intelligence and strong organizational skills, crediting him with building a sustainable, winning culture in Provo. The discussion covers how BYU plans to compensate for losses in the receiving corps, the potential emergence of new playmakers (with the wideout room expecting to be more collaborative than ever), and why players like Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin are crucial to the Cougars’ chances in a tightly contested conference stacked with optimistic coaches and talented rivals like Texas Tech and Oklahoma State. Jeyarajah sees the development of BYU’s downfield passing attack as a critical X-factor, especially in matchups against elite defenses. Arizona State linebacker Zyrus Fiaseu provides a unique perspective as he prepares to face BYU this season, fondly recalling the influence of Kai and Puka Nacua during his days at Liberty High and describing the pride he takes in seeing Polynesian coaches like Kalani Sitake and Ken Niumatalolo excel. Fiasaiu shares what he expects from the electric environment at LaVell Edwards Stadium and the significance of player culture, both at ASU under Kenny Dillingham and within BYU’s tradition. The podcast weaves in themes of leadership, identity, competition, and the high stakes of Big 12 football—posing the question: Can the new-look BYU Cougars compete for a conference crown amid so much change on and off the field? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 22·29 min

BYU Cougars fans have plenty to look forward to as Bear Bachmeier gears up for his sophomore campaign, embracing his growing responsibilities as the likely leader of the offense. Bachmeier details his transformation over the past year, crediting a rigorous offseason for increased strength, flexibility, and confidence in the playbook. Bruce Mitchell, BYU’s veteran center, emphasizes the importance of player chemistry and team leadership, praising Bachmeier’s growth and drive. The conversation also highlights the culture of accountability and high expectations—whether it's about Bachmeier dropping pounds for agility or learning to command the huddle without relying on fellow teammates like LJ Martin, last season’s Big 12 Conference Offensive Player of the Year. Bachmeier shares insight into the player-driven camaraderie, team activities like golfing, and how mental toughness sets BYU's top performers apart on the field. Veteran journalist Berry Tramel, a respected voice covering the Big 12 as sports columnist for the Tulsa World, brings context and perspective to BYU’s place in the league after Media Days. He discusses Kalani Sitake’s role as the longest-tenured head coach in the conference and his steady, unwavering leadership style that gives BYU a decided edge—from his consistency to his fit within the program’s values. Tramel assesses BYU’s chances, picking them as preseason favorites alongside Texas Tech, and points to the value of Sitake staying in Provo despite offseason rumors linking him to jobs like Penn State. He also weighs in on the Big 12’s need for clear title contenders and the end of perennial parity, making a case for BYU’s steady program-building. The discussion explores the challenges related to Texas Tech’s quarterback situation, the evolving structure of college football playoffs, and whether the sport needs to rethink how it approaches postseason scheduling for fan engagement. The spotlight also shifts to potential quarterback of the future, American Fork High School’s Jake Matsen—a 2029 recruit already commanding national attention. Matsen opens up about the whirlwind of early recruitment, the foundation provided by his family and membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his personal approach to handling big-stage pressure. His longstanding relationship with Kalani Sitake, admiration for Aaron Roderick, and feedback from BYU and Utah camps reveal the priorities shaping his college decision. Observing quarterbacks like Bachmeier factors into his development, as Matsen emphasizes mechanics, mindset, and culture fit as the keys to his future. This episode offers a comprehensive look at BYU football’s present and future: from Bear Bachmeier’s evolution and locker room dynamics to Barry Trammell’s Big 12 analysis and the early recruiting buzz around Jake Mattson. Don’t miss insider interviews, strategic breakdowns, and a compelling preview of storylines that will define the Cougars’ season 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 21·27 min

Kevin Young’s calculated patience could pay major dividends as BYU Cougars basketball positions itself for a potential blockbuster roster move—Big Ten veteran Jaxon Kohler, a former American Fork High School star, could return to Utah. How will NCAA eligibility reform and a pivotal court injunction shape the Cougars’ offseason? Jake Hatch unpacks the legal drama and reveals why Kohler’s championship pedigree and impressive stats under Tom Izzo could make him BYU’s top target for the center spot. With eligibility waivers and international prospects like David Okwera, Pavle Backo, and Xu Xin also in the mix, is Young orchestrating the most versatile Cougars frontcourt in years as July recruiting heats up? Meanwhile, Rob Wright electrifies the state by dropping an unheard-of 101 points—including 19 three-pointers—in the Powder League pro-am, seizing the local and national spotlight. Jake Hatch questions what this offensive explosion might signal for the incoming BYU freshman’s role as the program’s potential star point guard. Can Wright’s standout performance translate against Big 12 defenses, or will it simply raise the expectations and hype for opening night in Provo? With Kevin Young already declaring Wright could be the nation’s best point guard, fans are left to speculate just how high BYU’s ceiling might be this season. Switching to the gridiron, BYU football plants another flag in local recruiting as Orem High’s Jag Ioane commits, rounding out an elite defensive line group for 2027 alongside Moa Havili, Jeremiah Williams, and Uhila Wolfgramm. Jake Hatch dissects Iwane’s twitchy pass-rushing game and frames him as a future edge menace, potentially following in the footsteps of Tausili Akana and Nusi Taumoepeau. He explores the nuances of BYU’s forward-thinking evaluations, including mission plans and long-term projection, while lauding Kalani Sitake’s staff for hitting on the majority of their high-upside prospects each cycle. Could this defensive pipeline be BYU’s fastest track to Big 12 prominence? Don’t miss this detailed breakdown of Cougars hoops and football, where emerging stars and savvy recruiting strategy promise a new era of BYU athletic success. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Gametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  FANDUEL.COM  to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 20·26 min

