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

Big 12 basketball’s NIL arms race intensifies as Oklahoma State and West Virginia surge past BYU and Texas Tech with headline-grabbing transfer portal moves. Can Oklahoma State’s spending power and West Virginia’s strategic recruiting vault them into the conference elite? Jake Hatch spotlights BYU’s portal strategy and lingering questions at center, while the squad debates if any team can keep pace with the league’s escalating competition. Off the court, rumors swirl around Cody Campbell’s son and the potential for seismic shifts in Big 12 football power dynamics. West Virginia baseball’s electric offense and pitching depth push them into the national conversation, even as BYU battles pitching concerns and Oklahoma State scrambles to rebuild a depleted staff. From Houston’s uneven portal rankings to the drama of Friday night games, every team is fighting for postseason position. Is a new Big 12 baseball hierarchy emerging—or will traditional powers reassert control as the season heats up?

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The BYU football program;s 2026 football campaign is loaded with intrigue as rising quarterback Bear Bachmeier preps for a potential breakout in his sophomore season. After transferring from Stanford and producing a 3,000-yard passing year as a true freshman, Bachmeier is focused on improved physical conditioning and taking the reins of BYU’s offense with more confidence and authority. The offseason spotlight shines on new weapons: tight end transfers Walker Lyons (USC) and Roger Saleapaga (Oregon) quickly became spring standouts, poised to offset concerns in the wide receiver room after the departures of Parker Kingston and Chase Roberts. Big-bodied Kyler Kasper aims for a comeback after injury-plagued seasons at Oregon, while Jojo Phillips looks to take a leap if he remains healthy. Meanwhile, can the Cougars’ evolving receiving threats open new dimensions for the offense, and will Bachmeier’s decision-making and full year in the system translate to real gains?

Fans may wonder why running back LJ Martin remains relatively overshadowed despite being last season’s Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a top candidate to rewrite BYU’s all-time rushing records. Analysts question whether he’ll finally garner national attention or continue to fuel the offense quietly. On defense, a coaching shakeup brings new leadership: Kelly Poppinga steps in as defensive coordinator, joined by veteran analyst Gary Andersen to maintain continuity and discipline. Cade Uluave, a key linebacker transfer from Cal, joins forces with returning standout Isaiah Glasker, aiming to anchor one of the league’s top linebacker tandems and fill the void left by Jack Kelly’s NFL departure. While the front seven is loaded with experience, questions still loom about cornerback depth and whether new faces can add reliability behind starting duo Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander.

Special teams undergo a complete overhaul with new starters at kicker, punter, long snapper, and punt returner. Will Justin Ena’s approach as new special teams coordinator prevent any hiccups? As the Cougars prep for a crucial early-season test against Arizona and dynamic quarterback Noah Fifita, the outcome could set the tone for a season with 23 wins in the last 2 years at stake. With AJ Dybantsa’s NBA Draft decision looming over the basketball program, BYU fans have plenty to watch this spring and summer—will the Cougars turn transition into triumph?

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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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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)

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BYU Basketball fans have reason to be excited as Collin Chandler returns home from Kentucky, ready to redefine his game under head coach Kevin Young. Previously limited mostly to a three-point specialist role at Kentucky, Chandler now has the chance to prove he’s more than just a perimeter threat. Averaging 9.7 points and shooting 41% from deep, Chandler showed impressive efficiency, but can BYU unlock his full potential as a three-level scorer, dynamic in transition and relentless at the rim? Kevin Young is known as one of college basketball’s most creative offensive coaches, and all eyes will be on his ability to help Chandler make the leap from role player to Big 12 star.

With Robert Wright III returning and the arrival of highly-touted talent Bruce Branch III, the Cougars’ lineup looks primed for a statement season. Jake Hatch points to the remarkable parallel between Chandler’s progression and Richie Saunders’ game-changing junior year under his guidance—Saunders went from a solid contributor to All-Big 12 First Team and Most Improved Player. Could Chandler be next in line for such a transformation? The mix of skill sets is deliberate: both Chandler and Branch excel off the ball, sidestepping last year’s “too many cooks in the kitchen” issue and building potential for a balanced, explosive offense.

Roster construction and chemistry loom large as BYU fills needs at center and polishes its game plan, but the foundation is set for a big leap. Chandler’s athleticism—on display since his high school days—sets him apart, and his two-year plan with BYU bodes well for both consistency and long-term growth. Returning home has already lifted his spirits and reinvigorated his drive, promising a statistically impactful season that could catch the attention of NBA scouts.

Will Chandler’s transition from Kentucky’s system to BYU’s unlock a new superstar? Can Kevin Young guide the Cougars to contender status in the Big 12 and beyond? With a revitalized roster and sky-high expectations, BYU Basketball’s new era stands on the brink. Don’t miss this analysis of Chandler’s return, the potential of the new Big Three, and how BYU could finally realize its long-promised breakthrough.

