September 09, 2025

BYU's Receiver Depth TESTED With Jojo Phillips' Injury | Will Cody Hagen RISE to Challenge? | Tommy Prassas Embracing New Role & Bye Week To-Do List

30 minutes

BYU Cougars football faces a significant setback as star receiver Jojo Phillips undergoes surgery. This development poses challenges for the team's offensive strategy in their third Big 12 season. Our latest podcast episode dives deep into the implications of Phillips' absence and the team's plans moving forward.

Host Jake Hatch analyzes the ripple effects of losing Phillips, a key playmaker in BYU's passing game. We explore potential adjustments to the receiver corps and how the Cougars might reshape their offensive approach. Bear Bachmeier and the offense will need to adapt quickly, and we discuss possible strategies to maintain their competitive edge.

In an exclusive interview, Tommy Prassas shares insights on his transition to nickelback under defensive coordinator Jay Hill. Prassas' move highlights the evolving defensive scheme at BYU, and listeners will gain valuable perspective on the team's defensive philosophy for the upcoming season.

Head coach Kalani Sitake's plans for the early bye week take center stage as we reveal how the team intends to balance practice, recovery, and recruiting efforts. This strategic use of downtime could prove crucial in preparing for the challenges ahead in the Big 12 conference.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

1. Jojo Phillips' injury and its impact on BYU's offense

2. Potential receiver corps adjustments

3. Tommy Prassas' transition to nickelback

4. Defensive strategy under coordinator Jay Hill

5. Kalani Sitake's bye week plans

6. Bear Bachmeier's role in adapting the offense

7. BYU's defensive evolution in 2025

8. Recruiting efforts during the early season break

For Cougar fans and college football enthusiasts alike, this episode offers an in-depth look at how BYU is navigating early-season challenges. From offensive adjustments to defensive innovations, we cover the critical aspects shaping BYU's 2025 campaign.

Tommy Prassas, a standout for BYU Cougars football, is taking on a new challenge at nickelback. This position shift could be the key to elevating the Cougars' defense as they compete in the Big 12.

Prassas, formerly a safety, is adapting to the increased demands of man coverage and one-on-one matchups at nickelback. His confidence in BYU's defensive potential is evident, as he praises the leadership of Coach Jay Hill and the talents of teammates like Keanu Tanuvasa and Bear Bachmeier.

The coaching staff's impact on Prassas's development is significant. Eddie Heckard, a recent addition to the coaching team, brings fresh insights from his playing days. Heckard's perspective is proving invaluable in helping Prassas and other defenders refine their skills.

Prassas's transition to nickelback is more than just a position change; it's a strategic move that could reshape BYU's defensive approach. The nickelback role requires a unique blend of coverage skills and run support, which Prassas seems well-suited to provide.

As BYU prepares for the upcoming season, Prassas's performance at nickelback will be crucial. His ability to match up against slot receivers and contribute to run defense could give the Cougars the defensive edge they need in the competitive Big 12 landscape.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Prassas's new role will impact BYU's defensive schemes. His enthusiasm and the coaching staff's confidence suggest that this move could be a game-changer for the Cougars.

With Prassas at nickelback, BYU's defense is poised for a potential breakthrough. His adaptability and skill set, combined with the coaching staff's strategic vision, might just be the formula the Cougars need to make waves in the Big 12.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Prassas and the BYU defense. If his transition to nickelback proves successful, it could mark the beginning of a new era for Cougars football, one defined by defensive dominance and competitive play in one of college football's toughest conferences.

The BYU Cougars football team enters a pivotal bye week after a strong 2-0 start to the season. Head coach Kalani Sitake and his staff are focused on maintaining the team's momentum while preparing for the challenges ahead in their Big 12 schedule.

Defensive Dominance

BYU's defense has been a standout feature in their early season success. The coaching staff aims to use this break to fine-tune their defensive schemes and ensure players remain in peak physical condition. Key defensive players will receive extra attention to prevent injuries and maintain their high-level performance.

Offensive Rhythm

The Cougars' offense has shown promise, and the bye week offers an opportunity to refine their playbook. Quarterbacks and receivers will work on timing and chemistry, while the offensive line focuses on protection schemes against future Big 12 opponents.

Recruiting Trail

Coach Sitake and his assistants plan to leverage this break for crucial recruiting efforts. They'll visit high school games and meet with potential future Cougars, strengthening BYU's talent pipeline for upcoming seasons.

Big 12 Challenges Ahead

With formidable opponents like Utah, Iowa State, and Texas Tech on the horizon, the Cougars are using this time to study film and develop game plans. The coaching staff is emphasizing the importance of mental preparation for the increased competition level in the Big 12.

Player Recovery and Development

The bye week allows injured players extra time to heal and younger players to receive additional coaching. This balanced approach aims to keep the entire roster sharp and ready for the grueling conference schedule.

Special Teams Focus

Often overlooked, special teams will receive extra attention during the bye. Coaches will work on kickoff coverage, punt returns, and field goal accuracy to ensure these critical aspects of the game are polished.

Team Building Activities

To maintain team cohesion and morale, the coaching staff has planned team-building exercises and community service activities during the break.

As BYU football prepares for the heart of the 2025 season, this strategic bye week could prove crucial in their quest for Big 12 success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Cougars emerge from this early season break and tackle the challenges that lie ahead in their conference schedule.

Don't miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU football's current state and future prospects. Tune in to hear expert insights, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes information that will keep you informed and engaged throughout the season.

Whether you're a die-hard BYU supporter or a casual Big 12 observer, this episode provides the essential knowledge you need to understand the Cougars' trajectory in their third year of Power Five competition.

Stay connected with BYU football and subscribe to our podcast for weekly updates, analysis, and exclusive content throughout the 2025 season.

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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.

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By Locked On Podcast Network, Jake Hatch

4.8

477477 ratings