Kalani Sitake’s transparency about nearly leaving BYU for Penn State reveals a new era for Cougar football—one driven by hard questions about commitment and the resources needed for Power 4 success. The conversation focused on Sitake’s candid comments at Big 12 media day, where he emphasized that his contract negotiations were about more than personal gain; they were a direct test of whether BYU’s administration and boosters would invest in football as a top priority. BYU responded with an increased commitment—both in financial support and structural resources—resulting in what’s described as an “ultra long” contract extension that secures Sitake and entices talented assistant coaches and players with improved NIL opportunities. One concept discussed was the persistence of outdated tropes regarding BYU’s age and so-called “maturity advantage” due to missionary service. Using new analytics from Rotowire, the discussion explored how BYU is currently the 43rd oldest team in college football, far behind teams like UTSA and even rivals like Utah State. Several points were raised, including the reality of mission service for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—which often limits skill development and weight training—and why coaches and rival fans should move past notions that missionary returns provide a consistent edge. A key theme that emerged was the excitement around BYU football’s roster depth and young talent. Listeners learned about potential breakout stars such as wide receiver Legend Glasker, who could step into a bigger role following Parker Kingston’s departure, and new tight ends Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga, both poised to make an immediate impact similar to previous success stories like Carsen Ryan. The discussion explored defensive continuity under new coordinator Kelly Poppinga, predicting minimal drop-off thanks to a veteran lineup, and examined the depth chart at running back with LJ Martin leading the way. Mailbag questions injected extra intrigue as topics ranged from the state of BYU basketball under Kevin Young—including the ongoing hunt for a true center and the hype surrounding new recruits AJ Dybantsa, Bruce Branch III, Khadim Mboup, and Keba Keita—to the feasibility of BYU ever building a new, modern football stadium. Additional inquiries prompted examinations of special teams turnover, return missionary impact, and the team’s potential for College Football Playoff contention in a reloaded Big 12. Is BYU ready to shed the underdog label and compete year-in and year-out at college football’s highest level? The discussion answered with optimism, fueled by Sitake’s leadership, a recalibrated administration, and a new generation of talent positioning the Cougars for national relevance. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 17·32 min

Texas Tech faces swirling ACC rumors and backlash, but is all the hate misplaced? The conversation focused on Big 12 Media Days fallout, Texas Tech’s public perception, and Joey McGuire’s standing after recent controversies. A key theme that emerged was the disconnect between fan uproar on social media and the reality inside the conference, with sources close to Texas Tech firmly denying any serious move to the ACC. The animosity currently directed at Texas Tech by the broader Big 12 fan base is a byproduct of a singular, explosive flashpoint: the Brendan Sorsby gambling saga. While rivalries are a staple of the conference, the intensity of the current backlash against Lubbock has transcended traditional "fan-to-fan" banter, evolving into a fundamental dispute over the integrity of collegiate athletics.  For many Big 12 fans, the contention is not merely about a player betting on games, but about how Texas Tech navigated the aftermath. When Sorsby was ruled ineligible by the NCAA, Texas Tech’s decision to assist him in securing a court-ordered injunction—which effectively bypassed NCAA authority—was perceived as a "scorched earth" tactic that prioritized competitive gain over the moral consensus of the conference. To the outside observer, this signaled that Texas Tech was willing to challenge the very rules that maintain the playing field’s stability, leading to accusations that the university had prioritized its own survival over the collective good of the Big 12.  Conversely, the "Red Raider" perspective is one of siege. Supporters argue that the outrage from other fan bases is rooted in rank hypocrisy, pointing to rampant NIL-based roster tampering and unregulated collective activity that other schools engage in without consequence. To many Tech fans, the boycott rhetoric from rival athletic directors—and the subsequent vitriol from their fan bases—feels like a coordinated campaign to isolate a program that simply utilized the legal system available to it.  The discussion explored Brett Yormark’s leadership, the much-criticized Monster Energy deal, and the experiment with LED courts, while comparing Big 12 stability to the chaos seen in the Pac-12. Several points were raised, including quarterback battles across the conference, Oklahoma State’s high-powered offense under Eric Morris, and whether Texas Tech’s fanbase can repair its relationship with the league. Will Texas Tech prove doubters wrong, or do deeper challenges remain for McGuire’s program in the evolving Big 12 landscape? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 16·31 min

The BYU football program is drawing national attention as Kalani Sitake and his staff continue to earn a reputation for elite player development. The conversation focused on how BYU’s program consistently transforms two- and three-star recruits into NFL draft picks and All-Conference talents, surpassing expectations given their recruiting rankings. One concept discussed was BYU’s knack for extracting four- and five-star-level performance from overlooked prospects, a feat backed up by recent data showing twelve NFL draft picks produced since 2021 despite operating with some of the lowest average recruiting ranks among Power 4 programs. As high-profile recruits like Ryder Lyons and Brock Harris join the team, questions arise: just how high is the ceiling for the BYU Cougars as the program integrates more blue-chip talent? Kalani Sitake and his assistants' coaching, strength staff leaders like Ryan Phillis, and strategic investments in player performance are credited as key drivers behind the team’s rise. The discussion explored BYU’s enviable financial standing within college athletics. Several points were raised, including a reported $500 million athletic department valuation and a football program now valued at $366 million. BYU reportedly generated over $153 million in revenue during its second season in the Big 12, despite only partial shares of conference payouts. This strong financial position is attributed to years of fiscal responsibility, a globally connected and passionate Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-affiliated fan base, and a strategic independent run that built a national brand with ESPN before joining the Big 12. Unlike many peer institutions—such as Utah, recently documented for rapidly depleting reserve funds—BYU maintains a self-sufficient athletics department, funding major projects up front and establishing endowments to sustain facilities long term. A key theme that emerged was fan engagement and branding power, highlighted through Cosmo the Cougar’s campaign for Mascot Hall of Fame induction. BYU’s in-game presentation, under David Kaulana’s leadership, keeps fans energized from kickoff to final whistle. Anecdotes underline Cosmo’s viral stunts and the department’s innovative approach to game-day experiences, further strengthening the Cougars’ reputation as leaders in college sports entertainment. The Cougars’ unique blend of financial prudence, relentless player development, and a devoted global following position the program for sustained success as a rising powerhouse in the Big 12. Is this the beginning of a new era for BYU athletics, both on and off the field? VOTE FOR COSMO: https://mascothalloffame.com/2026-mascot-hall-of-fame-candidates-voting-open-now/ 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 16·28 min

