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

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BIG 12 SQUAD - What Analysts Say About the BYU Cougars Ahead of Week Twelve Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

The argument that BYU and Utah are undervalued by the College Football Playoff Committee often centers on a deep-seated institutional and brand bias that favors traditional powerhouses. Despite both teams—especially after joining the new P4 conference—amassing solid resumes, the committee’s ranking logic appears inconsistent when compared to peer teams from the SEC or Big Ten. For BYU, the undervaluation is evident even in their best years. When the Cougars were undefeated, they were often ranked below one-loss teams from the perceived “elite” conferences, suggesting a penalty for a lack of "brand credibility" rather than on-field performance. After their first loss, the drop in rankings is often precipitous, falling behind two-loss teams like Texas or Oklahoma, who benefit from the narrative of “quality losses.” This differential treatment suggests the committee rewards the mere potential or reputation of established programs more than the actual, tangible Strength of Record (SOR) earned by BYU. Utah’s case highlights the harsh grading curve applied to Big 12 losses. As a consistently tough, defensive-minded program, their two losses this season came against other highly-ranked Big 12 teams (BYU and Texas Tech). Yet, their ranking near No. 13 keeps them just outside the contention tier, a placement often occupied by two-loss teams from other conferences that have a perceived higher overall floor. The Utes' methodical style, coupled with the committee's tendency to devalue close wins or reward teams for "style points," means Utah is held to a higher standard of dominance to secure an elite ranking. Ultimately, both Utah and BYU are fighting not just opponents on the field, but a long-standing culture that rewards historical brand over current results and strength metrics within a less historically favored conference.

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BYU Cougars Face CRITICAL Test vs. Spoiler-Minded TCU Horned Frogs | Can Bear Bachmeier Bounce Back? | TCU-BYU Preview | Locked On Horned Frogs Crossover Nov 13, 2025

Show notes

BYU Cougars face a pivotal Big 12 Conference matchup against the TCU Horned Frogs in what could define their championship aspirations. After suffering their first loss of the season to Texas Tech, the Cougars must prove they can avoid the consecutive defeats that plagued them in 2023. Meanwhile, TCU looks to play spoiler and add another signature win to their inconsistent campaign.

Hosts Jake Hatch and Darrion Gray provide comprehensive analysis of this crucial Big 12 showdown, examining every angle of Saturday's contest. The quarterback battle takes center stage as BYU's freshman sensation Bear Bachmeier faces off against TCU's Josh Hoover, who torched the Cougars for over 450 passing yards in last year's meeting. Can defensive coordinator Jay Hill devise a game plan to contain Hoover's aerial assault, or will the Horned Frogs' passing attack once again expose BYU's secondary?

The injury report looms large over this matchup, particularly concerning running back LJ Martin's status for the Cougars. His availability could dramatically impact BYU's offensive balance and ability to control the clock against TCU's high-powered passing game. The discussion explores how the Cougars' ground game must establish dominance early to keep Hoover and the Horned Frogs' offense off the field.

TCU enters this Big 12 rivalry game with questions surrounding head coach Sonny Dykes' job security following an up-and-down season. Their one-dimensional offensive approach presents both opportunities and challenges for BYU's defense. Impact players like Eric McAllister and Devin Deal could swing momentum in this conference clash.

Jake and Darrion break down the keys to victory for both teams, analyzing whether BYU can deliver a complete 60-minute performance or if TCU's explosive offense will overwhelm the Cougars' defense. The hosts examine Big 12 standings implications, playoff scenarios, and what this game means for both programs moving forward.

Get expert predictions, tactical breakdowns, and insider insights on this renewed Big 12 rivalry. Will BYU bounce back strong, or will TCU derail the Cougars' conference championship dreams? Discover the matchups that matter most in this must-win game for both teams.

