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

Latest Episodes:

SUPERSTAR: AJ Dybantsa Leads BYU's March Madness CHARGE | Why His TALENT Will ELEVATE the Cougars | Cade Uluave Eager to Shine for BYU Football | Jane Hedengren is Jane-erational Talent! Mar 17, 2026

Show notes

AJ Dybantsa’s arrival on the big stage could mark a turning point for BYU Cougars basketball in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Is BYU poised to go further than pundits expect, riding the standout ability of its one-and-done superstar? Jake Hatch argues that Dybantsa’s two-way impact—electric offensive scoring and tenacious defense—gives BYU a legitimate shot at moving past the first round and reaching the Sweet 16. The episode dives into how Dybantsa’s leadership and willingness to shoulder responsibility have changed the expectations for BYU’s postseason, even as the team copes with injuries to key players like Richie Saunders and Dawson Baker. With NC State and Texas limping into the tournament as potential first round opponents, Hatch breaks down why BYU’s path looks promising and how Dybantsa can be the difference maker. The stage is set for a thrilling March Madness run—can BYU capitalize on their star power?

Transitioning to football, standout linebacker Cade Uluave talked with Jake Hatch to share insights about his journey from Cal to BYU. Uluave unpacks his motivations for transferring, the importance of being closer to family, and how BYU’s unmatched team culture is helping him adapt and thrive. He also highlights the influence of names like Vic So’oto and discusses learning BYU’s defensive system alongside the new coordinator. With nearly 300 career tackles and a Power Four pedigree, Uluave’s addition solidifies BYU’s linebacker corps alongside Isaiah Glasker following Jack Kelly’s NFL departure. Hatch reviews BYU’s transfer portal strategy, emphasizing quality over quantity, and explores how players like Uluave could drive BYU toward Big 12 Conference success and even College Football Playoff aspirations.

The episode closes with a celebration of Jane Hedengren’s sensational achievements in women’s track and field. Hedengren shattered facility records in both the 3,000 meters and 5,000 meters, becoming the first freshman to complete this historic double at the championships. Comparisons to legends like Usain Bolt and Jimmer Fredette underscore her generational talent and homegrown roots in Provo. Hatch examines Hedengren’s impact on BYU’s fifth-place finish and what her trajectory means for BYU’s athletic future.

Catch this action-packed edition for expert analysis, exclusive interviews, and stories from inside BYU athletics.

Support Locked On Cougars:

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!

Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.
Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!

Gametime - Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply

Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you

FanDuel - Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started

Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood.
Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.
Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts
are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.

5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon

Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

FANDUEL 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

THE PATH TO GLORY: How BYU & AJ Dybantsa Can CONQUER March Madness & REWRITE NCAA Tournament History | Remember 2021 & UCLA Debacle | BYU Women Enter WBIT With Motivation After NCAA Tournament Snub Mar 16, 2026

Show notes

The BYU Cougars may have found their clearest shot at a Sweet 16 run in recent history, as AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright, and Kevin Young’s revitalized squad land a favorable NCAA Tournament bracket. Riding a wave of confidence after a late-season resurgence, the Cougars head to Portland as a 6-seed, taking on either Texas or NC State—two teams with flaws and recent struggles. With Portland's relative proximity promising strong BYU fan support and a potential second-round matchup against a vulnerable Gonzaga missing star Braden Huff, BYU’s bracket sets the stage for a breakthrough. Jake Hatch examines whether this is the moment Kevin Young and BYU overcome postseason frustrations to join the likes of Jimmer Fredette and Danny Ainge as March legends.

Drawing on BYU’s 2021 first-round disappointment at the hands of UCLA, the show unpacks essential tournament lessons: beware of the “rest vs. rust” dilemma and never underestimate a First Four opponent riding tournament momentum. Dybantsa’s NBA-caliber talent and Kevin Young’s postseason approach are scrutinized as keys to BYU’s fate, while Hatch analyzes Texas and NC State’s recent stumbles, BYU’s defensive improvements, and the program’s readiness to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Can the Cougars avoid the pitfalls that have doomed 32 previous tournament appearances and instead rewrite their legacy?

On the women’s side, Lee Cummard has the BYU Cougars carrying bittersweet motivation into the inaugural WBIT after narrowly missing the NCAA tourney. Led by Delaney Gibb, the team embraces a No. 1 seed and a home opener against Alabama A&M. The podcast evaluates whether BYU can use postseason disappointment as fuel for a deep run, discusses bracket logistics, and champions the need for Cougar fans to support both the men’s and women’s programs on a pivotal Thursday. With both squads facing critical moments, can BYU’s hoops programs seize their March opportunities, shake off past heartbreak, and shine on the national stage?

Don’t miss Locked On Cougars for expert analysis, historical perspective, and a look at how these tournament paths could redefine BYU basketball’s future.