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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

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 Basketball’s recruiting stock is soaring as elite prospects take notice of Kevin Young’s transformational influence in Provo. Top 2027 recruit CJ Rosser highlights BYU’s dramatic development of AJ Dybantsa, crediting BYU men's basketball coack Kevin Young for rapidly elevating talent and boosting draft profiles. As Rosser considers programs like North Carolina, Kentucky, and Alabama, will BYU’s proven track record with stars like Dybantsa and the fast-rising Bruce Branch III give the Cougars a real shot against powerhouse programs? Jake Hatch unpacks Rosser’s telling remarks, Rob Wright III’s decision to stay in Provo, and why BYU is suddenly in the national conversation for blue-chip recruits—despite lacking obvious ties.

Up front, the search intensifies for a game-changing center to anchor BYU’s 2024 roster. Eyeing reinforcements, BYU courts 7'2", 270-pound Anton Bonke, fresh off a breakout season with the Charlotte 49ers. How could Bonke’s inside-out game, rim protection, and ability to stretch the floor transform the Cougars’ offense? Jake Hatch weighs Bonke’s Big East and mid-major experience against contenders like Julius Halaifonua and Luigi Suigo, breaking down the archetype Kevin Young appears set on: size, shot-blocking, and strategic floor spacing. Would landing Bonke finally give BYU the type of true center needed to compete with Big 12 giants like Arizona?

Off the court, closure appears imminent for Kennard “Moo” Davis Jr. after his initial DUI charge is reduced to speeding—a critical development as BYU’s roster plans solidify. Jake Hatch provides the full context on Davis’s legal outcome, why a return to Brigham Young University seems unlikely, and reflects on Davis' impact during a turbulent season.

Will BYU’s recent successes keep luring top talent? Can Kevin Young’s NBA-style system and relentless recruiting overcome powerhouse competition? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s detailed analysis as the Cougars chase new heights on and off the court.

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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

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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BYU Basketball zeroes in on Georgetown’s 7-foot, 260-pound sophomore Julius Halaifonua as a marquee transfer portal target. With proven Power 5 production—averaging nearly 10 points, over four rebounds, and over 60% shooting in the rugged Big East for Georgetown University—Halaifonua emerges as a potential game-changer for Kevin Young’s program. Can the Cougars land this New Zealand native and transform their frontcourt into a Big 12 force?

Jake Hatch examines the nuances of transfer portal recruiting, emphasizing the value of acquiring experienced big men in a market where top centers command staggering NIL deals. BYU’s willingness to invest, combined with the private institution’s “deep bag,” positions them as major players in this offseason tug-of-war. What makes Halaifonua even more intriguing is his possible eligibility for another year, his low turnover rate, and his stylistic similarities to NBA veteran Steven Adams—another New Zealand export whose quiet dominance is legendary.

The discussion moves beyond statistics, homing in on cultural and institutional fit. Hatch details the significance of BYU’s honor code and how the program’s ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints could resonate with international players from the Pacific, particularly New Zealanders and Polynesians. Drawing parallels to AJ Dybantsa’s recent decision and referencing Kalani Sitake’s embrace of BYU’s unique standards, the episode sheds light on how the Cougar brand—inclusive of its values—can be a strength rather than a recruiting obstacle.

Listeners also get a deep dive into roster composition and the lessons learned from last season’s Big 12 campaign. With gaps exposed when Keba Keita was off the floor and a need for multiple legitimate centers, BYU’s approach this cycle is both aggressive and pragmatic. The talk weighs the impact of potentially pairing Halaifonua with Luigi Siguo, creating competition, depth, and insurance against the demands of the nation’s toughest basketball conference. From NBA-level staffing to a relentless pursuit of on-court success, BYU’s recruitment of Halaifonua signals an ambitious next phase for Cougar Basketball. Will BYU’s upgraded pitch and championship culture prove enough to land a cornerstone piece for the program’s future?

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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

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 once again fighting for the respect and recognition they’ve earned on the gridiron. Despite an impressive 23-4 record over the past two seasons and multiple close calls with the College Football Playoff, the BYU football program opens the year at 19th in FanDuel’s playoff odds, trailing behind programs like Big 12 Conference rival Texas Tech and even Penn State under new head coach Matt Campbell. Jake Hatch breaks down what these odds say about the persistent national perception of BYU and the Cougars’ battle against Big Ten and SEC favoritism. He highlights pivotal matchups, including a potential Big 12 title game clash with Texas Tech and a mid-October home showdown against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish that could define BYU’s playoff destiny. The discussion zeroes in on whether Kalani Sitake’s squad has the roster depth and top-end talent to finally shatter the glass ceiling and force national media to take notice.

