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

The BYU Cougars are making waves in their third Big 12 season, combining aerial spectacles with gridiron grit. This episode of our BYU football podcast dives deep into the team's recent successes and upcoming challenges.

Air Force Flyover at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium

Captain Morgan Curriden shares his exhilarating experience leading the Air Force flyover at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. This rare event is set to electrify the crowd and players alike, setting the stage for a memorable game. Curriden reveals the meticulous planning and precision required for such a display, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at this unique intersection...

It’s an epic, high-stakes conference crossover episode you won't want to miss! This week, we're shaking things up as Locked On BYU Cougars host Jake Hatch and Locked On Texas Tech host Chris Level team up for a special discussion that gets to the heart of the new Big 12 landscape. We're talking about rivalries, fan reputations, and what it really means to be a contender in this evolving conference. This is an unfiltered conversation between two of the top hosts in the network.

First, we're tackling the massive elephant in the room: the Utah Utes. Despite be...

The BYU Cougars are preparing for a crucial matchup against East Carolina, with attention focused on the potential return of key players from injury. This episode examines how Weylin Lapuaho and Justin Kirkland's comeback could transform BYU's game plan and on-field performance.

As BYU solidifies its position in the Big 12, we explore the conference's financial landscape. A comparison between West Virginia's recent fundraising efforts and BYU's strong financial standing highlights the Cougars' considerable advantages. We'll analyze how this financial strength translates to athletic success and its implications for BYU's future in the competitive Big 12 environment.

...

The BYU Cougars are riding high after their impressive 3-0 start, but a formidable challenge looms on the horizon. This week's matchup against the East Carolina Pirates has all the makings of a classic trap game, reminiscent of BYU's unexpected loss to Liberty in 2022.

Jake Hatch, seasoned analyst and podcast host, dives deep into why the Pirates pose a significant threat to BYU's unblemished record. At the heart of ECU's potent offense is quarterback Catton Houser, whose dynamic playmaking ability has been turning heads. Hatch meticulously breaks down Houser's strengths and how he orchestrates the Pirates' explosive...

Week 2 had some major ramifications for the Big 12. Oregon dominated Oklahoma State, Arizona State fell to Mississippi State, Baylor picked up a major win over SMU and so much more! 
 

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for a crucial Big 12 matchup against East Carolina. This game is shaping up to be an offensive spectacle, with BYU's dynamic attack facing off against the Pirates' potent passing game.

Bear Bachmeier leads BYU's Offense

Bear Bachmeier stands at the forefront of BYU's offensive strategy. His performance will be pivotal in outpacing East Carolina's aerial assault. The Cougars' game plan centers on providing Bachmeier with solid protection while maintaining their strong rushing attack.

Jay Hill's Defensive Strategy

Defensive coordinator Jay Hill faces a significant challenge...

The BYU Cougars football program enters a crucial phase as they embark on their third season in the Big 12 Conference. At the forefront of their campaign is freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, whose arrival has generated buzz and optimism among the Cougar faithful.

Host Jake Hatch provides an in-depth look at Bachmeier's early development and the coaching staff's measured approach to maximizing his potential. Despite his youth, Bachmeier has displayed promising skills that could reshape BYU's offensive strategy. Hatch explores the delicate balance the coaches strike between harnessing Bachmeier's talents and shielding him from the intense pressures of...

BYU Cougars football faces a significant setback as star receiver Jojo Phillips undergoes surgery. This development poses challenges for the team's offensive strategy in their third Big 12 season. Our latest podcast episode dives deep into the implications of Phillips' absence and the team's plans moving forward.

Host Jake Hatch analyzes the ripple effects of losing Phillips, a key playmaker in BYU's passing game. We explore potential adjustments to the receiver corps and how the Cougars might reshape their offensive approach. Bear Bachmeier and the offense will need to adapt quickly, and we discuss possible strategies to maintain...

The BYU Cougars made a statement with their commanding 27-3 victory over Stanford, showcasing a defense that left fans and analysts buzzing. This episode dives deep into the game's key moments, player performances, and what this win means for BYU's continued success in the Big 12.

