
Locked On Cougars - Daily Podcast On BYU Cougars Football & Basketball
Locked On Cougars is a daily podcast dedicated to BYU Cougars football and basketball. Hosted by Jake Hatch, it provides news, analysis, insider information, film reviews, and interviews. The podcast covers games at LaVell Edwards Stadium and the Marriott Center, offering in-depth coverage of the team and the Big 12 conference. It is part of the Locked On Podcast Network.
Episodes

KILLER INSTINCT? Kalani Sitake & BYU Football IGNORE Critics, Defend Philosophy & a Plan for Success
BYU football coach Kalani Sitake stands firm against calls to “run up the score,” maintaining his focus on development, depth, and the core values expected at Brigham Young University. With vocal fans demanding a killer instinct, Sitake’s measured philosophy is put to the test: Will BYU’s integrity-driven approach deliver in the ultra-competitive Big 12, or will mounting pressure shake the foundat

UNSTOPPABLE: National Media Still UNDERESTIMATES BYU Football Despite Their TOTAL & UTTER DOMINANCE? | CSU Showing Was Pure Entertainment | BIg 12 Three Up & Three Down
BYU football crushed Colorado State in a statement victory, unleashing Bear Bachmeier’s confident passing, LJ Martin’s dominant ground presence, and a physical offensive line coached by TJ Woods. Are BYU’s blend of veteran depth and emerging stars like freshman receiver Legend Glasker fueling a legitimate playoff chase? The BYU Cougars jumped inside the AP Poll top 10, but questions linger: will n

REACTION: BYU Downs Colorado State: LJ Martin Dominates, Backups Lull & Addressing CSU's Derogatory Anti-LDS Chants | POSTCAST
Welcome into another episode of Locked On Cougars, hosted by Jake Hatch! The No. 11 BYU Cougars went on the road to Canvas Stadium and secured a statement 41-23 victory over former conference rival Colorado State. But while the final score reflects a comfortable win, there is plenty to unpack from Saturday night's action in Fort Collins.On today's show, we break down BYU's dominant performance. Th

Texas Tech & Houston Resent Big 12 Forcing Friday Showdown While They Look to Match BYU's 1-0 Start | Week 3 Preview | Big 12 Squad
Friday Night Lights bring high drama to Texas as Texas Tech Red Raiders clash with Houston Cougars in a pivotal Big 12 showdown under the Lubbock sky. With both teams aiming for a statement win, the pressure is on Willie Fritz’s Cougars, renowned for their knack in tight finishes, to prove they’ve closed the gap after last year’s blowout loss. Meanwhile, Joey McGuire’s Red Raiders are seeking to r

REPREHENSIBLE: Utah Media & Fanboys Pushing WILD Rumors About BYU's Legend Glasker Crossed The Line | Big 12 Games of the Week | BYU Basketball Programs Announce Big 12 Slate
BYU football confronts a storm of social media allegations as wide receiver Legend Glasker becomes the target of rumors about alleged misconduct. With rival fans and even local media fanning the flames, Jake Hatch and Drake Toll step in to separate fact from fiction, using rigorous sourcing to defend Glasker’s name. Their conversation spotlights how internet speculation and vague insinuations—ofte

THROWBACK: BYU Football Faces Colorado State as Rams Look For Big Upset Fueled by Bold Aspirations | Justin Michael from DNVR Sports Previews BYU vs. CSU
A long-lost Mountain West rivalry is back as BYU Cougars travel to face the new-look Colorado State Rams—will the Rams’ explosive offense and aggressive defense be enough to topple BYU’s Big 12-caliber squad? Jake Hatch and Justin Michael offer an in-depth preview of this highly anticipated showdown, revisiting classic matchups and analyzing the ambitions driving both programs today. Can Colorado

ARMS RACE: Why BYU Cougars MUST INVEST More to WIN BIG–Kalani Sitake's Case & Requests Broken Down | Hunter Clegg Expects BYU's Pass-Rush Will Elevate Multiple Levels | Everydayer Club Mailbag
BYU football has their sights set on joining the national college football elite, but Kalani Sitake’s pointed plea for enhanced resources is raising eyebrows. With The Athletic reporting that BYU’s roster spending sits at $20–$25 million—far below Big 12 rivals like Texas Tech ($38–$42 million) and below middling Power 4 programs like Nebraska ($31–$35 million)—Sitake's comment seem to say he beli

