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

Big 12 basketball surges as Houston, Iowa State, and Arizona eye Final Four spots—can the conference claim a national title? The hosts debate whether these teams have the stamina and star power to outlast the competition, spotlighting Houston’s dominance, Iowa State’s resilience, and Arizona’s elite talent. Discussions weigh the lack of Cinderella stories in this year’s March Madness, the evolving impact of NIL and the transfer portal, and whether Power Four programs have reshaped the tournament landscape. The Big 12 Squad dissects new coaching hires at Arizona State and Cincinnati—including Randy Bennett and Jerrod Calhoun—and question if “old school” coaches can thrive in the current NIL era. Insights on Big 12 expansion, program investment, and the challenges facing athletic departments round out this compelling analysis. Will Houston, Iowa State, or Arizona carry the Big 12 torch to a championship? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU football program has ignited discussion on their future as season ticket demand hits its peak—should LaVell Edwards Stadium undergo a mere expansion, or is it time for a visionary rebuild that redefines the college football experience? Jake Hatch challenges tradition, envisioning LES as a climate-controlled, enclosed arena, leveraging resources from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by incorporating church building elements and cutting-edge features like glass walls for Wasatch Mountain views. Will BYU set a new standard in the Big 12 for fan engagement and innovation, or stick with incremental upgrades that could fall short of their ambitious goals? The episode goes beyond football, as Jake Hatch spotlights BYU women’s basketball’s postseason charge. Lee Cummard’s team faces the Stanford Cardinal in a pivotal WBIT quarterfinal, with Delaney Gibb, Olivia Hamlin, Sydney Benally, and the rest of the BYU women's basketball program determined to prove their NCAA snub wasn’t a fluke. Cummard’s approach echoes the legacies of Jeff Judkins and Dave Rose, focusing on savvy recruiting, player development, and program-building moves that could elevate BYU’s status in the Big 12. The showdown with Stanford promises a clash of BYU’s offensive firepower against Stanford’s defensive grit—with turnovers and momentum likely deciding their fate. Baseball and golf round out a packed lineup, as BYU alumni Justin Sterner and Daniel Schneemann secure coveted MLB Opening Day roster spots, while several other Cougars look to make their mark in the minors. Jake Hatch underscores the potential for Trent Pratt and his staff to build a pipeline to the pros, positioning BYU for broader national visibility. On the links, the legend of Kihei Akina grows ever brighter—Akina’s back-to-back medalist honors and a PGA Tour cut signal the emergence of a new golf superstar following in the footsteps of BYU icons such as Johnny Miller and Mike Weir. With BYU men’s golf now ranked 24th and set for the prestigious Goodwin event at Stanford, the future looks promising. Listen for sharp insights, lively debate, and a spotlight on unsung stars as Jake Hatch breaks down BYU Athletics’ evolving landscape and what lies ahead for Cougar fans across all sports. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now avai

Kevin Young’s meteoric rise at BYU has caught the attention of college basketball heavyweights—could a blue blood program poach the Cougars' head coach? With North Carolina and Creighton opening up major coaching vacancies, Jake Hatch explores the pressing question: Could be BYU at risk of losing Young, whose NBA experience and exceptional recruiting have transformed BYU into a national force? After consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, a Sweet 16 run, and landing elite recruits like AJ Dybantsa, Egor Demin, and Bruce Branch III, BYU is suddenly a prime destination for top talent and coaches alike. The discussion centers on Young’s long-term ambitions, the appeal of family life in Provo, and whether BYU’s investment in facilities and NIL is enough to keep him from being lured away by powerhouse programs, especially those willing to break with tradition and spend big. The episode features an exclusive interview with Demario Warren, BYU’s new defensive passing game coordinator and safeties coach. Warren offers insider perspective on his transition back to Utah, his approach to building relationships across the revamped secondary, and the importance for the BYU football program of staying hungry despite returning standouts like Raider Damuni and Faletau Satuala. Warren shares how BYU’s defensive scheme, including its signature single-high safety look, is under review—will the Cougars innovate under defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga and head coach Kalani Sitake to stay ahead of Big 12 rivals who are now targeting BYU’s strategies after its red zone dominance last season? Warren also highlights emerging talents like Jarinn Kalama and Tommy Prassas, stressing the focus on depth and adaptability as BYU eyes another leap forward on defense. Rounding out the show, listeners are treated to the remarkable story of Ethan Shuley, a former BYU track athlete who abandoned distance running after repeated injuries—only to become one of America’s fastest marathoners while living in Japan. Is Shuley destined for a spot on Team USA at the L.A. 2028 Olympics, or will his journey spawn a feature film? Plus, BYU baseball scores a hard-fought 6-5 win over Utah, moving within striking distance of .500 and building momentum for the home series against Oklahoma State. Jake Hatch delivers expert analysis, insider interviews, and news that keeps BYU fans and college sports enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax

The BYU Cougars look poised for a landmark season, thanks to a winning bet on roster continuity and impressive returning production statistics that could power a College Football Playoff push. Jake Hatch breaks down why Kalani Sitake’s program leads the Big 12 in defensive returning production, retaining 69%—good for 6th nationally according to ESPN’s Bill Connelly. Not a single two-deep player with eligibility remaining left Provo, underscoring a culture that values loyalty and growth. With standouts like Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin set to take the next step, and the addition of proven transfers such as Paki Finau, Jr Sia and Zak Yamauchi, BYU is generating serious buzz. Could this extraordinary level of continuity and development provide BYU the edge they need to challenge college football’s established powerhouses? Will a schedule featuring Notre Dame as a marquee matchup prove the Cougars are legitimate playoff threats? On the hardwood, BYU basketball’s rebuilding efforts are firmly in the spotlight. Kevin Young is casting a global recruiting net, targeting international standouts like British guard Quinn Ellis while cementing elite commitments such as Bruce Branch III, a reclassified top-10 prospect now projected as a 2027 NBA lottery pick. NBA draft projections already peg Branch as a possible No. 2 overall selection, signaling the Cougars’ rise as high-major recruiting players. Beyond Branch, the arrival of Dean Rueckert and the pursuit of Quinn Ellis—who boasts accolades like LBA Best Young Player and Italian Cup MVP—highlight BYU’s aggressive strategy. With heavyweights like Kentucky, Duke, and Houston courting the same talent, can BYU’s NBA development pipeline and NIL resources help win key recruiting battles? Meanwhile, BYU women’s basketball continues its postseason surge under Lee Cummard, advancing to the WBIT quarterfinals with dominant performances from stars like Delaney Gibb. After a resounding win over Missouri, the Cougars prepare to host Stanford, aiming for a semifinal berth and a chance to end the season on a high. Will these postseason triumphs and standout individual performances solidify BYU as a rising force in both the Big 12 and nationally? Catch the comprehensive analysis and see what’s next for Cougar Nation. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game. Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. No

The BYU Cougars ignite a new era in college athletics as Kalani Sitake’s historic contract sets off a chain reaction—fueling a dramatic split between Kyle Whittingham and Utah, then pushing Whittingham to take the helm at Michigan. Is BYU’s willingness to invest in elite talent now reshaping its rivalry with Utah and redefining what’s possible for Cougar football? Host Jake Hatch uncovers the intricacies behind the contract negotiations: Sitake’s deal mirroring Penn State’s offers, Whittingham’s demands for parity, and Utah’s refusal to match, which led to one of the most significant coaching shifts in recent Big 12 and Big Ten history. The episode explores how BYU’s boosters and upgraded athletic budgets are transforming the program's future—and what consequences this holds for talent retention, recruiting battles, and continued competitiveness in the Big 12. Athletic excellence takes center stage as BYU’s Pro Day delivers standout performances for NFL hopefuls. Garrison Grimes claims a perfect R.A.S. score and stands as the best long snapper athlete since 1987, while Chase Roberts shaves down his 40-yard dash, Tanner Wall showcases versatility, and Jack Kelly emerges as a probable draft pick. Mory Bamba’s blazing speed and Carsen Ryan’s blocking strength add to BYU’s growing reputation as a producer of next-level talent, with scouts from nearly every NFL team in attendance. Will these Cougars break through in the NFL draft, or will their elite numbers translate to valuable free-agent pickups? Women’s basketball headlines the postseason with stars Delaney Gibb, Olivia Hamlin, and Sydney Benally leading BYU into a high-stakes WBIT matchup against Missouri. The team hunts for consecutive postseason victories, aiming to tie program history for most wins by a first-year head coach. Jake Hatch previews the key roster moves, strategy updates, and statistical milestones—including Benally’s record-setting assists—while inviting Cougar Nation to rally behind the women’s team for a shot at history and a potential run to Wichita. Locked On Cougars delivers a fast-paced analysis of BYU’s impact on collegiate athletics, NFL prospects, and women’s postseason basketball, blending breaking news, insider details, and expert commentary to keep Cougar fans at the forefront of every development. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectato

The BYU Cougars crashed out of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament after a crushing 79-71 loss to Texas, marking a season that fails to live up to its early hype and leaving the fanbase wrestling with disappointment. Did AJ Dybantsa’s historic 35-point, 10-rebound showing in potentiallt his final game for the BYU men's basketball program provide a glimpse of what could have been, or was it a stark reminder of the Cougars' challenges on the national stage? As BYU’s first-round heartbreak joins a long list of early exits, the episode asks: What will it take for the Cougars to break their postseason curse and harness their potential for deeper tournament runs? Host Jake Hatch offers a critical breakdown, spotlighting BYU’s persistent flaws—paltry 18% three-point shooting, defensive breakdowns, and glaring gaps in the big man rotation. The discussion explores injuries crippling the roster, the impact of missing key contributors like Richie Saunders and Dawson Baker, and questions surrounding portal additions and roster construction spearheaded by Kevin Young and Justin Young. Is BYU’s recruiting philosophy—highlighted by Dybantsa’s bold path and soon-to-be arrival of Bruce Branch—enough to build sustainable success, or is more systemic change required? Hatch examines the need for established low-post threats and outlines defensive philosophy adjustments that may demand coaching shake-ups and tactical overhauls. AJ Dybantsa’s legacy transcends statistics; his trailblazing decision to choose BYU opened doors for future elite talent and challenged national narratives about playing, thriving, and earning in Provo. Hatch reveals insider perspectives—from NIL investment returns to the culture shift within the program—that set the stage for future recruiting coups and evolving ambitions. With the transfer portal window looming and fans anxious for news on key returnees and departures, this episode considers the real value of BYU’s aggressive push for national relevance and what adjustments are necessary to make postseason success the rule, not the exception. Will the Cougars capitalize on Dybantsa’s momentum, bolster their roster, and return as a contender? Or will lingering issues and coaching questions hold Brigham Young University back heading into the 2026 season? Don’t miss this honest, solution-focused analysis of BYU basketball’s challenges, achievements, and road ahead. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading i

