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

The Arizona Wildcats’ dominant frontcourt sets them apart—are thye the archetype and model for BYU men's basketball to follow? Jake Hatch & Leif Thulin dissect Arizona’s impressive rise under Tommy Lloyd, focusing on the massive impact of retaining key talents like Mo Krivas, who is touted as an All-American candidate and possibly the best player on next year’s roster. The conversation spotlights Arizona’s recruiting wins—especially the ascent of five-star recruit Caleb Holt, now ranked number two in his class—and the crucial role of big men such as Ivan Karchenkov in their frontcourt rotation. The hosts highlight Tommy Lloyd’s consistent strategy of playing two traditional bigs, emphasizing how that approach has powered Arizona’s sharp rebounding edge, rim protection, and a high-octane offense capable of shooting 45% of their looks from five feet or fewer.

Meanwhile, Thulin draws a sharp contrast with BYU, where injuries and roster gaps have left the Cougars scrambling for frontcourt size and physicality. Despite NIL resources and a commitment to building a “Big 3,” BYU still struggles to land enough impactful big men in the transfer portal to keep pace with national powerhouses. The hosts question whether BYU should pivot toward Arizona’s proven model—stacking the frontcourt and embracing a rebounding-first mentality—to close the gap in the Big 12. They critique BYU’s inability to secure high-impact post players, emphasizing how this shortcoming exposes their defense and limits second-chance scoring opportunities.

Rounding out the discussion, Hatch & Thulin dig into the skyrocketing financial arms race in college basketball. With reports of more than 20 programs potentially spending $20 million or more on roster construction next season, the conversation explores whether Arizona, BYU, Kansas, and Texas Tech will crack that threshold—or whether Arizona’s value-driven approach, estimated around $13–15 million, can keep them atop the college hoops landscape. Will fit and chemistry win out over sheer dollar figures? And can teams like BYU adapt their recruiting and game strategies fast enough to keep Arizona and other heavyweights within reach as the sport enters a new era of supercharged spending?

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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.

SUPPORT US BY SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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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The BYU Cougars’ national championship hopes face a fascinating twist as two offensive stars vie for major hardware—but could their dominance actually hurt each other's chances for the Heisman Trophy or Doak Walker Award? Jake Hatch explores whether LJ Martin’s explosiveness or Bear Bachmeier’s quarterback leadership will earn the national spotlight, spotlighting the potential risk of hurting each other individual award candidacy even as both players anchor a stacked backfield. The show dives deep into ESPN’s latest college football preseason rankings, with BYU slotted at No. 12 and the spotlight shining on Martin as a potential Doak Walker winner after a 1,305-yard campaign and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors. Listeners are left to ponder: will the Cougars’ strength-in-numbers become their undoing in the race for football’s most prestigious awards?

Turning to the hardwood, a passionate squad of BYU fans joins Jake Hatch to break down the Cougars’ basketball roster crisis at center. Despite recent success recruiting guards and wings—citing names like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III—the absence of a true big man looms large after last season’s struggles against top-level post players. Concerns run high as fans discuss whether Kevin Young and his staff can land a difference-maker from the international pipeline, and if BYU boosters are truly willing to outbid rivals for much-needed size. The roundtable reflects on recruitment philosophies, retention challenges in the transfer portal era, and the urgent need for a strong inside presence to free up offensive standouts next season.

Excitement surges for the revived Utah State series, as fans debate the merits of moving games to the Delta Center for higher attendance and revenue, while reminiscing about the hostile environment in Logan. Meanwhile, lifelong Cougar supporters share personal stories of BYU fandom passed through generations, the meaning of season tickets, and storming the field after iconic wins. The episode concludes with spirited predictions for BYU football: is Notre Dame the must-win matchup, or will Utah or Arizona prove to be the true pivot point for College Football Playoff contention? As the BYU Cougars prepare for a pivotal season, can they capitalize on returning talent—or will a stacked schedule and internal pressures prove too much?

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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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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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Big 12 powerhouses rethink private equity as BYU and Houston reject RedBird Capital’s $30 million offer—could financial strategy shape the new conference elite? The Big 12 Squad dissects what BYU’s debt-averse philosophy means for their future, why Houston’s leadership is pressing pause, and whether Oklahoma State or Iowa State are positioned to take the risk, aiming to leap ahead in the evolving college sports arms race. Key segments explore how this RedBird deal differs from Utah’s approach, implications for NIL and facility upgrades, and the brewing ACC vs. Big 12 rivalry for Power Three status. Plus, get the latest on Big 12 baseball: West Virginia’s postseason surge, Oklahoma State’s must-watch battle with Arizona State, and whether coaching changes are on the horizon for BYU. Is this the start of a seismic shift in college sports funding?