POWERHOUSE: BYU Football & Bear Bachmeier Prepare to CONTROL Colorado State & Jim Mora's 2-0 Upstart Rams | Locked On Crossover
BYU football heads to Fort Collins carrying College Football Playoff hype and a 1-0 Big 12 record, ready to take on Jim Mora’s upstart Colorado State Rams. Will Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin continue BYU’s statement run, or can Hauss Hejny and an ambitious Colorado State squad pull off a program-defining upset? This matchup isn’t just about standings—it’s a meeting of two teams aiming to redefine t

STATEMENT MADE: BYU Asserts DOMINANCE While Oklahoma State Punks Oregon & Sends Big Ten Big Message | Big 12 Squad
Oklahoma State Cowboys shock Oregon with Drew Mestemaker’s breakout performance, reigniting hope in Stillwater. With NFL scouts’ focus shifting from hyped Oregon prospects to stars like Mestemaker and Wyatt Young, the Cowboys’ electric defense and revived home-field advantage at Boone Pickens Stadium become the talk of the Big 12. Can Oklahoma State’s resurgence catalyze a conference-wide renaissa

TURNOVER ADVANTAGE? BYU Cougars TARGET Colorado State—Bear Bachmeier’s Big Test Against Hauss Hejny | Roger Saleapaga Enjoying Return Home to BYU | Kihei Akina Shining Again
BYU football prepares for a critical test against the Colorado State Rams, setting the stage for an epic showdown where turnover margin could decide the outcome. Both teams enter undefeated, but with BYU sporting a flawless giveaway record and Colorado State claiming the nation’s top spot in takeaways, Saturday’s contest becomes a clash between the proverbial immovable object and the unstoppable f

GROW THE GAME: BYU Golf's Future Exceptionally BRIGHT Thanks to Utah Section PGA's Outreach & Growth
Utah’s golf landscape is on the verge of transformation as the Utah Section PGA partners with the Larry H. Miller Group for Utah Youth Sports Giving Day—an initiative raising up to $150,000 in matching funds to propel the next generation of golfers. Will this push help the BYU men’s and women’s golf programs continue their ascent and keep Utah talent competing on the national stage? Devin Dehlin,

NEVER SAY NEVER: BYU Football & Colorado State Renew Rivalry After 16 Long Years, Post-Hard Feelings | Owen Leishman Will Fit BYU's Defense | Rob Wright's Revenge Against Arizona Coming?
Classic Mountain West tensions resurface as the BYU Cougars prepare to face the Colorado State Rams for the first time in 16 years—a game loaded with history, rivalry, and significance. Will this long-awaited rematch redefine both programs’ trajectories? Jake Hatch sets the stage for a throwback Saturday night in Fort Collins, revisiting the seismic conference realignment of 2010, the Mountain Wes

SECRET WEAPON? Will BYU Football DOMINATE Colorado State Despite Matt Mitchell's Knowledge & Intel? | Siale Esera Injured & Depth Chart Changes | Kalani Sitake's Weekly Press Conference
BYU football enters their road clash with Colorado State as decisive favorites, but could a familiar face on the Rams’ sideline alter the expected narrative? Former BYU offensive analyst Matt Mitchell—now Colorado State’s quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator—brings deep institutional knowledge of Aaron Roderick's offense and Bear Bachmeier’s tendencies. Kalani Sitake openly addresses th

NARRATIVES DEAD: BYU Football OUTSMARTS Arizona & Shines in Victory With No Need for 'Style Points' | Kalani Sitake Will Not Change Now | Big 12 Three Up, Three Down
BYU football dismantled the narrative of poor in-game coaching, surging past Arizona with a masterclass in halftime adjustments and disciplined execution. After a sluggish first half that saw Noah Fifita and the Arizona Wildcats control the tempo, BYU’s staff—led by Kalani Sitake and defensive leaders like Kelly Pupinga—responded with swift, strategic changes. The booth and sideline communication