March Madness electrifies the college basketball landscape as the BYU Cougars prepare to battle the Texas Longhorns in one of the most anticipated first-round matchups. AJ Dybantsa’s emergence as a collegiate superstar draws nationwide attention—with millions tuning in to see if he and Robert Wright III can make BYU’s two-man game the talk of the tournament. Will BYU avoid another one-and-done disappointment, or does Texas’s athleticism and imposing frontcourt threaten to derail their postseason aspirations? Jake Hatch expertly breaks down the strategic chess match, emphasizing BYU’s need to rally a third scoring option in the absence of injured Richie Saunders, out-rebound a lengthy Texas squad, and sustain their recent defensive intensity—an identity shift that has propelled BYU’s late-season run. The conversation shifts to the behind-the-scenes moves shaping BYU’s roster under coach Kevin Young. Drawing from NBA philosophies, BYU’s aggressive NIL approach has led to three players—Dybantsa, Wright, and Saunders—receiving top-dollar contracts, creating a superteam dynamic rarely seen in college hoops. But is this model outdated as pro teams pivot to depth over star power? Jake Hatch weighs the benefits and drawbacks of BYU’s “three-max” system, pondering whether future rosters will feature two stars supported by a deeper, more balanced bench—a strategy that could elevate BYU’s talent floor and competitiveness in the Big 12 and NCAA tournament. Adding a layer of intrigue, Jake Hatch traces BYU’s rapid ascension back to Jack Gohlke’s epic 2024 upset, which toppled Kentucky and set off a coaching domino effect—leading Mark Pope from BYU to Kentucky and paving the way for Kevin Young’s transformative tenure in Provo. This episode connects the dots between March Madness legend-making moments, coaching changes, and BYU’s unprecedented success, including the recruitment of Egor Demin and Bruce Branch. Packed with insider analysis, tournament predictions, and fascinating what-if scenarios, Locked On Cougars delivers a comprehensive look at BYU’s path to prominence, the impact of NIL-driven roster construction, and the legends—both on and off the court—who have altered the course of BYU athletics. Will the Cougars capitalize on these bold moves and etch their own chapter in March lore? Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by

Big 12 sends eight teams to March Madness, but is it enough to silence conference critics? Arizona and Houston draw favorable brackets while Texas Tech faces high expectations—will these powerhouses dominate the Sweet 16, or are early exits on the horizon? The Big 12 Squad debates the NCAA Tournament’s biggest snubs, underdog storylines, and which squads truly have Final Four potential. The conversation spotlights Arizona’s stacked roster, Houston’s shrewd spending, and surging Big 12 contenders like BYU and Iowa State. Other highlights include eye-popping program budgets, the growing influence of NIL, and early win total projections stirring up preseason optimism. Can the Big 12 assert its dominance across both the NCAA and NIT, finally putting to rest talk of SEC basketball supremacy? 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 surge into March Madness with confidence as freshman phenom AJ Dybantsa becomes the first in program history to earn AP First-Team All-American honors. Could Dybantsa's explosive scoring and BYU's renewed defensive unity carry the Cougars past Texas and into NCAA tournament lore? The Texas Longhorns limp into the first-round matchup after a gritty win over NC State, raising questions about their ability to withstand BYU’s full-court pressure and analytics-driven game plan. Does Texas have enough time to craft an effective strategy against the Cougars, especially with BYU already primed and surging after a strong Big 12 tourney showing? Jake Hatch breaks down why BYU's cohesiveness, athleticism, and strong leadership under Kevin Young may give them the edge. Key insights include how AJ Dybantsa’s historic freshman campaign stacks up against past BYU greats like Jimmer Fredette, and why Dybantsa's versatility disrupts opposing defenses. The discussion explores the significance of the Cougars’ improved defensive philosophy, recent lineup adjustments, and the impact of injuries to the BYU men's basketball lineup. FanDuel odds, statistical milestones, and the primetime March Madness window create additional intrigue for BYU’s postseason prospects. Will BYU's “Hulk”-like star push them into the national spotlight? Controversy stirs as former quarterback Jake Retzlaff returns to Provo for BYU’s Pro Day after transferring to Tulane amid a high-profile civil lawsuit. Jake Hatch analyzes Retzlaff’s decision, the culture and relationships within BYU football under Kalani Sitake, and what Retzlaff’s presence signals about the program’s resiliency. Is BYU’s football culture strong enough to absorb scandal and keep alumni connections intact? What does Retzlaff’s NFL pursuit mean for the Cougars’ reputation? The episode intertwines basketball achievement and football drama, offering fans an in-depth look at BYU’s path forward. Big questions await: Can BYU capitalize on its tournament advantage, and will AJ Dybantsa cement his legacy before leaving for the NBA? This podcast delivers must-listen analysis for Cougar fans as BYU hunts for victory on the national stage. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your ca

AJ Dybantsa’s arrival on the big stage could mark a turning point for BYU Cougars basketball in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Is BYU poised to go further than pundits expect, riding the standout ability of its one-and-done superstar? Jake Hatch argues that Dybantsa’s two-way impact—electric offensive scoring and tenacious defense—gives BYU a legitimate shot at moving past the first round and reaching the Sweet 16. The episode dives into how Dybantsa’s leadership and willingness to shoulder responsibility have changed the expectations for BYU’s postseason, even as the team copes with injuries to key players like Richie Saunders and Dawson Baker. With NC State and Texas limping into the tournament as potential first round opponents, Hatch breaks down why BYU’s path looks promising and how Dybantsa can be the difference maker. The stage is set for a thrilling March Madness run—can BYU capitalize on their star power? Transitioning to football, standout linebacker Cade Uluave talked with Jake Hatch to share insights about his journey from Cal to BYU. Uluave unpacks his motivations for transferring, the importance of being closer to family, and how BYU’s unmatched team culture is helping him adapt and thrive. He also highlights the influence of names like Vic So’oto and discusses learning BYU’s defensive system alongside the new coordinator. With nearly 300 career tackles and a Power Four pedigree, Uluave’s addition solidifies BYU’s linebacker corps alongside Isaiah Glasker following Jack Kelly’s NFL departure. Hatch reviews BYU’s transfer portal strategy, emphasizing quality over quantity, and explores how players like Uluave could drive BYU toward Big 12 Conference success and even College Football Playoff aspirations. The episode closes with a celebration of Jane Hedengren’s sensational achievements in women’s track and field. Hedengren shattered facility records in both the 3,000 meters and 5,000 meters, becoming the first freshman to complete this historic double at the championships. Comparisons to legends like Usain Bolt and Jimmer Fredette underscore her generational talent and homegrown roots in Provo. Hatch examines Hedengren’s impact on BYU’s fifth-place finish and what her trajectory means for BYU’s athletic future. Catch this action-packed edition for expert analysis, exclusive interviews, and stories from inside BYU athletics. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not

The BYU Cougars may have found their clearest shot at a Sweet 16 run in recent history, as AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright, and Kevin Young’s revitalized squad land a favorable NCAA Tournament bracket. Riding a wave of confidence after a late-season resurgence, the Cougars head to Portland as a 6-seed, taking on either Texas or NC State—two teams with flaws and recent struggles. With Portland's relative proximity promising strong BYU fan support and a potential second-round matchup against a vulnerable Gonzaga missing star Braden Huff, BYU’s bracket sets the stage for a breakthrough. Jake Hatch examines whether this is the moment Kevin Young and BYU overcome postseason frustrations to join the likes of Jimmer Fredette and Danny Ainge as March legends. Drawing on BYU’s 2021 first-round disappointment at the hands of UCLA, the show unpacks essential tournament lessons: beware of the “rest vs. rust” dilemma and never underestimate a First Four opponent riding tournament momentum. Dybantsa’s NBA-caliber talent and Kevin Young’s postseason approach are scrutinized as keys to BYU’s fate, while Hatch analyzes Texas and NC State’s recent stumbles, BYU’s defensive improvements, and the program’s readiness to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Can the Cougars avoid the pitfalls that have doomed 32 previous tournament appearances and instead rewrite their legacy? On the women’s side, Lee Cummard has the BYU Cougars carrying bittersweet motivation into the inaugural WBIT after narrowly missing the NCAA tourney. Led by Delaney Gibb, the team embraces a No. 1 seed and a home opener against Alabama A&M. The podcast evaluates whether BYU can use postseason disappointment as fuel for a deep run, discusses bracket logistics, and champions the need for Cougar fans to support both the men’s and women’s programs on a pivotal Thursday. With both squads facing critical moments, can BYU’s hoops programs seize their March opportunities, shake off past heartbreak, and shine on the national stage? Don’t miss Locked On Cougars for expert analysis, historical perspective, and a look at how these tournament paths could redefine BYU basketball’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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is b

The BYU Cougars showed remarkable grit in a 73-66 loss to Houston, raising the question: Is this team ready for a deep run in March Madness? AJ Dybantsa’s historic performance—breaking Kevin Durant’s Big 12 tournament scoring record with 93 points over three games—anchors a roster that’s finding its identity at the right time. Jake Hatch breaks down how BYU’s defense, which once struggled, has tightened up, especially against elite competition like Houston. With Rob Wright overcoming injury for solid play and young contributors like Keba Keita, Kennard Davis Jr., and Dominique Diomande stepping up, the Cougars’ depth and tenacity are impossible to ignore. Freshmen Khadim Mboup and Aleksej Kostic demonstrate poised confidence, suggesting a strong foundation for future success. Selection Sunday looms, and BYU is projected as a 6 or 7 seed—likely favored in their opening matchup. Jake Hatch dives into BYU’s transformation from midseason adversity, including soul-searching after tough losses to UCF, Cincinnati, and West Virginia, to postseason momentum driven by Kevin Young’s “play defense and compete” mantra. The show explores how the team’s offensive chemistry and evolving defensive schemes have prepared them for NCAA tournament upsets. Could BYU be this year’s breakout team? Former assistant coach Tim LaComb sees Sweet 16 potential; is that expectation justified or premature? Switching gears to football, Jake Hatch offers exclusive details from spring camp, highlighting a wave of early-enrollee freshmen making significant impressions. The Pula twins, Devaughn Eka, Legend Glasker, Braxton Lindsey, and Botg Mulitalo bring speed, versatility, and a desire to earn immediate playing time. Even among a veteran-laden roster, their competitive drive promises to elevate standards and challenge established players. With Kalani Sitake overseeing scrimmages designed to foster growth, BYU’s talent pipeline is as strong as ever—a fact underscored by remarkable roster retention and this highly rated recruiting class. Will BYU basketball capitalize on its newfound identity? Are football’s freshmen ready to make an impact this fall? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s comprehensive analysis of the Cougars’ path forward, NCAA tournament prospects, and key storylines shaping BYU sports this postseason. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla

Big 12 basketball faces controversy after an accidental leak reveals surprising sop, naming Arizona’s Jaden Bradley as Player of the Year over stars like AJ Dybantsa and JT Toppin. Drake Toll and the Big 12 Squad break down the fan outrage, call out baffling award decisions, and question credibility as West Virginia gets snubbed while SEC teams like Auburn receive favor. Is bias tilting the scales in the Big 12 and NCAA selection process? The conversation expands to the U.S. government’s attempt to “fix” college football, highlighting frustrations with NIL regulation, the SEC’s unchecked dominance, and deeper inequities in conference power. Expert voices debate potential solutions, playoff expansion, and whether college sports’ integrity can be restored. Packed with candid analysis, stats, and inside perspectives from Locked On’s local experts, this episode tackles the chaos and intrigue shaking up Big 12 basketball and football. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars are riding high as they prepare to face the Houston Cougars in a Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament quarterfinal showdown that promises high stakes and high drama. Are AJ Dybantsa and the resurgent BYU men's basketball program ready to shatter their Houston curse, or will Kelvin Sampson’s defensive juggernaut maintain their grip on supremacy? With NBA scouts’ eyes on Kansas City, this matchup could reverberate far beyond the conference bracket. Jake Hatch and Parker Ainsworth offer a comprehensive breakdown of both programs’ recent trajectories and what it means for their quarterfinal meeting. BYU’s transformation is in clear focus: after three straight losses, they have bounced back with three consecutive statement wins, including locking down West Virginia to just 48 points—their stingiest defensive Big 12 performance to date. With breakout performances from role players like Kennard Davis Jr. and Dominique Diomande, and the electrifying rise of freshman phenom AJ Dybantsa, BYU appears to have found new paths to victory right when it matters most. On the other side, Houston enters as the Big 12’s physical powerhouse, renowned for grinding down opponents with low tempo and relentless board play. Parker Ainsworth dissects Kelvin Sampson’s "Belichickian" game planning—always keying in to neutralize a top threat, whether that previously meant Richie Saunders or now takes aim at Dybantsa. With Chris Cenac anchoring the Cougars’ frontcourt and Kingston Flemings developing into an NBA-ready point guard, Houston brings elite two-way talent and the freshest legs after waiting for their opening matchup. Key questions animate the discussion: Can BYU’s recent defensive grit and expanded offensive options withstand Houston’s bruising style after three games in three days? Will Kingston Flemings’ poised distributing or AJ Dybantsa’s do-everything heroics tip the NBA Draft scales? And with both programs showcasing future pro stars—including the likes of Chris Cenac—how will the matchup shape each team’s NCAA tournament outlook? Find out whether momentum or rested force wins out, and which fanbase will finally claim Big 12 bragging rights in this can’t-miss, star-studded duel. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval. Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourE

AJ Dybantsa silences critics with a 40-point outburst, propelling the BYU Cougars to a commanding win over Kansas State and sparking debate about the true Big 12 Player of the Year. Is Dybantsa undeniably the conference’s top talent, even as Jaden Bradley claims the award? Jake Hatch spotlights Dybantsa’s efficiency—shooting 15 of 21 from the field, tallying 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and a +25 plus-minus—and argues why this performance cements him as the Big 12’s best. Hatch also examines how BYU overcame first-half adversity and a hot-shooting Kansas State squad, crediting key defensive adjustments and balanced contributions from Kennard Davis Jr., Aleksej Kostic, Rob Wright, and Khadim Mboup. Looking ahead, BYU’s quest for revenge ramps up as they face West Virginia in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament. Hatch explores Head Coach Kevin Young’s determination to “give it to West Virginia” after a disappointing loss just 11 days prior, and breaks down matchups with weapons like Honor Huff. He assesses BYU’s NCAA Tournament seeding prospects, the significance of a potential run against Houston, and how wins in Kansas City could push the Cougars from a 6-seed to the brink of a coveted 5-seed slot. Hatch also highlights how Dybantsa’s electrifying play has caught national attention, leading ESPN to elevate BYU’s next matchup to ESPN2 for a wider audience. Transitioning to BYU football, the spotlight shifts to the wide receiver room, where Jojo Phillips, Kyler Kasper, and a troupe of towering talents are poised to reshape BYU’s passing attack. With multiple receivers standing 6’4” or taller—including Reggie Frischknecht, Kila Keone, and Jett Nelson—Hatch questions whether Bear Bachmeier will have the biggest and most dynamic targets in the Big 12. He dissects how open competition during spring ball could drive breakout performances and why wide receivers coach Fesi Sitake’s demand for on-field production may spark the next generation of BYU playmakers. Don’t miss this action-packed analysis of BYU basketball’s postseason surge, Dybantsa’s NBA-ready star power, and a football program engineering a twin tower revolution—only 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. 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The BYU Cougars are on the brink of redefining their season, riding the momentum from a major upset win over Texas Tech and eyeing a pivotal showdown with Kansas State in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament. Can Kevin Young’s squad capture the same “hair on fire” attitude, or will history repeat itself with another post-upset stumble? Jake Hatch spotlights the urgency around NCAA Tournament seeding, the psychological challenge of staying focused against a listless Kansas State team, and the chance for BYU to secure a coveted 6-seed in the NCAA Tournament. The matchup analysis centers on key figures like PJ Haggerty, whose scoring threat looms for Kansas State, and how BYU’s defense—particularly switches involving Khadim Mboup and Keba Keita—can set the tone. Will the Cougars prove their intensity isn’t reserved just for the ranked teams? The podcast also explores the recently announced All-Big 12 awards, offering a sharp take on the recognition— and perceived snubs—of BYU’s core contributors. AJ Dybantsa is honored as Freshman of the Year and lands first-team All-Big 12 status, while Richie Saunders is recognized on the second team. Rob Wright’s placement on the third team ignites discussion, as Jake Hatch argues he deserved a higher spot considering his vital role and production. The conversation expands to debate Player of the Year selections and the strength of the Big 12, with particular focus on Arizona’s dominance and the conference’s March Madness expectations. Shifting to football, the episode celebrates feel-good success stories for former Cougars. Tyler Allgeier’s rise from BYU walk-on and Walmart shelf stocker to securing a $12.25 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals underlines the possibilities forged through resilience. Khyiris Tonga’s journey from two-star prospect at BYU to landing a $21 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs further exemplifies the program’s ability to develop NFL talent against the odds. Chris Brooks’s extension with the Green Bay Packers rounds out a segment dedicated to BYU alumni thriving at the highest level. Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of BYU’s on-court ambitions, Big 12 recognition battles, and off-field NFL triumphs as the Cougars chase greatness on multiple fronts. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. F

The BYU Cougars go all-in as they snap a three-game skid, stunning Texas Tech with relentless energy and a full 40-minute performance. Was Saturday’s win proof that BYU basketball finally understands what it takes to compete at a championship level? Jake Hatch unpacks Rob Wright’s sensational 23-point second-half surge, the physical toll on BYU's depleted roster putting pressure on AJ Dybantsa, and Kevin Young’s push to get every ounce of effort in a high-stakes Big 12 landscape. With BYU now solidly fighting for a 6 or 7 seed in the NCAA tournament, the episode analyzes how this newfound intensity could fuel a March Madness run—and what might happen if the Cougars fall back to old habits in upcoming matchups against Kansas State and West Virginia in the Big 12 Tournament this week. On the gridiron, BYU football looks to retool its offense as they eye Big 12 supremacy and the college football playoff. High-profile transfer Kyler Kasper emerges as a versatile, motivated receiver ready to fill the void left by Chase Roberts and Parker Kingston. Is Casper primed to be Bear Bachmeier’s top target—and can he stay healthy after two season-ending foot injuries? Jake Hatch shares exclusive spring camp insights and dives into Casper’s cross-training at multiple positions, highlighting BYU’s demand for pass catcher versatility. The episode also spotlights the tandem of Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga, both former four-star prospects from blue-blood programs in USC and Oregon. Their arrival gives BYU’s tight end room a boost, as Jake Hatch discusses their individual strengths—blocking, pass-catching, and positional flexibility—and how these complementary skill sets might make BYU’s offense more dangerous in 12 and 13 personnel sets. The comparison to past Cougar greats like Chad Lewis, Dennis Pitta, and Carsen Ryan sets the context for expectations. With spring camp revelations, roster shifts, and basketball’s postseason implications, this episode delivers comprehensive coverage of BYU’s evolving path in both major sports. Locked On Cougars offers fans strategic breakdowns, player spotlights, and the critical questions facing the teams as March and football season approach. Will BYU’s basketball team sustain their legendary effort? Can new football playmakers propel the Cougars toward playoff contention? The answers start 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placem

On this edition of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch breaks down one of the most electric nights in the history of the Marriott Center. After enduring a frustrating three-game skid that had many questioning their postseason ceiling, BYU Basketball answered the bell in a massive way, taking down the #10 Texas Tech Red Raiders on Senior Night. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement to the selection committee and the rest of the Big 12 Conference that the Cougars are dangerous when their backs are against the wall. We start the show by analyzing the offensive explosion that snapped BYU out of its late-season funk. It all began with the poise of Rob Wright. The freshman sensation played like a veteran under the bright lights, navigating the Red Raiders' "No Middle" defense with surgical precision. Wright’s ability to find his spots and facilitate allowed BYU to regain the offensive rhythm that defined their early-season success. Joining Wright in the spotlight was the projected top pick, AJ Dybantsa. In what was a high-stakes environment, Dybantsa proved why he is a generational talent. We discuss his scoring versatility and how his gravity on the court opened up lanes for Kennard Davis Jr., who turned in a gritty, high-impact performance. Davis Jr. provided the "X-factor" scoring BYU desperately needed, proving that this roster has the depth to compete with the elite programs in the country. However, the real story of the night—and perhaps the key to BYU’s NCAA Tournament hopes—was the defensive intensity. After weeks of defensive lapses, the Cougars locked in. We highlight the massive contributions of Keba Keita and Khadim Mboup. Their length and switchability on the perimeter disrupted the Red Raiders' sets, forcing key turnovers and long-scoring droughts. This "Pivotal Duo" on the defensive end provided the blueprint for how BYU can win games in March: by pairing their high-octane offense with a resilient, physical defense. As the regular season concludes on this high note, Jake Hatch looks ahead to the Big 12 Tournament in Kansas City. Can BYU carry this momentum into the postseason? We look at the latest Bracketology updates and discuss how this Top-10 win bolsters BYU’s seeding. Beating a team of Texas Tech’s caliber proves that when the Cougars play with this level of connectivity, they are a threat to make a deep run in the Big Dance. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give

The BYU men's basketball program faces a pivotal senior night as Kevin Young’s squad seeks to end a three-game slide against nationally ranked Texas Tech. With the regular season finale looming at the Marriott Center, all eyes are on the BYU Cougars' seniors Richie Saunders, Keba Keita, Dawson Baker, Mihailo Boskovic, and Jared McGregor. Their leadership and energy could be the catalyst BYU desperately needs to regain momentum before heading into the Big 12 Tournament and March Madness. But with Texas Tech coming off an upset loss and looking to play Senior Night spoiler, can BYU summon that Iowa State-level intensity one more time to snatch a critical win and send its seniors off in style? Jake Hatch shifts focus to BYU football, tackling ESPN’s preseason Power 4 quarterback rankings. Bear Bachmeier earns a top 15 spot after a stellar freshman year featuring over 3,000 passing yards and signature wins, including triumphs over highly ranked conference foes. However, the show challenges why Bachmeier is ranked below quarterbacks he defeated head-to-head—like Utah’s Devon Dampier and Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby—raising questions about national perception versus on-field results. As spring ball approaches, the debate burns: Is Bachmeier poised to be the Big 12’s top signal caller and elevate BYU’s championship hopes? The podcast wraps by spotlighting the surging BYU women’s basketball team under Lee Cummard. Winners of five straight—highlighted by a runaway victory over rival Utah and a spot in the Big 12 Tournament quarterfinals—the Cougars may be peaking at the perfect time. Jake Hatch details clutch performances by Delaney Gibb, Olivia Hamlin, and Sydney Benally, emphasizing the squad’s unselfish play and defensive intensity. With their NCAA Tournament hopes on the bubble, BYU’s crucial clash against No. 10 TCU could seal an at-large bid and cap a remarkable turnaround. Don’t miss deep analysis, player spotlights, and spirited debate as Jake Hatch breaks down key storylines in BYU hoops and football, spotlighting why senior night, spring football rankings, and a resurgent women’s squad make this one of the most eventful weeks in 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expir

