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

ACC chaos strikes BYU football, jeopardizing the Cougars’ 2026 College Football Playoff ambitions and sparking outcry—can Kalani Sitake’s program find a solution before it’s too late? Jake Hatch breaks down how the ACC’s unbalanced conference schedule forced Cal to cancel its much-anticipated home-and-home series with BYU, leaving the Cougars without a Power Four opponent just nine months ahead of the 2026 season. With College Football Playoff selection hinging on quality non-conference wins and the Big 12’s strict expectations for scheduling, BYU faces an uphill battle to keep its postseason hopes alive. Will ESPN’s legendary game arranger Dave Brown orchestrate a strategic fix? Could the Big 12 offer a waiver or manufacture an intra-conference non-conference matchup? Jake Hatch explores these possibilities while highlighting how timing, uncoordinated conference decisions, and scarcity of available Power programs threaten to derail BYU’s aspirations.Turning to the gridiron, Jojo Phillips offers exclusive insights after his long road back from injury. The star wide receiver opens up about regaining confidence after his collarbone setback against Stanford, the steady leadership of Kalani Sitake, and the unwavering bond within the BYU locker room—even during distractions like coaching rumors. Phillips details his mentality approaching the Pop-Tarts Bowl versus Georgia Tech, his focus on ending the year with momentum, and the sense of urgency as transfer portal season approaches. His candid reflections reveal the challenges and resilience needed to thrive at the highest level.The transfer portal drama continues as Walker Lyons, USC tight end and brother to BYU commit Ryder Lyons, emerges as a priority target for the Cougars. Jake Hatch assesses Walker’s USC impact, family connections to Provo, and the real possibility of the Lyons brothers becoming a BYU tandem. Listeners get an inside look at BYU’s evolving portal strategy, roster implications for 2026, and why the Cougars remain a compelling destination for high-profile talent. Can BYU’s staff turn adversity into opportunity and solidify their spot among college football’s elite? Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis and exclusive player perspective.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars dominate Pacific Tigers 93-57 on the hardwood, but the real fireworks ignite after the game with Pacific AD Adam Tschuor’s headline-grabbing rant. Tschuor calls BYU “walking bags of cash,” criticizing the new NIL era and the financial dynamics of college athletics. Does this social media dust-up signal deeper tensions between mid-majors and Power 4 programs, or is it simply sour grapes after BYU’s resounding victory? Jake Hatch breaks down the implications of Tschuor’s comments, exploring the evolution of athlete compensation and how the Cougars are navigating the ever-changing college basketball landscape.The episode spotlights breakout performances in BYU’s victory—Rob Wright, Richie Saunders, and AJ Dybantsa each score 22+ points, marking the first time in 15 years that three Cougars achieve this feat in a single game. Defensive improvement is clear as BYU’s bench depth shines, with Tyler Mrus stepping up in place of Aleksej Kostic. As Big 12 play looms, the Cougars are building momentum, but are they prepared for tougher competition ahead?Shifting to football, Jake Hatch unveils BYU’s transfer portal power rankings and the strategic priorities for roster upgrades. Defensive line stands tall as the top target, inspired by Texas Tech’s $7 million unit that stifled the Cougars on the field. Running back depth is critical with LJ Martin’s NFL future undecided, while offensive line holes, receiver roles, and linebacker depth round out the must-address positions. Hatch highlights Joshua Dye, Southern Utah’s record-setting running back, as a transfer prospect who fits BYU’s need for a dynamic ground threat.Listeners get exclusive insights on BYU’s NIL resources, culture fit challenges, and the portal’s ever-evolving impact. Is BYU flexing enough muscle to compete in the Big 12 arms race? Will new recruits like Dye fill the gaps and elevate the program in 2025? Catch every angle as Jake Hatch delivers essential analysis for Cougar fans tracking basketball blowouts, football rebuilds, and the future of college athletics.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Will the BYU Cougars truly be at full strength for the Pop-Tarts Bowl showdown with Georgia Tech? Jake Hatch takes a critical look at internal optimism from coaches Aaron Roderick and Jay Hill, spotlighting the tough choices facing key contributors like Jack Kelly, LJ Martin, and Bear Bachmeier. Weighing the risks of injury against high-stakes NFL Draft preparations, these stars must determine whether to play or protect their pro futures. The conversation digs into the likelihood of opt-outs, BYU’s robust locker room culture under Kalani Sitake, and how the bowl could serve as an early casting call for the next generation of Cougar standouts.The hoops scene heats up as BYU prepares for a heavy-favorite matchup against the Pacific Tigers, while the spotlight shines on AJ Dybantsa after coach Kevin Young hinted he could explode for 50 in a blowout. Jake Hatch scrutinizes Young’s game plan, the potential rewards (and risks) of letting a