ARCH MANIA: Texas Mounts Record Comeback vs Ohio State While Oregon Ducks Endure 'Quack-tastrophe' in Stillwater
The Texas Longhorns mount a historic comeback to stun Ohio State, overcoming a 20-point fourth-quarter deficit behind Arch Manning’s electrifying performance. Manning’s clutch play not only ignites the Heisman Trophy conversation but raises the stakes for Texas as a national title contender. The panel explores just how significant this victory is for the Longhorns’ playoff aspirations and whether

REACTION: BYU Cougars DOMINATE Arizona as Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin Lead Elite Second-Half Surge | POSTCAST
BYU football delivers a statement win over the Arizona Wildcats, showcasing grit, adaptability, and coaching excellence on their home turf at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Down at halftime and facing early adversity, the BYU Cougars responded with a dominant second-half performance that extended Kalani Sitake’s perfect record against Arizona to 6-0. The conversation focused on the storyline of a true “t

MAKE A STATEMENT: BYU Rolls Past Arizona, Utah Tops SEC, Kansas Wins Border War, UCF Will Down Pitt? | Big 12 Squad
Big 12 credibility faces a critical test as the conference enters Week 2 with high-stakes matchups that could shape its playoff trajectory. Utah’s must-win clash against Arkansas serves as a litmus test for the league’s strength, while Oklahoma State eyes redemption against Oregon after an embarrassing opener. The conversation focused on how a single weekend could dramatically impact national perc

SET THE TONE: BYU Cougars, Kalani Sitake & Bear Bachmeier MUST SILENCE Arizona Wildcats With 3 Keys | Fesi Sitake Dives Deep on BYU Wide Receivers | Everydayer Club Mailbag
BYU football looks to defend LaVell Edwards Stadium as they clash with the Arizona Wildcats in a high-stakes Big 12 opener—can Bear Bachmeier, LJ Martin, and playmaking wideouts like Legend Glasker and Kyler Kasper deliver a statement win to keep BYU’s championship goals intact?Jake Hatch shares a comprehensive preview, outlining BYU’s threefold mission for victory: managing the chaos of Arizona d

SHOW UP: BYU Football Fans GEAR UP for Big 12 Opener & First Down Provo Hopes to Fuel Fan Engagement
Can First Down Provo spark a new era of pre-game festivities for BYU Cougars fans and Big 12 visitors? Skyler Beltran, Utah County Commissioner, breaks down how this inaugural fan event aims to capture the energy of college football hotbeds like Texas A&M’s Friday night tradition and Florida State’s downtown bash. With Center Street in Provo transforming into a festival zone featuring live mus

BYU Hoops Loses Jakub Urbaniak, Lands Petar Ostojic Commit & BYU Football Loses Sione Moa Yet Again | Player Availabillity Report Analysis
Welcome to a massive, multi-sport edition of Locked On Cougars, your daily home for all things BYU athletics. On today’s show, host Jake Hatch navigates a whirlwind 24 hours in Provo, balancing high-stakes roster turbulence on the hardwood with crucial injury updates on the gridiron as BYU football prepares for a pivotal clash against the Arizona Wildcats.We open on the basketball court, where Kev

ALL TALK, NO BITE? Arizona Wildcats’ Bravado Sets Stage for Epic BYU Football SHOWDOWN This Saturday | Bear Bachmeier vs. Noah Fifita Round 2 | Keys to the Game & Predictions | Locked On Crossover
BYU football braces for a high-stakes Big 12 showdown as the Arizona Wildcats storm into LaVell Edwards Stadium hunting payback for last season’s double-overtime heartbreak. The air crackles with anticipation as Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin anchor BYU’s balanced offense against the heightened energy and confident talk coming out of Tucson—will Arizona’s talk and bravado pay off, or is it fueling a

From 'Sad Sack' Oklahoma State to BYU's Dominance—Week 1 Big 12 Reactions Go Completely Over-the-Top | Big 12 Squad
Big 12 shocks and redemption stories light up the college football landscape as Oklahoma State’s stunning collapse against Tulsa raises urgent questions about coaching adaptability and team focus. Cutter Boley’s exceptional debut for Arizona State, featuring a record-setting first start, reignites the conversation on quarterback talent across the conference. Meanwhile, Baylor’s defense turns heads

