Locked On Cougars Hit - Quick Takes on BYU Cougars Football & Basketball

Locked on Podcast Network, Jake Hatch
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Football
  • Updated Daily

Your daily hit of BYU Cougars Football & Basketball covering news, trade rumors, game reactions, and sharp takes on everything happening with your team, all in five minutes or less. Done before your coffee is. New hits drop throughout the day, every day, all year long. Your Team. Every Day.

  1. 1h ago

    Brett Yormark & Big 12's SHOCKING BYU Cougars-Utah Utes Scheduling Decision Sparks Fan Backlash

    The BYU-Utah rivalry, one of college football’s most intense matchups, faces a dramatic shakeup as the Big 12 Conference and ESPN scheduled this year’s bout for 10 AM Mountain Time kickoff on November 7th. With the anticipation of two top-10 teams clashing, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark and the conference are gambling that a prime national TV slot will draw millions of viewers, potentially recreating the ratings success of the BYU-Notre Dame showdown earlier in the season. Can this strategy translate local passion into national attention and elevate the rivalry’s stature, or does it risk diluting the game-day experience that makes college football unique? This early kickoff brings a host of logistical challenges and new dynamics to the forefront. The discussion explored how such a start disrupts traditional pregame preparations for players, who now face pre-dawn routines and compressed schedules that could impact on-field performance. The ripple effects extend into the stands and beyond, as families must decide between long-standing youth sports commitments and supporting their teams at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Tailgating traditions face revision, with fans preparing for a “breakfast tailgate” in lieu of the usual afternoon festivities, highlighting the cultural shifts forced by TV-driven scheduling. One concept discussed was the Big 12’s choice to place national reach and viewership numbers above regional traditions and the local fan experience. A key theme that emerged was whether securing a coveted noon Eastern window is worth the potential alienation of passionate local supporters who define the essence of the BYU-Utah rivalry. With the Big 12 and ESPN betting big on high ratings and increased visibility, the conversation focused on the possible long-term implications—will this move create a new national must-watch, or sow resentment by placing TV priorities over tradition? Listeners are left weighing whether this gamble elevates or undermines one of college football’s defining rivalries. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Brett Yormark & Big 12's SHOCKING BYU Cougars-Utah Utes Scheduling Decision Sparks Fan Backlash

  2. 15h ago

    BYU Football’s Shocking UCF Defeat Demands Answers—Is Aaron Roderick Getting Unfair & Undue Blame?

    BYU football’s undefeated start came to a crashing halt with a dramatic 39-31 double overtime loss to UCF, leaving fans grappling with the age-old question: Are the BYU Cougars simply snakebitten, or are unforced errors their true downfall? The conversation focused on the boneheaded mistakes that cost BYU dearly, including turnovers and costly special teams blunders. Despite a strong second-half touchdown drive that hinted at a comeback, Kalani Sitake’s team never regained control as UCF played clean, disciplined football and outlasted BYU in key moments. The roughing the passer penalty and officiating decisions added frustration, but the inability to execute fundamentals proved decisive. A key theme that emerged was the critical need for BYU to refocus and avoid repeating last season’s mid-year letdown. With a challenging slate ahead—featuring Arizona State, Utah, and Baylor—the pressure mounts for Bear Bachmeier and the BYU roster to cut out mental errors and rediscover their early-season swagger. The discussion explored how the Cougars’ national playoff hopes now hang by a thread, with a single remaining mulligan and a resume that could be dragged down by the UCF defeat when the College Football Playoff Committee makes its choices. The UCF loss not only snaps BYU’s momentum, but also raises the stakes for every remaining contest as the path to the postseason narrows. Several points were raised, including whether BYU’s talent can overcome adversity and if the team can truly deliver under pressure. With conference chaos, shifting poll positions, and the emotional rollercoaster of a season on the line, the Cougars face a pivotal crossroads. Will they bounce back with discipline and resilience, or let this setback define yet another season? All eyes turn to BYU’s next move in the face of adversity and opportunity. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    BYU Football’s Shocking UCF Defeat Demands Answers—Is Aaron Roderick Getting Unfair & Undue Blame?

  3. 1d ago

    What Sparked BYU Basketball & Bruce Branch III’s Stunning Turnaround at UNLV-Resiliency & Believing

