November 07, 2025

BYU's UNDEFEATED Season Faces ULTIMATE Test Against Texas Tech | Can Bear Bachmeier DELIVER History? | Listener Mailbag | Game Preview & Prediction

35 minutes

The #7 BYU Cougars face the #8 Texas Tech Red Raiders in a historic top-10 showdown that could reshape the Big 12 Championship race and determine playoff positioning. Can the undefeated Cougars pull off the upset in hostile Lubbock with ESPN's College GameDay on-hand?

Jake Hatch breaks down why BYU enters as a surprising 10.5-point underdog despite their perfect 8-0 record and proven ability to win close games throughout the season. The Cougars have consistently found ways to victory, but this matchup presents their biggest challenge yet in a raucous road environment.

The analysis covers critical injury updates, including LJ Martin's shoulder status and his potential impact on BYU's rushing attack. True freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier faces his biggest test yet against Texas Tech's aggressive defense, which excels at forcing turnovers through ball-stripping techniques. Hatch examines how BYU's offensive line must protect against this relentless pressure while creating running lanes.

Field position battle emerges as a crucial factor that could determine the outcome. Special teams coordinator Kelly Poppinga's return game schemes provide BYU with a potential advantage, giving the Cougars opportunities to flip field position and control momentum. Turnover margin becomes paramount for both teams, as the squad that protects the football while creating takeaways will likely emerge victorious.

College Football Playoff implications loom large for the Big 12 Conference. Hatch addresses listener questions about potential first-round bye scenarios if BYU wins out, exploring how an undefeated season could position the Cougars for a coveted home playoff game at LaVell Edwards Stadium. The Big 12 Championship race hangs in the balance with this pivotal matchup.

Hatch delivers his bold prediction for the game, explaining why BYU's self-belief and championship mentality might overcome the hostile environment and point spread. The Cougars' resilience has been tested repeatedly this season, and their ability to execute in pressure situations could prove decisive.

This episode provides comprehensive game analysis, injury updates, playoff scenarios, and expert predictions for one of college football's most anticipated matchups. Discover why this showdown between undefeated BYU and Texas Tech could define the Big 12 season and determine who controls their playoff destiny.

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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

494494 ratings