DISRESPECTED: Why BYU Football Must PROVE Themselves With Statement Victory Over Arizona on Saturday | Big 12 Needs LSU Lightning Rod | Skyler Beltran Explains What 'First Down Provo' Entails
BYU football enters a pivotal showdown with Arizona as College Football Playoff narratives already hang in the balance. Pollsters dropped Kalani Sitake’s team despite a 63-7 thrashing of Utah Tech, fueling frustration among fans and raising the stakes for every game ahead. Can the Cougars overcome what Jake Hatch calls a national bias against programs like BYU, where convincing wins aren’t enough

REVEALED: Arizona Wildcats OBSESSED with BYU Payback—Kalani Sitake & Brent Brennan Ready for Battle | Brennan Downplays BYU Fan Impact | Big 12 Three Up, Three Down
BYU football aims to extend its reign over the Arizona Wildcats in a pivotal Big 12 showdown—can Kalani Sitake keep the streak alive, or will Brent Brennan and quarterback Noah Fifita deliver long-awaited payback? With BYU holding a five-game winning streak and Sitake undefeated against Arizona in his head coaching tenure, Saturday’s matchup in Provo is shaping up as an early season tone-setter fo

Did LSU's DOMINANT Win vs Clemson PROVE Lane Kiffin's Tigers Legit? | Michigan Gets Extra Second & Escapes | Locked On College Football Squad
LSU Tigers dismantle Clemson in a high-stakes opener, sparking fierce debate across the college football landscape—are Lane Kiffin’s Tigers poised for a deep playoff run, or did a depleted, transfer-averse Clemson make them look better than they are? Spencer McLaughlin, Jake Hatch, Alex Donno, Isaiah Hole, and Steven Willis break down every angle of LSU’s dominant showing, from the Tigers’ physica

UNBLEMISHED: BYU Football & Kalani Sitake Look to Extend DOMINANCE Over Arizona Saturday Afternoon | Weekly Press Conference Focuses on Wildcats, Utah Tech Outcomes & Big 12 Conference Opener
BYU football gears up for their first Big 12 conference test of the season against the Arizona Wildcats, determined to keep Kalani Sitake’s flawless 5-0 record in the matchup intact. With Arizona’s players, led by quarterback Noah Fifita, vocalizing their motivation for payback after last year’s double-overtime heartbreaker, the stakes soar for both programs. Will BYU’s home field advantage at LaV

STATEMENT: BYU Cougars Show Championship FORM—Legend Glasker Breaks Record, Bear Bachmeier Runs Wild | Losing Sione Moa & Raider Damuni Stings BYU Football's Depth
BYU football sent a powerful statement with a dominant 63-7 victory over Utah Tech, sparking optimism about a potential Big 12 Conference title charge and a run at the College Football Playoff. With Bear Bachmeier’s improved speed at quarterback, Legend Glasker’s record-setting debut hat trick, and Cannon DeVries’ electrifying all-purpose impact, Jake Hatch breaks down why the BYU Cougars look eve

UTTER DOMINANCE: BYU Cougars SMASH Utah Tech as Bear Bachmeier, Legend Glasker, Cannon DeVries Shine | POSTCAST
Welcome into another edition of Locked On Cougars, hosted by Jake Hatch! The No. 14 BYU Cougars put on an absolute clinic under the lights at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday night, dismantling the Utah Tech Trailblazers in a dominant 63-7 rout to kick off the home slate in style. On today’s episode, we break down every angle of this explosive 56-point victory.We start with a surgical perf

WATCH OUT: Big 12 Will Embarrass SEC Again; Here's How Baylor is Actually Going to Blow Out Auburn | Big 12 Squad
Big 12 teams face early-season pressure as Baylor preps for a high-stakes showdown against Auburn in the Aflac Kickoff. Can DJ Lagway ignite the Bears’ offense and save Dave Aranda’s job, or will Auburn’s transfer-heavy roster under Alex Golesh hold the upper hand? The group debates talent disparities, the impact of new coaching staffs, and whether last year’s stats offer any real insight for fans