    BYU men's basketball electrified Cougar Nation with an inspiring 89-77 win over the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, proving resilience and offensive prowess despite an early double-digit deficit. The BYU Cougars caught fire with an 11-0 run before halftime, signaling a major momentum shift that carried them through a dominant second half. Bruce Branch III commanded the spotlight, turning his 18th birthday into a breakout party by scoring 14 points and tallying 8 assists—12 of those points and six dimes coming after the break. His adaptability and composed playmaking ability underscored why NBA teams have Branch on their radar. Will his high-level court vision and the team’s evolving chemistry be the spark BYU needs for a standout season? Several points were raised, including the emergence of a balanced supporting cast. Jaxon Kohler ventured beyond the arc for three triples, adding new dimensions to BYU’s attack, while Rob Wright and Collin Chandler contributed heavily on both ends. The conversation focused on Kevin Young’s coaching philosophy, emphasizing effort-based defense and the willingness of this group to execute both offensively and defensively. Even without elite defenders, BYU forced 18 turnovers and cashed in 19 points off those opportunities, suggesting that hustle and team unity may compensate for any defensive gaps. The discussion explored how key connections, including Branch’s chemistry with Khadim Mboup, reveal layers of potential within this deep roster—especially with the anticipated return of Dawson Baker. A key theme that emerged was adaptability. Whether weathering early struggles or rotating new faces into pivotal roles, the Cougars are shaping into a team that can counter any challenge thrown their way. As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on who steps up next and how this blend of young playmakers, seasoned leaders, and dynamic coaching will elevate BYU basketball’s ceiling in a new era. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    What Sparked BYU Basketball & Bruce Branch III’s Stunning Turnaround at UNLV-Resiliency & Believing

  4. 1d ago

    Four Moments in Time & Their Outcome COMPLETELY Changed The BYU Football Season & Their Outlook

    BYU football’s unbeaten start came to a dramatic halt with a double overtime 39-31 loss to UCF, a game defined by crucial moments that swung momentum and ultimately decided the outcome. The contest highlighted how quickly fortunes change in football: instead of pulling away before halftime, the BYU Cougars fell behind after Bear Bachmeier had a pass deflected and intercepted, setting up a key UCF touchdown. The Cougars responded after halftime, reclaiming the lead with an early scoring drive, but pressure mounted on the very next UCF possession when missed tackles allowed a 56-yard gain off a routine screen play—one of several defensive lapses that kept BYU on the back foot. A defining series developed during a goal-line stand, with BYU stopping a quarterback sneak but struggling to escape the shadow of their goalpost immediately afterward, raising questions about the offensive play calling and adjustments at critical junctures. There was also controversy on special teams, as a roughing the kicker penalty erased a potential BYU opportunity to take control, drawing attention to the officiating and its impact on the outcome. The conversation focused on how moments—good and bad—reshape a team’s destiny within the high-stakes environment of college football. One concept discussed was the importance of picking up the pieces after such a disappointing loss. With mental toughness and accountability now under the microscope, several points were raised, including how the coaching staff and players respond to adversity, and whether this setback can serve as the wake-up call needed ahead of the matchup against Arizona State. The discussion explored the possibility that this loss will reveal the Cougars’ true character and depth, as fans and analysts alike search for signs of resilience and leadership in one of the season’s most pressure-packed stretches. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Four Moments in Time & Their Outcome COMPLETELY Changed The BYU Football Season & Their Outlook

  5. 1d ago

    Kalani Sitake Says This Key Mistake Cost BYU Football The Game Against the UCF Knights—What Was It?

    BYU football’s undefeated start came to a crashing halt with a dramatic 39-31 double overtime loss to UCF, leaving fans grappling with the age-old question: Are the BYU Cougars simply snakebitten, or are unforced errors their true downfall? The conversation focused on the boneheaded mistakes that cost BYU dearly, including turnovers and costly special teams blunders. Despite a strong second-half touchdown drive that hinted at a comeback, Kalani Sitake’s team never regained control as UCF played clean, disciplined football and outlasted BYU in key moments. The roughing the passer penalty and officiating decisions added frustration, but the inability to execute fundamentals proved decisive. A key theme that emerged was the critical need for BYU to refocus and avoid repeating last season’s mid-year letdown. With a challenging slate ahead—featuring Arizona State, Utah, and Baylor—the pressure mounts for Bear Bachmeier and the BYU roster to cut out mental errors and rediscover their early-season swagger. The discussion explored how the Cougars’ national playoff hopes now hang by a thread, with a single remaining mulligan and a resume that could be dragged down by the UCF defeat when the College Football Playoff Committee makes its choices. The UCF loss not only snaps BYU’s momentum, but also raises the stakes for every remaining contest as the path to the postseason narrows. Several points were raised, including whether BYU’s talent can overcome adversity and if the team can truly deliver under pressure. With conference chaos, shifting poll positions, and the emotional rollercoaster of a season on the line, the Cougars face a pivotal crossroads. Will they bounce back with discipline and resilience, or let this setback define yet another season? All eyes turn to BYU’s next move in the face of adversity and opportunity. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Kalani Sitake Says This Key Mistake Cost BYU Football The Game Against the UCF Knights—What Was It?