What if Tom Brady had become the BYU football program’s starting quarterback under LaVell Edwards? The conversation focused on that tantalizing hypothetical after reports surfaced that BYU passed on the future NFL legend, who sent his tapes to Provo in 1994–95 only to be overlooked amid a crowded quarterback room that included Steve Sarkisian and Paul Shoemaker, among others. One concept discussed was BYU’s long legacy at “QBU,” where tough decisions have led to both college and professional greatness—and a few what-if stories like Brady and Detroit Tigers Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, another standout BYU missed. Listeners are prompted to consider other athletes who nearly joined the Cougars and their parallel paths to stardom. A key theme that emerged was the ongoing saga of BYU Basketball’s search for a big man under head coach Kevin Young. The discussion explored BYU’s runner-up finishes for top frontcourt recruits, with Caleb Ourigou’s commitment to Arkansas prompting questions about how long BYU can afford to wait for the right fit at center. Several points were raised, including Young’s apparent willingness to exercise patience until fall or even October if necessary, the complex NCAA eligibility for prospective transfers like David Okwera, Shawn Phillips Jr., and Caden Powell, as well as international targets such as Xu Xin and Pavle Backo. The effects of ongoing lawsuits and recent courts granting extra eligibility to college hoops players add further uncertainty to roster construction. Offensively, optimism remains high. The conversation highlighted the arrival of impact players like Rob Wright, Bruce Branch III, Collin Chandler, and sharpshooter Tyler Betsey, all poised to elevate BYU’s attack. Joe Lunardi’s latest bracketology was addressed, projecting BYU as a 6-seed in Omaha—reminiscent of last season—bolstering the perception that this revamped roster could be as strong, or stronger, than the one that took the court last year. This leads to the question: will offensive firepower outweigh concerns about size and defense in a stacked Big 12? Rounding out the episode, the discussion covered BYU’s upcoming exhibition schedule, including high-profile clashes at the Delta Center against Nebraska and a regional showdown with UNLV at the Thomas & Mack Center. Fan engagement, regional rivalries, and strong local support promise electric preseason matchups—will these tests set the tone for BYU’s campaign? Don’t miss this deep dive into BYU’s near-mythical recruiting stories, critical basketball roster questions, and the high expectations facing Cougar 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 Sponsors! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 15·27 min

The BYU Cougars turn heads in college athletics with a landmark, multi-year jersey sponsorship from Entrata, a Utah-born tech unicorn estimated to be worth over $4 billion. With Adam Edmunds, a BYU alum and Entrata CEO, stepping up to invest potentially up to $5 million annually, BYU signals its emergence as a financial juggernaut in the Big 12. While Utah fans tout a potential $500 million private equity deal with Otro Capital Partners and scramble to organize grassroots “UteCoin” pledges, the Cougars quietly leverage a deep network of tech-savvy boosters, fueling the athletic department’s ambitions without relying on campus subsidies. Jake Hatch breaks down this new era of college athletics financing, examining how BYU and Texas Tech are pulling away as the Big 12’s fiscal leaders and why Utah’s approach faces new challenges in the NIL and private equity arenas. Hatch spotlights the advantages of BYU’s financial model—boosted by influential alumni like Jason McGowan of Crumbl and potentially Ryan Smith—while questioning the sustainability and transparency of Utah’s fledgling alternative routes. From Kalani Sitake’s top-10 national salary to the hiring of NBA-talent Kevin Young as men’s basketball coach, BYU’s resources are sparking tangible success on the field and the court. The discussion explores whether the Cougars can keep extending this advantage and how NCAA rules, now allowing up to two jersey patch sponsors, should create even more opportunity before the football season kicks off. Will BYU continue to raise the bar or will rivals narrow the financial gap? Beyond the numbers, fans get to celebrate BYU legend Danny Ainge’s overdue enshrinement into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. Hatch relives Ainge’s iconic “dash to glory” to the Elite Eight, considers future Hall contenders like Jimmer Fredette and Krešimir Ćosić, and reflects on how each generation of BYU greats has built on the last—from Stan Watts to Dave Rose, and now Kevin Young. Are the Cougars on the cusp of cementing their national legacy in both football and basketball? Don’t miss insights on upcoming player interviews, season previews, and a look at how BYU’s booster power could shape the NCAA landscape for years to come. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 14·20 min

The BYU Cougars set their sights on exceeding expectations, as ESPN’s FPI and major sportsbooks continue to project Kalani Sitake’s program at a modest 8.5 wins—even as the analytics favor BYU in 11 out of 12 games. Is this finally the season where Klalani Sitake and the BYU football program transitions from surprise contender to undeniable College Football Playoff threat? The conversation focused on the apparent disconnect between national analytics and the high hopes around Provo, underscoring the need for BYU to “leave no doubt” by dominating Big 12 competition and potentially securing a spot in the CFP. A key theme that emerged was whether anything less than 10 wins would now be a disappointment for BYU, given their roster depth, experience, and favorable schedule. Discussion explored how the Cougars face no FPI Top 25 opponents outside of Notre Dame, raising the stakes for a season that demands both consistent victories and statement performances. Several points were raised, including the need for BYU to avoid pitfalls like injuries, and how the program’s past ability to outperform projections sets a higher bar for the current campaign. The debate centered on whether persistent “downgrades” from national pundits are justified, or if another overachieving season lies ahead. The discussion shifted to one of BYU’s pivotal challenges: generating a disruptive pass rush. One concept discussed was the difference between raw sack totals and the overall effect of applied pressure, with the defensive scheme designed not just for sacks but to force quarterbacks into hurried, inaccurate throws. Names like Keanu Tanuvasa, Nusi Taumoepeau, and Tausili Akana surfaced as potential breakout stars, especially with the addition of coach Chad Kauha’aha’a, whose track record inspires new optimism along the edge. The group explored how recruiting, player development, and creative personnel packages could finally deliver BYU’s second double-digit sack artist in as many years and elevate Kelly Poppinga’s defense to a new level. On the basketball front, the conversation examined four-star recruit Caleb Ourigou’s impressions after visiting Provo. The discussion explored the wider narrative around Utah as a recruiting destination, with Origu’s positive experience challenging outdated stereotypes. Insights were offered on Kevin Young’s pitch for BYU as a springboard to the NBA, the absence of a starting big man, and opportunities for immediate impact. The episode closes by looking ahead to a packed week, featuring interviews with Brigham Young University athletes and Big 12 insiders, as the excitement builds toward the start of football season. Will BYU’s production finally match its growing ambitions—and silence the national skeptics once and for all? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 13·29 min