BOLD CALL: BYU & LJ Martin CHASE Records—Cougars Will Go 11-1 Season & Make College Football Playoff | Utah Tech Must-Do's | Everydayer Club Mailbag
BYU football sets the stage for a season with sky-high stakes, eyeing an 11-1 regular season that could launch the program into the College Football Playoff conversation. Jake Hatch breaks down why he predicts BYU can conquer powerhouses like Notre Dame at LaVell Edwards Stadium, even if they sacrifice a heated road rivalry game at Utah. With the Big 12 title game and national spotlight in play, t

HYPE: BYU Basketball Eyes Sweet 16—Rob Wright, Bruce Branch III & Jaxon Kohler LEAD High-Floor Squad | Lance Anderson Explains Challenge of Playing Bear Bachmeier, LJ Martin & BYU Football
BYU men's basketball stands at the brink of another breakthrough, with Kevin Young’s squad reshaping expectations across the Big 12 and beyond. Can incoming star Bruce Branch III match AJ Dybantsa’s legacy as a projected top NBA pick, and how high is this program’s new floor? Jake Hatch examines ESPN’s latest projections, which put BYU’s ceiling at 26 wins and a Sweet 16 appearance—despite continu

BUZZ: BYU’s Kalani Sitake a HOT COMMODITY—Top Programs Circling to Hire Him Amidst Resource Battle? | Inside Kelly Poppinga's 'Six Seconds of Havoc' | Miles Hall One-on-One
Kalani Sitake’s future at BYU remains the talk of college football as his coaching success attracts interest from programs the ilk of USC and Penn State. Fresh off a season highlighted by double-digit wins and an enhanced long-term deal, the BYU Cougars’ head coach finds himself in the national spotlight again—with major outlets wondering if his next move is coming sooner rather than later. Jake H

SEC Nearing Decision About Kicking LSU Completely Out—Lane Kiffin & NFL Players Done? | TCU Stumbled & Embarrassed Big 12 Conference? Big 12 Squad
Lane Kiffin ignites chaos in college football as he maneuvers to bring NFL-caliber talent back to LSU, prompting a mutiny among SEC coaches and sparking fears of a potential conference boycott or outirght expulsion from the Southeastern Conference. The Big 12 Squad dives headfirst into the high-stakes drama: Could LSU actually find itself on the SEC’s chopping block? With the NCAA’s eligibility ru

TONE-SETTER: BYU Football Hopes STANDARD Will Take Root Saturday & Show Us Big 12 Contender Glimpses | Preston Rex Hopes All 'Eat' Against Utah Tech | BYU & Utah Are Same But Different?
BYU football set the stage for a statement season opener against Utah Tech—will Kalani Sitake’s squad deliver the dominant start BYU fans expect, and how prepared is the team for a looming revenge showdown with Arizona? Jake Hatch breaks down why the BYU Cougars should be able to “name their score” against Utah Tech and what BYU’s coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, genuin

LINGERING: Jaxon Kohler & Jakub Urbaniak's Status in Question as BYU Basketball Pivots to Euro Big? | Filisi Filipe Shows Hallmarks & Elite Traits
BYU Basketball’s roster strategy takes center stage as the Cougars pursue Serbian 7-footer Petar Ostojic, while top prospect Xavion Staton heads elsewhere. With questions swirling about why BYU would part ways with one project big man only to seek another, Jake Hatch breaks down the program’s recruiting philosophy and examines how the eligibility of Jaxon Kohler and European prospect Jakub Urbania

POWER PLAY: BYU Cougars Leadership FEUD Continues—Kalani Sitake PUSHES for Fulfillment of Promises | Will Distractions Sideline BYU's Hopes & Dreams? | BYU Basketball Adds Patrick Mutombo
The BYU football program stands at a crossroads as off-field drama threatens to overshadow a pivotal season. Promises made—and possibly broken—between head coach Kalani Sitake and athletic director Brian Santiago are fueling a high-stakes power struggle. Jake Hatch uncovers exclusive reporting from Dick Harmon and Gordon Monson revealing contract delays, leadership disputes, and the behind-the-sce

