Locked On Cougars - Daily Podcast On BYU Cougars Football & Basketball

• BIG 12 SQUAD - Why the Big Twelve SHOULD Have Two Teams in the CFP

  The Big 12 Conference has been nothing short of a whirlwind over the past week, marked by a major championship, postseason selection drama, and a groundbreaking business announcement that reinforces its "New Look" identity.1. Championship and CFP BreakthroughThe week started with the Big 12 Championship Game where Texas Tech defeated BYU in a commanding fashion (34-7). This victory propelled the Red Raiders to a 12-1 record, securing the Big 12's automatic bid to the expanded College Football Playoff. The subsequent CFP rankings confirmed Texas Tech as the No. 4 seed, earning them a crucial first-round bye straight to the Orange Bowl Quarterfinal—a massive statement for the restructured league.2. Bowl and Political FalloutWhile the Big 12 celebrated Tech's CFP inclusion and the bowl selections for seven other teams, drama erupted over the bubble. Commissioner Brett Yormark publicly backed the CFP committee's decision, despite BYU's exclusion, and notably criticized Notre Dame's Athletic Director for his "egregious" outrage over the Irish being left out. This positioned the Big 12 as a stable, unified partner in the new CFP ecosystem, contrasting sharply with the ACC's turmoil. Adding to the controversy, the conference levied $500,000 fines on Iowa State and Kansas State for opting to skip bowl games, underscoring the conference's commitment to fulfilling its postseason obligations.3. NFL Partnership AnnouncementPerhaps the most significant long-term news was the conference's announcement of a strategic partnership with the NFL. This collaboration aims to align the two organizations on everything from officiating development and emerging technology to global growth initiatives. This unprecedented move further showcases the Big 12's innovative, business-forward approach under Yormark, establishing a distinct brand identity separate from the traditionalist SEC/Big Ten dynamic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Aaron Roderick on Bear Bachmeier INJURY | Player Bowl Game Opt-Out Chances | BYU Basketball Concerns

  The BYU Cougars brace for pivotal changes as Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick reveals that quarterback Bear Bachmeier’s injury is “not serious” and expects him ready for the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Georgia Tech. With bowl season approaching, roster stability takes center stage— how will BYU handle player opt-outs and portal defections in a landscape where program culture and player commitment are being tested? Jake Hatch offers insights from inside BYU football’s first day of bowl practices, addressing Jay Hill’s confidence in retaining most defensive starters and the significance of finishing the season with energy after missing out on the College Football Playoff. What will be the impact of departures like Dominique McKenzie, and how will the team’s leadership group ensure focus in Orlando?On the hardwood, BYU basketball faces its own crossroads. With four “buy game” non-conference matchups ahead, Jake Hatch explores three pressing questions: Who will Coach Kevin Young trust as his core rotation after losing key contributors like Dawson Baker and Nate Pickens to injury? Can the Cougars solidify frontcourt depth, especially with newcomer Abdullah Ahmed’s eligibility promising a boost behind starter Keva Keita? And, perhaps most crucially, will BYU rediscover its trademark shooting consistency in time for the physical challenges of Big 12 competition? Listeners get the rundown on potential role players— from Dominic Diamonde in the backcourt to a potential spark from Tyler Miris— and why resolving first-half scoring woes could be the key to sustaining momentum against top-tier rivals.The episode also spotlights a major coaching transition for BYU women’s volleyball as Heather Olmstead steps down after a record-setting run. What prompted this change, and who are the early favorites to take over one of BYU Athletics’ most consistent programs? Jake Hatch weighs Rob Nielsen’s candidacy, considers names from Jerem Jordan’s coaching shortlist, and reflects on the legacy Olmstead leaves in Provo. As the Smith Fieldhouse’s future comes up for discussion, the strength of Cougar tradition meets the uncertainties of coaching turnover and roster flux.Packed with roster news, strategy breakdowns, and key coaching narratives, this live edition of Locked On Cougars is a must-listen for every BYU fan navigating football and basketball's December crossroads. Will the Cougars capitalize on these moments, or will change derail their conference and postseason ambitions?Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Why Kalani Sitake’s Contract REDEFINES BYU Football | INSIDE the Tension & Triumph | Brian Santiago On Notice? | BYU Hoops Rumbles Back in NYC | Do Your Job, Brett Yormark!

  Can Kalani Sitake’s new contract extension truly reshape the trajectory of BYU football, or is university leadership still holding the program back? Jake Hatch dives into the layers behind Sitake’s record-breaking deal with Brigham Young University—a fourth extension in as many years—and what it signals for the Cougars’ ambitions in the Power Four era. While Sitake publicly pushed for the deal, Jake Hatch questions why BYU administration hesitated and why Athletic Director Brian Santiago only granted Sitake the “capability”—not the authority—to fully control the football program, drawing a sharp contrast with legendary coach LaVell Edwards’ era. With BYU aiming for national relevance, is it enough to say Sitake can lead, or must he be empowered to make critical decisions on staffing, resources, and NIL strategy? The episode explores how substantial raises and multi-year contracts for assistants, plus a major influx of NIL funding, could elevate BYU’s recruiting and retention—but only if leadership evolves with the sport’s demands.On the basketball front, AJ Dybantsa’s second-half heroics ignite BYU’s dramatic comeback win over Clemson at Madison Square Garden. Jake Hatch spotlights Dybantsa’s dominant 22-point half, surpassing Clemson’s entire team output, and unpacks his growing case as a future NBA top draft pick. The buzzer-beating three from Rob Wright not only secures the win but highlights the Cougars’ resilience, camaraderie, and next-level potential as Big 12 play approaches. Bench strategy, defensive adjustments, and the promising chemistry between Dybantsa and teammates hint at a season with serious national implications.Wrapping up, Jake Hatch scrutinizes Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark’s lackluster defense of BYU’s College Football Playoff snub, calling attention to conference politics and missed opportunities to advocate for deserving programs. With rivals like the SEC and ACC boldly lobbying for their teams, does the Big 12 risk falling behind by not vigorously supporting its own? Listeners are left to ponder whether BYU can break through administrative obstacles on and off the field—or if their path to glory demands stronger backing from conference leadership. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU’s power plays and the potential roadblocks ahead in both football and basketball.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• Debt-Free vs. Private Equity: The BYU/Utah Financial Split | Notre Dame to the Big 12? | Realignment