Can the Big 12 survive the power play by the SEC and Big Ten, or is a seismic shift in college athletics imminent? The Big 12 Squad tackles the heated debate over conference realignment, the rumored addition of Louisville, and whether government intervention is the only hope to keep college football from becoming a two-league universe. The hosts dissect Josh Pate’s radical plan to restore conference regionality and question whether historic rivalries and logical geography can ever return to the sport. From heated rants about bubble teams like West Virginia and TCU to frustration over SEC and Big Ten dominance on ESPN and Fox, the panel breaks down the flaws in NCAA tournament selection and the consequences for Big 12 schools. With references to brand power, TV money, and underappreciated programs, this episode is packed with passionate takes and critical questions: Is tradition dead in college sports, or can the Big 12 carve out its own path to respect and relevance? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU football program enters spring camp with sky-high expectations, anchored by what Jake Hatch calls the strongest quarterback-running back tandem in the Big 12: Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin. Can this duo finally break through for a College Football Playoff berth after two seasons knocking on the door? Despite LJ Martin rehabbing from offseason shoulder surgery, all eyes turn to Bachmeier’s hoped-for sophomore leap—armed with a full offseason, additional conditioning, and deeper mastery of Aaron Roderick’s offense. Will BYU’s offense soar to new heights, or is a sophomore slump looming? Hatch breaks down Bachmeier’s impressive freshman campaign, his offseason body transformation, and how continued chemistry with Martin could make Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars contenders for both a Big 12 title and a national championship. Jake Hatch then talked with BYU offensive line coach TJ Woods for an insider look at how he’s revamping the front five. Woods discusses integrating transfer portal additions Paki Finau, Jr Sia, and Zak Yamauchi into a unit that already features returning talent like Bruce Mitchell, Kyle Sfarcioc, and Andrew Gentry. Can Woods find the perfect lineup in this critical spring stretch? Topics include technique blending for new arrivals, cross-training for versatility, and the importance of competition in shaping an elite line to protect Bachmeier and open holes for Martin. Woods emphasizes the value of experience, character, and adaptability, noting Mitchell’s continued growth and Gentry’s potential to become an all-conference player. Hatch highlights the fierce competition and depth on the roster, with young talent ready to push for playing time and possibly surpass past BYU O-lines that sent multiple players to the NFL. On the hardwood, BYU women’s basketball continues its late-season surge as Delaney Gibb, Olivia Hamlin, and teammates battle rival Utah in Kansas City with March Madness implications. Hatch spotlights their balanced scoring, recent historic Big 12 tournament win, and head coach Lee Cummard’s rapid turnaround in his inaugural season. With the Kevin Young and the BYU men’s program facing its own adversity and senior night approaching, can BYU’s women steal the spotlight with an NCAA tournament bid? This episode delivers strategic insights and bold predictions, analyzing how Cougars football and basketball navigate spring challenges, roster changes, and postseason dreams. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Li

BYU men's basketball faces a breaking point as a blowout 90-68 loss to Cincinnati exposes deep roster flaws and defensive shortcomings. Can Head Coach Kevin Young turn the tide, or is BYU already bracing for a quick NCAA Tournament exit? Jake Hatch delivers a candid breakdown of the Cougars’ unraveling season, highlighting the failed transition from preseason Final Four aspirations to a team struggling to show pride and effort. With stars like A.J. Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Robert Wright III forming the “big three,” why hasn’t their talent translated to wins—and who bears the blame for a supporting cast that can’t deliver? Key discussion points include the critical missteps in BYU’s roster construction, from the lack of a true lob thrower to maximize Keba Keita’s skills, to underwhelming perimeter shooting contributions from role players such as Tyler Mrus and Moo Davis. Jake Hatch examines how last season’s tactical platooning and smart recruiting fueled a Sweet 16 run, only for this year’s squad to look “fundamentally broken.” What lessons must Kevin Young and recruiting lead Justin Young learn before rebuilding for next year? The analysis explores whether incoming talents like Bruce Branch and Dean Rueckert can fill the gaps—or if BYU needs a wholesale approach for future success in the Big 12. Off the court, A.J. Dybantsa’s NBA Draft decision looms large. Could BYU fans dare to hope for a return, or is a top-3 selection—and the lure of a potential $14.5 million rookie deal—too much to pass up? Jake Hatch weighs the reality of NIL money, Dybantsa’s own statements about “unfinished business,” and why risk and reward almost certainly point toward the NBA. Listeners get the full context on BYU’s season trajectory, the roster’s shortcomings, and the coaching strategies to watch as Senior Night and the Big 12 tournament approach. Stay locked in for in-depth Cougars coverage, as BYU’s basketball future and the fate of its brightest star hang in the balance. Can the Cougars rediscover their fight and fix what ails them—or are Cougar fans witnessing the end of an era before their eyes? Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fan

Welcome to a historic edition of Locked On Cougars, your daily home for all things BYU sports. Today, we are witnessing a fundamental shift in the landscape of college basketball, and it all centers around Provo, Utah. Host Jake Hatch breaks down the monumental news as five-star prospect Bruce Branch III officially committed to BYU live on NBA Today. This wasn’t just a typical recruiting win; this was a national statement. We dive deep into why Branch—one of the most coveted wings in the country—chose to join Kevin Young and the Cougars over established blue-blood programs. We analyze the "Kevin Young Effect" in real-time. How did a first-year college head coach with an NBA pedigree manage to secure a commitment on a global platform like NBA Today? We look at Branch’s elite scoring ability, his 6'7" frame, and his defensive versatility. More importantly, we discuss how his game fits into the sophisticated, NBA-style offensive system that Coach Young has implemented at BYU. For fans wondering if BYU could truly compete for top-tier talent in the Big 12, this commitment is the definitive answer. But the news doesn’t stop with Bruce Branch III. In the second segment of today’s show, we address the "bombshell" rumors circulating throughout the basketball world regarding AJ Dybantsa. As the projected #1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the assumption has always been that Dybantsa would be a "one-and-done" superstar in Provo. However, new reports suggest that Dybantsa may not declare for the 2026 draft, potentially returning to BYU for a sophomore season. We explore the massive implications of a multi-year stay for AJ Dybantsa. What does this mean for BYU’s championship aspirations in the Big 12? We examine the role of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) in this decision and how the professional development environment under Kevin Young might actually be a better path for Dybantsa’s long-term NBA career than jumping to the league at 19. If BYU returns the best teenager in the world for a second season alongside a supporting cast like Bruce Branch III, are the Cougars officially a preseason Top 5 team? Finally, we wrap up the show by looking at the broader recruiting trail. With two of the nation's most elite prospects now tied to the program, BYU is no longer an underdog—they are a destination. We discuss the internal culture shift in the BYU athletic department and how the fan base’s energy is fueling this new era. Whether you are a lifelong Cougar fan or a national college basketball follower, this episode provides the essential analysis you need to understand the new hierarchy in the Big 12. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it

The BYU Cougars confront a critical turning point as they face Cincinnati Bearcats in their final regular-season road game. Can A.J. Dybantsa, Rob Wright, and the supporting cast respond to Kevin Young’s blunt challenge(s) and reignite their season? With defensive lapses dominating recent losses to UCF and West Virginia, the team battles mounting skepticism about their postseason prospects. Is this squad truly redlining—or ready to prove doubters wrong and make a statement before heading into the Big 12 Tournament and March Madness? The clash with Cincinnati, a team currently surging up the Big 12 standings, offers BYU a chance to reverse its narrative, demonstrating grit and renewed commitment. Jake Hatch breaks down the Cougars’ struggles, spotlighting Young’s direct messaging, player buy-in, and the key need for pride and effort on the defensive end. Listeners get insight into star guard A.J. Dybantsa’s continued engagement with the fanbase and evidence the roster is hopefully not fully checked out despite mounting fatigue. The episode pivots to spring football, with updates on Bear Bachmeier’s impressive offseason transformation. Strength and conditioning improvements, offensive transitions, and Kelly Poppinga’s continuity on defense promise intriguing developments for BYU’s football ambitions. Aaron Roderick’s confidence in Bachmeier’s deeper understanding of the offense signals potential for another Big 12 title run and college football playoff hopes. The episode also tackles an off-court storyline: Cincinnati’s opportunity to move past November’s controversial anti-Mormon chants. Jake discusses a compelling op-ed authored by local BYU-affiliated Bearcats, calling for community accountability, respectful fan behavior, and the Big 12’s response to religious discrimination. The show shares first-hand accounts of both negative and positive fan interactions, highlighting West Virginia’s student leadership as a recent example of self-policing. Will Cincinnati fans rise to the challenge and help set a new standard of sportsmanship? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s sharp analysis of BYU’s defining moment, in-depth player and coach perspectives, and thoughtful commentary on community and culture in Big 12 athletics. Can BYU basketball regain momentum and leave their mark, on and off the court? Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com

BYU men's basketball could be staring into the abyss after back-to-back losses, capped by a stumbling performance against West Virginia. Is “abandon all hope” the new reality for Kevin Young’s squad? Jake Hatch raises the pressing question: with defensive breakdowns, rebounding woes, and a .500 Big 12 Conference record, can BYU find a spark before the NCAA Tournament, or are fans bracing for a season that fizzles out with a whimper instead of a roar? Injuries and roster challenges have tested the team’s resolve, with standout AJ Dybantsa's scoring heroics overshadowed by the squad’s inability to close out games and defend the perimeter. The upcoming battles against Cincinnati and Texas Tech will be pivotal—will BYU rally or crumble under pressure, as momentum now trends sharply downward? On the gridiron, NFL hopefuls Chase Roberts and Jack Kelly were put through their paces at the NFL Combine. Jake Hatch details how Kelly’s athletic feats—a 4.57-second 40-yard dash, sharp short-burst speed, and strong jumps—affirmed his value as a mid-round draft target. His versatility in space and closing speed could intrigue NFL teams focused on hybrid linebacker roles. Meanwhile, Roberts’ slower-than-expected 40-yard dash threatens to drop his stock, despite a productive college career. The analysis extends to how BYU’s Pro Day may offer a second chance for Roberts to impress scouts and clubs weighing his age and athleticism against younger prospects. Will Roberts’ reliable hands and size trump speed concerns, or is he bound for priority free agent status? The episode contrasts the men’s basketball struggles with a surge in BYU women’s basketball. Under Lee Cummard, the squad rides a three-game win streak into the Big 12 Tournament, clinching their 20th win of the season and earning a shot at redemption against Houston and archrival Utah. Delaney Gibb’s standout play and balanced contributions have the Cougars poised for a possible postseason run. Drawing on influences from Dave Rose and Jeff Judkins, Kumard’s leadership has revitalized the program. As March Madness beckons, momentum for BYU women’s basketball is building, providing Cougar nation with hope as the men’s program faces its greatest tests yet. Will BYU basketball rebound, and can its football stars secure NFL futures? Jake Hatch offers must-hear analysis and insider takes for Cougar fans. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm. 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your j