SUPRISE: BYU Football's Youth Movement Shines Thru on Initial Depth Chart | Kalani Sitake Sets Tone & Tenor of Season | Bear Bachmeier, LJ Martin & Justin Kirkland Ready to Roll
The 14th-ranked BYU football program enters game week with fresh optimism and a revamped depth chart spotlighting the rapid rise of young standouts and the enduring presence of veteran leaders. Legend Glasker headlines the conversation after grabbing a top spot at wide receiver, confirming preseason hype and ESPN’s All-Big 12 chatter. Host Jake Hatch breaks down every key move, from Bear Bachmeier

POWER STRUGGLE? Kalani Sitake & Brian Santiago CLASH Over BYU Football & Athletic Department Future | How Ugly Could Saturday Look? | Former Cougars in the Pros
The BYU Cougars sent shockwaves through college football by separating their football program, led by Kalani Sitake, from the broader athletic department under athletic director Brian Santiago. Is this bold administrative realignment a short-term “Band-Aid fix” or the beginning of a deeper philosophical split within BYU Athletics? Jake Hatch unpacks insider perspectives—including Brett McMurphy’s

DUBLINERS: Will North Carolina Down TCU? | Which Surprise Teams Will SHAKE UP Big 12? | Big 12 Squad
TCU faces high stakes and high tension as they open the Big 12 football season against UNC in Dublin. Can the Horned Frogs shake off internal drama and avoid the infamous “Emerald Isle” curse, or will UNC’s chaotic coaching situation prove less of a distraction than expected? This week’s Big 12 Squad show gathers local experts from across the conference, including Jake Hatch and voices from the re

MANDATE: BYU Football & Kalani Sitake on NOTICE—Will He DELIVER College Football Playoff Breakthrough? | LOPN Top-100 CFB Players Rewards Two Cougars | TJ Wood Demands Offensive Line Excellence
Kalani Sitake finally gets his wish—the BYU football program now reports directly to university leadership, bypassing athletic director Brian Santiago. The real challenge begins: Can Sitake translate this off-field win behind the scenes into historic success on the field and lead the BYU Cougars into the College Football Playoff for the first time? Armed with increased autonomy and fresh support,

BIG 12 SQUAD - Big 12 Preseason RANKINGS | Where BYU sits
Big 12 powerhouses face chaos as preseason rankings ignite controversy. West Virginia surges into Big 12 title contention, Arizona State faces widespread doubt over quarterback Cutter Boley, and Oklahoma State’s offense emerges as a major talking point—all while transfer portal shakeups and 55 new Cowboys players raise questions about defensive trust. Is this the wildest preseason prediction era f

RESTRUCTURING: BYU Football & Kalani Sitake No Longer Report to Brian Santiago | Friction Resolved? | Will BYU Basketball's Euro Imports be Cleared?
Welcome to a breaking-news edition of Locked On Cougars, your daily home for all things BYU athletics. On today’s show, host Jake Hatch dives deep into a massive administrative shakeup in Provo and a controversial new ruling from the Big 12 Conference that directly impacts the hardwood.
First, we tackle the seismic news surrounding the BYU Athletic Department. In a stunning structural shift, BYU i

DEBUNKED: Jaxon Kohler Is Still in Play for BYU Basketball Even as Big 12's Ruling Makes NCAA Waves | Legend Glasker's Legend Growing | Kila Keone: The Redux
Jaxon Kohler’s eligibility status for the BYU men's basketball program triggers major questions for Brigham Young University and the Big 12 Conference. As the NCAA’s legal wrangling over pro-athlete returns heats up, could BYU’s highly-touted transfer be benched before the season tips off? Jake Hatch spotlights the ongoing battle between conference rulebooks and individual player circumstances, se

CURIOSITY: BYU’s Wide Receivers Facing Massive TEST—Expanded Rotation Right Move for Kalani Sitake? | Treyson Bourguet Details What Makes BYU Special & His 'Bourguet Bugle'
The BYU football program's pursuit of a consistent passing attack takes center stage as questions swirl around Kalani Sitake’s projection for a deep wide receiver rotation. Jake Hatch challenges the idea Sitake suggested of rotating up to eight wideouts, pointing to recent seasons where production has concentrated among a core group, and breaks down why offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick is like

