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Inside BYU’s 2026 Signing Day: Kalani Sitake, Aaron Roderick, Kelly Poppinga Break Down BYU Football's Future Stars Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

Is this the class that takes BYU Football to the top of the Big 12? On today’s episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch provides a comprehensive reaction to National Signing Day 2026. As the BYU Cougars solidify a roster designed for the modern era of the College Football Playoff (CFP), we go inside the comments from the men building the program.

Kalani Sitake’s Vision for the 2026 Class

We lead off with head coach Kalani Sitake’s opening remarks. Sitake has been vocal about finding "BYU guys" who possess elite Power Four athleticism. We break down his comments on the cultural fit and physical development of this incoming group. How has Sitake’s approach to recruiting changed as the Cougars become a settled, formidable force in the Big 12 Conference? We discuss the balance between local "homegrown" talent and the national reach this staff has established.

Aaron Roderick and the Offensive Evolution

Next, we dive into Aaron Roderick’s assessment of the offensive haul. With the Big 12 proving to be a high-scoring gauntlet, Roderick highlighted the need for explosive playmakers and "quarterback-friendly" protectors. We analyze what A-Rod had to say about the new weapons joining the wide receiver room and the offensive line's revamped depth. If BYU is going to win a Big 12 Championship, the offense needs to be elite—does this 2026 class provide the necessary spark?

Kelly Poppinga: Building a "Playoff Defense"

On the defensive side of the ball, Kelly Poppinga didn't hold back on the expectations for his unit. Poppinga discussed the emphasis on their high school recruiting and adding transfer portal options at the linebacker and cornerback positions. We look at his specific praise for the continuity in the unit and how the scheme is attracting top-tier defensive talent that previously looked elsewhere. Depth is the name of the game in the Big 12, and Poppinga’s comments suggest BYU is deeper than ever.

The Road to the Big 12 Title and the CFP

Finally, Jake Hatch connects the dots between today's signings and this fall’s expectations. With the College Football Playoff expanding, the margin for error has shifted, but the goal remains the same: win the Big 12. We discuss how this 2026 class impacts the immediate roster's mentality and the long-term stability of the program. Is BYU officially a "top-tier" Big 12 recruiter?

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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.

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DYNASTY STANDARD? BYU Football REDEFINES Recruiting, Sets Bar With Historic Class & Eyes Playoff Run | BYU Basketball Eyes Turnaround Beginning at Oklahoma State | AJ Dybantsa Launches Foundation Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

The BYU Cougars football program raises the bar on National Signing Day, delivering the best recruiting class in program history—and affirming that top-25 talent is now the expectation for Kalani Sitake’s squad in the Big 12 era. Jake Hatch breaks down why this marks a turning point for BYU’s competitiveness and national relevance, spotlighting the arrival of high-upside prospects like Ryder Lyons, Brock Harris, and Bott Mulitalo. The analysis covers strategic additions via the transfer portal, including standouts like Cade Uluave, Paki Finau and Zach Yamauchi, and highlights the importance of player development, academic standards, and the program’s unique mission-first identity. With strong player retention, especially among top contributors, BYU builds a roster designed to challenge for the College Football Playoff, setting the stage for massive showdowns in 2026, including a headline non-conference matchup against Notre Dame that could shift perceptions across the entire Big 12 Conference.

On the basketball front, the Cougars enter a crucial stretch after losing three of four, searching for the spark that powered last season’s memorable February comeback. Jake Hatch evaluates the potential of stars A.J. Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright to trigger a turnaround, questioning possible rotation changes by coach Kevin Young—such as inserting Khadim Mboup into the starting lineup and adjusting bench roles to inject needed scoring. The preview of the Oklahoma State matchup zeroes in on the up-tempo playing style and turnover battle, with the hope that this game becomes a catalyst much like last season’s transformative road win at West Virginia. A tough home test against No. 8 Houston follows, making this week pivotal for BYU’s tournament trajectory.

Beyond the stats, Dybantsa’s launch of the AJ Dybantsa Foundation takes center stage, channeling NIL earnings toward youth empowerment, back-to-school drives, and giving back to communities from Provo to Haiti and beyond. Jake Hatch celebrates the growing legacy of BYU athletes using their influence for good—highlighting similar efforts from Richie Saunders, Robert Wright, and alumni like Travis Hansen. This episode delivers an in-depth look at BYU’s recruiting momentum, on-court adjustments, and the off-court leadership shaping the Cougars’ future.