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

Big 12 shakeup: BYU QB Jake Retzlaff exits, Texas State joins PAC-12. Is college football's landscape shifting dramatically?

Host Drake Toll and the squad analyze Retzlaff's departure from BYU Football and its impact on the Cougars' upcoming season. The team dissects Texas State's surprising move to the PAC-12, exploring potential recruiting battles and conference realignment strategies. Discussions cover Sacramento State's aggressive push into college football prominence and the evolving dynamics of TV revenue in the sport. Jake Hatch offers insider perspectives on BYU's quarterback situation.

Tune in for expert analysis on how these moves could reshape...

A new, critical transfer portal window is set to open from July 7th to August 5th, allowing college programs to send "designated student-athletes" into the portal. This podcast dives into why this specific window provides the perfect loophole for BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff to officially leave the Cougars amidst his Honor Code issues and find a new team, with strong indications that Notre Dame could be his ultimate landing spot.

This newly established transfer portal window is designed for specific circumstances, granting programs the ability to facilitate the departure of certain student-athletes outside the traditional spring and...

The situation surrounding BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has been a complex and rapidly evolving saga, culminating in his recent decision to leave the program. 

It began with a civil lawsuit filed against Retzlaff by an anonymous woman ("Jane Doe A.G.") in May 2025. The lawsuit alleged sexual assault, rape, strangulation, and biting during an incident in November 2023 at Retzlaff's Provo apartment. The plaintiff sought over $300,000 in damages for emotional distress and other harms, also claiming Provo police discouraged her from naming Retzlaff, a claim the police department denies. 

In late June 2025, Retzlaff, through his attorneys, fi...

In a significant development, the civil lawsuit filed against former BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff has been formally dismissed by a Utah court. This podcast delves into the implications of this dismissal, what it means for both Retzlaff and the BYU football program as they officially part ways, and the strong likelihood of Retzlaff finding his next collegiate home at Notre Dame.

The dismissal of the civil lawsuit, agreed upon by both parties, provides a crucial legal resolution for Jake Retzlaff. While his legal team had previously denied allegations of sexual assault, the case's closure allows Retzlaff...

The saga of BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has reached a pivotal turning point: his decision to leave the program amidst a mandated multi-game suspension for violating BYU's Honor Code. This podcast delves into the full scope of what led to Retzlaff's departure, his desire for a fresh start, and the intriguing rumors circulating about his potential next stop, which could very well be Notre Dame.

Retzlaff's exit stems directly from a violation of BYU's strict Honor Code, resulting in a university-imposed multi-game suspension. While the specifics of the violation are tied to his admission of consensual sex...

Breaking news from Provo: BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has reportedly opted to leave the program amidst his ongoing civil lawsuit and Honor Code issues, sending shockwaves through the BYU football team. This podcast dives deep into the implications of Retzlaff's departure, examining the multitude of questions surrounding his future as a college football player, his eligibility to play as soon as this fall, and where Kalani Sitake and Aaron Roderick now turn at the critical quarterback position.

Retzlaff's decision to exit BYU mid-scandal leaves a significant void and a cloud of uncertainty. We'll analyze what this departure...

Breaking news in Provo: BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff's legal team has filed its formal response to the civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault, and the revelations are sending ripples through the BYU football program. This podcast dives into Retzlaff's defense, where he vehemently denies any allegations of sexual assault or violence, but does admit to having consensual sex with the alleged victim – a crucial admission that directly violates BYU's strict Honor Code.

Retzlaff's response establishes his legal position: a direct refutation of the core accusations of assault. This denial is central to his defense in the civil su...

BYU Cougars Football lands 5-star QB sensation Ryder Lyons. Is this the game-changer that propels BYU to Big 12 dominance?

Dive into the seismic impact of Lyons' commitment on BYU's football program and the Big 12 landscape. Hosts break down the significance of this rare 5-star recruit for the Cougars, exploring how it stacks up against rival Utah's recruiting efforts. The conversation tackles BYU's unique approach to managing players' mission commitments and its effect on team dynamics.

Jake Hatch from Locked on Cougars offers insider perspectives on BYU's recruiting strategy and mission program management.

