CougConnect Podcast

Jake Brandon

CougConnect is a media organization covering BYU athletics — with a primary focus on football. We deliver exclusive player interviews, in-depth recruiting coverage, film breakdowns, and behind-the-scenes access you won’t find anywhere else. Our content is fueled by real relationships with players and insiders, giving fans an unmatched connection to the team. Whether you’re looking for expert analysis, unfiltered insight, or direct access to your favorite athletes, CougConnect is where BYU fans go to stay truly plugged in. Go Cougs!

  1. 9 HR AGO

    Mississippi State DB Transfer Jayven Williams Shares Why He Chose BYU | 1 On 1 Podcast w/ Tre Alexander

    BYU Football Defensive Back Tre Alexander interviews cornerback Jayven 'J Will' Williams about his journey to BYU, experiences in college football, and insights on the SEC. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from high school to college football, memorable matchups, and the importance of coaching. J Will shares his thoughts on rivalries, particularly the Holy War, and reflects on the lessons learned from football, emphasizing resilience and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Journey to BYU: The Transfer Decision 02:07 Life in Starkville, Mississippi 05:49 Welcome to College Football Moment 10:19 Cornerback Insights: Playing Style and Challenges 13:40 Memorable Matchups 15:59 Kennesaw State's transition to FBS Football 18:45 Coaching Impacts Winning 21:50 Growing Up in Mobile 25:36 Team Bonding in Oregon 27:11 Experiencing Oregon 31:57 Best States for Football 42:01 Lessons Learned from Football Become a CougConnect Subscriber https://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/  This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common sense Alright CougConnect fans— we’ve got a fun one for you. We’ve teamed up with Letterman Golf to give away THREE custom BYU golf covers — a putter cover or a driver cover. These things are sharp. Premium quality and Perfect for your next round. Entering is simple — Like and subscribe to the Youtube channel. Follow Letterman Golf on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lettermangolf/ ) and then submit your entry here.  That’s it and You’re in. We’ll randomly select three winners and announce. If you’re repping BYU on the course, this one’s for you. Go get entered! Madsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah. Planning a 2026 family trip to Universal or Disney? Utah Travel Pros specializes in stress-free vacation planning for Cougar families. Get a free expert quote at UtahTravelPros.com/cougconnect. You handle the memories; we handle the details.

    50 min
  2. 1 DAY AGO

    BYU Football DT Justin Kirkland's St. George Vacation Went HORRIBLY WRONG | CougConnect Podcast

    In this episode of the Coug Connect podcast, Justin Kirkland and Jake Brandon engage in a light-hearted discussion about hypothetical pet choices, share personal weekend experiences, and delve into humorous massage stories. They also touch on college football insights and discuss the Olympics, highlighting the differences in sports rankings and the unique nature of events like doubles luge.Chapters00:00 Penguins vs. Otters: The Ultimate Pet Debate10:52 Valentine's Weekend Adventures15:14 Massage Mishaps and Hilarious Stories22:06 The Art of Massage: A Personal Journey25:25 Weekend Adventures: Escaping the Cold28:12 Freshman Football: Trials and Triumphs28:38 Olympic Sports: A Mixed Bag of Interests31:57 Double Luge: Gravity and Teamwork38:17 Reflections on Sports and Life ExperiencesBecome a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseAlright CougConnect fans— we’ve got a fun one for you.We’ve teamed up with Letterman Golf to give away THREE custom BYU golf covers — a putter cover or a driver cover.These things are sharp. Premium quality and Perfect for your next round.Entering is simple — Like and subscribe to the Youtube channel. Follow Letterman Golf on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lettermangolf/ ) and then submit your entry here. That’s it and You’re in.We’ll randomly select three winners and announce.If you’re repping BYU on the course, this one’s for you.Go get entered!Madsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    41 min
  3. 3 DAYS AGO

    BYU Football Defensive Back Tre Alexander III Wants To BREAK Freshman Teammates | CougConnect Podcast

    BYU Football Defensive Back Tre Alexander III Wants To BREAK Freshman TeammatesIn this episode of the CougConnect podcast, Jake Brandon welcomes Tre Alexander, Legend Glasker, and Justice Brathwaite discuss the current state of BYU football as they approach spring ball. They delve into the preparations, expectations, and experiences of both freshmen and veteran players. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Season Overview02:53 Spring Ball Preparations and Expectations06:07 Young Players and Competition08:57 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development15:26 Spring Ball Goals and New Players18:39 Defensive Strategies and Player Roles21:28 Coaching Dynamics and Team Culture24:48 Final Thoughts and Looking AheadBecome a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseMadsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    42 min
  4. 6 DAYS AGO

    BYU Freshman Defensive Lineman David Tangilanu Returns From His Mission & Adjusting To BYU Football | The CougConnect Podcast

    Jake Brandon interviews BYU Football Defensive Lineman David Tangilanu, a return missionary who served in the Toronto, Canada, mission. David shares his experiences from the mission, including the challenges of speaking Cantonese and the unique cultural aspects he encountered. He reflects on the discipline and routine he developed during his mission and how it has helped him adjust back to life at BYU.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:56 Mission Experiences and Lessons Learned03:49 Adjusting Back to Life After the Mission10:06 Cultural Insights and Language Challenges20:46 Football Journey and Recruitment27:28 Life at BYU and Spiritual EnvironmentBecome a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseMadsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    33 min
  5. 12 FEB

    Justin Kirkland Blind Tests Candy Bars & Reacts To Winter Olympics Drama | CougConnect Podcast