Defensive Dominance: BYU's Strength

We break down the Cougars' defensive masterclass, highlighting how they shut down Stanford's offense. Standout players Jack Kelly and Falatao Satuala receive special attention for their game-changing contributions. Jay Hill's defensive strategy takes center stage as we analyze how it's reinforcing BYU's identity.

Offensive...

It was a late-night affair at LaVell Edwards Stadium, and the BYU Cougars delivered a statement performance! In this special recap episode, we break down BYU’s commanding 27-3 victory over the Stanford Cardinal. Kalani Sitake, Bear Bachmeier and the BYU football program showcased their physicality and execution, improving to a perfect 2-0 record at home and building crucial momentum early in the season.

The defense set the tone from the very start, holding Stanford’s offense to a single field goal. We’ll analyze how the BYU defensive line, led by Keanu Tanuvasa, controlled the line of scr...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for a critical Big 12 matchup against Stanford. This game could significantly impact the Cougars' conference standing and postseason prospects. Quarterback McCae Hillstead is poised to lead BYU's offense in this high-stakes encounter.

Jake Hatch, host of Locked On Cougars, offers an in-depth breakdown of the BYU-Stanford clash. He spotlights key players who could be game-changers, including the dynamic Bear Bachmeier and the explosive tandem of LJ Martin and Sione Moa. These athletes have shown remarkable potential throughout the season and are expected to play pivotal roles in this contest.

...

Week one of college football brought some interesting results to the Big 12 and their squads. The Baylor Bears fell to the Auburn Tigers and the Colorado Buffaloes fell to the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Meanwhile, the Iowa State Cyclones continued their winning ways and the TCU Horned Frogs made a statement against Bill Belichick and the North Carolina Tar Heels.

The BYU Cougars football team faces a crucial test as they prepare to take on the Stanford Cardinal. This episode of our podcast dives deep into the strategies and players that could make or break this Big 12 clash.

Host Jake Hatch welcomes Stanford insider Ben Parker to break down the upcoming showdown. Parker's expert analysis sheds light on Stanford's recent struggles, particularly their disappointing performance against Hawaii. This game exposed vulnerabilities in the Cardinal's defense and offensive execution, providing valuable insights for Bear Bachmeier, Kalani Sitake and the rest of the BYU football program.

The...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for a crucial matchup against Stanford, with defensive coordinator Jay Hill's unit taking center stage. This episode offers an in-depth preview of the upcoming game, exploring how Hill's defensive strategies could be key to a BYU victory and potentially boost their standing in the Big 12.

Host Jake Hatch breaks down the anticipated defensive game plan, highlighting BYU's approach to containing Stanford's offense. Notably, Stanford's head coach Frank Reich has expressed wariness about Jay Hill's unpredictable nature as a defensive coordinator. This adds an intriguing layer to the matchup, as Reich and...

The BYU Cougars launched their 2025 season with a commanding victory over Portland State, showcasing a powerful ground game and Bear Bachmeier's play-action expertise. As the team celebrates this win, attention shifts to the challenging four-game stretch on the horizon.

Jake Hatch, our BYU football analyst, dissects the Cougars' impressive opener and its implications for upcoming Big 12 confrontations. The running game, a key element of BYU's offensive strategy, proved unstoppable against Portland State. Bachmeier's ability to capitalize on this with effective play-action passes signals promising offensive versatility.

The real test, however, begins now. After a soft...

BYU's stunning victory over Portland State has ignited excitement among Cougar fans. Bear Bachmeier's clutch debut performance stands out as a game-changer, potentially setting the stage for a deep playoff run as BYU enters its Big 12 era.

Jake Hatch's analysis digs into the key elements of the Cougars' impressive win. Bachmeier's pivotal plays showcase his potential as a rising star in college football. The evolving offensive strategy, coupled with standout performances, hints at BYU's readiness for tougher competition.

Cody Hagen's blazing speed adds a new dimension to the Cougars' offense, creating mismatches and opening up...

Welcome back to Locked On Cougars, Cougar Nation! If you’re still buzzing from that incredible performance, you’re not alone. This is our official BYU football game recap of the historic season opener against Portland State In a stunning display of power and precision, the BYU Cougars delivered a punishing 69-0 shutout to kick off the 2025 season at LaVell Edwards Stadium. 