BYU men's basketball approaches a turning point, with their season's trajectory hanging in the balance after a humbling defeat to UCF. Jake Hatch sets the stage for a crucial road clash against West Virginia, framing it as a “put up or shut up” moment for Kevin Young and his roster. The impact of injuries—most notably to Richie Saunders—has forced players like AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright III, Khadim Mboup, and Keba Keita into the spotlight, demanding greater defensive intensity and leadership. Are BYU’s perimeter defensive woes and lackluster effort symptoms of deeper issues, or will this squad rediscover the form that secured signature wins earlier in the season? Recruiting optimism remains high, with Bruce Branch III projected to join the program, highlighting the paradox between BYU’s success on the recruiting trail and their recent on-court inconsistency. Off the court, controversy and clarity converge as Jake Hatch dissects the timeline and legal nuances surrounding wide receiver Parker Kingston’s felony rape charges. Cutting through the online debate, Jake Hatch credits the Salt Lake Tribune for rigorous reporting, which confirms that BYU administrators and coaches remained unaware of the investigation due to jurisdictional protocol and state law, dispelling notions of a university cover-up. The episode offers a comprehensive look at how information moved between agencies, BYU’s swift response once informed, and the ongoing legal process that now shapes Kingston’s future. Anticipation builds for BYU’s spring football camp, but Jake Hatch urges listeners to temper expectations regarding “spring all-stars”—the walk-ons and depth players who dazzle in March but often disappear before fall. The narrative touches on inspiring stories like Tanner Wall, who rose from walk-on to All-Big 12 safety, highlighting both the dreams and realities of BYU’s evolving roster in the age of 105-man limits and fierce competition. Is another Cinderella story on the horizon, or will roster churn redefine the program’s path? Don’t miss this deep dive into the crossroads facing BYU basketball and football as postseason dreams and off-field headlines collide. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in

Nebraska and Oklahoma eye stunning Big 12 returns—could college football rivalries be revived? Drake Toll leads a high-energy debate on reshaping conference realignment, assessing the impact of regional matchups, recruiting battles, and which programs could restore the Big 12’s national prestige. Insightful takes from Jake Hatch and Cody Stovall spotlight Big 8 nostalgia, Missouri’s SEC regrets, and the real cost of chasing bigger paydays for schools and fans alike. The crew breaks down Brett McMurphy’s latest college football playoff projections, questioning Utah’s hype and examining BYU and Texas Tech’s playoff potential. From NIL-fueled arms races to the implications of G5 programs dropping sports, Locked On Big 12 Squad combines passionate fan perspectives with deep analysis. Will the Big 12 find its new flag bearer, and can realignment bring back the excitement college football fans crave? Don’t miss this dynamic roundtable on the future of the 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected]. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU Cougars command the national conversation as surprise favorites in the Big 12, setting the stage for one of their most anticipated football seasons ever. Analysts—including Jon Wilner and Brad Crawford—aren’t just speculating; they’re naming BYU as legitimate contenders for the conference crown and potential newcomers to the College Football Playoff. With Kalani Sitake retaining his core roster, the Cougars boast a dynamic quarterback in Bear Bachmeier, the electrifying LJ Martin at tailback, and a rebuilt defense led by Isaiah Glasker and Cal transfer Cade Uluave. CBSsports.com points to the advantages of home-field play and a schedule that features crucial matchups against Notre Dame, TCU, and Arizona State—plus a chance to settle the score with Utah. As preseason buzz shifts from underdog to hunted, questions loom: Will BYU thrive in the spotlight or miss their window for a historic breakthrough? Jake Hatch dissects the excitement surrounding BYU’s presence at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Not only are headline names like Chase Roberts and Jack Kelly vying for pro contracts—joined by Will Ferrin and Garrison Grimes as surprise attendees—but their performances could set a new standard for BYU talent on the national stage. Chase Roberts’ size and receiving ability are clear, but will he demonstrate the necessary speed and special teams versatility to stand out? For Jack Kelly, his hybrid skills at linebacker/edge are promising, but questions remain about his run defense at the next level. With alumni like Fred Warner, Puka Nacua, and Kyle Van Noy shining in the NFL, BYU’s current crop aims to further elevate the program’s reputation for producing pro-ready athletes. Turning toward spring camp, the focus is on the Cougars’ depleted wide receiver room. With Chase Roberts and Parker Kingston gone, the fight for top targets is on—who will emerge as Bear Bachmeier’s go-to pass-catcher? Prospects Jojo Phillips, Cody Hagen, Kyler Casper, and Tiger Bachmeier face fierce competition from promising newcomers like Tei Nacua, Legend Glasker, Jaron Pula and Reggie Frischknecht. Will Fesi Sitake’s demanding coaching and a fresh rotation deliver a receiver unit ready to fuel BYU’s playoff aspirations, or will untested talent leave the offense searching for answers? Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDU

The BYU men’s basketball program faces a critical turning point after being outclassed by UCF, 97-84, in a game that exposed their defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistent play. Jake Hatch doesn’t mince words, questioning whether the late-game rally was meaningful or simply “empty calories” as the BYU Cougars trailed by as many as 36 points in the loss. AJ Dybantsa’s 29-point performance stands out statistically but highlights the team’s iso-ball tendencies and lack of cohesion—BYU had just 11 assists compared to UCF’s 25. Can Kevin Young motivate his group to defend the perimeter and rediscover the energy that fueled their win against Iowa State? With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon and only three regular-season games left, the Cougars’ boom-or-bust nature becomes a looming concern. Does BYU have enough to avoid an early exit, or will defensive lapses spell their demise? Switching to football, national eyes are finally on Kalani Sitake as he earns a spot among Joel Klatt’s Top 10 College Football Coaches—validation for back-to-back double-digit win seasons and a 23-4 record over the past two years. Jake Hatch lays out why Sitake’s success is all the more impressive given BYU’s academic standards, strict honor code, and unique recruiting challenges. Sitake’s authenticity, program culture, and commitment to player development set the Cougars apart, making noise on the national stage and putting the College Football Playoff within reach. The episode wraps with a deep dive into BYU’s football spring camp storylines, spotlighting a loaded edge rushers group. With emerging talents like Hunter Clegg, Tausili Akana, and Nusi Taumoepeau—alongside proven contributors like Bodie Schoonover—the question is: who will solidify themselves as true three-down threats in Kelly Poppinga’s attacking system? With high star ratings up and down the depth chart, expectations are sky high for the Cougars to capitalize on this defensive firepower. For BYU fans, this episode delivers a reality check, bold predictions for March, and a preview of what could be an elite defensive unit in 2026. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com.

The BYU Cougars brace for a pivotal showdown as the UCF Knights come to Provo, only days after AJ Dybantsa’s monster near triple-double and standout defensive effort lifted BYU to a season-defining upset over No. 6 Iowa State. With NCAA Tournament implications looming, all eyes are on whether BYU can overcome significant depth concerns, especially following Richie Saunders’ season-ending ACL injury, and fend off a battle-tested UCF team hungry for a signature quad-one win. Jake Hatch and Mike Gittens provide a complete breakdown of the matchup, highlighting BYU's strategic shift to dominating the paint with Dybantsa, Keba Keita, and Rob Wright, after a season of injuries left their bench production thin. They analyze how BYU’s ability to generate second-chance points from offensive rebounds and their paint presence can offset the loss of three-point proficiency and roster depth. The hosts examine UCF’s bench-driven, balanced attack—emphasizing that UCF’s shot at outlasting BYU may depend on their ability to capitalize when the Cougars’ starters rest. With UCF entering the game with a 19-7 overall record and clutch victories against Kansas and Texas Tech, the Knights look to seize another marquee Big 12 win to fortify their tournament résumé as they navigate a grueling late-season slate. The discussion also explores the broader postseason picture: BYU’s impressive 6-6 record in quad-one games, strong net rankings, and the critical importance of continuing to rack up wins to secure favorable tournament seeding in March. For UCF, Mike Gittens underscores how snagging this road victory provides peace of mind and a potential lock status for the NCAA tournament while avoiding last-minute bubble drama. Can Johnny Dawkins’ rebuilt squad, despite losing top scorer Ke'Shawn Hall and overhauling their roster, pull off a high-stakes win, or will AJ Dybantsa’s two-way dominance and BYU’s interior strength carry the Cougars to another statement victory? Tune in for expert analysis of roster challenges, impact players to watch, and the high-pressure stakes as BYU and UCF battle not just for a win, but for their place in the postseason spotlight Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 d

The BYU Cougars capture national attention as AJ Dybantsa delivers a dazzling, near triple-double performance in the upset victory over Iowa State. Is Dybantsa poised to make BYU history and claim the Wooden Award, or will overlooked blue chip status keep him in the shadows? Jake Hatch breaks down Dybantsa’s transformation from co-star alongside Richie Saunders to BYU’s undisputed leader. With Saunders sidelined due to ACL injury, Dybantsa’s offensive firepower and relentless defense have elevated his NBA Draft prospects, putting the spotlight squarely on how far BYU can ride the freshman phenom through Big 12 play and into March Madness. Hatch also highlights how Dybantsa's ability to “lock up” opponents, carry the scoring load, and maintain impressive shooting splits under pressure position him as one of college basketball’s most complete players. Switching to football, BYU spring ball launches with high expectations—and urgent questions about roster depth and special teams. LJ Martin stands 1,347 yards away from breaking BYU’s all-time rushing record, but will the Cougars find a dependable “Robin” to complement their “Batman” in the backfield? Hatch surveys the running back competition featuring Sione Moa—whose bad luck with injuries has held him back—speedster Jovesa Damuni, powerful newcomer Micah Beckstead, and elusive freshman Devaughn Eka. The analysis considers whether BYU’s decision NOT to add a transfer portal option could limit their offensive upside. Hatch notes that availability and production are key for anyone aiming to establish themselves as Martin’s backup, with Harvey Unga and Aaron Roderick ready to put the candidates through rigorous tests this spring. Special teams get a fresh look as Justin Ena transitions to coordinator, and the new kicker and punter battles unfold. Will experienced backup Matthias Dunn or high school standout Ian Sanches claim kicking duties, and can freshman Fuller Schutrz step up as BYU’s main punter in the absence of Sam Vander Haar? Hatch explains the importance of reliable hands at long snapper with Ty Smith, plus changes at returner with Parker Kingston and Cody Hagen potentially making way for new faces. How will these roster shifts affect BYU’s pursuit of another Big 12 title run? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s deep analysis of BYU athletics’ evolving landscape and the key players to watch as the Cougars chase their next chapter of 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals. Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today Coast - Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Terms Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this sh

