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TURNOVER ADVANTAGE? BYU Cougars TARGET Colorado State—Bear Bachmeier’s Big Test Against Hauss Hejny | Roger Saleapaga Enjoying Return Home to BYU | Kihei Akina Shining Again
Description
BYU football prepares for a critical test against the Colorado State Rams, setting the stage for an epic showdown where turnover margin could decide the outcome. Both teams enter undefeated, but with BYU sporting a flawless giveaway record and Colorado State claiming the nation’s top spot in takeaways, Saturday’s contest becomes a clash between the proverbial immovable object and the unstoppable force. Can BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier continue to protect the football and lead the Cougars to victory, or will the Rams finally break through BYU’s defense with their aggressive playmaking? Jake Hatch revisits classic rivalry moments like Dennis Pitta’s iconic helmet-popping play and Luke Ashworth’s four-touchdown performance, underscoring the history fueling this renewed matchup at Canvas Stadium. The passionate Rams fan base, coupled with BYU’s first true road environment of the season, adds even more intrigue—will the BYU Cougars' discipline and defensive grit carry over, or is an upset brewing in Fort Collins?
Roger Saleapaga gives listeners an exclusive look inside the BYU locker room, detailing his journey from standout at Orem High School to Oregon Duck before coming home to Provo. Sharing what he learned playing alongside NFL talent like Kenyon Sadiq, Saleapaga highlights the depth and versatility of BYU’s tight end group and explains how his partnership with Walker Lyons creates matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. He reflects on Bear Bachmeier’s growth as a passer and what it’s like to hit the road with the team, emphasizing the underdog mentality that comes with entering hostile territory. Saleapaga’s rapid rise to team captain, despite being a new transfer, reveals how quickly he’s earned the respect of his peers and coaches—proof that leadership and talent can shine through instantly.
The episode also provides updates across BYU Athletics. Celebrate the dominance of sophomore golf phenom Kihei Akina, who notched a second-place finish to start the season and already boasts two PGA Tour cuts. BYU women’s volleyball, ranked 24th, delivered a stunning .520 hitting percentage during a sweep of UVU, while coaching moves and in-state rivalry wins have the men’s team eyeing a return to national prominence. Cross-country’s top-10 squad heads back to Terre Haute’s championship course seeking another title run, with athletes like Jane Hedengren and the Long sisters making early headlines.
From football chess matches and transfer leadership to breakout stars across multiple sports, Locked On Cougars delivers the latest insights, storylines, and rivalries shaping BYU’s pursuit of excellence. Will the Cougars keep their flawless record intact, or does Colorado State have a season-defining upset in the making?
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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 we