  Utah stuns the college sports world by securing a historic $500 million private equity investment from OTRO Partners, raising urgent questions about the future of NCAA athletic funding. Will this gamble give the Utes a competitive edge, or open the door to new financial risks? Jake Hatch contrasts Utah’s aggressive cash infusion with BYU’s debt-averse, donor-driven approach, highlighting how BYU insists on upfront financing for facilities and programs. The conversation dives into why schools might turn to private equity—are cash flow constraints and waning booster enthusiasm making this paradigm shift inevitable? Listeners get fresh insights into why BYU, much like Texas Tech, is doubling down on tradition and control, while Utah’s deal may become a test case for conferences nationwide.Notre Dame’s drama with the ACC takes center stage as whispers of Big 12 expansion accelerate. Could the Fighting Irish bring their massive brand and fan base to the Big 12, instantly boosting credibility and media leverage? Jake Hatch explores Notre Dame’s strategic crossroads: Will they join a “big pond” like the Big Ten or SEC, or opt for big-fish status in the Big 12? The analysis covers the potential market impact, how NBC’s exclusive contract and preferential playoff treatment complicate negotiations, and why Big 12 leadership might be quietly positioning themselves to make a play. Hatch also evaluates whether Notre Dame’s historic independence could truly mesh with a conference system—if that means a long-awaited football trip to Provo, should BYU fans root for it?Turning to basketball, BYU faces Clemson in the spotlight of Madison Square Garden’s Jimmy V Classic—a final, critical test before Big 12 play begins. Hatch highlights BYU’s top-ten AP ranking, statistical edge over Clemson, and the intriguing twist of returned missionaries on both rosters. Could BYU’s up-tempo attack overwhelm Clemson’s grit on the biggest non-conference stage? Hatch unpacks coach Kevin Young’s approach, reflects on lessons from last year’s schedule and roster challenges, and investigates how injuries (like Dawson Baker’s) shift the Cougars’ rotation. The discussion sets up BYU’s readiness for a fiercely competitive Big 12, referencing rising rivals like Arizona and Iowa State, and identifies key benchmarks for the weeks ahead.Don’t miss this episode’s riveting breakdown of major capital influxes, conference realignment drama, and the games that promise to define BYU’s season.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• BYU Playoff Hopes SHATTER as Notre Dame, CFP Committee SPURN Cougars' Big Season | SEC & Big 10 Bias Fully Displayed | Notre Dame is Chicken | BYU Faces Georgia Tech in Pop-Tarts Bowl

  The BYU Cougars’ latest College Football Playoff snub exposes deep flaws in the CFP committee and power-conference bias. Jake Hatch breaks down BYU’s season-long pursuit of a playoff berth, analyzing how their 11-win campaign and the Big 12’s limited representation were steamrolled by shifting committee rules and questionable treatment of championship losses. Debate heats up as Hatch compares BYU’s résumé to those of Oklahoma, Miami, Alabama, and Notre Dame, pointing to moving goalposts and rules that seem to favor SEC and Big Ten teams. With playoff slots worth millions, Hatch highlights how financial incentives and lack of transparency further erode trust in college football’s postseason system.Notre Dame intensifies the drama by opting out of the bowl season entirely after being snubbed for a playoff spot. This last-minute change sets the stage for BYU to square off against Georgia Tech in the highly anticipated Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Hatch discusses the ramifications of Notre Dame’s exit—not just for BYU and bowl organizers, but for the future of college football as other programs could contemplate following suit. He reviews Big 12 penalties for postseason opt-outs and notes the competitive drive of BYU and Georgia Tech, emphasizing how bowl games remain crucial for athletes and fans, even as the playoff expansion looms.Turning to the matchup itself, Hatch previews a clash of physical, run-heavy teams as BYU and Georgia Tech bring power football and versatile offenses to Orlando. Standout players like Haynes King for Georgia Tech and Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin for BYU are set to make this a must-watch contest. Hatch covers concerns about NFL Draft-related opt-outs and transfer portal moves that could reshape each roster before kickoff, while also reflecting on bowl travel tradition and the opportunity for fans to turn disappointment into destination viewing. Is this electric matchup a chance for BYU to prove the committee wrong on a national stage?With the CFP landscape in chaos and bowl game traditions under scrutiny, Hatch offers a passionate outlook and invites listeners to join the All Access insider group for deeper analysis and exclusive content. How will BYU respond to adversity—and can the Cougars set a new precedent for postseason success?Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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