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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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BYU Football's College Football Playoff FATE Still Completely in Their Hands After Sliding to No. 12 | BYU Basketball Overcomes Sluggish Start | Abdullah Ahmed Picks KYU & BYU! Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

The BYU Cougars football team faces a critical juncture after dropping five spots to #12 in the College Football Playoff rankings following their loss to Texas Tech. Despite the setback, Jake Hatch explains why BYU's championship aspirations remain very much alive. With upcoming games against TCU, Cincinnati, and UCF, the Cougars control their destiny in the Big 12 Conference race. Every stated goal from the preseason is still achievable, though BYU has now used their one mulligan and cannot afford another slip-up.

The CFP rankings discussion reveals the narrow margin for error facing the Cougars as they navigate the final stretch of the season. Hatch breaks down BYU's playoff path and what needs to happen for the Cougars to secure a coveted spot in the expanded College Football Playoff field.

Meanwhile, seventh-ranked BYU basketball overcame a sluggish performance to defeat Delaware 85-68, with AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright III and Richie Saunders combining for an impressive 70 points. The victory showcased the Cougars' depth and talent, even when not playing their sharpest basketball. The team demonstrated dominance on the boards and continued their hot three-point shooting, though the performance suggested a possible look-ahead game before their marquee matchup against third-ranked UConn.

In a major recruiting coup, BYU basketball landed a commitment from G-League player Abdullah Ahmed for the 2026 recruiting class, beating out Houston and other programs. This signing represents a significant validation of head coach Kevin Young's vision to transform BYU into an NBA factory in Provo. Hatch discusses why welcoming G-League players into college basketball should be embraced just like European professionals, and what this recruitment strategy means for the program's future.

The episode provides comprehensive analysis of both BYU football's playoff positioning and basketball's early-season success, offering insider perspective on how the Cougars are navigating championship pursuits across multiple sports. From CFP rankings to recruiting victories, this episode covers everything BYU fans need to know about their teams' championship aspirations.

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BYU's Texas Tech Loss Might Actually SAVE The Cougars' Season Per Kalani Sitake's Bold New Strategy | Big 12 CFP Hopes Get Boost | BYU Basketball Faces Delaware Nov 11, 2025

Show notes

The BYU Cougars football team suffered their first loss of the season against Texas Tech, but could this setback actually benefit Kalani Sitake's squad heading into their crucial matchup with TCU? Jake Hatch provides insider analysis on why reduced national media scrutiny might be exactly what BYU needs to refocus and accomplish their championship goals.

College Football Playoff Rankings and BYU's Path Forward

Despite the loss, Hatch predicts BYU will land at #11 in Tuesday's College Football Playoff rankings, keeping their postseason dreams alive. The Cougars can still achieve every preseason objective, with a clear path to the Big 12 Championship Game remaining intact. Winning out could see BYU in line for a coveted playoff berth, making their remaining schedule critical for championship aspirations.

Big 12 Conference Politics and SEC Pressure

The episode examines conference politics as SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey lobbies for multiple SEC teams in the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, Big 12 coaches including Texas Tech's Joey McGuire publicly support BYU's legitimacy as a playoff contender, highlighting the growing respect for the Cougars program within the conference.

BYU Basketball Struggles: Offensive Rebounding and Three-Point Shooting Concerns

Shifting to hardwood action, Hatch analyzes concerning trends in BYU basketball under Kevin Young. The Cougars face significant challenges with offensive rebounding and three-point shooting efficiency ahead of their Delaware matchup. With UConn looming on the schedule, these weaknesses must be addressed immediately.

The discussion covers how AJ Dybantsa and the basketball roster need to improve fundamentals before facing elite competition. Young's squad has shown flashes but lacks consistency in critical areas that determine wins against top-tier opponents.

Championship Momentum Across Both Programs

This episode delivers essential insights for BYU Cougars fans following both football and basketball. Learn how adversity can transform into championship momentum, why the Texas Tech loss might actually help BYU's playoff chances, and what adjustments Kevin Young must make to maximize his talented roster.

Whether you're tracking BYU's College Football Playoff journey or monitoring basketball's early-season development, this analysis provides the insider perspective Cougar Nation needs during this pivotal stretch of the season.

