Episode Details

Big 12 Media Days ignite fresh debate as Texas Tech, BYU, and league officials confront questions of fairness, accountability, and discipline across the conference. Brett Yormark, the Big 12 Commissioner, finds himself in the hot seat as Texas Tech’s ongoing tension around fines, lawsuits, and inconsistent penalties comes to the forefront, especially after the Brendan Sorsby situation and waves of anti-Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chants. Are league policies being enforced evenly, and will the Big 12 finally issue clear guidelines on in-game punishments for fan misconduct?

Jake Hatch and Drake Toll bring listeners behind the scenes at The Star in Frisco, TX, highlighting the defensive champion Texas Tech Red Raiders and head coach Joey McGuire, who remains unflinching and pragmatic in facing tough questions surrounding the Sorsby fallout. As the Red Raiders lead the preseason with seven All-Big 12 selections, including standouts like Will Hammond and enhanced support from boosters such as Cody Campbell, their ability to weather off-field distractions stands as the focal point for their championship defense. Meanwhile, BYU emerges as a strong contender not just for its offensive firepower bolstered by LJ Martin, the preseason media pick for Offensive Player of the Year, but also for a defense packed with returning talent. Head coach Kalani Sitake’s candor shines through, acknowledging Texas Tech’s dominance last season and underscoring BYU’s commitment to closing the gap.

The conversation shifts to the mounting controversy surrounding discriminatory chants targeting the LDS community. Incidents at Cincinnati, Oklahoma State, and Colorado prompted a patchwork of fines, reprimands, and, at times, complete inaction from the Big 12. Yormark publicly states a new “zero tolerance” policy and previews an August summit with university presidents to address hate speech. Still, many—including BYU fans and league insiders—question whether substantive change is coming or if the league’s response remains just talk. With student sections driving the worst of the chants, the debate intensifies: will real-time in-game penalties, such as unsportsmanlike conduct or yardage flags, finally deter abusive behavior more effectively than monetary fines?

Off the field, the Big 12’s $20 million sponsorship deal with Monster Energy signals a new era of creative revenue streams, with each member school set to benefit directly. As the landscape shifts, listeners get an insider’s analysis of Oklahoma State head coach Eric Morris’ debut, ongoing expansion rumors, and the intense internal competition that defines the Big 12. Is the league ready to set a new standard for accountability and growth, or will familiar inconsistencies persist? Don’t miss this in-depth look at the decisions and drama shaping the Big 12’s future.

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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 in