CONFIDENCE: BYU Football Wraps Camp Kalani While TARGET Big 12 Title & College Football Playoff Slot | Training Camp Superlatives | Fisher Ingersoll Looks to Assert Himself
The BYU football program signals their intent for a Big 12 championship and a long-awaited College Football Playoff breakthrough, riding high on confidence as camp wraps up. Can Bear Bachmeier’s leap at quarterback and the emergence of fresh faces propel Kalani Sitake’s squad through their toughest test yet? Veteran leadership is everywhere—on both sides of the ball—and expectations in Provo have

CLARITY: Kevin Young's Projected BYU Basketball Roster & Lineup STRONG Despite Lingering Questions | BYU Football Will NOT Follow Lane Kiffin's Lead
Welcome to another jam-packed edition of Locked On Cougars, your daily home for all things BYU athletics. On today’s show, host Jake Hatch dives into two major talking points shaping the late-summer sports landscape in Provo: the rising expectations for the hardwood and the hard realities of roster management on the gridiron.
First, we turn our attention to the Marriott Center, where Kevin Young a

SHOCKER: Are BYU Football Coaches FORCING Bear Bachmeier To Change His Playing Style For More Wins? | LaVell Edwards Stadium Gets New Additions | RIP Dave Kragthorpe
Is the BYU football program about to redefine its offensive identity? With offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick pushing Bear Bachmeier to rely more on his arm and less on his bruising runs, the BYU Cougars are eyeing a season where quarterback health and explosive passing may trump old habits. Bachmeier, famous for wearing No. 47 and playing with a "fullback mentality," faces a coaching staff dete

GAME-CHANGER: BYU Basketball Lands Jaxon Kohler, SHAKES UP Big 12 Contenders List | Kevin Young Wins Another Recruiting War & Could Still Add Dallin Hall | Uhila Wolfgramm Worth Price of Admission
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. H

BIG 12 SQUAD - Big 12 SEASON PREVIEW | What EXPERTS say about BYU
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 Arl

Kalani Sitake Has Proven His Value | Why Losing Him Would DEVASTATE BYU Football | BYU Cougars Charging for Gameday Experiences Off-Base? | Everydayer Club Mailbag
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 p

UNPROVEN: Will BYU’s Wide Receivers & Bear Bachmeier DELIVER Playoff-Worthy Offense? Experts Discuss | Can They Find a Way to Knock Off Notre Dame?
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

CONTROVERSY: BYU’s LJ Martin Honored & Utah IGNORED—Should Big 12 Fans Demand All-American RESPECT? | AP Poll Shenanigans & AD's Courting Controvery
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

ANSWERED PRAYER? Injunction Opens Door for Jaxon Kohler to Land With Kevin Young & BYU Basketball | Where Does Keba Keita Fit?
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

SHOCKER: BYU Cougars Ranked #14 – Were Kalani Sitake & Underdog BYU Football Program SNUBBED Again? | 2027 Schedule Looks Stout | Jake Clifton Eager to Assert Himself in Provo
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

SHOWDOWN: Kalani Sitake PRESSES BYU Administration & Brian Santiago to HONOR Contract & COMMITMENTS | BYU Football Scrimmage Give Offensive Hope | Lewis Walker Talks BYU Cornerbacks
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

ALL-IN: Kalani Sitake & BYU Football Well-Positioned for Big 12 GLORY While Jake Hatch Makes a Pivot | Bill Connelly Likes BYU's Makeup | Future Cougs Friday Night Lights Preview
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 B

BIG 12 SQUAD - More College Football Realignment CHAOS | How this impacts BYU
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 drive

DISTRACTION: BYU Football Turmoil With Kalani Sitake & Brian Santiago Rift THREATENS Powerful Season | Keba Keita & Jaxon Kohler Possible BYU Hoops Additions? | Everydayer Club Mailbag
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 question

UNDERFUNDED? Kalani Sitake’s Powerful Plea for BYU Football Funding to COMPETE Nationally RESONATES | Does Marc Hill Make Instant Impact? | Football Roster Costs Skyrocketing
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 footb