  6. 2d ago

    What National Experts Keep Missing About BYU Football & Why They Succeed Despite Naysayers & Haters

    BYU football faces a pivotal moment as the nation continues to question the legitimacy of their undefeated season and top-tier ranking. With a dramatic win over Notre Dame still fresh, the Cougars are thrust into the spotlight for their upcoming clash against UCF at the Acrisure Bounce House. The conversation focused on the persistent doubters, including high-profile media voices who dismiss BYU’s top 10 status and treat their record as a fluke rather than a reflection of their talent and preparation. Can Kalani Sitake’s squad block out the noise and keep their championship aspirations alive? A key theme that emerged was the importance of not falling victim to the “rat poison” of outside opinions, as the team looks to avoid the emotional letdown that previously plagued them, such as after the Kansas loss in 2024. The discussion explored how coaches, players, and administrators now prioritize staying locked in on each week’s challenge, refusing to look ahead to future matchups or rest on recent achievements. With the eyes of the College Football Playoff Committee watching closely, several points were raised, including whether any slip-up will be used to discredit BYU’s campaign for national recognition. The program’s consistent performance—going 29-4 over the past two and a half seasons—was cited as proof of a steady, disciplined approach. BYU’s meeting with UCF is framed as a must-win opportunity to affirm their place as a Big 12 contender and show they’re more than just a trendy upset pick. Even with the uncertainty around LJ Martin, the Cougars are challenged to dominate against the spread and further distance themselves from critics. Will BYU handle their business, beat UCF convincingly, and earn the respect they deserve, or will the doubters be proven right? This matchup is set to define the trajectory of their season. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    What National Experts Keep Missing About BYU Football & Why They Succeed Despite Naysayers & Haters

  7. 3d ago

    The College Football Universe Is Still Sleeping On BYU Football & Kalani Sitake Has Message To Send

    BYU football stands at the crossroads of skepticism and opportunity as the Cougars head to Orlando, aiming to reinforce their number 2 national ranking after a season-defining win against Notre Dame. All eyes turn to Kalani Sitake’s team as they prepare to face a 3-3 UCF squad inside the raucous Bounce House, with many doubters—including oddsmakers and analysts—questioning whether BYU’s ascension is truly sustainable. Will the BYU Cougars use the momentum from their historic victory to silence critics and prove they’re more than just a temporary force in the college football landscape? The discussion centers on Brigham Young University’s determination to be recognized among the elite, emphasizing the program’s mindset of focusing on the present and controlling its own destiny. Achieving their highest ranking in 42 years, the Cougars now have the chance to assert themselves further by delivering a commanding performance against a UCF team eager to pull off an upset and send a message of its own. The role of Kalani Sitake’s leadership, the significance of national perception, and the impact of a possible letdown following a monumental win all come into play as BYU seeks to avoid complacency and stay on track for a shot at the college football playoff and, potentially, a national championship. A key theme that emerges is the challenge of breaking into the ranks of established powerhouse programs. BYU’s opportunity against UCF is framed as a litmus test—not just for the scoreboard, but for the program’s wider reputation and ambitions. Can the Cougars win in emphatic fashion, impress pollsters, and even challenge Miami for the coveted top spot? The conversation explores what it will take for BYU to maintain its momentum and prove to the college football universe that their place among the nation’s best is no fluke. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The College Football Universe Is Still Sleeping On BYU Football & Kalani Sitake Has Message To Send

  8. 4d ago

    Why Nation Might Still Be Sleeping on Bear Bachmeier & BYU Football's Rise to National Prominence

    BYU football is making headlines as they power through midseason undefeated and ranked No. 2 nationally, asserting themselves as true College Football Playoff contenders. The team’s recent upset of Notre Dame on their home turf has ignited talk of BYU’s potential to not only break into the nation’s top spot but to shatter barriers that have historically excluded them from the championship conversation. With standout performances on both sides of the ball, BYU fans are asking: how high can this program climb with their current momentum? Bear Bachmeier’s rise to Heisman Trophy contention has energized the offense, even with key injuries like LJ Martin sidelined. BYU’s attack has earned an A-minus, suggesting the team still has room for improvement—especially as they anticipate Martin’s return for the season’s critical stretch. On defense, coordinator Kelly Poppinga’s aggressive approach—blending influences from Jay Hill and Bronco Mendenhall—has transformed the unit into a force allowing just 17 points per game. The Cougar defense, earning a definitive A, has repeatedly bailed out the offense in tense moments, proving essential to BYU’s ability to stay undefeated. However, special teams remain a source of concern. Costly muffed punts by Cannon DeVries and others have flipped momentum and placed the Cougars in tough positions against strong competition. Despite notable kicking performances from Matthias Denham and Fuller Schurz, the unit’s inconsistency leads to a grade of C-plus. As BYU gears up for Big 12 competition, questions linger: can they solidify special teams and maintain elite performance on offense and defense? With Kalani Sitake’s leadership and five years of steady program building coming to fruition, BYU is poised to finally kick down college football’s glass ceiling and prove they belong among the nation’s elite. Support Locked On Cougars Hits: 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 Sponsors! KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Follow the Locked On Cougars podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest with regards to the podcast and BYU sports news. Please remember to subscribe, enable notifications, rate and review the show. If you are interested in advertising with Locked On Cougars or the Locked On Podcast Network, please email us at LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Why Nation Might Still Be Sleeping on Bear Bachmeier & BYU Football's Rise to National Prominence
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Your daily hit of BYU Cougars Football & Basketball covering news, trade rumors, game reactions, and sharp takes on everything happening with your team, all in five minutes or less. Done before your coffee is. New hits drop throughout the day, every day, all year long. Your Team. Every Day.

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