This was more than just a win; it was a statement. Head coach Kalani Sitake’s team played with an intensity and focus that left no doubt about their ambitions for their third season in the Big...

The BYU Cougars are set to launch their 2025 football campaign with a home opener against FCS opponent Portland State. This matchup presents an ideal scenario for the Cougars to test their mettle and showcase their talent, particularly with freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier making his collegiate debut.

Head coach Kalani Sitake faces an intriguing decision regarding playing time distribution among his quarterbacks. While Bachmeier is slated to start, fans and analysts alike are curious about potential appearances by McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet. This quarterback rotation could offer valuable insights into BYU's offensive strategy for the season ahead.<...

Big 12 football shakeup: Iowa State stuns Kansas State in "Farmageddon" thriller. Is the rivalry's name on the chopping block?

Parker and the squad break down the Cyclones' clutch victory, dissecting Chris Kleiman's controversial 4th down call and Dylan Edwards' game-changing injury. The crew tackles Alabama's sudden cancellation with West Virginia, sparking debate on power conference dynamics. Key matchups under the microscope include Utah vs UCLA and Colorado's upcoming challenge.

Don't miss insider takes from Cody Stovall, Chris Lovel, and JT Whistle on Big 12's evolving landscape. Will the conference's bold moves pay off against non-conference...

BYU Cougars football is primed for a pivotal season as they enter their third year of Big 12 competition in 2025. With a revamped offense and fresh talent, the team aims to make waves in one of college football's most competitive conferences.

Quarterback Bear Bachmeier leads the charge in BYU's offensive transformation. The coaching staff has implemented significant changes to maximize Bachmeier's skillset and elevate the team's scoring potential. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick has streamlined the play-calling system, focusing on efficiency and adaptability.

Jake Hatch, a respected voice in BYU football analysis, breaks down the nuances of...

CBS Sports national college football writer Shehan Jeyarajah has highlighted BYU's offensive strengths as they continue their Big 12 journey. The Cougars, now in their third year of conference membership, possess three key elements Jeyarajah identifies as crucial for Big 12 success.

1. Workhorse Running Back: LJ Martin

LJ Martin stands out as BYU's potential backfield star. As a workhorse running back, Martin's role is pivotal in establishing a robust ground game. His ability to consistently gain yards and wear down defenses provides the Cougars with a solid offensive foundation, essential for Big 12 competition.

2. Top-End Receiver...

Bear Bachmeier's swift ascension to starting quarterback for BYU has sparked excitement in the BYU football program. This episode delves into Bachmeier's thoughts on his new role and the factors behind his quick rise.

Bachmeier expresses his enthusiasm about becoming BYU's starting QB, highlighting the rapid nature of his ascent. He credits key figures like Matt Mitchell and John Beck for aiding his development and accelerating his progress. Bachmeier's gratitude for their mentorship and guidance shines through as he discusses his journey.

Teammate Chase Roberts offers insights into Bachmeier's distinctive style. Roberts emphasizes Bachmeier's physical...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for an exciting 2025 football season, with a crucial Big 12 matchup on the horizon. This episode explores the team's prospects, strategies, and key players that could shape their performance.

Jake Hatch, our expert host, offers a comprehensive breakdown of BYU's upcoming games. He highlights the potential for offensive fireworks against Portland State and pinpoints Stanford's vulnerabilities that the Cougars might exploit. These insights give fans a strategic view of how BYU could secure a strong start to their season.

Defensive ends coach & Special Teams Coordinator Kelly Poppinga joins the conversation...

The BYU Cougars are poised for a potential breakthrough season in 2025 as they continue to establish themselves in the Big 12 conference. With rising star Bear Bachmeier at quarterback and a talented roster, expectations are high for a successful campaign.

Jake Hatch's Bold Prediction: 9-3 Season

Respected analyst Jake Hatch has made waves with his optimistic forecast for the Cougars, projecting an impressive 9-3 record. This prediction has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike, signaling BYU's readiness to compete at the highest level of college football.

Key Matchups to Watch

Iowa...

Big 12 football frenzy: Can Texas Tech live up to the 11-1 hype? Hosts clash over conference predictions and playoff hopes.

