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

Faletau Satuala’s injury shakes up the BYU Cougars’ defensive landscape just months before the 2026 season. The acclaimed All-American safety, who dazzled last year with his rare combination of height, speed, and playmaking, now faces a crucial recovery period after fracturing his foot. With Satuala projected to miss at least eight weeks, Jake Hatch examines the timeline and the potential pitfalls BYU faces if he’s not 100% by the high-stakes Week 2 matchup against Arizona—a game set to define the early Big 12 race. Can BYU's defense remain elite without its versatile anchor patrolling the back end?

Jake Hatch zooms in on the new leaders emerging in the Cougars’ secondary. Raider Damuni, another four-star talent with deep family roots in Provo, is poised to headline the safety group if Satuala remains sidelined. Veteran Tommy Prassas and the revitalized Jarinn Kalama are highlighted as key contributors, each bringing a unique skill set—whether as rangy, hard-hitting strong safeties or more natural centerfielders. The discussion explores how spring camp elevated Kalama’s profile from a relative afterthought to a legitimate rotation piece and how Prassas' return to his natural safety role could provide schematic flexibility.

As defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga implements subtle changes—favoring field and boundary side alignments over traditional free/strong safety roles—Jake Hatch questions how smoothly the group can adapt. He breaks down how BYU’s proven linebackers and strengthened defensive line could lighten the load on the retooled secondary, and why veteran cornerbacks Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander will be critical to the overall scheme. The analysis also touches on former Cougar standout Tanner Wall, now chasing an NFL dream.

Looking beyond 2026, Jake Hatch spotlights the brightest prospects set to carry the torch: freshman standouts Matthew Mason and Kennan Pula—already making noise in spring camp—and Crew Clark, a playmaker from Idaho aiming to force his way into future rotations. With a well-stocked safety room and seasoned contributors possibly NFL-bound soon, will the next wave of Cougars rise to the challenge?

The episode closes with a salute to BYU’s NCAA track and field success—congratulating Taylor Lovell for her steeplechase victory and Ben Barton for snapping a 45-year championship drought in the decathlon. As the Cougars’ football depth is tested, listeners are left to wonder: can BYU’s revamped defense deliver on its Big 12 aspirations and who will emerge as the new household name in Cougar blue?

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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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The BYU Cougars spotlight integrity as Texas Tech faces backlash over the Brendan Sorsby eligibility saga. With Texas Tech leadership—headlined by Kirby Hocutt and Joey McGuire—working overtime and even issuing legal threats to get Sorsby under center, BYU fans and Jake Hatch revisit BYU’s unwavering tradition of upholding the honor code. Hatch draws on pivotal moments, from the Brandon Davies suspension derailing a Final Four-caliber basketball team to recent cases involving Jake Retzlaff, Parker Kingston and Harvey Unga, emphasizing that BYU has repeatedly chosen its standards over on-field or on-court success. Is Texas Tech’s win-at-all-costs mentality worth the reputational risks, and how does it measure up against BYU’s approach?

Listeners get a fan-driven lens as the Fan Friday Squad Squad—Josh, Clint, and Paul—dissect not only the fallout from Texas Tech’s handling of Sorsby, but also how it shapes conference dynamics. The conversation explores the cultural differences in accountability, the potential hostile reception for Sorsby in Big 12 venues, and the specter of revenge or targeting as other players weigh what it means to face an athlete cleared under controversy. Thought-provoking comparisons are drawn between current events and the infamous cases of athletes like Pete Rose, with concerns raised about mental health being leveraged as legal cover. Is the environment Texas Tech is creating genuinely in Sorsby’s best interest, or does it set a troubling precedent for college football?

Shifting from controversy to optimism, the show dives deep into Brigham Young University’s golden era across all sports. Kalani Sitake’s leadership and Kevin Young’s recruiting acumen earn praise, as fans share personal stories—from watching games atop mountains to the generational loyalty forged by historic seasons like 1996 and 1984. The panel celebrates rising stars such as Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin while highlighting the importance of building athletic culture around love, accountability, and doing things the “BYU way.” Anticipation heats up for the upcoming clash with Notre Dame—set to be the birthday wish for one panelist—and for BYU basketball’s roster to fill out under Young, with hopes high for landing a game-changing big man.