The BYU Cougars capture the spotlight as the presumptive Big 12 favorite, but can the program and its leaders avoid the pitfalls of early hype and truly ascend to perennial powerhouse status? The conversation focused on an informal coaches’ poll naming BYU as the top team in the Big 12, underscoring how Bear Bachmeier, the reigning Offensive Player of the Year, LJ Martin, and a seasoned lineup of upperclassmen have set the stage for high expectations. A key theme that emerged was the importance of resisting “rat poison”—the complacency that comes from widespread praise—echoing coaching legend Nick Saban’s adage. The discussion explored BYU’s desire to avoid resting on past success, with insights into Evan Johnson’s relentless work ethic and the overall locker room culture fostered by Kalani Sitake. Several points were raised, including whether the Cougars have the right mentality to translate recent 23-4 records into tangible postseason success, such as a Big 12 title or a College Football Playoff berth. One concept discussed was BYU’s rise as a national and international brand, reaching beyond Texas Tech and other conference rivals. The discussion referenced Stewart Mandel’s assertion that BYU stands as the most recognizable brand in the Big 12, rooted in the program’s affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the legacy of the 1984 National Championship, Ty Detmer’s Heisman triumph, and quarterback legends from the LaVell Edwards era. The conversation highlighted BYU’s continued appeal to TV networks, recurring late-night national games, and strong booster support—crucial elements as the Cougars aim for the next level of national acclaim. Further, the discussion explored what it would take for BYU to become wholly undisputed in Big 12 branding, from winning a College Football Playoff game to capturing the first league title of the new era. On the basketball front, the episode broke down a disruptive court ruling in Ohio granting 15 Division I players—including post players Caden Powell and Shawn Phillips Jr.—temporary eligibility and a surprise return to the transfer market. With BYU holding three open roster spots and an urgent need for a true center, the conversation analyzed the fit of both big men: Powell’s Big 12 experience and rebounding prowess, and Phillips’ SEC credentials as a shot-blocking rim protector. The urgency for Kevin Young to finalize his roster was emphasized, with attention to additional potential big men if further injunctions follow. What moves will BYU make before the clock runs out, and will this unprecedented free-agent wave turn the Cougars into a true hoops contender? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 10·29 min

Big 12 Media Days delivered fireworks as Texas Tech took center stage in a heated conference showdown. Brett Yormark’s pointed exchange with media personality Sean Dillon over claims of favoritism and patchwork league rules grabbed headlines, injecting fresh fuel into ongoing debates about realignment, Big 12 leadership, and the Red Raiders’ role in the league’s future. Can Texas Tech parlay its newfound swagger and financial backing into a seat at the SEC or Big Ten table, or is talk of a dramatic departure just posturing from frustrated fans? Drake Toll leads the discussion with Parker Ainsworth, Jake Hatch, Cody Stovall, and more, breaking down Texas Tech’s evolution from Big 12 underdog to potential “heel turn” villain. Panelists question whether the Red Raiders’ perception of being slighted is justified or if it’s a result of championship droughts and shifting power dynamics. With key figures like Joey McGuire and Cody Campbell navigating public feuds and media speculation, the group examines whether internal leadership is quietly more stable than fan and social media narratives suggest, and what it would take for Texas Tech to make a true jump in stature that would warrant poaching by the major conferences—think the leap Clemson made over the last decade. The podcast also zeroes in on the Big 12’s new sponsorship deal with Monster Energy, sparking hot debate over the value of the $1.25 million-per-school jersey patch. Is the conference underselling its brand, especially given Learfield’s estimates that some schools could pull in up to $12 million for jersey sponsorships? The hosts raise concerns about saturation, potential conflicts with existing sponsors like Pepsi, and whether the “mature startup” label Brett Yormark assigns to the Big 12 accurately reflects its trajectory and value. Listeners get insight into the broader significance of global brand exposure versus direct financial impact, and whether the Monster deal risks lowering the perceived value for future corporate partnerships. The show rounds out with a look at upcoming federal legislation that might freeze conference alignments for revenue thresholds, potentially locking Texas Tech—and other restless programs—in place. Panelists highlight the mood at media days, NIL implications, and which programs are best positioned to capitalize on the Big 12’s evolving landscape, with special mention to West Virginia and the rising value of unique school traditions. Don’t miss this energetic, candid deep dive into the Big 12’s biggest questions—are the Red Raiders destined for glory or spinning their wheels, and is the Monster deal a bold play or a bargain bin move? Tap in for sharp insights and behind-the-scenes scoop from the heart of college football’s most unpredictable conference. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 9·29 min

The BYU Cougars may be rising faster than anyone expected in the Big 12, with Kalani Sitake’s program winning over national media and even archrivals at Big 12 media days. Can BYU turn this goodwill—and their impressive 23-4 record over the past two seasons—into a breakthrough campaign? Jake Hatch shares exclusive behind-the-scenes insights from Frisco, revealing how BYU’s authenticity, approachability, and strong brand identity are earning praise from across the conference. Sitake’s savvy, the team’s engaging approach, and Brigham Young University’s commitment to representing their values make them the Big 12’s “baby face”—the program that everyone is rooting for. Transitioning to hoops, Jake Hatch breaks the news of Lithuanian guard Dovydus Buika’s signing. Will this 6’7", four-star international prospect become the Cougars’ next breakout talent? Buika’s size and playmaking ability bolster BYU basketball’s perimeter depth. His EuroLeague experience and performances at EuroBasket U18—highlighted by a near triple-double against Serbia—have fans eager to see his impact. In an era where BYU four-star signings are becoming the norm under coach Kevin Young, Buika’s commitment adds to the momentum behind a program already landing elite names like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III. But a crucial question hovers over the Cougars: who will anchor the middle? As BYU hunts for a starting center, Jake Hatch details the pursuit of three big men—Caleb Ourigou (“Baby Shaq”), 6'10" Australian pro David Owera, and Chinese standout Xu Xin. Each option brings unique strengths: Ourigou’s physicality and long-term upside, Okwera’s stretch-big skills and NBL experience, and Xu’s international résumé. However, eligibility waivers and late-timeline recruitments linger as obstacles, leaving BYU with just three open roster spots and the clock ticking before the academic year begins. The episode wraps with updates on former Cougars in the pros. Keep an eye on Keba Keita with the Indiana Pacers’ Summer League squad and AJ Dybantsa’s journey as a top NBA Draft prospect. As anticipation builds for training camp, Jake Hatch promises interviews and insider stories from media days in coming weeks. Can BYU’s positive buzz and upgraded roster transform into Big 12 football dominance and basketball relevance? Stay tuned as the Cougars’ path to national prominence unfolds. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 9·29 min

