The BYU football program stands at a crossroads as they search for the next breakout star to catch passes from Bear Bachmeier. After the departure of top receivers Parker Kingston Jr., Chase Roberts, and Carsen Ryan, the depth chart is loaded with unproven talent and intriguing storylines. Jojo Phillips, returning from injury and possessing elite physical tools, leads the list of candidates to become BYU’s new safety blanket. Tight end transfers Walker Lyons (from USC) and Roger Saleapaga (from Oregon) bolster Aaron Roderick’s offensive scheme, offering dynamic options alongside Phillips. Also in the mix is Cody Hagen, whose speed and route mastery, pending recovery from a knee injury, could add a new dimension to BYU’s attack. The episode examines what it takes for any BYU pass catcher to earn playing time: reliable hands, blocking prowess, and a complete command of the playbook. Host Jake Hatch breaks down the competition, noting that while the trio of Phillips, Lyons, and Saleapaga is penciled in as leaders, coaches like Fesi Sitake, Aaron Roderick and Kalani Sitake will reward any player who consistently proves their worth in spring and summer camp. Are freshmen poised to make a splash? Names like Legend Glasker, Jaron Pula, and Tiger Bachmeier enter the conversation, signaling fierce competition and a high ceiling for BYU’s offense. As the Cougars gear up for the 2025 Big 12 season, questions linger: will this untested group rise to the occasion and deliver the explosive results fans expect? On the basketball front, BYU lands in the national spotlight as Bruce Branch, a top-10 recruit and projected lottery pick, featured in the McDonald’s All-American Game. Branch’s true wing strengths and work ethic promise a bright future under coach Kevin Young. The episode also covers Rob Wright’s potential role as facilitator, creating an exciting dynamic with Branch and sharp-shooter Dean Rueckert. Meanwhile, Lee Cummard leads BYU women’s basketball into the WBIT finals against Columbia. Can Delaney Gibb and the Cougars make history with their first postseason championship? With analysis on emerging stars and evolving tactics, the podcast captures BYU’s relentless drive for greatness across football and basketball. 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 else. Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors! Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail.
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