With the Cougars’ foundation stronger than ever, alumni and fans agree: this is an unprecedented, transformative era for BYU athletics. Can integrity and excellence intersect for a run at Big 12 Conference glory—and perhaps an even bigger stage? Tune in for fan perspectives, expert insights, and a spotlight on Cougar Nation’s relentless pride and optimism.

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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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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  

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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)

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Big 12 turmoil reaches a tipping point as the BYU Cougars’ leadership takes center stage in the high-stakes showdown with Texas Tech over quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s eligibility and recent legal maneuverings. With President Shane Reese representing BYU on the conference’s pivotal executive committee, the Brett Yormark and the Big 12 Conference face a defining moment: whether to uphold league standards amid mounting threats of injunctions from Texas Tech, whose influential boosters and administrators remain fiercely committed to Sorsby. The conversation focused on the consequences of allowing a player with a documented gambling history to play after a brief suspension—posing fundamental questions about the integrity of college football. As Big 12 presidents prepare for a full conference vote, observers wonder: Will the Cougars, with Reese’s steady influence, guide the league to a decisive resolution, or will Texas Tech’s pushback make lasting legal waves in collegiate athletics?

A key theme that emerged was BYU Football’s rising stock in the national conversation. Analyst Bill Connolly’s SP+ projections position the Cougars as a dark-horse College Football Playoff contender, with the bold prediction of a near double-digit win season and a top-20 national ranking. Yet the discussion explored Connolly’s notorious “kiss of death” trend—BYU often underperforms when he forecasts big things, but could this finally be the season Kalani Sitake’s squad buck the pattern? The episode highlights Bear Bachmeier’s critical role as a true freshman quarterback, the return of offensive talents like LJ Martin, and questions about the wide receiver corps’ productivity. On defense, the departure of Jay Hill and the arrival of Kelly Poppinga mark a new era, with names like Isaiah Glasker and Nusi Taumoepeau expected to step up as playmakers.

Several points were raised, including the Cougars’ aggressive efforts on the recruiting trail. The discussion spotlighted key targets such as four-star receiver Blake Wong and tackle Isaiah Bertola, underscoring the ongoing battle with Pac-12 and Big Ten powers for elite LDS talent. Out-of-state prospects like Jag Ioane and Demichael Burks are set to visit, illustrating BYU’s commitment to building roster depth. Attention also turned to BYU’s presence at the NCAA Track and Field Championships—with Jane Hedengren’s national title run—and the men’s golf side, where Kihei Akina garners more All-American honors. Volleyball’s future looks promising as championship-winner Donan Cruz joins Rob Nielsen’s staff.

Can BYU overcome a daunting early schedule and mounting expectations to stake a claim as the Big 12’s breakout story? Don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of Cougar Football’s most critical summer in years.

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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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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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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.

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The BYU Cougars are rising fast, entering the Big 12 conversation as not just favorites for the coming season, but as a program built for sustained success. Anchored by Bear Bachmeier at quarterback—coming off an eye-popping freshman campaign with over 3,000 passing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns—BYU’s future looks brighter than ever. Recruiting momentum is surging, with the Cougars notching the conference’s second-most blue-chip prospects and landing top talents like Ryder Lyons and Brock Harris, fueling expectations for consistent national competitiveness. Is this the beginning of a new era where BYU becomes a perennial College Football Playoff contender?

The conversation focused on ESPN’s updated Power 4 Future Power Rankings, where BYU secured the No. 15 spot and ranked second among Big 12 teams. One concept discussed was how BYU’s recent recruiting success, featuring seven blue-chip prospects in the 2026 class, could reshape the ceiling for Cougar football. The discussion explored the importance of seasoned players like Keanu Tanuvasa and L.J. Martin, along with standout offensive linemen Bruce Mitchell and Andrew Gentry, reinforcing BYU’s reputation for physical trench play. A key theme that emerged was staff continuity—highlighting Kalani Sitake’s retention despite a Penn State pursuit and navigating the impact of defensive coordinator Jay Hill’s move to Michigan, with Kelly Poppinga stepping into the new defensive coordinator role.