Sparks fly as team experts debate Arizona State's title defense, West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez era, and Utah's surprise contender status. Hot seats heat up for coaches like Mike Gundy and Scott Satterfield, while Kyle Whittingham's future at Utah hangs in the balance. Guest Mountaineer Paul weighs in on WVU's potential resurgence. From Joey McGuire's expectations in Lubbock to Devin Dampier's impact in Salt Lake City, no stone is left unturned.

Tune in for bold claims...

The Big 12 football landscape is buzzing with excitement as BYU's freshman quarterback sensation, Bear Bachmeier, emerges as a potential game-changer. This episode dives deep into the Cougars' unexpected rise and the ripple effects across the conference.

Drake Toll's Bold Big 12 Rankings

Controversy ignites as Drake Toll's latest Big 12 rankings place BYU at an astonishing #2 spot. We break down the reasoning behind this bold prediction and analyze the strengths that could propel the Cougars to the top of the conference. Is this ranking justified, or is it premature hype?

Bear Bachmeier: BYU's New Hope<...

In a bold move, BYU football has named true freshman Bear Bachmeier as the starting quarterback for the 2025 season opener against Portland State. This decision marks a significant shift in the Cougars' quarterback strategy and could reshape the program's future.

Bachmeier's Impressive Camp Performance

Bear Bachmeier's exceptional performance during training camp caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike. The young quarterback showcased remarkable poise, accuracy, and decision-making skills that set him apart from the competition. His ability to grasp complex offensive schemes and execute plays with precision has impressed the coaching staff, leading to...

A recent piece from the Salt Lake Tribune has stirred up controversy, suggesting that BYU's aggressive NIL spending is not aligned with the stated mission and values of the university. On this episode, host Jake Hatch takes a firm stand against this premise, arguing that not only is the criticism misplaced, but that a robust NIL program is in fact essential for BYU to compete in the modern era of college athletics.

We’ll dissect the Tribune's argument, which posits that a religious institution with an honor code and a focus on faith-based education shouldn't be involved in...

For BYU football, the quarterback position is always a flashpoint of conversation. With true freshman Bear Bachmeier stepping in to lead the offense, the buzz is palpable, but what are realistic expectations? This episode takes a deep dive into BYU's history of true freshman starters—Jake Heaps, Tanner Mangum, and Zach Wilson—to ground the hype in historical context.

We'll break down the numbers and on-field performances of these young signal-callers, revealing that while there were moments of brilliance, there were also significant growing pains. Heaps, for example, had a solid freshman season with 2,316 passing yards and 15 touc...

The BYU Cougars football program is buzzing with excitement as freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier showcases his talents in recent scrimmages. Fans and analysts alike are speculating about Bachmeier's potential to lead the team in the 2025 season, marking BYU's third year in the Big 12 Conference.

Host Jake Hatch of the popular BYU football podcast dives deep into Bachmeier's impressive performance, highlighting the young quarterback's strengths and how they align with the team's offensive strategy. Hatch examines the favorable schedule for the 2025 season, which could provide Bachmeier with the perfect opportunity to shine and make a significant impact on...

Big 12 football shakeup: AP poll surprises and gambling scandal rock Oklahoma. Is a true freshman about to make BYU history?

Experts break down the unexpected AP poll rankings, questioning Utah's inclusion and Oklahoma State's absence. The John Matier controversy at Oklahoma takes center stage, sparking debate on gambling in college sports. Quarterback battles heat up across the conference, with BYU's Bear Bachmeyer potentially set to become the first true freshman to start a season opener. Jake Hatch provides insider analysis on BYU's QB situation, while other hosts weigh in on key matchups and roster moves.

...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, with the quarterback competition taking center stage. As the team prepares for its third year in the Big 12, the race for the starting quarterback position has narrowed to two contenders: McCae Hillstead and Bear Bachmeier, with Bachmeier currently holding a slight edge.

Bachmeier's emergence as a frontrunner has drawn comparisons to Sam Leavitt's success at Arizona State University last year. Like Leavitt, Bachmeier is showing promise as a freshman quarterback, potentially following in the footsteps of his ASU counterpart who lled ASU to a Big 12 Championship and...