RESOURCES NEEDED: Kalani Sitake CALLS OUT BYU's Administration & Pushes for Football Investment NOW | Walker Lyons Explains Roger Saleapaga Synergy | Jaxon Kohler or Bust for BYU Hoops?
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 spo

SURPRISE: BYU Addresses Brian Santiago's Job Status Rumors, Fanbase ERUPTS Over Official Response | Buy Legend Glasker Stock Now | BYU's Homegrown Strategy Paying Off
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, exam

Training Camp Battles to Watch, BYU's New/Old Nemesis, & Could the PCSA Trigger Wild Realignment?
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 playmake

BIG 12 SQUAD - College Football is about to CHANGE | How BYU is affected
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

College Football Universe UNDERESTIMATING BYU Again—Are Kalani Sitake's Cougars Ready for Spotlight? | BYU Training Camp Day 1 Highlights, News & Personnel Notes
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 straigh

GO-TIME: BYU Cougars HUNTED, Not Hunters—Will Pressure DESTROY Their College Football Playoff Hopes? | Who Will Emerge as Go-To Reciever? | Everydayer Club Mailbag Q&A
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 fr

BYU, Kalani Sitake & PCSA—Will the Cougars SUSTAIN Success or FALL in New Era? Even Footing Arrives | Who is LJ Martin's Foil? | Get Ready for Training Camp All-Star Szn!
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:

Bear Bachmeier Faces LOFTY Standard With BYU Football's College Football Playoff Hopes Set to SOAR? | Jaxon Kohler Hopes Dead? | ROC Pass Furor
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 int

DRIVEN: Kalani Sitake & BYU Cougars SET Sights on a Big 12 Title & College Football Playoff Berth | Andrew Gentry Championship Mindset | Raider Damuni 1-on-1 Chat
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,

BIG 12 SQUAD - College Football Teams are UNIONIZING | Does this HELP BYU?
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

UNSTOPPABLE: BYU Cougars, Bear Bachmeier & LJ Martin Make Their Big 12 STATEMENT—Why Experts BELIEVE
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 fa

BURDEN: BYU Cougars Face EXPLOSIVE Financial Demands That Could Change Everything for Kalani Sitake | Ephraim Asiata in Legal Hot Water | Will BYU's Special Teams Answer Call?
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 e

EXPECTATIONS: Expert Predicts BYU Football DESTINED to Break Through With College Football Playoff | Rob Wright Carries Weight of BYU Basketball While Jakub Urbaniak Aims to Elevate KY & co.
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

BIG 12 SQUAD - The SEC is being RIDICULOUS | How will BYU respond?
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’

Are the BYU Cougars & Kalani Sitake Ready to Navigate Inevitable CHAOS in Big 12 Race This Fall? | John Kurtz is 'Open for Business' | Dustin Smith Shaping QB Futures
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

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: BYU’s Isaiah Glasker Eyes Big 12 Championship & College Football Playoff Dreams | Shehan Jeyarajah Handicaps BYU Football Amidst Big 12 Race
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 leadersh

BREAKTHROUGH: Bear Bachmeier Declares BYU Cougars Can WIN the Big 12 | His Bold Claims, Inside Scoop | Berry Tramel Preview Big 12 Race & BYU's Chances | Jake Matsen is Future Star at QB
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

LONG GAME: NCAA Eligibility Drama IGNITES BYU Basketball Hopes | Did Kevin Young Outsmart Everyone? | Jag Ioane Adds to BYU Football's Defensive Stable | Rob Wright Erupts at Powder League
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 championsh

HONESTY: Kalani Sitake Explains Deep-Seated BYU Football LOYALTY, Penn State TEMPTATION & INVESTMENT | BYU's 'Mission Advantage' Null & Void | Everydayer Club Mailbag
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

Do BYU Cougars & Big 12 Fans At-Large Need to Lay Off Ripping Joey McGuire & Texas Tech Red Raiders? | Big 12 Squad
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 serio

Is BYU Football's Output the BEST VALUE in College Football? Has Kalani Sitake Broken the Old Model? | BYU Athletics a True Financial Powerhouse? | Let's Get Cosmo the Cougar Immortalized!
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 extract
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