Several points were raised, including the athletic director’s meeting with Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark about the controversy surrounding Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby, suspended for betting violations. The 15-1 opposition from Big 12 athletic directors against Sorsby’s eligibility spotlights mounting frustration over NCAA policy, the injunction granted to Sorsby, and Texas Tech’s determination to play him regardless of broader conference disapproval. How the Big 12 chooses to act—possibly through postseason bans or financial penalties—remains uncertain and could set a precedent for athlete conduct and league governance.

The discussion also took a lighter turn, exploring why BYU is now considered Idaho’s most hated team—a badge earned through a fierce, recent rivalry with Boise State and the school’s regional influence. The possibility of rekindling rivalry games with both Boise State and Utah State was considered, highlighting how regional showdowns can add intensity and tradition to BYU’s growing national profile. With a loaded roster, rising recruiting classes, and feisty regional rivalries, will the Cougars seize the moment to join the elite ranks of college football, or is there more work to be done?

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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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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.

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Texas Tech faces national backlash after quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s suspension is reduced to just two games following NCAA gambling violations. Rival schools, including Nebraska and Georgia, threaten to pull out of future matchups, while debate rages over league commissioner Brett Yormark’s power to intervene. The Big 12’s reputation, integrity, and potential for a new villain take center stage as some argue Tech is simply getting the SEC-style favoritism others have enjoyed for years. 

The Big 12 Squad breaks down the legal maneuvering, what this precedent means for player discipline, and whether Sorsby’s return shifts the balance of power in the conference. Can Texas Tech silence the critics and turn controversy into a College Football Playoff run? Plus, West Virginia’s Omaha chances ignite talk of regional rivalries and fan support. Is the Big 12 ready for a new national narrative—or scandal?

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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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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].

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BYU finds itself at the heart of Big 12 controversy as the fallout from the Texas Tech–Brendan Sorsby injunction continues to ripple across the college football landscape. Will the Cougars stand alone as voices of reason, or are they at risk of being caught in a conference-wide feud that threatens to exile Texas Tech from key matchups? Jake Hatch takes listeners inside the tense dynamics following a Lubbock County judge’s decision granting Sorsby a temporary injunction despite his self-admitted gambling violations—over 9,000 bets placed, including wagers on his own team. As the Big Ten and SEC consider outright bans on scheduling Texas Tech, questions swirl: Should BYU join the outcry, or focus on “controlling the controllable” and positioning themselves as the conference’s standard-bearer of integrity?

Jake Hatch unpacks the implications for the Big 12 Conference, where legal uncertainty threatens the structure of scheduled play and the broader trust in college football. With BYU not slated to face Texas Tech in the regular season—but eager for a shot at the Red Raiders in the conference championship—the episode spotlights how these developments might fuel a hero-villain narrative pitting BYU’s clean reputation against Texas Tech’s new “programa non grata” identity. Is all publicity good for the Big 12, especially as the league fights for recognition in a post-Texas, post-Oklahoma era? And does the court’s decision risk turning college football into something more akin to professional wrestling, where integrity is ever-doubted and outcomes are scrutinized? Jake Hatch challenges fans to weigh in on whether a villainous Texas Tech could benefit both the league and BYU’s own dreams of a College Football Playoff berth.

Shifting to basketball, BYU’s future looks promising as Bruce Branch III’s performance in the FIBA U18 AmeriCup puts BYU fans on notice. Averaging 8.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and having tallied two double-doubles, Branch’s versatility and willingness to adapt may set him apart from previous high-profile recruits like AJ Dybantsa. Jake Hatch highlights how Branch, alongside Robert Wright III and Collin Chandler, could foster a more free-flowing offense that avoids last season’s “your turn, my turn” stagnation. With an upgraded roster stacked with high-major transfers and youthful leadership, BYU basketball appears primed for a leap forward. Will Branch’s team-first mentality and adaptability help the Cougars reach new heights under coach Kevin Young? And in the midst of so much upheaval, can both BYU football and basketball seize their moments for national relevance?