The BYU Cougars football program faces a pivotal decision as the 2025 season opener nears. The spotlight is on the quarterback position, with a high-stakes competition between freshman phenom Bear Bachmeier and contender McCae Hillstead. This crucial choice could shape the Cougars' trajectory in the Big 12 Conference.

Bachmeier, a true freshman, stands on the cusp of BYU history. If selected, he'd become the first true freshman to start a season opener for the Cougars. This unprecedented move could usher in a new era for BYU football, potentially attracting top recruits and elevating the program's national profile.

...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, with the quarterback competition taking center stage. As the team prepares for its third year in the Big 12, fans and analysts alike are eager to see who will emerge as the starting QB. The contenders? McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier.

Former BYU center Connor Pay, now a volunteer assistant coach, offers unique insights into the team's preparations. Pay's insider perspective sheds light on the intense quarterback battle and the impressive defensive performances in recent scrimmages.

Quarterback Competition Heats Up

The race...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for their third season in the Big 12, but recent developments have raised questions about their offensive readiness. A recent scrimmage highlighted significant concerns on the offensive side of the ball, while the defense showed promising potential.

Quarterback Competition Heats Up

As the season draws near, the quarterback battle at BYU intensifies. Coaches are working to establish a clear pecking order, with players like McCae Hillstead, Bear Bachmeier and Treyson Bourguet vying for the starting position. The outcome of this competition could significantly impact the Cougars' offensive performance in the...

BYU football enters a critical season in the Big 12, determined to surpass expectations and prove their worth. Despite ESPN's Tier 8 ranking, the Cougars are eyeing a potential 9-3 record, showcasing their winning mentality and valuable experience.

Quarterback Battle Heats Up

The competition for starting quarterback intensifies as McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier vie for the top spot. Each brings unique skills to the table, promising an exciting offensive dynamic for the Cougars.

Kila Keone: A Rising Star

Freshman wide receiver Kila Keone's journey to Provo adds intrigue to BYU's...

Big 12 football faces an uphill battle for respect. Can the conference overcome media bias and scheduling challenges to earn a spot among college football's elite?

Drake and the squad dissect the USA Today coaches poll, questioning Big 12 team rankings and omissions. The panel debates SEC quarterback talent, analyzes Big 12 perception problems, and proposes strategies for boosting the conference's national profile. Key topics include aggressive non-conference scheduling, playoff success, and the power of media narratives in shaping public opinion.

Tune in for insider perspectives on the Big 12's path to prominence and how teams like BYU...

The BYU Cougars and Utah Utes are set for an epic clash in 2025, marking a new chapter in their storied rivalry within the Big 12 conference. JT Wistrcill and Jake Hatch offer an in-depth look at both teams' prospects for domination in this highly anticipated matchup.

Quarterback Battles Take Center Stage

At BYU, a three-way quarterback battle unfolds between McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier. Wistrcill and Hatch dissect each contender's strengths, examining their arm talent, decision-making skills, and ability to lead the Cougars' offense against tough Big 12 defenses.

For Utah, Devon Dampier...

The BYU Cougars are gearing up for a pivotal moment in their pre-season preparations. A high-stakes scrimmage at LaVell Edwards Stadium promises to shape the team's trajectory as they aim for success in the Big 12 conference.

Coach Kalani Sitake is pulling out all the stops for what he calls the "most physical scrimmage" yet. The spotlight is on quarterbacks McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet, who will face intense pressure as the coaching staff evaluates their performance. Sitake's primary goal? Keep these key players "upright" while pushing their limits.

The interior defensive line has been turning...

As BYU's fall camp intensifies, the quarterback competition takes center stage. This weekend's scrimmage marks a pivotal moment for McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier, with Jake Hatch suggesting it's time to narrow down the field.

The Cougars, entering their third Big 12 season, face a critical decision that could shape their offensive strategy. Hatch, a respected BYU sports analyst, believes this scrimmage offers a prime opportunity to evaluate each quarterback's progress and readiness to lead the team.

Hillstead, with his experience in the system, aims to showcase his improved decision-making and accuracy. Bourguet, the...