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

College Football Playoff expansion takes center stage as a proposed 24-team format raises questions about the sport’s competitive future. Is this massive playoff the answer to more inclusion or merely a ploy to pad resumes for Power Four coaches and programs on the fringe? Jake Hatch and Spencer McLaughlin dissect the AFCA board’s ambitious recommendations, spotlighting the motivations behind expanding playoff access and what it means for teams like BYU and head coach Kalani Sitake, who have narrowly missed out in the current 12-team system.

The discussion explores whether expanding to 24 teams amplifies the drama or leads to a slate bloated with undeserving teams, such as last year’s 8-5 Duke and inconsistent Iowa squads. The hosts point out that, while Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars could benefit statistically, the move threatens to sap meaning from the regular season and invite forgettable first-round blowouts, echoing the college basketball tournament’s regular season irrelevance. There’s in-depth analysis on the downside of letting conference champions—regardless of strength—into the playoff, and the likely increase of lopsided matchups if FCS-style formats take hold.

Meanwhile, positive suggestions emerge, including calls to eliminate conference championship games and move the College Football Playoff to an early January finish. Both Jake and Spencer express strong support for these changes, viewing them as wins for players, coaches, fans, and media alike. Yet, the specter of financial incentives looms large: a 24-team field could inflate bonuses and create artificial milestones for coaches, while athletic directors and agents capitalize on the new landscape. Is the driving force genuine competition or a relentless pursuit of revenue?

Listeners are challenged to reconsider what they value most about college football’s postseason. Can traditions be preserved amid change, or is the sport destined to mirror the college basketball model—where March tournaments mean everything and regular-season stakes fade? Tune in for sharp insights, spirited debate, and a forward-looking take on where the College Football Playoff might be headed, and whether money, rather than merit, will ultimately decide the game’s future.

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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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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.

The BYU Cougars are renewing their fierce rivalry with the Utah State Aggies, but the much-anticipated basketball series comes with a twist: no true home-and-home showdown. Jake Hatch dissects BYU’s strategic move to keep the first game in Provo’s Marriott Center and push the so-called “return” game to the neutral Delta Center in Salt Lake City. This setup stirs debate—does BYU’s insistence on avoiding the Spectrum in Logan signal a new era of Big 12 leverage, or is it a missed opportunity for testing the mettle of young stars like Bruce Branch III? With a 10-game win streak over the Aggies since 2013, the Cougars show their dominance, but the absence of a true road game raises questions about player development in high-pressure environments.

Money talks in college basketball, and both programs stand to gain financially from a split-ticket arrangement at the 19,000-capacity Delta Center, as highlighted by Jake Hatch. More seats mean more revenue, crowd energy, and broader reach for the rivalry—but at what cost to tradition and home-court intrigue? The conversation doesn’t stop at Utah State; Jake Hatch advocates for expanding BYU’s non-conference schedule with more in-state clashes, including matchups with UVU, Weber State, Southern Utah, and Utah Tech. The goal: keep the non-conference slate compelling and let local fan bases rally around familiar faces, instead of scheduling lesser-known opponents for “money games” that lack excitement and history.

Will Kevin Young’s leadership and BYU’s assertive scheduling philosophy rejuvenate the local hoops scene and help the Cougars prepare for the rigors of Big 12 play? Can the Cougars’ approach of dictating terms while embracing local rivalries set a winning formula for both financial success and on-court development? Jake Hatch provides a passionate, insightful look at how regional rivalries and smart scheduling could shape BYU’s basketball trajectory as they aim to extend their dominance over the Aggies and maximize fan engagement heading into a new season.

Support Locked On Cougars:

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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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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.

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The BYU Cougars find themselves at a pivotal crossroads, with national eyes on Kalani Sitake's team as they confront high expectations and pointed criticism. College football analyst Josh Pate directly challenges BYU, arguing that despite strong performances, the Cougars “didn’t really win anything” last year—but can the BYU football program's returning core silence the doubters and make a legitimate run at a Big 12 Conference title or even the College Football Playoff? With Bear Bachmeier set to lead the offense, dynamic LJ Martin anchoring the backfield after a standout season, and a staggering 63% of team production returning, BYU stands as CBS Sports’ #3 program nationally in that key metric. The Cougars aim to capitalize on Texas Tech’s turbulence surrounding Brendan Sorsby and leverage one of the nation’s most experienced rosters, setting the stage for potential statement wins, particularly in a top-10 showdown against Notre Dame.

