Episode Details

The BYU Cougars are the talk of the Big 12 after anonymous conference coaches via Athlon Sports anointed Kalani Sitake’s program as the league’s most physical and best-coached team. With 99 days until kickoff to the college football season, optimism and expectations are at an all-time high in Provo. Coaches spotlight Bear Bachmeier’s growth at quarterback, LJ Martin’s dominance as one of the nation’s top running backs, and the return of defensive studs like Faletau Satuala and Keanu Tanuvasa. Is this the year BYU breaks through the Big 12 ceiling and claims the conference crown? Jake Hatch analyzes why this season is viewed as a make-or-break moment, fueled by roster continuity and an influx of talent that rivals any in the league.

The conversation intensifies as the Fan Friday squad—Craig, Jayden, and Jon—join the show to tackle some of the biggest questions facing Cougar Nation. Should BYU pursue an annual rivalry clash with storied powerhouse Notre Dame and eliminate FCS matchups from its football schedule? Listeners get spirited takes on increasing the Cougars’ national profile and positioning the program for future conference realignment and mega-league inclusion. The squad weighs the significance of the recent Notre Dame scheduling talks and how BYU’s new status in the Big 12 has elevated its appeal on the national landscape and if it oculd help them in the next round of conference realignment.

Spotlight shifts to the basketball court where BYU’s urgent search for a dominant center continues to frustrate fans. Despite high-profile recruiting wins like AJ Dybantsa and Bruce Branch III, BYU men's basketball head coach Kevin Young faces growing concerns about roster depth in the paint and the importance of allocating resources for a game-changing big man. The panel debates whether BYU should overspend to address the gap and what missing on key targets means for the Cougars’ prospects in the competitive Big 12 hoops scene.

Listeners are also treated to a broader look at the momentum across BYU Athletics, from football and men’s basketball to ascending programs in soccer, volleyball, and golf. Attention turns to the fan experience, increased expectations, and the sustainability of BYU’s upward trajectory with standout coaches and rising stars. The episode wraps with heartfelt messages to Cougar Nation, reminders to enjoy this golden era, and a look ahead at the pivotal moves that could shape BYU’s legacy for years to come.

Don’t miss this all-encompassing breakdown of the latest headlines, strategic debates, and bold predictions for BYU’s path toward conference glory and national relevance.

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 e