Switching focus to BYU Basketball, attention turns to the roster’s NBA potential under head coach Kevin Young. Jake Hatch explores why The Athletic praises Collin Chandler as an ideal transfer portal fit for BYU, spotlighting his three-level scoring ability cultivated at Farmington High and honed further at Kentucky. The episode draws intriguing parallels between Chandler’s anticipated leap and Richie Saunders’ meteoric junior-year rise, both shaped by Young’s player development philosophy. Listeners get an insider’s view on how Chandler, Rob Wright III, and five-star recruit Bruce Branch III could form a dynamic trio, potentially correcting last year’s issues with overlapping on-ball talents.

Transfer portal action intensifies as Julius Halaifonua, a 7-footer from Georgetown, enters the mix as a prized big-man target. Jake Hatch outlines Halaifonua’s Power Five production at Georgetown in the Big East Conference, his fit as a potential BYU version of Steven Adams, and how his New Zealand roots might connect him to BYU’s broader mission linked with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the cost of adding elite centers skyrocketing, BYU’s recruiting strategy adapts, aiming to stockpile proven frontcourt talent for the grind of Big 12 play. Can Young’s aggressive approach in the portal build a Big 12 contender and unleash Chandler’s full potential?

Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of BYU’s quest for national relevance in football and the mounting excitement around its basketball rebuild.

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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

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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BYU Basketball zeroes in on 7'2" center prospect Luigi Suigo, whose rare mix of size, mobility, and EuroLeague experience has put him at the very top of Kevin Young’s recruiting board. Suigo could be the perfect solution to BYU’s glaring hole at the five, offering rim protection, rebounding muscle, and a skill set that allows him to impact the game both in the paint and beyond the arc. With the crossroads of his career rapidly approaching, Suigo must decide between leaping straight to the NBA, where he’s projected as a second-round pick, or embracing a transformative collegiate season in Provo, where a competitive NIL deal and NBA-caliber development program await.

Jake Hatch provides deep insight into Suigo’s skill set and explores why he stands out among other center prospects previously linked to BYU. The episode shines a spotlight on Suigo’s shot-blocking instincts, pick-and-roll versatility, and track record against elite competition—highlighting clips like his defensive stand against AJ Dybantsa during the U17 World Cup. The conversation covers BYU’s targeted recruiting approach, contrasting Suigo’s profile with alternatives, and touches on the unique challenges and opportunities with international prospects navigating NBA Draft timelines.

Listeners get a breakdown of BYU’s high-stakes pitch: leveraging the program’s NBA-inspired system, robust player support staff, and a proven record of elevating international talent. Luigi Swigo discusses the strategic arguments laid out by Kevin Young and staff—from financial incentives that rival NBA rookie contracts to development infrastructure designed to fast-track players toward first-round draft status. If Suigo opts for BYU, could his presence catalyze a new era of Cougar Basketball dominance in the Big 12 and on the national stage? And if negotiations stall, what’s Plan B in the quest to anchor the paint for the Cougs next season?

With deadline drama looming and suitors lined up, BYU’s future at center hinges on this pivotal decision. Will Luigi Suigo become the linchpin in Kevin Young’s vision, or will the search for an impact big man push deeper into summer? Cougar fans and college basketball insiders alike are watching closely for the answer.

Support Locked On Cougars:

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!

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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

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.

BYU men's basketball eyes another leap as Bruce Branch III dazzles at the Jordan Brand Classic, posting a dominant double-double and fueling talk of a third straight lottery-caliber prospect for Kevin Young’s "NBA factory" in Provo. Can Branch be the latest in a rising line of BYU stars—following Egor Demin and AJ Dybantsa—projected to hit the NBA draft’s highest tiers? His impressive blend of length, three-level scoring, relentless rebounding, and natural fit in fast-break-heavy systems pairs perfectly with Kevin Young’s vision of an NBA-ready program. Jake Hatch breaks down how Branch’s skills, attitude, and upside fill the exact gaps BYU faces heading into the next season, especially at the forward spot. What does this mean for BYU’s one-and-done pipeline, and how will Branch elevate a roster already brimming with next-level talent?

But the Cougars’ rebuild doesn’t stop at the wing. BYU’s biggest transfer portal target is 7’2” Luigi Suigo—a Euroleague-tested, physically imposing center whose NBA decision looms. Jake Hatch analyzes how BYU’s NIL offerings stack up against second-round draft projections and why Suigo’s rim protection, pick-and-roll skill, and offensive versatility make him the dream anchor for Kevin Young’s up-tempo attack. How realistic is landing Suigo, and what could his presence do for a BYU squad that needs interior muscle after last season’s shortcomings? Insightful details on coaching pitch, NIL economics, Euroleague background, and player development set the stage for a high-stakes recruiting battle.