Will...

Kevin Young cemented his status as an elite basketball coach, unequivocally proving his vision for BYU basketball with Egor Demin's selection as the eighth overall pick by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2025 NBA Draft. This podcast celebrates Demin's historic moment and delves into why this signifies BYU basketball's ascent onto an elite trajectory, powered by the dynamic force known as "KYU"—Kevin Young and the BYU Cougars.

Egor Demin's journey from Real Madrid to Provo, and now to a top-10 NBA Draft pick, is a monumental testament to Young's unparalleled player development skills. Demin, a 6-foot-9 point gu...

The biggest recruiting announcement in BYU football history has just dropped: five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons has committed to the BYU Cougars! This podcast celebrates this monumental commitment, dissecting what it means for Kalani Sitake and the entire BYU program as they secure arguably the most significant recruit to ever choose Provo, and one who will fundamentally alter their trajectory on the national stage, drawing high-level recruits for years to come.

Ryder Lyons is not just a five-star talent; he is a program-defining, game-changing recruit. His decision to sign with BYU, fending off fierce competition from national powerhouses...

The biggest recruiting announcement in BYU football history has just dropped: five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons has committed to the BYU Cougars! This podcast celebrates this monumental commitment, dissecting what it means for Kalani Sitake and the entire BYU program as they secure arguably the most significant recruit to ever choose Provo, and one who could fundamentally alter their trajectory on the national stage.

Ryder Lyons is not just a five-star talent; he is a game-changer, a program-definer. His decision to sign with BYU, fending off fierce competition from national powerhouses like Oregon, validates Kalani Sitake's long-term vision...

The BYU Cougars football program is poised for greatness in 2025, building on their stellar 11-2 season. Head Coach Kalani Sitake believes the team has only scratched the surface of its potential, aiming to establish a culture of consistent excellence from the season's opening kickoff.

In this exclusive podcast episode, Coach Sitake offers an in-depth look at the future of BYU football. He discusses crucial aspects of program development, including staff retention strategies and significant investments in facilities and resources. These elements are vital for BYU's continued success in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference.

Sitake addresses...

This weekend has been touted as the biggest recruiting event in BYU football history, and the Cougars are now looking to turn that monumental effort into a historic haul of commitments. This podcast breaks down the immense significance of this recruiting blitz, headlined by five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons, whose highly anticipated commitment announcement is set for June 24th, and kicked off by the incredibly productive three-star wide receiver Graham Livingston out of Ridgeline High School.

The air in Provo was electric as nearly 20 top-tier prospects descended upon campus for official visits. This unprecedented influx of talent signals...

The BYU Cougars are hosting five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons for a crucial official visit this weekend, a visit that could redefine the trajectory of Kalani Sitake's program. This podcast delves into why Lyons is arguably the biggest single recruit in BYU football history and why landing him over the Oregon Ducks, with his commitment announcement looming on June 24th, is paramount for the Cougars' future.

Ryder Lyons isn't just a talented quarterback; he's a generational prospect. His five-star rating and national acclaim elevate him beyond typical recruiting targets, making his potential commitment a seismic event for BYU...

College sports face a financial reckoning. Are non-revenue generating programs doomed in the wake of the House settlement?

Drake Toll and a panel of Big 12 experts tackle the controversial future of collegiate athletics. The discussion spans the viability of Olympic sports, donor influence on program decisions, and the cultural impact of diverse athletic offerings. Jake Hatch provides insights on BYU's potential scholarship adjustments, while Cody Silvall argues for the growing popularity of wrestling and softball. The group debates the long-term consequences of cutting sports programs on university admissions and campus culture.

Tune in for a...

The BYU Cougars are making a major push to flip Syracuse commit Jaxson Gates, with the talented defensive back making an official visit to Provo this weekend. This podcast dives into why Kalani Sitake, Jay Hill, and Jernaro Gilford are all-in on securing Gates, whose elite track speed, length, and size appear to be an ideal fit for the BYU defense.