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Chase Roberts GUARANTEES BYU's Revenge Against Texas Tech After BRUTAL 29-7 Blowout Loss | Will the BYU Cougars Deliver? | Texas Tech Film Review | BYU Has Clear Path Ahead Nov 10, 2025

Show notes

Following BYU's devastating 29-7 loss to Texas Tech, Cougars wide receiver Chase Roberts made headlines with a defiant guarantee: BYU will face and defeat the Red Raiders in the Big 12 Championship game. This bold proclamation sets the stage for one of college football's most compelling comeback narratives as the Cougars fight to salvage their championship aspirations.

Host Jake Hatch delivers an unflinching film breakdown of BYU's worst performance of the 2024 season, exposing critical failures across all three phases. The offensive struggles were glaring, with quarterback Bear Bachmeier facing relentless pressure from Texas Tech's elite defensive line, resulting in compromised vision and decision-making throughout the game. Running back LJ Martin battled through visible shoulder pain, limiting his effectiveness in the ground game while offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick's game plan adjustments fell short against the Red Raiders' aggressive defensive scheme.

Defensively, despite linebacker Jack Kelly's NFL-caliber performance, the Cougars couldn't contain Texas Tech's explosive offense. Special teams catastrophes compounded BYU's problems, contributing to the lopsided final score in Lubbock. The comprehensive film review reveals exactly where BYU's execution broke down and what must change moving forward.

The silver lining? BYU controls its own destiny with three remaining games against TCU, Cincinnati, and UCF. ESPN's Football Power Index projects the Cougars as favorites in all three matchups, providing a clear roadmap to the Big 12 Championship game. Win out, and BYU guarantees itself a championship appearance with potential College Football Playoff implications.

This episode breaks down the critical adjustments BYU must make on offense, defense, and special teams to avoid another catastrophic performance. Can the Cougars bounce back from their Lubbock nightmare? Will Chase Roberts' guarantee prove prophetic or premature?

Join Jake Hatch for this brutally honest analysis of BYU football's championship path, featuring expert film breakdown, injury updates on key players, and strategic insights into what the Cougars must accomplish to keep their Big 12 title dreams alive and validate Roberts' bold post-game promise.

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REACTION: #8 BYU Basketball Crushes Holy Cross 98-53, Elevates Play | Nate Pickens Injury Hurts BYU | Jennifer Rockwood & Women's Soccer Win Big 12 Title Nov 09, 2025

Show notes

The highly-anticipated second season of Head Coach Kevin Young’s era at BYU Basketball is underway, and the #8 Cougars showed incredible resolve in their Marriott Center home opener. Join host Jake Hatch for a deep dive into the spectacular 98-53 blowout victory over the Holy Cross Crusaders. This win carried significant weight, coming shortly after the difficult news that rotation player Nate Pickens is out for the season following surgery. While Pickens wasn't a star, his expected minutes and versatility were crucial for the overall depth of the roster—meaning this dominant performance served as the first major test of BYU’s bench resilience. We break down the adjustments made and how the team responded to this critical challenge.

The Cougars’ emphatic 98-53 scoreline reflects a group playing with focus and purpose, immediately tested by the need to fill the gap left by Nate Pickens in the rotation. We analyze the lightning-fast, transition-oriented offense that overwhelmed Holy Cross, showcasing the versatility and depth that Kevin Young is cultivating. The team demonstrated remarkable offensive efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, proving that the offensive firepower remains potent. This ability to maintain high execution, even while reorganizing the bench rotation, is a testament to the system's strength.

The victory was anchored by a strong collective effort. We highlight how the remaining depth players and reserves immediately stepped up, demonstrating that the "Next Man Up" mentality is already ingrained. We specifically discuss which players saw increased minutes and how they performed, focusing on their energy, defensive effort, and seamless integration into the flow. The massive performance, which included holding the Crusaders to a paltry 53 points, proved that the team is deep enough to sustain pressure on both ends of the floor. Losing Pickens means other role players must now consistently absorb those minutes, and this home opener showed promising results.