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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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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].

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In this episode of Locked On Cougars, we break down the massive news out of Lubbock: Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has been granted a court injunction allowing him to play the 2026 season despite an NCAA gambling ban. We discuss how this legal victory shifts the Big 12 title race, where it leaves BYU in the hunt, and the broader, dangerous implications for collegiate athletics when legal intervention overrides the integrity policies of the NCAA.

The college football landscape shifted beneath our feet on Monday. In a ruling that has sent shockwaves from Lubbock to the halls of the NCAA, Judge Ken Curry granted Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby a temporary injunction, effectively clearing him to suit up for the 2026 season.

For those catching up, Sorsby had been declared permanently ineligible by the NCAA after admitting to wagering on sports, including bets on his own team during his time at Indiana. The court’s decision is, in a word, unprecedented. While Sorsby will still serve a two-game suspension—a penalty proposed by his own legal team—the fact remains: a player who admitted to betting on his own games is back on the field.

For BYU fans, this is more than just a legal headline; it’s a direct hit to the Cougars' conference aspirations. The Big 12 is arguably the most wide-open league in the country, and before Monday’s ruling, the prevailing narrative was that Texas Tech’s quarterback volatility had leveled the playing field, with BYU positioned as a potential frontrunner.

With Sorsby back in the fold, the Red Raiders regain their status as a legitimate favorite. Armed with a powerhouse defensive line and an offensive line projected to be among the nation’s elite, Texas Tech is suddenly a much more daunting obstacle for BYU. The Cougars, coming off a 12-2 season and a Pop-Tarts Bowl victory, return an incredible core of talent, including Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin and Freshman of the Year Bear Bachmeier. However, the path to the Big 12 Championship game just got a whole lot steeper.

Beyond the win-loss column, we have to look at the "elephant in the stadium." The NCAA, in a rare moment of public frustration, stated the ruling “undermines and corrupts the integrity of sports.” They aren't wrong.

When a court decides that a player’s "irreparable injury" from missing a season outweighs the governing body’s rules on gambling, we are entering a new, volatile era. Does this open the door for any suspended athlete to use the court system to bypass NCAA oversight? If the lines of integrity are blurred by legal injunctions, the fundamental trust that sports requires—the belief that the game on the field is pure—is at stake.

For BYU and the rest of the Big 12, the 2026 season was already set to be a gauntlet. Now, it’s a gauntlet with a massive, complicated legal asterisk.

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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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June emerges as a decisive month for BYU Cougars football, as the new recruiting calendar places official visits at the heart of building a Big 12 contender. With Kalani Sitake at the helm, can BYU capitalize on this critical window to attract top-tier prospects and bolster a roster capable of pursuing a College Football Playoff berth? Jake Hatch leads an engaging Fan Friday panel featuring Tawnya, Ammon, and Bobby to break down why June recruiting could shape the Cougars’ long-term trajectory—and what’s next for BYU in the highly competitive Power 4 landscape.

The discussion spotlights key expectations for the upcoming season, including the evolution of quarterback Bear Bachmeier after a full offseason and the pivotal role of Kelly Poppinga stepping into Jay Hill’s shoes as defensive coordinator. Listeners hear a spirited debate on whether BYU has the depth to weather injuries, the importance of the running back room behind LJ Martin, and how new wide receivers and tight ends could transform the Cougars’ offensive attack. The group references benchmark stats—like 70% completion and 30+ touchdowns—that quarterbacks like Bear Bachmeier must hit to join the ranks of Heisman-level talent, raising the question: Can BYU’s new-look offense reach these elite thresholds?