The podcast shifts to BYU baseball, where Trent Pratt’s team battles through a loaded Big 12 and eyes a potential NCAA Regional berth—can they maintain consistency after losing the Arizona State series? Also featured: the meteoric rise of freshman track star Jane Hedengren, who smashed her third NCAA record at the Brian Clay Invitational and looks set to become a "Jane-erational" figure on the national scene. With a jam-packed offseason swirling with transfer news, ongoing spring football notes, and Olympic sports highlights, Locked On Cougars keeps fans primed for all things BYU. Will the Cougars keep building their NBA pipeline and postseason credentials across every sport?

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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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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)

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BYU Football is on a mission for greatness as right tackle Andrew Gentry, a national champion with Michigan, joins forces with Kalani Sitake and the Cougars to chase ultimate glory. Can Andrew Gentry’s winning mentality and the program’s emphasis on culture elevate BYU to the College Football Playoff? The energy surges as Jake Hatch and Gentry explore what it takes to build a championship team in Provo—and whether this group has the mentality to bring a national title back to Cougar Nation.

The conversation unlocks insider insights into BYU’s offensive line, where Andrew Gentry credits coach TJ Woods' relentless standard and the squad’s unbreakable bond for their progress. Andrew Gentry explains how the Cougars might not match Alabama or Ohio State in five-star prospects, but they have all the necessary pieces thanks to a unique culture defined by “love and learning.” He reveals the difference between Big Ten and Big 12 battles in the trenches, highlighting the importance of adapting to faster edge defenders and improving his own pass protection since transferring from Michigan.

Get a candid look at BYU’s locker room culture, where mutual care and accountability fuel buy-in at every position. Andrew Gentry compares Jim Harbaugh and Kalani Sitake, recognizing their shared passion for football and genuine care for their players. Gentry revisits his unusual recruiting path—from a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orem, Utah and a pivotal meal at Tucano’s with Harbaugh, to fulfilling a lifelong dream by coming home to BYU.

As the Cougars eye an even stronger campaign after last season’s Big 12 title game appearance, Andrew Gentry makes his ambitions clear: to become one of the best offensive linemen in BYU history and to help deliver the program’s first national championship since 1984. The episode closes on tradition and legacy, as Andrew Gentry discusses the story behind his jersey number and the responsibility of carrying on a family and positional legacy.

Will BYU’s blend of talent, culture, and championship mindset be enough to conquer the Big 12 and the nation? This episode offers an inside look at a team—and a leader—on the verge of something special.

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

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

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 

Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 

Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON 

Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show.

If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at [email protected].

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day.

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

The BYU Cougars double down on their distinct identity, refusing to chase the private equity deals now reshaping college sports finances. BYU athletic direction Brian Santiago’s public commitment to independence comes as Big 12 rivals like Utah pursue staggering $500 million windfalls through Otro Capital, but BYU’s refusal raises the question: will values-driven leadership keep the Cougars in the national conversation or put them at a resource disadvantage? Jake Hatch unpacks why BYU’s fierce institutional independence—rooted in its ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and a powerful, deep-pocketed donor base—means they can call their own shots, sidestep external influence, and continue shaping their own trajectory in the Big 12 Conference. Listener insight spotlights how BYU’s current philosophy keeps power in Provo’s hands, even as conference peers and national programs jump headfirst into the private capital revolution.

Recruiting battles intensify as BYU football pursues high-profile prospects Blake Wong and Sione Felila, locking horns with blue-blood programs like Ohio State, Oregon, UCLA, and Utah. How far can Kalani Sitake’s culture and BYU’s Big 12 rise carry them against collegiate recruiting giants? Jake Hatch examines the evolving landscape and the Cougars’ increasing relevance in major recruiting circles. BYU baseball enters the spotlight with a six-game win streak punctuated by a 19-9 rout over #23 Arizona State, signaling a program on the rise and strong NCAA regional potential. Team depth, explosive offense, and standout performances from players across the roster have set BYU apart.

A pivotal story unfolds as Robert Wright III shuns Kentucky to stick with Kevin Young’s vision at BYU, marking a new era for Cougar hoops alongside talents like Collin Chandler and Jake Wahlin. What makes BYU suddenly a destination for both top LDS athletes and elite out-of-state prospects? Fan Friday guest Dave Bevan joins Jake Hatch to recount superfan adventures at over 50 venues, analyze why Big 12 membership is changing the game for BYU athletics, and share the “secret weapon”—his undefeated daughter—for must-win showdowns at Utah and Notre Dame.

Is this truly a “golden age” for BYU fans? Don’t miss an episode packed with insider stories, roster insights, and future-shaping questions for Cougar Nation.

Support Locked On Cougars:

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!

Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. 

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

SUPPORT US BY SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS

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

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 

Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 

Rocket Money - Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON 

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.