Jake Hatch turns his attention to hardwood drama as BYU renews its storied basketball rivalry with Utah State—but this time, the Cougars snub a return trip to Logan, fueling Aggie fan outrage. Instead, the series heads to the Marriott Center and the neutral Delta Center, reflecting both financial calculation and BYU’s evolving power position as a Big 12 program. Is this scheduling approach the best way to test BYU’s youthful roster—filled with up-and-coming names like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III—or does it signal a shift away from traditional home-and-home matchups with in-state rivals? Jake Hatch dissects what this means for local fan engagement and how Kevin Young balances marquee non-conference games against building relationships within Utah.

The episode wraps with a critical look at BYU football's special teams overhaul. With Justin Ena taking the reins as coordinator and a wave of newcomers vying for punting, kicking, and return duties, Cougar success may hinge on untested faces like Fuller Schurtz, Ty Smith, and a three-way kicker battle featuring Matthias Dunn, Ian Sanches, and Brody Laga. Will the revamped special teams rise to the occasion and sustain BYU’s edge in complimentary football, or could inconsistency here threaten their championship ambitions? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s dynamic analysis as BYU football and basketball navigate the pressure—and opportunity—of a new era.

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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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 make headlines as Ryan Wooten Jr., a highly-rated 6'2", 175-pound defensive back from Jersey City, New Jersey, committed to bringing his talents to Provo. Could this major recruiting win signal the start of a new era for Kalani Sitake’s program as they chase national relevance in the Big 12 Conference? With proven versatility and size perfectly suited to combat today’s bigger, stronger wide receivers, Wooten’s arrival may elevate BYU’s secondary—and recruiting profile—to unprecedented heights.

Jake Hatch spotlights the seamless blend of skills that sets Wooten apart: the ability to lock down receivers in man coverage, read plays instinctively, and shift to safety if needed. Drawing parallels to Tre Alexander, another out-of-state standout, the conversation emphasizes that BYU’s staff, led by Lewis Walker’s East Coast connections and Kalani Sitake’s vision, is casting a wider and more potent net than ever before. The episode explores how Wooten’s commitment is about more than just individual talent—it’s a signpost of BYU’s rapidly expanding recruiting territory. For the first time this century, the Cougars nab a top-rated prospect from New Jersey, highlighting their national reach and ability to attract players who might never have considered Utah as a college football destination.

Key talking points include the Big 12 effect on BYU’s recruiting power, the strategic importance of versatility at the cornerback position, and how Wooten’s rating—on the cusp of four-star status—sets a new standard for what BYU can achieve. Ryan Wooten Jr. also considers the program’s ongoing challenge: can they convert elite talent into consistent contenders against Big 12 rivals like Texas Tech, Utah, and Houston? As BYU’s recruiting floor rises with additions like Tytan DeJong and Ezra Sanelivi, the conversation turns to the big question: Will continued out-of-state signings help the Cougars realize long-held ambitions of contending for conference titles and college football playoff berths?

Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU football’s evolving identity, as Ryan Wooten Jr. examines how one commitment could ripple through recruiting strategy, on-field performance, and the Cougars’ pursuit of sustained greatness.

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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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.

Big 12 supremacy is up for grabs as BYU and Arizona square off in a pivotal Week 2 clash that could dictate the conference’s tone for the entire season. Will Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin propel the BYU Cougars to the front of the Big 12 race, or can Noah Fifita—Arizona’s reigning conference quarterback of the year—lead a Wildcats squad on the rise and prove they’re not being overlooked? Jake Hatch and Leif Thulin dissect the critical stakes, reflecting on last year’s double-overtime thriller and weighing how returning talent on both rosters positions each team as a serious contender.

The discussion spotlights the wild cards hanging over the conference race—specifically, the eligibility of Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby and how that could shift the Big 12 hierarchy. Are BYU and Arizona quietly poised to seize control if the Red Raiders stumble? Jake Hatch and Leif compare the physical, veteran style of the Cougars—grounded by a proven quarterback and a formidable running attack—with the explosive, turnover-hungry Arizona defense and an offense centered around Fifita’s accuracy. Parity reigns supreme in the conference, but this early-season collision could give the winner a crucial advantage as national attention intensifies.

Roster construction and coaching strategies come under the spotlight, with Arizona’s Brent Brennan attempting to cement his turnaround after last season’s 6-game conference win streak. Can the Wildcats’ rebuilt secondary and offensive line replacements uphold last year’s defensive breakthroughs? Will the emergence of young standouts make up for key departures to the NFL? On the BYU side, Jake Hatch examines the offensive question marks at wide receiver, tight end, and on the offensive line, and considers whether experience at quarterback and running back is enough for Kalani Sitake to offset those gaps.