Jaxson Gates, a California native, is a highly coveted prospect whose recruitment has heated up significantly since his initial commitment to Syracuse. He boasts impressive verified track speed, including a personal best of 10.39 seconds in the 100...

Texas Tech has emerged as a formidable force in the Big 12, particularly with its aggressive and seemingly dominant approach to recruiting and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). This podcast dives into how programs like BYU, Arizona State, and Houston are now in a chase, eager to assert themselves in this new NIL arms race. Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program are at the forefront of this ambition.

Recent reports highlight Texas Tech's unparalleled success in the transfer portal, fueled by substantial NIL funding. The Red Raiders' proactive strategy has drawn both admiration and frustration from rivals...

Brigham Young University is buzzing, and it's not just the usual Cougar hype. Five-star phenom AJ Dybantsa has boldly declared the goal for BYU basketball next season: a national championship. This isn't just a lofty aspiration; it's a statement of intent, and with the recently released Big 12 schedule, Dybantsa and his supremely talented teammates are poised to shine on the brightest national stage.

This podcast dives deep into Dybantsa's audacious championship declaration. A projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Dybantsa's confidence is infectious, reflecting the belief that Kevin Young has instilled in this rapidly ascending...

Bruce Mitchell's transition from defense to offense could be the game-changer BYU football needs. This episode dives into Mitchell's remarkable shift to starting center, exploring how his unique background shapes the Cougars' offensive line.

From South Summit High School to BYU's gridiron, Mitchell's path is anything but ordinary. We examine his rapid adaptation to the offensive line and the crucial role he now plays as center. Mitchell offers exclusive insights into the team's offensive line depth, addressing recent injuries and their impact on the upcoming season.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the center...

NIL rules shake up college sports landscape. Will the "House settlement" revolutionize athlete compensation or lead to under-the-table deals?

The Big 12 Squad dissects recent changes to Name, Image, and Likeness regulations, exploring their impact on schools, athletes, and sports programs. From BYU's recruiting strategies to Title IX implications, the hosts offer insider perspectives on the evolving collegiate athletics scene. Jake Hatch provides historical context on Title IX application, while Parker Ainsworth examines the value of university brands in supporting non-revenue sports.

Tune in for expert analysis on how these NIL changes could reshape the future...

Whispers of BYU's impending demise in the new era of college athletics, particularly under the weight of the House Settlement and its hefty revenue share, are simply overstated. This podcast challenges that narrative, arguing that under the strategic leadership of Athletic Director Brian Santiago, coupled with the proven coaching prowess of Kalani Sitake and Kevin Young, BYU is uniquely positioned to thrive, not just survive, in the Big 12.

The House Settlement, with its $20.5 million annual revenue cap for direct athlete payments, is indeed a game-changer. However, contrary to fears, BYU is not scrambling. Brian Santiago has explicitly...

The unpredictability of college football means every team needs a "next man up" mentality, especially at quarterback. With starting QB Jake Retzlaff's availability potentially uncertain, this podcast delves into how Kalani Sitake and Aaron Roderick are preparing true freshman Bear Bachmeier to step into the starting role for the BYU Cougars, if and when needed.

We'll analyze the challenges and opportunities in getting a talented true freshman like Bachmeier ready for Power 4 action. Despite his raw talent and impressive high school resume (including a 92/14 TD/INT ratio and over 1,700 rushing yards), the biggest hurdle for any young...

College football's preseason rankings are always a hot topic, but Phil Steele's latest projections have left BYU fans and analysts scratching their heads. Ranking the Cougars 53rd nationally and a perplexing seventh in the Big 12 Conference, Steele has seemingly provided Kalani Sitake and his squad with an abundance of bulletin board material. This podcast dives into why this assessment is baffling, especially after BYU's stellar 11-2 record last season, a performance that far outstripped any preseason expectations.

We'll dissect the numbers and the narrative. How can a team that finished 11-2, showcasing significant improvement and competitiveness in...

The landmark House Settlement is officially going into effect on July 1, 2025, ushering in a new era where college athletic departments can directly pay athletes. While many programs across the nation face a scramble to meet the projected $20.5 million revenue share cap, BYU is uniquely positioned to handle this financial commitment. This podcast dives into why the Cougars' long-standing fiscal responsibility, combined with a significant surge in Big 12 Conference revenues, puts them in a strong and competitive position.