    BYU Football Defensive Tackle Justin Kirkland Blind Tests Candy Bars & Reacts To Winter Olympics DramaJake Brandon and Justin Kirkland explore various light-hearted topics, including childhood myths, hilarious first-time fails, and sports pride. They share personal anecdotes and engage in humorous discussions about life lessons, things that ruin a good day, and even sample snacks to compare taste.Chapters00:00 Myths and Misconceptions from Childhood02:12 Hilarious First-Time Fails06:15 Sports Memories and Achievements15:02 Life Lessons and Regrets16:30 Things That Ruin a Good Day19:04 The Importance of Sleep Patterns21:59 Exploring Sleep Science and Historical Practices23:05 Sampling Snacks: A Taste Test Challenge28:44 Reflections on Sports and Personal Growth30:38 Confessions and Consequences in SportsBecome a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseMadsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    35 min
  6. 10 FEB

    Why BYU Freshman Wide Receivers Jaron Pula & Terrance Saryon Are READY To Play | CougConnect Podcast

    Jake Brandon interviews BYU wide receivers Jaron Pula and Terrance Saryon. They discuss their transition from high school to college football, the rigorous training and recovery techniques at BYU, the importance of mentorship from veteran players, and their influences in the sport.Chapters00:00 Introduction to BYU Wide Receivers01:08 Transitioning from High School to College Football04:16 Coaching Staff and Training Regimen05:33 Learning from Veteran Players06:14 Memorable Experiences at BYU08:18 Balancing Academics and Athletics09:16 NFL Inspirations and Player Comparisons13:37 Friday Finishers and Mental Toughness20:48 Strength and Conditioning Insights23:23 The Impact of Coach Kalani Sitake24:58 Conclusion and Future Prospects27:44 Cougconnect outro.mp4Become a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseMadsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    28 min
  7. 9 FEB

    BYU Recruits Terrance Saryon, Brock Harris & Jaron Pula dive into playing 7 on 7 football together

    Terrance Saryon, Brock Harris, and Jaron Pula discuss their excitement for the upcoming football season, Brock's upcoming mission, and they reminisce about memorable moments from their 7 on 7 tournaments. They delve into the challenges of transitioning back to football after a break, the rigors of college workouts, and the dynamics of training within their team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Expectations for the Football Season 00:52 Emotional Journey and Mission Excitement 02:03 Memorable Moments from 7 on 7 Season 04:15 Transitioning Back to Football After Mission 05:47 College Workouts and Conditioning Challenges 08:54 High School Football Highlights and Achievements 15:56 Breathing Challenges and Environmental Adjustments 17:17 Reflections on High School Career and Game Performances Become a CougConnect Subscriber https://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/  This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common sense Madsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah. Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    21 min
  8. 7 FEB

    BYU Tight End Brock Harris On Serving His Mission & Choosing BYU Football | The CougConnect Podcast

    In this episode of the CougConnect podcast, host Jake Brandon interviews Brock Harris, one of the highest-rated recruits in BYU football history. They discuss Brock's high school football experiences, his recruitment journey, and the factors that led him to choose BYU. Brock shares his decision to serve a mission and the spiritual growth he anticipates from the experience. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brock Harris02:48 High School Football Highlights05:59 Recruitment Journey and Offers12:08 Choosing BYU: The Spirit's Influence15:05 Mission Decision and Personal Growth18:09 Preparing for the Mission Experience21:13 Reflections on Home MTC24:21 Final Thoughts and Future AspirationsBecome a CougConnect Subscriberhttps://cougconnect.com/become-a-subscriber/ This episode is brought to you by Troy Beagley at Common Sense Financial. Just like we’re building something special here at CougConnect, Troy is dedicated to helping the BYU community build their financial legacies. Whether you're looking at retirement strategies or just starting your savings journey, Troy’s process is simple, clear, and honest. He doesn't just manage accounts; he helps families win. If you’re ready for a financial plan that actually makes sense, call Troy today at 801-608-6657. Let’s make success feel like common senseMadsen Realty Group is a proud sponsor of CougConnect. Built right here in Utah. They help buyers, sellers, and investors with both residential and commercial real estate. With deep local roots, they understand the neighborhoods and what makes Utah special. Their focus is a process that’s simple, clear, and honest. They are proud to support the BYU community. If you are looking to buy your next home or build your investment portfolio, schedule a free consultation and be entered to win 2 BYU football tickets for the 2026 season. Call us at 801-922-0584 or reach us online @Brigham.Utah on Instagram. Who better than a guy named Brigham helping you “Find THE place” in Utah.Support for CougConnect comes from Utah Travel Pros, your Provo-based experts for stress-free Disney trips, cruises, and flights out of PVU and SLC—all with no booking fees. Never miss another away game or plan your perfect, stress-free getaway by joining their Premium Deal Club for 25% off. It’s just $29 today, and they’ll refund that full cost as soon as you book a vacation package of $2,000 or more. Stop overpaying and get your discount today at utahtravelpros.com/cougconnect

    36 min

About

CougConnect is a media organization covering BYU athletics — with a primary focus on football. We deliver exclusive player interviews, in-depth recruiting coverage, film breakdowns, and behind-the-scenes access you won’t find anywhere else. Our content is fueled by real relationships with players and insiders, giving fans an unmatched connection to the team. Whether you’re looking for expert analysis, unfiltered insight, or direct access to your favorite athletes, CougConnect is where BYU fans go to stay truly plugged in. Go Cougs!

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