Big 12 Media Days ignite fresh debate as Texas Tech, BYU, and league officials confront questions of fairness, accountability, and discipline across the conference. Brett Yormark, the Big 12 Commissioner, finds himself in the hot seat as Texas Tech’s ongoing tension around fines, lawsuits, and inconsistent penalties comes to the forefront, especially after the Brendan Sorsby situation and waves of anti-Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chants. Are league policies being enforced evenly, and will the Big 12 finally issue clear guidelines on in-game punishments for fan misconduct? Jake Hatch and Drake Toll bring listeners behind the scenes at The Star in Frisco, TX, highlighting the defensive champion Texas Tech Red Raiders and head coach Joey McGuire, who remains unflinching and pragmatic in facing tough questions surrounding the Sorsby fallout. As the Red Raiders lead the preseason with seven All-Big 12 selections, including standouts like Will Hammond and enhanced support from boosters such as Cody Campbell, their ability to weather off-field distractions stands as the focal point for their championship defense. Meanwhile, BYU emerges as a strong contender not just for its offensive firepower bolstered by LJ Martin, the preseason media pick for Offensive Player of the Year, but also for a defense packed with returning talent. Head coach Kalani Sitake’s candor shines through, acknowledging Texas Tech’s dominance last season and underscoring BYU’s commitment to closing the gap. The conversation shifts to the mounting controversy surrounding discriminatory chants targeting the LDS community. Incidents at Cincinnati, Oklahoma State, and Colorado prompted a patchwork of fines, reprimands, and, at times, complete inaction from the Big 12. Yormark publicly states a new “zero tolerance” policy and previews an August summit with university presidents to address hate speech. Still, many—including BYU fans and league insiders—question whether substantive change is coming or if the league’s response remains just talk. With student sections driving the worst of the chants, the debate intensifies: will real-time in-game penalties, such as unsportsmanlike conduct or yardage flags, finally deter abusive behavior more effectively than monetary fines? Off the field, the Big 12’s $20 million sponsorship deal with Monster Energy signals a new era of creative revenue streams, with each member school set to benefit directly. As the landscape shifts, listeners get an insider’s analysis of Oklahoma State head coach Eric Morris’ debut, ongoing expansion rumors, and the intense internal competition that defines the Big 12. Is the league ready to set a new standard for accountability and growth, or will familiar inconsistencies persist? Don’t miss this in-depth look at the decisions and drama shaping the Big 12’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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 8·26 min

The BYU Cougars might have just locked down their defensive backfield for years to come as highly-touted safety prospects Peyton Higginson and Lakepa Satuala commit to play in Provo. Are Cougar fans witnessing the birth of the program’s next great safety duo? Jake Hatch provides an in-depth look at what Higginson—one of the most coveted athletes in Utah—brings to the BYU football program, highlighting his natural athleticism, playmaking ability, and a skill set reminiscent of BYU legends like Tanner Wall, Daniel Sorensen, and Andrew Rich. Higginson, a three-star recruit from Salem Hills High School, spurned offers from Power 4 programs such as Michigan, Purdue, and Cal, choosing to stay close to home and reinforce BYU’s tradition of producing elite defensive backs. The episode dives into BYU’s victory in key recruiting battles, especially outmaneuvering Jay Hill and Michigan’s coaching staff in their bid for Higginson. Jake Hatch details how BYU’s identity and culture, shaped by Kalani Sitake’s leadership and the coaching of Demario Warren and Kelly Poppinga, enable the Cougars to retain top in-state talent while fending off national powers seeking to poach Utah’s best players. Listeners also get unique insights into how BYU’s recruiting pipeline has benefited from family dynasties, as seen with the Satuala commitment. Lakepa Satuala—whose brother, Faletau Satuala, emerged as a breakout star and All-Big 12 preseason honoree—is poised to continue the family’s legacy despite a lower national recruiting profile. Jake Hatch brings to light the value BYU places on physical tools, positional versatility, and high-upside athletes. The discussion covers how Satuala’s fearlessness and football IQ fit BYU’s evolving defensive schemes, from traditional single-high safety sets to boundary and field-specific roles under Kelly Poppinga’s direction. Listeners are left to ponder: will the combination of Higginson’s star potential and Satuala’s family pedigree form the backbone of Brigham Young University's defense for the foreseeable future? With key players and coaches shaping the roster, and the defense evolving with each new addition, Cougar Nation is set for an exciting new chapter. Get the latest from Big 12 media days as Jake Hatch delivers exclusive coverage and analysis on Locked On Cougars. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 7·19 min