We'll unpack the details of the House Settlement, including the $20.5 million annual cap for direct athlete payments, and the expectations...

BYU Basketball has secured a massive win off the court, signing Head Coach Kevin Young to a significant contract extension. This podcast dives into how this crucial move successfully staves off immediate NBA interest in Young, and why the BYU Cougars should brace themselves for this kind of professional attention to become a regular occurrence as long as he continues to win and succeed in Provo.

We'll unpack the details of Young's new long-term deal and the strategic thinking behind it. Given his extensive background as a highly respected NBA assistant coach and his recent success leading...

The college football landscape is buzzing with potential changes as Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark hints at a possible merger with the ACC. This episode dives deep into the implications of such a move and its impact on the conference's future.

Our expert panel, featuring Drake Toll, Jake Hatch, Cody Stovall, and JT Wistrcill, analyzes Yormark's recent statements and the strategic positioning of the Big 12 against SEC dominance. We explore how this merger could reshape the power dynamics in college football and what it means for member institutions.

The conversation shifts to BYU Cougars football, focusing...

The latest delay in the House Settlement ruling has created a frantic scramble for Power 4 conferences, and BYU is no exception. This podcast dives into the urgent need for Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars to find a way to fund their projected $20.5 million revenue share for athletes, and why failing to do so could result in a "bad look" for the program, signaling an inability to fully compete at the top tier of college athletics and within the Big 12 Conference.

We'll dissect the implications of this unexpected delay. While the settlement's core components, including the $20.5 million...

Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham recently declared his ambition for the Sun Devils to ascend to the "blue blood of the 2020s" throne. But this podcast argues that Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars have a far stronger, more compelling case for that title. We'll dissect why BYU's unique advantages position them as a burgeoning powerhouse, ready to claim national prominence in this new era of college football.

First, we delve into BYU's robust NIL funding. In an era where financial backing is paramount to recruiting success, BYU has demonstrated a significant ability to generate and leverage...

BYU's storied tight end tradition takes center stage in this episode, focusing on transfer player Carsen Ryan's potential to reignite this crucial position. Jake Hatch explores the Cougars' rich history of standout tight ends and how Ryan fits into this legacy.

Carsen Ryan shares his journey to BYU, offering listeners an inside look at his recruitment process. He details pivotal conversations with BYU tight ends coach Kevin Gilbride that influenced his decision to join the Cougars. Ryan's enthusiasm for BYU's offensive scheme shines through as he discusses the team's plans to utilize multiple playmakers effectively.

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This month is pivotal for Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars, as their official visit schedule is packed with high-level prospects who could fundamentally reshape the program's future. This podcast dives into the significance of these visits, exploring how securing commitments from this elite group could make BYU a perennial contender in the Big 12 Conference for years to come.

We'll dissect the impressive list of recruits making their way to Provo, highlighting the positions of need and the caliber of talent the Cougars are targeting. These aren't just ordinary visits; they are crucial opportunities for BYU to...

The BYU Cougars' 1948 football season was a rollercoaster of elite defense and offensive struggles. Despite boasting one of the nation's top pass defenses, the Cougars faced challenges that kept them from a winning record. With head coach Eddie Kimball at the helm for his final season, the team showcased impressive defensive stats, including a mere 39% completion rate allowed and 12 interceptions. However, the offense lagged, with a concerning 5 touchdowns to 19 interceptions ratio.

Key players like Kimball Merrill, who later joined the Detroit Lions, and Dave Chadwick, who set a school record against Montana, are highlighted. The episode explores...

Brigham Young University finds itself in an unenviable and deeply precarious position regarding the civil lawsuit filed against starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff. This podcast delves into the "no-win" situation BYU faces, exploring why the university will likely take significant flak and experience unavoidable fallout, regardless of the course of action they choose.

We'll dissect the various difficult scenarios confronting BYU. If the university chooses to stand by Jake Retzlaff and he is cleared by their internal investigations, they risk alienating segments of the public, particularly those who prioritize victim advocacy and may perceive such a decision as...