A night to remember in Provo! On today’s episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch breaks down one of the most significant wins in the Kevin Young era as #23 BYU basketball takes down #6 Iowa State at a rocking Marriott Center. This wasn't just a win; it was a signature statement that will resonate all the way to Selection Sunday. AJ Dybantsa: The Best Player in College Basketball? We start with the man of the hour. AJ Dybantsa didn't just play well; he dominated against one of the best defenses in the nation. Jake discusses how Dybantsa continues to assert himself as a transcendent superstar, proving why he is a projected top pick and the focal point of this BYU offense. From his shot-making to his poise in crunch time, we analyze how AJ is elevating the ceiling of this program. The "Unsung Heroes": Moo Davis, Boskovic, and Mboup While AJ gets the headlines, this victory was a collective effort. We dive into the crucial contributions of Kennard "Moo" Davis Jr., whose defensive intensity and timely scoring provided the spark BYU needed. We also highlight Mihailo Boskovic and Khadim Mboup, detailing how their length, rebounding, and basketball IQ allowed BYU to outmaneuver a physical Cyclones squad. Selection Sunday & The NCAA Tournament Outlook What does this win mean for BYU's resume? We look at the "Quadrant 1" impact of defeating a top-10 Iowa State team and how this win virtually locks the Cougars into a favorable seed for the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. With the way this team is clicking, Jake explains why BYU looks like a squad capable of making a deep run into the second weekend and beyond. Atmosphere at the Marriott Center Finally, we talk about the environment. The ROC was out in full force, and the Marriott Center proved once again why it is one of the toughest venues in the Big 12. We wrap up with what’s next for the Cougars as they look to carry this momentum through the rest of the conference slate. Support Locked On Cougars: Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube! Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here! If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the la

The BYU Cougars face a defining moment as they welcome the Iowa State Cyclones to the Marriott Center in a pivotal Big 12 basketball showdown. With Kevin Young’s program reeling from injuries—most notably to Richie Saunders—Jake Hatch spotlights how BYU’s resilience and home-court advantage could turn this perceived mismatch into a statement victory. Can the Cougars seize a signature Quad 1A win to solidify their NCAA tournament seeding and silence critics questioning their toughness and defense? The episode examines Iowa State’s road game vulnerabilities, the Cyclones’ dynamic trio of Milan Momčilović, Joshua Jefferson, and Tamin Lipsey, and how BYU’s offensive grit could give them the upper hand. Hatch analyzes the mock selection committee’s surprising projection of BYU as a 6-seed, breaking down what this means for the Cougars’ tournament trajectory and the stakes of their remaining schedule against UCF, West Virginia, Cincinnati, and Texas Tech. Turning to football, BYU is days from launching spring ball, and Kalani Sitake’s squad faces a new era with one-third of the roster turning over—33 newcomers, including high school standouts and transfers like Jaren Pula, Kennan Pula, Cade Uluave, Devaughn Eka, Paki Finau, and Zach Yamauchi, are out to prove themselves alongside returning stars Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin. Jake Hatch emphasizes how increased internal competition and refreshed depth will be critical as BYU chases a Big 12 title and potential College Football Playoff berth. The schedule’s big tests—Notre Dame, Utah, Arizona State, and Arizona—make this spring’s culture of competition more urgent than ever, raising the question: can this rebuilt group become national contenders? Capping the episode, cheer captain and social media favorite Ammon Montenegro opens up with his inspiring recovery from sepsis and pneumonia, reflecting on what surviving a life-threatening illness taught him about gratitude, faith, and seizing the moment. Montenegro shares insights on BYU’s unique campus culture, his influential community presence, and how the support system—from coaches like Jocelyn Allen to teammates—propels both personal and university success. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at the heart, transformation, and ambition defining 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 Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today 5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP t

Kansas State faces turmoil as the administration looks to avoid paying Jerome Tang’s $18.7 million buyout, sparking debate among Big 12 insiders about program integrity and leadership. Are contract loopholes undermining the conference’s coaching culture, and where does Kansas State now rank in the Big 12 basketball hierarchy? The Big 12 Squad tackles whether poor performance should justify firing for cause and the impact of high-stakes transfer portal gambles. BYU contends with a wave of bad luck—losing a top football receiver to criminal allegations and basketball’s Richie Saunders to a torn ACL. The hosts question accountability within the Cougars’ program as off-field scandals resurface for the second straight year. Plus, hear candid locker-room takes, cruise ship disasters, and plenty of banter, as the Locked On Big 12 crew breaks down implications for conference standings and speculates on BYU’s ability to stay competitive amidst setbacks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU men's basketball program fought through adversity as they challenged the Arizona Wildcats on the road, showcasing newfound grit and the transformative performance of star freshman AJ Dybantsa. Despite the season-ending loss of Richie Saunders, BYU proves they can still make noise in March, with Dybantsa breaking Danny Ainge’s freshman scoring record by dropping 35 points in Tucson. Can the Cougars bottle this self-belief and compete as Big 12 and NCAA tournament contenders?Jake Hatch breaks down Arizona’s narrow win and what BYU needs to do to reach their Sweet 16 aspirations. Conversations focus on BYU’s defensive struggles, worrying three-point shooting volume, and a lack of signature Quad 1A wins that could impact seeding. Rob Wright’s steady contributions and the team’s response to in-game adversity frame the narrative—are the Cougars deferring too often from deep, or is a more aggressive NBA-style offense the answer as they prep for Iowa State? With a 1-6 record against Top 25 teams but a competitive edge that suggests more is possible, BYU’s March resume hangs in the balance.Special guest Ammon Montenegro, BYU cheerleader and rising social media presence, gives listeners a rare courtside look at Cougar athletics. From high school football dreams and a turn at Snow College, to leading the charge on the sidelines of LaVell Edwards Stadium, Montenegro recounts his journey to Division I cheer and the energy of game day on the front row. He shares candid insights on the realities of cheerleading, the impact of supporting fellow student athletes, and how building a wholesome, inside-BYU perspective has resonated with fans online.Locked On Cougars brings exclusive analysis, player spotlights, and unique behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find anywhere else. Is AJ Dybantsa the difference between an early exit or a second-weekend run for BYU? Can Cougar Nation rally around its stars, both on and off the court, to rewrite the program’s history this March? Don’t miss this essential episode for BYU fans hungry for hope and inside access.Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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

The BYU Cougars’ fortunes take a dramatic turn as star shooter Richie Saunders is lost for the season, shaking up the lineup just before a high-stakes battle with Arizona Wildcats in Tucson. Will AJ Dybantsa and Rob Wright—who have both shown they can go for 40 points in Big 12 play—find enough support from a thin BYU bench? Or will Arizona’s physicality and defensive mastery overwhelm BYU, even with Koa Peat out for at least a week? The Wildcats, led by Brayden Burries and Jaden Bradley, look to assert themselves and prove they can grind out critical wins even when shorthanded.Jake Hatch and Leif Thulin break down how injuries are affecting both sides, questioning whether BYU can survive their first game without Richie Saunders in the intimidating McKale Center, and how Arizona’s spacing and depth have changed following Koa Peat’s absence. Key topics include leverage shots, the need for BYU’s bench—players like Aleksej Kostic and Tyler Mrus—to step up, and late-game execution as Arizona tries to fix recent slip-ups against Kansas and Texas Tech. The duo explore emotional factors, potential rally cries, and coaching philosophies, asking whether BYU’s lineup adjustments could spark newfound chemistry or simply thin the margin in conference play.The conversation then pivots to football, previewing the Big 12 lid-lifter: BYU vs. Arizona in Provo. Both programs come off strong seasons, returning offensive stars Bear Bachmeier for BYU and Noah Fifita for Arizona, setting up what could be a tone-setting clash for the league. Hatch and Thulin weigh the importance of early-season matchups, strategies for transfer portal usage, and the merits of continuity versus annual roster overhauls. Will Arizona’s defense continue to be opportunistic? Can BYU’s developmental approach push them from playoff flirtation to true contender status?Packed with in-depth analysis, senior leaders, and pivotal matchups, this episode delivers insights for Wildcats and Cougars fans alike. Don’t miss the breakdown of BYU’s and Arizona’s evolving strategies, pressure moments, and what these games mean for the Big 12’s shifting power structure.Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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

BYU sports are reeling after a devastating 72-hour stretch that could define the future of Cougar athletics. Standout wide receiver Parker Kingston, fresh off a breakout season and poised to become a marquee face of the Big 12, has been dismissed from the football program following felony sexual assault charges. Can head coach Kalani Sitake steady the ship and maintain the team’s high ambitions as BYU loses not just an offensive star, but also experiences a second straight offseason rocked by serious controversy? Drake Toll and Jake Hatch dissect the bombshell, contrasting Kingston’s immediate expulsion with previous cases like Jake Retzlaff’s, and examine what this means for the Cougars’ conference outlook. With promising young talents such as JoJo Phillips and Tate Nakua now in the spotlight, will the Cougars retool quickly enough to stay in title contention, and how aggressively can BYU pursue key targets in the upcoming transfer portal window?Adding to the turmoil, the BYU basketball program endures a gut punch as All-Big 12 performer Richie Saunders suffers a torn ACL, ending his season and likely his Cougars career. The loss raises burning questions: Can AJ Dybantsa and Rob Wright shoulder the scoring and leadership burden? How many injuries can Kevin Young’s squad sustain before NCAA tournament hopes fade? With six scholarship players sidelined, Utah high school prospects waiting in the wings, and a portal search likely, the Cougars’ ability to rebound is put to the ultimate test. Hatch offers insight into coaching strategies, what it means for BYU’s on-court grit, and why Saunders’ absence could be the tipping point in their quest for a historic Final Four run.The episode wraps with a look at the emotional state of Cougar Nation—can fans find hope while mourning not just star athletes, but the recent passing of BYU matriarch Patti Edwards? The hosts explore the resilience in the Cougars’ DNA and debate whether brighter days are ahead in Provo, both on the gridiron and hardwood. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU’s most challenging week in recent memory, as Toll and Hatch take you inside the headlines, heartbreak, and the pursuit of redemption in the Big 12..Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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-

A weekend unlike any other in Provo. On today’s episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch takes on the somber task of recapping an incredibly difficult 48 hours for the BYU community. From legal crises and dismissal to season-ending injuries and the loss of a matriarch, we cover the stories that have left Cougar Nation in shock.The Dismissal of Parker KingstonWe begin with the most serious and disturbing news of the weekend. Parker Kingston has been dismissed from BYU and the football program following his arrest on allegations of felony rape. Jake Hatch discusses the swiftness of the university's decision, the legal gravity of the situation, and the cultural implications for Kalani Sitake’s program. We focus on the severity of the allegations and what this means for the standards held within the BYU football locker room.Heartbreak for Richie Saunders: Season-Ending ACL TearTurning to the hardwood, the news doesn't get any easier. The BYU men's basketball program has confirmed that star guard Richie Saunders has suffered a season-ending ACL tear. We analyze the massive void this leaves in Kevin Young’s rotation. Saunders wasn't just a high-energy player; he was the emotional heartbeat of the team. How does BYU replace his defensive versatility and hustle? We look at which players must step up as the Cougars navigate a brutal Big 12 schedule without one of their most reliable leaders.Remembering Patti Edwards (1933–2026)Finally, we pay tribute to a woman who was the foundation of the BYU football "Golden Era." The passing of Patti Edwards, widow of the legendary LaVell Edwards, marks the end of an era. Jake reflects on Patti’s incredible influence on generations of players and coaches. She wasn't just a coach’s wife; she was a pillar of the community who helped build the family-centric culture that defines BYU football to this day. We share stories of her grace, her wit, and her lasting legacy in Provo.Navigating the AdversityWe wrap up today's show by looking at how a fan base and an athletic department move forward from a weekend defined by tragedy and transition. This is a moment of testing for the leadership of Shane Reese and Brian Santiago. How does the BYU family rally together during one of the most tumultuous stretches in recent memory?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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), 1-8