Big 12 Media Days signal a pivotal moment for the BYU Cougars as they’re thrust into the championship spotlight, emerging as legitimate challengers to Texas Tech’s reign. The central question looms: Can Kalani Sitake, now the Big 12’s longest-tenured coach, lead BYU to a conference title or even a College Football Playoff berth? Jake Hatch explores the riveting narratives electrifying Frisco, from the fallout of the Brenden Sorsby saga at Texas Tech to the culture-defining expectations facing BYU. With the Big 12’s federal lawsuit against Texas Tech still open, all eyes are on Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark’s reasoning and what it could mean for future league stability and member compliance. What ground rules will emerge, and how do they impact BYU—a program that prides itself on integrity and a by-the-book approach? As preseason rankings roll in, Jake Hatch breaks down why so many media members now see BYU as “the pick” to dethrone Texas Tech, buoyed by the star tandem of LJ Martin and Bear Bachmeier as well as a formidable coaching staff. Discussion centers on which underdog head coach will seize the "Neal Brown Memorial Award" by boldly proclaiming their team’s underrated status, and whether anyone can back up those words as Brown did years ago. The podcast also explores conference-wide perceptions—are Texas Tech fans still upset about BYU’s rising profile? Will Cougar support extend beyond the bitter rivalry with Utah? Recruiting headlines take over as BYU lands two coveted prospects poised to make an impact in Provo. Defensive phenom Uhila Wolfgramm, a 4-star force from Maple Mountain High School, draws high praise for his raw power, relentless motor, and loyalty to his high school despite a program in flux. Wolfgramm’s potential to anchor BYU’s defensive line and become a program cornerstone echoes the recent success stories of LJ Martin, Faletau Satuala, and Bear Bachmeier—all high-talent athletes who elevated the Cougars to new heights. On the offensive side, Kyle Nabrotzky, a Tennessee standout who made a seamless transition from tight end to offensive tackle, stands out for his elite footwork, athleticism, and deep family ties to BYU. With a recruiting profile trending toward a 4-star rating, Nobrotsky exemplifies the “program guy” mentality that helps BYU remain the most “transfer-proof” team in college football. Will this new wave of talent and program fidelity transform BYU into a perennial Big 12 powerhouse? Jake Hatch provides the analysis and behind-the-scenes insight fans crave. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 6·31 min

Momentum is finally swinging BYU Cougars’ way as football recruiting heats up—are seismic changes coming to Provo? With four-star talents like edge rusher Uhila Wolfgramm and wideout Blake Wong committing, head coach Kalani Sitake’s staff look poised to shake off early doubts and climb the Big 12 recruiting ladder. Yet intriguing questions remain: does the recent surge signal a sustainable trend, or will setbacks like Manase "Moa" Brown’s surprise choice of Fresno State over BYU and Arizona State disrupt Cougar Nation’s optimism? Host Jake Hatch, joined by passionate Locked On Cougars everydayers, offers sharp analysis on BYU’s recruiting strategy, roster management amidst the return missionary dynamic, and how selective personnel moves have shaped this year’s class. Sharp debate explores the battle for the state of Utah’s top talent, Oklahoma’s aggressive inroads, and whether the Cougars can become not just competitive but Big 12 contenders. The conversation spotlights names like LJ Martin, Bear Bachmeier, and Faletau Satuala—examples of four-star prospects already thriving in Provo—as well as rising recruiting targets like Peyton Higginson and Kyle Nabrotzky. Is the “snowball” effect real, or are fans simply riding a wave of well-timed wins? On a broader scale, the roundtable addresses continuity in BYU’s infrastructure, with questions about athletic director transition from Tom Holmoe to Brian Santiago, Jay Hill’s departure, and the lasting impact on defensive performance. Contributors weigh the significance of the Big 12 media landscape, ESPN’s perceived biases, and the conference’s quest for national respect. The panel also contemplates how BYU maintains roster stability amid NIL offers and transfer portal turbulence, citing examples like Bear Bachmeier’s decision to stay despite reported multi-million offers elsewhere. Turning to BYU basketball, Kevin Young’s efforts to round out the roster and his vision for an NBA pipeline energize some fans and raise concerns for others. With four openings—including the ever-elusive true center spot—and rumors swirling about international targets like Caleb Ourigou and Xu Xin, can BYU find rim-protecting size or will they embrace a five-out, position-less attack? Fans question why so many big men have slipped away, the impact of Will Voigt’s defensive schemes, and whether increased focus on shooting will leave the Cougars vulnerable in the Big 12 paint. From recruiting drama to the rise of NBA prospects like AJ Dybantsa, listeners get a high-energy, fan-centric look at where Cougar athletics stand, what’s next in football and hoops, and why 2024’s trajectory is critical for BYU’s long-term place in the Power 4. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 3·41 min

Big 12 snubbed yet again—does national disrespect set the stage for a breakout season? Despite returning talent across programs, only Baylor’s punter lands first-team preseason All-American honors, drawing sharp criticism from the Big 12 Squad. Lively banter erupts as the hosts question whether this signals a lack of star power or a continued media blind spot toward conference standouts. Names like BYU’s LJ Martin, Houston’s Shadre Hurst, and Texas Tech’s Bryce Pollock headline the snubs—are these silent motivators or signs of systemic bias? The conversation digs into which Big 12 athletes and teams deserved more recognition and explores the structure of all-American selections, especially the imbalance among offensive line picks. Houston fans argue for more representation, while ASU’s depth at wide receiver and linebacker gets praised but overlooked. The crew also spotlights the best all-American names—could Bear Bachmeier and Faletau Satuala become cult legends? The debate covers how player reputation and program profile shape postseason lists, asking if media narratives overshadow true performance. Turning to preseason AP Top 25 projections, the crew breaks down who rightfully deserves entry and which rankings are legacy hype. BYU and Texas Tech receive rare respect, but Houston, Arizona, and Oklahoma State are curiously omitted despite strong offseasons and major transfer portal coups. Is Utah’s top 20 ranking riding on Kyle Whittingham’s reputation, or does new head coach Morgan Scalley warrant the benefit of the doubt? Are preseason polls and national media simply lumping the Big 12 in with non-power leagues, and what will it take—maybe a national title—to shift the narrative? Throughout the episode, panelists dig into the cultural and geographic uniqueness of the Big 12. With World Cup soccer taking center stage, the conversation pivots to America’s heartland, arguing that the “Truck Stop Conference” best embodies the country’s spirit. Listener-favorite segments celebrate Olympians, the conference’s all-sport prowess, and fan bases’ small-town charm—from BYU’s landscaping championships to Oklahoma State’s famed grass. Even global teams training in places like Herriman, Utah, and Lawrence, Kansas, become a lens for appreciating Big 12 country’s impact. Whether it’s dissecting snubs, debating preseason rankings, or joking about the quirks of southern college football media influencers like Josh Pate, the episode blends humor and heated discussion. Will the league seize its underdog identity and prove doubters wrong? All eyes turn to the Big 12’s upcoming campaign and whether this year’s “disrespect” finally sparks the run everyone’s been waiting for. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 2·29 min

