Episode Details

The BYU football program lands at No. 14 in the AP Top 25 preseason poll, and the placement sparks debate—are the BYU Cougars being underestimated, or is this their ideal launch position? Jake Hatch argues that Kalani Sitake is uniquely positioned to spin the ranking to BYU’s advantage, either fanning the flames of the perennial “disrespect” card or building on newfound national recognition. With Texas Tech, Utah, and Houston as the other notable Big 12 teams in the poll, can BYU leverage this top-15 ranking into a legitimate College Football Playoff run? The narrative focuses on BYU’s strengths as an underdog and their proven ability to climb from unranked to playoff contention over the past two seasons.

The episode breaks down the recently announced scheduling move for 2027, with BYU shifting its game against Oregon State to late August. This strategic change, likely in anticipation of broader NCAA scheduling shifts, creates the potential for double bye weeks and sets up one of the most demanding schedules the Cougars have faced since joining the Big 12. Fans can look forward to home games against Utah, Colorado, Texas Tech, and Kansas, plus a road trip to face Notre Dame—an iconic college football venue. Jake Hatch spotlights the loss of veteran staples like Keanu Tanuvasa, Isaiah Glasker, and LJ Martin, and explores how the Cougars will reload with emerging talent headlines by Bear Bachmeier under center. With rising programs like Oklahoma State and West Virginia on the docket, will BYU’s depth and evolving roster be enough to meet the moment in 2027?

Jake Clifton, the Kansas State transfer linebacker, joins to provide an insider’s view on BYU’s retooled, veteran defense. Clifton shares how his Big 12 experience calms the nerves in Provo and believes the revamped linebacker unit—stacked with starters from several Power 4 teams—could transform BYU’s defensive identity. With Kelly Poppinga reworking the schemes and Kalani Sitake emphasizing humility and hunger, BYU looks primed for another statement season. Can BYU capitalize on its momentum and depth to secure a Big 12 title shot and a College Football Playoff berth, or will the rigorous schedule test their limits?

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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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