The BYU football program faces another seismic shakeup as standout wide receiver Parker Kingston’s arrest on suspicion of rape threatens to sideline him for the upcoming season. With Chase Roberts heading to the NFL and Kingston now out of the mix, the Cougars lose nearly all of their top receiver production from last year. Returners like Jojo Phillips, Cody Hagen, and Tiger Bachmeier are expected to take on significant new roles, alongside newcomers like Reggie Frischknecht and incoming freshmen Legend Glasker, Jaron Pula and Terrance Saryon. Can Kalani Sitake, Aaron Roderick, and Fesi Sitake retool the offense and find reliable playmakers from an unproven but promising receiving corps? The coaching staff is forced to confront adversity, search for potential transfer options, and foster leadership among underclassmen. With two consecutive offseasons rocked by scandal and uncertainty, the team faces a crucial turning point—will it emerge resilient, or will growing pains define this campaign?The episode also celebrates BYU basketball royalty as Jimmer Fredette is immortalized with a jersey retirement at the Marriott Center. Host Jake Hatch shares his personal memories and highlights Fredette’s electric run, which turned “Teach Me How to Jimmer” into a cultural sensation and put BYU in the national spotlight. While noting the bittersweet ending to that legendary run, Jake Hatch challenges the current roster, led by AJ Dybantsa and Richie Saunders, to match the energy and focus prompted by Fredette’s legacy. Facing Colorado, with their coach Tad Boyle calling out his team after a rough loss, the Cougars are urged not to overlook any Big 12 opponent as they seek vital momentum before high-stakes games against Arizona and Iowa State.Finally, spotlight shifts to the BYU baseball program as it opens the season against Western Kentucky. Coach Trent Pratt aims to defy low expectations in a stacked Big 12 despite cold-weather challenges. Jake Hatch examines the impact of new facilities, the urgency for consistent improvement, and the potential for the Batcats to climb the conference standings. With winning the key to increased attention and investment, BYU’s baseball journey could redefine the program’s status on the national stage. Cougar fans, will adversity spark the rise of new heroes and spark a renaissance across BYU athletics?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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,

Big 12 basketball faces a national spotlight battle as top contenders like Houston, Texas Tech, BYU, and Oklahoma State chase March Madness glory. Is ESPN shortchanging the conference’s exposure in favor of SEC and ACC teams? The Big 12 Squad breaks down the league’s elite depth, impact freshmen, and which teams have the firepower to cut down the nets. From Power Poll shake-ups to rankings drama, they question whether the Big 12’s quality can overcome its quantity disadvantage this postseason. The discussion shifts to football’s offseason storyline: Texas Tech atop way-too-early power rankings with BYU close behind. The hosts debate transfer portal moves, scheduling quirks, and whether Oklahoma State can parlay an all-star QB into a true dark horse run. The episode also takes on NIL, the transfer portal, and controversy over recent fan behavior—raising the stakes for the Big 12’s perception on and off the field. 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 have positioned themselves as Texas Tech’s primary threat atop the Big 12, but can Bear Bachmeier deliver a season for the ages and dethrone the defending champs? Locked On hosts Spencer McLaughlin, Jake Hatch, and Christian Rauh debate whether BYU’s roster—coming off a 12-2 mark and led by Bachmeier’s dynamic quarterback play—has the staying power to challenge the Red Raiders, especially with offseason turmoil surrounding Parker Kingston. The conversation dives into the emergence of Houston Cougars under head coach Willie Fritz and the upside of their veteran-laden lineup led by Connor Weigman. Utah is pegged by some as a potential stumbling giant, with questions swirling around their trench play and the departure of long-time coach Kyle Whittingham, while others see Morgan Scalley’s disciplined squad—returning standout QB Devon Dampier—as firm contenders if their lines hold up.Roster moves, transfer impacts, and coaching transitions fuel speculation on breakout candidates, with Kansas State’s transfer portal success and Avery Johnson’s ceiling under new offensive coordinator Sean Gleason at the forefront. The hosts discuss Oklahoma State’s culture reboot under Erik Morris, pondering whether quarterback Drew Mestemaker can ignite a dramatic turnaround in Stillwater. Crucial non-conference clashes like BYU vs. Notre Dame and early SEC showdowns for Utah, Texas Tech, and others loom large, as the Big 12’s national narrative hinges on not just competing, but winning marquee games. Can Big 12 teams reverse poor non-conference showings from last season and sway College Football Playoff committee perceptions? The stakes are high as the league battles to put multiple teams into the expanded 12-team playoff field.The episode spotlights the conference’s quarterback hierarchy, with Bachmeier, Wegman, Brendan Sorsby, and Johnson all in the mix for top honors. Is Texas Tech’s Sorsby the piece that delivers back-to-back titles, or does BYU’s “Bear looking like a Grizzly” leap to the Heisman conversation? With parity rampant across the league, the only guarantee is chaos as dark horse contenders look to disrupt the Big 12 power structure. Don’t miss this fast-paced breakdown of key players, matchups, and storylines that will define the next Big 12 football 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/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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

The BYU Cougars football program faces its second consecutive offseason rocked by serious allegations, as wide receiver Parker Kingston has been arrested on suspicion of felony rape. This sobering development stems from an alleged incident in February 2025, with Kingston now being held without bail following an investigation by the St. George Police Department and charges from the Washington County District Attorney. The latest controversy raises urgent questions about BYU’s culture, administrative oversight, and how the football program navigates handling sensitive legal matters with one of its key players under scrutiny.Jake Hatch delivers an unflinching analysis, drawing clear distinctions between criminal proceedings and the civil lawsuit faced last year by quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who was accused of sexual assault. Hatch breaks down BYU’s official response, which promises cooperation with law enforcement but restricts public comment citing student privacy laws. Listeners are pulled into a broader discussion: How much did BYU leadership know about the alleged events, and how will this situation impact the team’s preparation for the upcoming season? Will the fallout affect BYU football coach Kalani Sitake’s approach, locker room morale, and recruitment strategies?The episode also assesses the immediate and long-term implications for the Cougars on and off the field. Questions loom over Kingston’s playing eligibility, how BYU’s administration acted in accordance with university protocols, and the possible duration of legal proceedings. Hatch highlights how unforeseen controversies can overshadow on-field achievements and stoke intense media scrutiny as spring ball and the countdown to a new season approach.As the legal process unfolds, the podcast urges patience and responsible discussion within the court of public opinion. Hatch emphasizes that no one emerges a winner in scenarios like these—reminding listeners of the human impact on the alleged victim, Kingston’s personal life, and the broader BYU community. The episode covers the intersection of athletics, law, and institutional responsibility, promising continued updates on this evolving situation. Can the Cougars rally and maintain their integrity as they confront another offseason mired in controversy, or will the unresolved questions reshape expectations for the year 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/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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 (

The BYU Cougars snapped a four-game losing streak in dramatic fashion with a 99-94 victory over the Baylor Bears, as freshman star AJ Dybantsa delivers a historic, all-around performance that has NBA Draft analysts taking notice. Is this gritty win the turning point for BYU basketball's season, mirroring last year’s surge after the West Virginia game? Host Jake Hatch draws compelling parallels between the Cougars' current struggles and previous late-season rallies, dissecting the team’s resilience, defensive challenges, and the potential for a run into March Madness. Kevin Young’s coaching strategy, leadership from Richie Saunders, and clutch contributions by Robert Wright III headline an ensemble determined to seize momentum in the fiercely competitive Big 12.AJ Dybantsa’s stat-stuffing brilliance is breaking records and igniting online debate among draft "experts." Hatch pushes back on the criticisms, highlighting Dybantsa’s production, motor, defensive commitment, and his remarkable versatility on both sides of the court. Could Dybantsa be the NBA’s number-one pick later this year, and what does his dynamic play mean for BYU’s postseason ambitions? With upcoming games against Colorado, Arizona, and Iowa State, among others, the Cougars' schedule offers both opportunity and risk, placing them at a critical juncture in the conference standings. Will veteran voices in the locker room—like Saunders and Mihailo Boskovic—convert lessons learned from last year into tangible success?The show shifts gears to football, where Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin earn a mention in ESPN’s “Way Too Early” 2026 Heisman Trophy watchlist, yet find themselves overlooked compared to peers from Power Five rivals. Hatch spotlights Bachmeier’s poise as a true freshman quarterback and Martin’s toughness overcoming injury, questioning the national bias against Big 12 talent and urging BYU to launch early Heisman campaigns for its stars. With Notre Dame, Oklahoma State, Utah, and Arizona looming on BYU’s football schedule, the potential for a breakout season remains strong. The podcast closes with a call for BYU to seize its moment, boost player recognition, and rewrite national narratives both on the hardwood and gridiron. Will AJ Dybantsa, Bear Bachmeier, and LJ Martin elevate BYU to new heights—and finally command the spotlight they deserve?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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,

All eyes are on Foster Pavilion as Rob Wright returns to Baylor—not as a Bear, but as a key playmaker for BYU. Will the prodigal son’s homecoming be a spark for the Cougars or fuel for Baylor’s passionate fans? Cam Stuart and Jake Hatch tackle the drama of this high-stakes College Basketball matchup, exploring the ripple effects of Wright’s controversial transfer. The conversation dives into the hostile environment Wright is set to face, the unique Baylor student section dynamic, and how both squads are handling the emotional and strategic fallout. The hosts question whether BYU can use the frosty atmosphere to snap their four-game losing streak, or if the animosity will throw off their rising star. Scott Drew’s lingering frustration and the reactions from both coaches add more fuel to the fire, promising a clash as much about pride as points.Shifting gears, the duo examines BYU’s recent struggles on the hardwood after a promising start, highlighting recurring defensive breakdowns, late-game rebounding issues, and the inability to close out against top Big 12 opponents like Houston, Arizona, Kansas, and Oklahoma State. Jake Hatch provides insight into the internal adjustments Coach Kevin Young is making, emphasizing both the progress and nagging inconsistencies that threaten BYU’s shot at a deep NCAA Tournament run. Listeners get a breakdown of key players—AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright—and the pressure mounting on the Cougars to find cohesion on both ends of the floor.The episode wraps with an in-depth review of both schools’ transfer portal maneuvers. BYU has prioritized roster continuity, bringing in only nine portal players to preserve a lineup that produced back-to-back 11-win seasons and flirted with the College Football Playoff. In contrast, Baylor’s headline addition is freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, a high-ceiling prospect whose arrival raises questions about the team’s ability to address glaring issues on the offensive and defensive lines. Cam Stuart debates whether Dave Aranda’s approach is enough to reverse recent struggles or if gaps in the trenches leave the Bears exposed. Can Kalani Sitake and BYU’s stability outlast Baylor’s risky upgrades? This crossover delivers must-hear analysis on Big 12 basketball fireworks and the ever-evolving roster chess game 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/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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,