BYU fans are on edge as Utah dominates in-state football recruiting headlines—but is it time to panic, or does BYU have a bigger plan in motion? Jake Hatch urges Cougar Nation to “relax” as he breaks down why BYU’s football roster depth and recent success set them up for a potential Big 12 Conference breakout, even as rival Utah racks up early commitments from top local talent. With many upperclassmen and a roster built to compete at the highest level, BYU’s limited scholarship availability means the Cougars must be selective, focusing on impact players like Manase Brown and Uhila Wolfgramm while keeping an eye on long-term transfer possibilities. Could BYU snag two of Utah’s coveted top-10 recruits before signing day? The recruiting race is heating up, but Jake Hatch explains why fans should judge this staff by their results next season—not just July headlines. Shifting to the gridiron, star running back LJ Martin returns to the national spotlight after a gritty season that saw him rack up over 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns—much of it with a severely injured shoulder. Now, fully healthy and motivated, Martin chases BYU’s all-time rushing record, eyeing both Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and national honors like the Doak Walker Award. Jake Hatch discusses Martin’s versatility in the run game, pass protection, and receiving, setting him apart from so-called “one-trick” backs. Could Martin’s steadfast play propel BYU into the College Football Playoff conversation? With a reinforced offensive line led by Bruce Mitchell, Andrew Gentry, and Paki Finau, the stage is set for a potentially historic Cougar attack. On the hardwood, the BYU men’s basketball program faces a new challenge as associate head coach Will Voigt departs for Boise State. Is this a red flag for Kevin Young’s rebuilding effort? Not so fast, says Jake Hatch: Voigt’s move is about family, and BYU’s staff remains well-connected and capable. The search for a replacement is underway, with Young poised to leverage his extensive coaching network to fill the development and recruiting void left by Voigt. Meanwhile, the roster puzzle continues as BYU pursues big men and keeps an eye on high-level recruits like Caleb Ourigou and Xu Xin. Can the Cougars lock in the frontcourt muscle needed to endure a bruising Big 12 campaign? With football just 66 days away and Big 12 media days on the horizon, BYU’s trajectory in both football and basketball is brimming with intrigue. Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s insights as he tracks evolving roster battles, recruiting drama, and the next generation of Cougar stars. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 1·26 min

Heisman buzz reaches new heights as BYU Cougars' quarterback Bear Bachmeier earns national recognition, but is his moment to seize college football’s biggest award really just around the corner — or will Cougars fans have to wait until 2027 for him to truly own the spotlight? Jake Hatch weighs the pros and cons of Bachmeier’s darkhorse Heisman candidacy, analyzing whether the offensive tandem of Bachmeier and explosive LJ Martin will split the national spotlight or propel BYU to a Big 12 championship and College Football Playoff berth. With CBS Sports naming Bachmeier the nation’s best sophomore quarterback and FanDuel assigning him longshot Heisman odds, the conversation pivots to what statistical benchmarks and marquee wins would vault him into the top tier of contenders, especially as BYU football coach Kalani Sitake orchestrates another title run in Provo. Expanding on BYU’s championship aspirations, Jake Hatch is joined by the Cougars’ own Heisman legend, Ty Detmer, who offers firsthand perspective on the evolving college football landscape. Ty Detmer reflects on Kalani Sitake’s handling of NIL and the transfer portal, highlighting how the modern game demands more than just X’s and O’s from head coaches—now it’s about recruiting, retention, and managing locker room dynamics like never before. The segment explores whether another BYU athlete can ever replicate Detmer’s Heisman moment, especially as the Cougars’ conference schedule and national profile rise. Detmer also evaluates Bear Bachmeier’s poise, playmaking ability, and potential to take a sophomore leap, outlining the growth he needs as a passer to write his own BYU legacy. The episode turns to a program-defining transition as Jennifer Rockwood, the only head coach in BYU women’s soccer’s Division I history, announces her retirement. Jake Hatch discusses Rockwood’s iconic run, her role in elevating BYU women’s soccer to perennial powerhouse status, and the massive shoes her successor will fill. Should South Field be renamed to honor her contributions? How do recent coaching shifts signal a new era across BYU Athletics? With insights on recruiting, transfer trends, and institutional change, Locked On Cougars delivers can’t-miss analysis for BYU fans following the Bear Bachmeier Heisman watch and the enduring marks of legends like Jennifer Rockwood and Ty Detmer. Will this be the Cougars’ year to break through, or is the best still to come? 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 30·30 min

NCAA’s new 5-for-5 eligibility rule sets off a ripple effect across college football, and few programs are feeling it more than the BYU Cougars. With missionary service already adding complexity to roster calculations, Jake Hatch explains why this policy might become both a blessing and a logistical headache for Kalani Sitake, Kevin Young, and the entirety of BYU's coaches. Will BYU’s unique approach to missions and scholarships allow them to stay competitive in the Big 12, or will this new model squeeze future recruiting classes and upend depth chart plans? Jake Hatch breaks down how the 5-for-5 model stops lengthy college careers, removes redshirts and medical waivers, and forces instant roster decisions for return missionaries—highlighting the “law of unintended consequences” hitting Provo. Recruiting takes center stage as BYU scores a major win with the commitment of four-star receiver Blake Wong. Hailed as the “crown jewel” of the 2027 class, Wong’s record-breaking numbers at Norco High School and comparisons to Cougar great Dax Milne underscore just how important this addition is. Jake Hatch reviews Wong’s fit in BYU’s offense, his immediate impact potential, and notes possible chemistry with fellow Murrieta Valley alum Bear Bachmeier. As upperclassmen like Kyler Kasper and Jojo Phillips prepare to move on in due time, Wong is poised to become a future face of the position group. The conversation expands to other standouts—Jeremiah Williams and recruiting outcomes such as losing Bode Sparrow to Oklahoma—revealing how strong relationships with coaches like Fesi Sitake and Kalani Sitake continue to close the deal for high-end talent. A critical roster spot still remains unresolved: will seven-foot-five Chinese center Xu Xin choose BYU or leap to the NBA after securing a Summer League invite from the San Antonio Spurs? Jake Hatch delivers fresh insight, including the revelation that Xu has signed with high-powered Excel Sports Management—the agency behind stars like Nikola Jokic, Cade Cunningham and Caitlin Clark—which could tilt his future toward professional basketball. With NBA Summer League rosters about to drop, BYU fans face an anxious wait to see if their frontcourt will land its long-coveted big man. The path forward for BYU basketball could hinge on Shusheen’s decision. As the Cougars gear up for a high-stakes season, roster management, recruiting triumphs, and the chase for premier talent dominate the narrative. Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s comprehensive look at the evolving BYU landscape and the questions that could define the program’s 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 Sponsors! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 29·28 min