star showcase his full arsenal, and how these “money games” offer insights before the Big 12 gauntlet begins. Listeners get a preview of crucial individual matchups, including Richie Saunders and Kaba Keita’s defensive assignments, and learn why these tune-ups boost both BYU’s depth and mid-major athletic budgets.As the transfer portal buzz intensifies, Jake Hatch singles out Liona Lefau—a proven Texas Longhorns linebacker and former BYU target—as priority No. 1 for replenishing a defense facing the loss of Kelly and possibly Isaiah Glasker. With Lefau’s starting experience in the SEC and Big 12, deep BYU recruiting connections, and versatile potential in Jay Hill’s system, the Cougars are primed to address key needs with impact talent. The episode wraps up with insights on BYU’s evolving recruiting strategies, the realities of the modern transfer market, and a rallying call for fans to stay tuned as the Cougars position themselves for a new era of competition.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU-Utah rivalry is entering uncharted territory as legendary Utes coach Kyle Whittingham steps down, paving the way for Morgan Scalley to take over in Salt Lake City. With the unexpected coaching change, all eyes turn to how BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and defensive coordinator Jay Hill will respond. Will Scalley’s leadership inspire a new era for Utah, or does this mark an opening for BYU to surge ahead after having the upper hand in recent rivalry matchups? Jake Hatch analyzes the ripple effects on staff compositions, explores the real likelihood of Jay Hill fielding interest from his alma mater, and considers whether either side will poach talent or coaches in an offseason primed for fireworks. With both programs led by true alumni for the first time in years—Sitake for BYU and Scalley for Utah—the show asks: Could the rivalry dynamic evolve, or will the intensity only increase with so much pride on the line?Shifting focus to the hardwood, BYU basketball dominates UC Riverside in a performance that underscores the Cougars’ growing depth ahead of Big 12 play. Beyond the highlight-reel dunks of AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright, Jake Hatch spotlights emerging contributors Dominique Diomande and Aleksej Kostic, whose defensive prowess and sharpshooting, respectively, hint at a tightened rotation for Kevin Young’s squad. As BYU gears up for Pacific and additional non-conference tune-ups, Hatch predicts the final nine-man—or possibly ten-man—rotation and provides clarity around redshirts and injury updates, including Brody Kozlowski and the impact of absences like Nate Pickens and Dawson Baker.Off the court, BYU faces a pivotal decision with the Big 12’s proposed $500 million private capital fund, following Utah’s move toward a groundbreaking equity deal with OTRO Partners. Will BYU maintain its historic debt-averse approach, or will competitive pressures in the rapidly evolving college athletics landscape force a rethink? Jake Hatch breaks down the structure of the conference proposal and what it means for facility upgrades, NIL, and financial strategy in Provo. Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of the latest twists shaping BYU sports as the Cougars confront challenges—and opportunities—on every front.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Group by clicking here!Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big 12 Conference has been nothing short of a whirlwind over the past week, marked by a major championship, postseason selection drama, and a groundbreaking business announcement that reinforces its "New Look" identity.1. Championship and CFP BreakthroughThe week started with the Big 12 Championship Game where Texas Tech defeated BYU in a commanding fashion (34-7). This victory propelled the Red Raiders to a 12-1 record, securing the Big 12's automatic bid to the expanded College Football Playoff. The subsequent CFP rankings confirmed Texas Tech as the No. 4 seed, earning them a crucial first-round bye straight to the Orange Bowl Quarterfinal—a massive statement for the restructured league.2. Bowl and Political FalloutWhile the Big 12 celebrated Tech's CFP inclusion and the bowl selections for seven other teams, drama erupted over the bubble. Commissioner Brett Yormark publicly backed the CFP committee's decision, despite BYU's exclusion, and notably criticized Notre Dame's Athletic Director for his "egregious" outrage over the Irish being left out. This positioned the Big 12 as a stable, unified partner in the new CFP ecosystem, contrasting sharply with the ACC's turmoil. Adding to the controversy, the conference levied $500,000 fines on Iowa State and Kansas State for opting to skip bowl games, underscoring the conference's commitment to fulfilling its postseason obligations.3. NFL Partnership AnnouncementPerhaps the most significant long-term news was the conference's announcement of a strategic partnership with the NFL. This collaboration aims to align the two organizations on everything from officiating development and emerging technology to global growth initiatives. This unprecedented move further showcases the Big 12's innovative, business-forward approach under Yormark, establishing a distinct brand identity separate from the traditionalist SEC/Big Ten dynamic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.