Switching to basketball, the podcast breaks down BYU and Arizona’s contrasting approaches in the transfer portal. Can BYU shore up a thin frontcourt and build a roster to match Tommy Lloyd’s deep, two-big rotation for the Wildcats, highlighted by Mo Krivas’s All-American buzz? How do NIL spending wars factor into roster building, and could Arizona or BYU leap into the upper echelon of college hoops budgets? With plenty of insider analysis and key names to watch, this crossover delivers the essential preview for fans eyeing both the gridiron and the hardwood this 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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The BYU men's basketball program's search for a starting center intensifies as another high-profile target, Obinna Ekezie Jr., opts for Louisville, adding pressure on Kevin Young and his staff to secure a vital piece for next season’s roster. With top stateside names dwindling, BYU pivots its focus overseas, targeting promising international prospects like Michael Ružić—a 6'11" Croatian standout with professional experience in Spain alongside Ricky Rubio and Jabari Parker—and Egor Ryzhov, a rim-protecting Russian big man with prior interest from Florida State. Jake Hatch dissects why rim protection, defensive versatility, and three-point shooting are top priorities for Young’s NBA-inspired system, and how the hyper-inflated NIL market is shaping recruiting battles across college basketball. Can the BYU Cougars win out against schools with deeper pockets and fill their most glaring need before the portal dries up?

Amid basketball recruiting drama, BYU football notches a significant recruiting victory as Ryan Wooten Jr., a 6’2”, 175-pound cornerback out of Jersey City, New Jersey, commits to Kalani Sitake’s program. Rated as one of the highest-rated cornerback prospects in school history, Wooten’s pledge signals a breakthrough in BYU’s national recruiting efforts since joining the Big 12 Conference. Jake Hatch highlights the influence of new defensive backs coach Lewis Walker—whose New Jersey ties were key—and breaks down how Wooten’s skills mirror BYU stars like Therrian "Tre" Alexander, giving the Cougars needed length and coverage flexibility against the Big 12’s evolving offenses. Can BYU continue to expand its recruiting footprint and attract elite talent from coast to coast?

The episode also covers BYU baseball and softball’s late-season disappointments, as both teams struggle to meet postseason expectations—baseball’s RPI takes a hit from unfavorable losses, while softball deals with a rare under-.500 finish despite emotional senior day moments. Jake Hatch gives a nod to BYU track and field’s standout performances at the Robison Invitational, where Tayvon Kitchen and Isaac Hendengren break the elusive four-minute mile at elevation, and Jane Hendengren emerges as a star to watch. With conference realignment raising the bar, can BYU’s spring sports adapt and thrive on the national stage?

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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

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

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

Rugiet - Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl. Rugiet - Performance medicine for men

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 running back LJ Martin stands on the edge of history, poised to become the BYU football program’s all-time leading rusher while also carrying the title of reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. His journey is one marked by grit, ambition, and a hunger to elevate both his personal game and the fortunes of the BYU Cougars. Facing tough decisions after a breakout season, LJ Martin opens up to Jake Hatch about why he chose to forgo the NFL Draft—despite widespread speculation about his status as a priority pick—and return to Provo for one more run with his teammates. NFL scouts are watching closely: will LJ Martin match or surpass legends like Jamaal Williams, Harvey Unga, and Tyler Allgeier to set a new standard for Cougar running backs?

Listeners get unprecedented access to LJ Martin’s mindset during this pivotal offseason. After missing spring ball to recover from shoulder surgery, he took on a mentoring role, helping younger running backs develop while staying engaged with the Cougar offense from the sidelines. This episode uncovers how that leadership experience has strengthened team unity and allowed Martin to forge deeper connections—including memorable moments off the field, like competitive all-you-can-eat pancake outings with quarterback Bear Bachmeier and teammates. The chemistry in BYU’s locker room is undeniable, fueled not only by shared triumphs but also the sting of close defeats, most notably back-to-back heartbreakers against Texas Tech.

The conversation shifts to personal motivations: is breaking the rushing record truly Martin’s top priority? He reveals that team success and one last shot with his “guys” overrides individual milestones, even as his on-field production and durability are put to the ultimate test. As the fall season approaches, anticipation is building—can LJ Martin deliver another dominant campaign and lead BYU toward a Big 12 title or even a College Football Playoff berth?

This candid interview provides a comprehensive look at LJ Martin’s BYU experience, his playful spirit, and what Cougar fans can expect from their star running back in a highly anticipated final season. Will he finish as the greatest runner in BYU Football history? Cougar Nation waits with bated breath.

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

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

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.