"Chinese Wemby" Shakes Up BYU Basketball—Will Xu Xin Join Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, or Could NIL Lure Him to Provo? As BYU Basketball intensifies its hunt for a transformative big man, the saga surrounding Xu Xin takes center stage. The player known as “Chinese Wemby” has reportedly accepted an NBA Summer League invite from the San Antonio Spurs, raising urgent questions about whether BYU can secure his commitment or if the Spurs’ interest marks the end of his college eligibility before it begins. Jake Hatch unpacks the complexities of the NBA Collective Bargaining Agreement, explaining how Xu Xin, at age 22, automatically became NBA draft eligible and, after going undrafted, now holds the freedom to sign as a free agent with any NBA team—including the Spurs. Could a lucrative NIL offer or a desire for further development sway him back toward college hoops? Exploring BYU’s current recruiting landscape, Jake Hatch details the setbacks, missed chances, and ongoing pursuits for a reliable post presence. With names like Caleb Ourigou—a reclassification candidate currently on an official visit—plus Serbian big man Pavle Backo still in the mix, BYU’s frontcourt remains in flux. The episode digs into the logistical and academic challenges international prospects face with NCAA eligibility and highlights how quickly fortunes can change in today’s NIL-driven, transfer portal world. Would the financial upside of a BYU offer outshine a non-guaranteed NBA contract, or will the prestige of the Spurs and the chance to play and develops alongside Victor Wembanyama prove irresistible for Xu? The episode further celebrates BYU’s recent NBA talent pipeline. Jake Hatch breaks down Richie Saunders’ selection at #32 overall by the Memphis Grizzlies and analyzes why his gritty, high-energy game fits perfectly with a franchise undergoing transition. Keba Keita, meanwhile, lands an Exhibit 10 contract with the Indiana Pacers, offering him a Summer League showcase and an opportunity to secure a G League roster bonus. Listeners also get insight into the futures of AJ Dybantsa and Egor Demin, as BYU’s surge of NBA-caliber prospects rewrites the program’s history. Are the Cougars on the verge of adding another elite name to their rebuilt roster? Or does the NBA’s global reach mean another international star slips through Provo’s grasp? Stay tuned as Jake Hatch tracks every twist in BYU Basketball’s high-stakes offseason chase. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 26·22 min

Big 12 sends shockwaves through college football as legal battles with Texas Tech and Attorney General Ken Paxton escalate. Can the conference maintain control, or is Texas Tech setting itself up as an outcast—or even an SEC contender? The Big 12 Squad breaks down the legal firefight over Brennan Sorsby’s eligibility, Cody Campbell’s defiance, and what these moves mean for the Big 12’s future. The roundtable debates whether the precedent set could lead to government overreach, if Tech’s NIL dominance makes them a target, and why other teams like Cincinnati and Indiana might be in the crosshairs next. With high-stakes gambles on and off the field, Texas Tech’s clash with Big 12 bylaws could redefine power dynamics across the league. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 25·29 min

University of Utah stuns the college football landscape by officially committing to Adidas, ending an 18-year relationship with Under Armour in a move that has fans, recruits, and analysts questioning the long-term payoff. Did the Utes overestimate their market value like they did in the Pac-12, helping lead to the conference's demise, and take an unnecessary financial hit, or will access to Adidas’ innovative NIL platform put more money into the pockets of Utah athletes and help the program land higher-caliber recruits? Jake Hatch and JT Wistrcill dissect every angle of the seven-year deal, reportedly worth $45 million (6.42M annually), that Utah took after spurning Under Armour's original offer of $10 million annually, examining the calculated risks taken by Utah’s athletic department to go on the open market, and debating the brand’s impact on both on-field performance and off-field appeal. The hosts dive into how athlete preferences for apparel giants like Nike and Adidas are shaping modern recruiting battles, referencing recent examples like Darryn Peterson’s partnership with Adidas and AJ Dybantsa’s Nike loyalty as game-changers for player destinations. But business off the field quickly gives way to fireworks on it as the episode circles back to the highly anticipated Holy War showdown between BYU and Utah. With bragging rights and Big 12 title ambitions on the line, can Devon Dampier lead the Utes to a program-saving victory at Rice-Eccles Stadium, or is Bear Bachmeier primed to deliver a fourth straight rivalry win for the Cougars? The debate gets personal as Hatch and Wistrcill wager on the outcome, promising to wear rival colors on-air—upping the emotional ante for fans on both sides. Key topics include offensive and defensive line matchups, where BYU’s projected top-five national offensive line—anchored by Bruce Mitchell and a strong defensive line anchored by Keanu Tanuvasa and Justin Kirkland—faces a Utah unit rebuilding with new starters across all trenches. The hosts spotlight the quarterback battle between Bachmeier and Big 12 Newcomer of the Year Dampier, dissecting each player’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential to change the game with a single play. Expect insight on how the intensity of the rivalry elevates every snap and why a few signature moments—like a huge run by L.J. Martin or a pivotal Dampier scramble—could define the outcome. Will Utah end their losing streak and reestablish state dominance, or is BYU ready to cement themselves as the new powerhouse in Big 12 competition? Don’t miss this comprehensive, high-energy analysis of college football’s most heated rivalry and one of the year’s boldest apparel moves. 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! Odoo: Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .  Rugiet: Get 15% off your treatment →  https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men 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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 25·32 min