The BYU men's basketball program is at a crossroads after dropping four straight Big 12 matchups, including a gut-wrenching loss to Houston. Can Kevin Young’s squad turn things around with a renewed focus on simple fundamentals such as free throw accuracy and defensive rebounding? Despite standout scoring performances from AJ Dybantsa and Rob Wright, the team’s struggles with perimeter defense, offensive boards, and limited production from centers Keba Keita and Abdullah Ahmed have left the Cougars searching for answers. Jake Hatch examines how Richie Saunders’ relentless rebounding and Houston’s tactical targeting exposed BYU’s vulnerabilities, while also dissecting the concerning trends pf this campaign for the BYU Cougars.Taking a broader look at BYU athletics, Hatch highlights BYU football’s lessons learned in the trenches against Texas Tech’s formidable defensive front. The Cougars’ offensive line was outmatched, echoing the Super Bowl’s showcase of elite defensive line play, and motivating BYU to make key transfer portal additions for next season. Hatch analyzes how Kalani Sitake, TJ Woods, Sione Po'uha, and Chad Kauha'aha'a are reshaping the offensive and defensive line units in pursuit of Big 12 dominance and a playoff berth. The emphasis on “trench warfare”—winning at the line of scrimmage—is poised to define BYU’s trajectory in the league, as the coaching staff pushes for more reps, toughness, and elite cohesion.Off the court, the Big 12 Conference finally takes meaningful action after a string of anti-LDS chants and incidents, issuing a $50,000 fine to Oklahoma State following fan behavior referencing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hatch challenges the league to follow Texas Tech’s proactive example, with coaches and administrators publicly discouraging derogatory conduct. Will these steps be enough to preserve BYU’s dignity and level the playing field for future matchups? As BYU prepares for a critical showdown with Baylor, Hatch invites listeners to weigh the Cougars’ ability to fix simple mistakes, regain momentum, and navigate a changing conference landscape—setting the stage for a pivotal week in BYU sports.Will BYU’s renewed focus propel them to a signature win, and can football’s trench upgrades deliver postseason glory? Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of Cougars strategy, challenges, and culture.Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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.co

The Big 12 spotlight shines on a classic “Cat Fight” as the Houston Cougars look to continue their dominance over a reeling BYU Cougars squad grappling with a confidence crisis. Locked On Cougars’ Jake Hatch and Locked On Coogs’ Parker Ainsworth team up for a crossover packed with must-hear insight, starting with Houston’s recent ascent to No. 8 in the country and BYU’s struggles during a tough three-game losing streak. With standout talents like AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Robert Wright on the BYU side and NBA-bound Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac Jr. powering Houston, which team has the edge to pull off a season-defining victory? Can Dybantsa’s offensive fireworks and Saunders’ gritty play finally snap BYU’s skid against a Kelvin Sampson-coached squad known for relentless physicality and defensive prowess?Jake Hatch and Parker Ainsworth don’t shy away from hot topics—will Houston’s “we’re poor” NIL narrative hold water as BYU invests top dollar in transfer talent? How much does culture and player buy-in trump big checks in today’s college basketball landscape? The hosts dissect shifting body language within BYU’s roster, explore the impact of recent key performances—such as Dybantsa’s Carmelo Anthony-esque 36-point showing—and project which role players must break out for either team to steal a much-needed Big 12 win. Is BYU’s path to victory rooted in rediscovered pride and defensive grit, or will Houston’s deeper bench and cohesive style be the deciding factor?Shifting gears to football, the show dives deep into both programs’ offseason strategies, highlighting BYU and Houston’s unprecedented recruiting class success and calculated transfer portal moves. How have Kalani Sitake and Willie Fritz built rosters ready to challenge Texas Tech for Big 12 supremacy? The hosts spotlight blue-chip prospects Keyshawn Henderson and Ryder Lyons as potential faces of the league’s next quarterback rivalry, breaking down what retention, local recruiting, and culture mean for long-term contender status.Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown, filled with expert analysis, bold predictions, and rivalry banter as Houston and BYU chase momentum on the court and gridiron. It’s a must-listen for fans craving all things Big 12 basketball and football.Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment todayIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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)Follo

The BYU men's basketball program finds itself at the center of controversy after head coach Kevin Young calls out Oklahoma State fans for derogatory chants during a heated Big 12 matchup. Jake Hatch breaks down the fallout, questioning whether Young simply misheard the crowd or if the chants were yet another example of problematic fan behavior targeting Brigham Young University and its Latter-day Saint affiliation. The discussion intensifies as social media explodes with debate—did the crowd chant “Ref's a Mormon” or the more offensive “F the Mormons”? Cody Stovall from Locked On Oklahoma State weighs in, suggesting both could be true depending on sections of the crowd, but the core issue remains: why is the Big 12’s response so inconsistent?Hatch holds Commissioner Brett Yormark and Big 12 leadership accountable, spotlighting past incidents at Cincinnati and Colorado where penalties and statements varied widely. Should the conference implement a clear, standardized policy to address discriminatory chants? The episode unpacks the cycle of boilerplate apologies from university presidents—including Oklahoma State’s latest statement—and the emotional impact this recurring hostility has on BYU student-athletes, coaches, and their families. Athletic director Brian Santiago delivers some of the most pointed comments yet from BYU leadership, demanding an end to excuses and meaningful changes to eliminate religious discrimination at conference events.With a nod to Texas Tech’s proactive measures and repeated calls for unified Big 12 action, Hatch explores why vitriol against BYU persists while similar attacks against other religious groups would spark national outrage. Are the current sportsmanship policies enough, or does the conference need to set a new standard for respect across all member schools?As BYU prepares to face Houston next, the question lingers: will the Big 12 finally back up its zero-tolerance stance and protect its teams from further abuse? Tune in for a passionate and insightful look at BYU basketball’s present trials, the cultural dynamics shaping the Big 12, and what needs to change to ensure a safer, more respectful environment for players and fans alike.Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment todayIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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 st

Arizona Wildcats surge past Big 12 rivals, prompting bold claims—are they college basketball's greatest team since the 1970s? With Drake Toll and top Locked On experts, the Big 12 squad dissects Arizona’s unmatched roster strength, balanced offense, and dominance on both ends of the floor. Insights include matchup nightmares posed by star freshmen, how positional size advantages shake up results, and why Arizona’s conference run could rival Houston’s previous unbeaten streak.The transfer portal’s impact on college football and basketball takes center stage, as West Virginia, Houston, and Oklahoma State face pivotal roster changes. Can retention and key additions fuel sustained success for teams like Arizona? The crew debates underrated tournament contenders, such as UCF, while analyzing scheduling advantages, resume-building wins, and evolving postseason prospects for every Big 12 program. Is this the year overlooked schools make national noise—or will ESPN and analysts keep them out? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU men's basketball program faces a decisive moment as their third straight defeat—falling 99-92 to the Oklahoma State Cowboys—signals a program at the brink. Defensive breakdowns, most glaringly the 52 points surrendered in the paint, trump even AJ Dybantsa’s explosive 36-point performance and solid outings from Richie Saunders and Robert Wright III. Jake Hatch scrutinizes whether BYU’s defensive identity has unraveled for good and asks if players like Kennard Davis Jr. can step up amid this adversity. With a brutal slate ahead, including matchups against Houston, Arizona, Baylor, and Iowa State, the Cougars must rediscover their pride and defensive cohesion or risk a downward spiral in the ultra-competitive Big 12.Hatch gives an unfiltered take on coaching responsibilities, calling for player-led accountability meetings as he assesses Kevin Young’s leadership under pressure. The conversation turns to a sobering off-court topic: yet another “F the Mormons” chant, this time at Oklahoma State, drawing scrutiny. Young’s emotional postgame response raises challenging questions about bigotry and sportsmanship in college athletics, while Hatch discusses the need for sincere institutional action and support for BYU’s players—both members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and non-members alike.The episode shifts gears with a comprehensive preview of BYU women’s softball as they launch their season in Florida against powerhouses like Tennessee, Michigan State, and Notre Dame. Can long-time coach Gordon Eakin’s squad, facing the daunting reality of the Big 12’s elite competition, leverage its tradition of adaptability and success to return to the NCAA Tournament? The injury news on star Jalen Lambert adds further intrigue to an already compelling campaign.Stay tuned as Locked On Cougars delivers passionate, insider-driven analysis on BYU’s basketball crossroads, addresses critical cultural issues affecting the program, and highlights why softball could be an unexpected bright spot for Cougar fans this spring. Will BYU respond to its basketball crisis and set a tone for the remainder of the season, or is a more substantial reset on the horizon?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment todayIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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

Is this the class that takes BYU Football to the top of the Big 12? On today’s episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch provides a comprehensive reaction to National Signing Day 2026. As the BYU Cougars solidify a roster designed for the modern era of the College Football Playoff (CFP), we go inside the comments from the men building the program.Kalani Sitake’s Vision for the 2026 ClassWe lead off with head coach Kalani Sitake’s opening remarks. Sitake has been vocal about finding "BYU guys" who possess elite Power Four athleticism. We break down his comments on the cultural fit and physical development of this incoming group. How has Sitake’s approach to recruiting changed as the Cougars become a settled, formidable force in the Big 12 Conference? We discuss the balance between local "homegrown" talent and the national reach this staff has established.Aaron Roderick and the Offensive EvolutionNext, we dive into Aaron Roderick’s assessment of the offensive haul. With the Big 12 proving to be a high-scoring gauntlet, Roderick highlighted the need for explosive playmakers and "quarterback-friendly" protectors. We analyze what A-Rod had to say about the new weapons joining the wide receiver room and the offensive line's revamped depth. If BYU is going to win a Big 12 Championship, the offense needs to be elite—does this 2026 class provide the necessary spark?Kelly Poppinga: Building a "Playoff Defense"On the defensive side of the ball, Kelly Poppinga didn't hold back on the expectations for his unit. Poppinga discussed the emphasis on their high school recruiting and adding transfer portal options at the linebacker and cornerback positions. We look at his specific praise for the continuity in the unit and how the scheme is attracting top-tier defensive talent that previously looked elsewhere. Depth is the name of the game in the Big 12, and Poppinga’s comments suggest BYU is deeper than ever.The Road to the Big 12 Title and the CFPFinally, Jake Hatch connects the dots between today's signings and this fall’s expectations. With the College Football Playoff expanding, the margin for error has shifted, but the goal remains the same: win the Big 12. We discuss how this 2026 class impacts the immediate roster's mentality and the long-term stability of the program. Is BYU officially a "top-tier" Big 12 recruiter?Support Locked On Cougars:Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclubJake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions applyMazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment todayIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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-H