Big 12 football is at a crossroads. With SEC politics heating up and the Big 12's competitive edge in question, what does the future hold for college football? Dive into the latest controversies surrounding BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff's legal issues and Texas Tech booster Cody Campbell's financial influence. Hosts Drake Toll, Jake Catch, and others dissect Greg Sankey's SEC maneuvers, the implications of BYU's honor code, and the role of billionaire alumni like T. Boone Pickens in shaping the Big 12's destiny.

Will the Big 12's strategic moves redefine the college football landscape? Tune in for expert analysis...

With the uncertainty surrounding starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff's availability, the BYU Cougars are facing a pivotal decision under center this fall. This podcast dives into the intense quarterback battle between McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet, examining which signal-caller gives Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program the best chance to stay alive in the Big 12 title hunt.

We'll break down the strengths and weaknesses of both McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet. Hillstead, a former Utah State transfer, brings valuable Big 12 experience and a dynamic playmaking ability that could inject immediate energy into the offense. We'll analyze his...

Anonymous Big 12 coaches are sounding off, and their candid remarks paint a clear picture: Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program have quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. This podcast dives into the high praise from within the league, exploring why BYU's physical style, top-tier defense, and burgeoning reputation as a power player are earning respect across the Big 12 Conference.

We'll unpack the compliments from these anonymous coaches, who are witnessing firsthand the Cougars' impact. Their observations highlight BYU's commitment to a tough, physical brand of football that is proving challenging for Big 12...

Despite the ongoing civil lawsuit against starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff, there's a compelling argument that BYU could still play him this fall if their internal investigations clear him of wrongdoing. This podcast explores why Tom Holmoe and Kalani Sitake's leadership during the challenging 2020 COVID-affected football season provides a powerful precedent, demonstrating that the BYU football program is not afraid to make decisions that may be unpopular at the time.

We'll delve into the distinct nature of BYU's internal review processes, separate from the civil legal system. If the university's own investigations conclude that Retzlaff has abided by...

The future of BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff remains in serious jeopardy as a civil lawsuit containing grave allegations continues to loom. This podcast delves into the multifaceted challenges facing Retzlaff, the potential implications of a pending Honor Code investigation by Brigham Young University, and how this precarious situation could profoundly impact Kalani Sitake and the entire BYU football program.

We'll dissect the layers of uncertainty surrounding Retzlaff's status. Beyond the civil legal battle, the university's strict Honor Code presents a separate, yet equally critical, hurdle. Every BYU student, including athletes, is bound by this code, and...

New developments in the civil lawsuit filed against BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff indicate a long and complex legal road ahead. Noted legal analyst Greg Skordas of KSL Newsradio believes this will be a protracted legal battle, with a final resolution potentially months, if not years, away – well past the upcoming BYU football season, which is now just 99 days from kicking off.

This podcast episode delves into Skordas's expert analysis, explaining why civil cases, especially those involving serious allegations like sexual assault and rape, often take an extended period to resolve. We'll discuss the various stages of a...

Is a 16-team college football playoff the game-changer the Big 12 needs? Dive into the buzz as the Big 12 Squad tackles this hot topic, exploring the potential impact on the Arizona State Sun Devils, Texas Tech Red Raiders, BYU Cougars, and other powerhouse teams. With Jake Hatch, Chris Level and Drake Toll leading the charge, the conversation heats up around the playoff proposal, beer sales at college stadiums, and Texas A&M's challenging year.

Drake's new perm sparks laughter, setting a lighthearted tone as the group debates the financial windfall of selling beer, citing Clemson's success with the...

A civil lawsuit has been filed against BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff, containing serious allegations including sexual assault and rape. This podcast episode addresses the profound and precarious nature of this situation, exploring its potential impact on all parties involved and the upcoming BYU football season.

We delve into the gravity of the civil allegations and the sensitive circumstances surrounding them. This is a deeply serious matter with significant implications for Jake Retzlaff, the accuser, and the BYU institution as a whole. Our discussion will focus on the factual reporting of the lawsuit and its immediate ramifications...