Off the gridiron, the panel takes a hard look at the situation brewing with archrival Utah Utes as revelations surface about their depleted reserve funds and a high-stakes deal with Otro Capital Partners. Does Utah risk overextending itself in a bid to leap into the Big Ten, or is this a savvy path to maintain athletic dominance in the state? Jake and his guests examine the consequences of financial gambles and how Utah’s choices may reshape rivalries and conference perceptions in the years ahead.

Other hot topics include prospective renovations at LaVell Edwards Stadium—ranging from luxury terraces to the challenge of maintaining BYU’s family-friendly atmosphere amid rising ticket prices—and the national debate over proposed college sports legislation. As SEC powerbrokers and figures like Nick Saban warn about BYU’s future clout in a free-market environment, panelists debate if new regulations can truly level the field or simply reward teams with the most creative workarounds.

With every angle covered—from program-building and tradition to financial strategy and NCAA politics—this episode asks whether BYU’s next moves will cement its place among college football’s elite. Don’t miss out on passionate fan insights, practical analysis, and predictions for Cougar Nation’s road to glory.

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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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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].

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Utah’s high-profile private equity deal unravels as layoffs hit the athletic department—has financial control slipped away from the Utes? The Big 12 Squad dissects Utah’s $500 million capital saga, audit scrutiny, and the controversial shift in hiring power to Wall Street investors. With concerns mounting over depleted rainy day funds and drastic staff moves, rivals question if skipping the RedBird deal saved other schools from similar turmoil. 

The show pivots to football as The Athletic names BYU the Big 12’s “clear favorite,” igniting debates about preseason rankings, quarterback turnover, and Arizona’s surprising exclusion from the top 25. Texas Tech, Houston, and TCU all get spotlighted as contenders, while the panel challenges key transfer quarterbacks and roster moves across the league. Plus, chaos unfolds live as Texas Tech softball delivers a walk-off and West Virginia clinches a thriller—Big 12 drama at its finest.

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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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].

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SEC bias takes center stage as BYU’s College Football Playoff case sparks controversy and resentment within the Power 4 ranks. Cam Stuart and Jake Hatch unpack the behind-the-scenes dynamics that have SEC coaches—led, surprisingly, by Texas Longhorns head coach and former BYU quarterback Steve Sarkisian—actively advocation for BYU to be ranked behind SEC teams like Vanderbilt and Texas in College Football Playoff discussions. How did BYU’s 12-2 season get overshadowed by conference politics and narratives prioritizing SEC losses over Big 12 wins? The hosts spotlight the hypocrisy in how conference title game defeats are valued differently by selection committees depending on logo and historical precedent, illuminating why BYU’s presence is rattling traditional hierarchies in college football.

Shifting focus to the Big 12 Conference, the episode tackles the fast-evolving battle for conference supremacy. With Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s eligibility under intense scrutiny due to his betting history, the door opens for BYU to become the "clear favorite" in the Big 12—at least in Stewart Mandel’s estimation. But can BYU capitalize on this moment, or is Texas Tech, possibly with Will Hammond returning, still a looming threat? Houston’s rise under Willie Fritz, plus the unpredictable elements of programs like Arizona State and Utah navigating massive roster and coaching changes, add further intrigue to what could be a chaotic race for the conference crown. The hosts push back against the notion of “clear favorites” in a league renowned for upsets, unproven quarterbacks, and razor-thin margins.

The show also takes a passionate look at college football legacy as Robert Griffin III (RG3) and BYU legend Dennis Pitta headline a loaded College Football Hall of Fame finalist list. The discussion goes beyond stats, examining how RG3’s Heisman campaign reshaped Baylor’s national identity and how Pitta’s domination at tight end—despite limited national TV exposure in the Mountain West Conference era—should earn him an eventual Hall of Fame nod. Their conversation questions whether school and conference prominence still overshadow true on-field excellence when voters decide who gets immortalized.

How much do narratives, politics, and power structures still dictate college football’s biggest moments and awards? Can programs like BYU, Houston, and Arizona State force their way into the national spotlight despite old guard resistance? Stuart and Hatch don’t just analyze results—they ask if this season could finally break open a new era in college football parity and recognition.

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 Sponsors!

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: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game

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].

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.