What does this dominant blowout win tell us about BYU’s trajectory in Kevin Young's second season while managing this depth issue? It confirms their status as a legitimate AP Top 10 contender and provides critical, morale-boosting momentum. This performance proves the team’s foundation is strong enough to weather personnel losses to critical role players. We look ahead to the next tests on the schedule and debate which specific reserves must now solidify their spot to ensure the Cougars can maintain peak performance throughout the demanding Big 12 schedule. Don't miss our final analysis on how the Cougars are poised to tackle the adversity of the season!

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REACTION: #7 BYU Suffers BLOWOUT LOSS to #8 Texas Tech | Big 12 Mulligan Cashed & Time for Cougars to Regroup Nov 08, 2025

Show notes

The air has been let out of the balloon. After a perfect, historic 8-0 start that captivated the nation, the #7 BYU Cougars traveled to Lubbock for their highly anticipated Top-10 showdown against the #8 Texas Tech Red Raiders, only to suffer a devastating blowout loss. Host Jake Hatch holds nothing back in this immediate recap and analysis, dissecting the night that saw Kalani Sitake's undefeated streak come to a screeching halt. This episode is essential listening for every Cougar fan searching for answers after the team's worst performance of the year. The dream of an untouched season is over, but the fight for the Big 12 Championship remains alive. We break down the emotional and technical fallout from the shocking defeat in Lubbock.

What happened to the dominant team we've watched all season? We dive deep into the specific areas where the Cougars struggled. The defense, which had been opportunistic and stout, was completely overwhelmed by the powerful Texas Tech rushing attack, leading to massive yardage allowed and sustained drives that controlled the game's tempo. Offensively, the team looked disjointed and struggled significantly to convert critical third downs, failing entirely to establish the run game early—a critical failure we highlighted in last week's preview. We analyze the struggles in quarterback play, the lack of pressure from the defensive front, and the unfortunate cascade of errors that led to the final, lopsided score. This detailed BYU football recap investigates whether this was an anomaly or a sign of deeper issues emerging under the pressure of a Top 10 matchup. We examine the missed tackles, the poor discipline, and the sheer physicality the Red Raiders brought, which BYU simply couldn't match.

The most painful part of the loss is the immediate impact on the College Football Playoff hopes. That #7 ranking, a source of immense pride just days ago, is now certain to be gone, likely sending BYU tumbling in the polls. However, the season is not lost! We clarify the path still available for the Big 12 title game. The Cougars now have zero margin for error in the remaining schedule. Every single conference game becomes a playoff game in itself. We discuss what needs to happen across the conference landscape—and, more importantly, what needs to change within the BYU locker room—to ensure their path to the title remains viable. The mental fortitude and leadership of Kalani Sitake's team will be tested like never before in this crucial moment of the season.

The mark of a great program is how quickly it can recover from adversity. BYU doesn't have time to wallow, as they face another tough challenge next week against the TCU Horned Frogs. We pivot quickly to a comprehensive TCU preview, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses and identifying the necessary adjustments BYU must make this week in practice. Can the offensive line regroup and protect the quarterback? Will the defense find its swagger and stop the run? This game against TCU is a psychological hurdle as much as a physical one. A victory gets them instantly back on track for Big 12 Championship contention, while another loss could completely derail all their pre-season goals. Jake provides his early keys to victory, focusing on discipline, ball security, and most importantly, regaining the offensive identity that led to the initial 8-0 start. Don't miss this crucial look at how BYU can bounce back and prove their initial ranking was earned, not luck. This fight for the Big 12 is far from over!

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Kevin Young's ALWAYS RECRUITING Philosophy on Full Display | Holy Cross Matchup Takes to Backburner to Abdullah Ahmed's Official Visit to PROvo Nov 08, 2025

Show notes

The BYU Cougars basketball team tips off their home opener against Holy Cross with major recruiting implications, as 6'10" G-League prospect Abdullah Ahmed makes an official visit to Provo. Jake Hatch provides exclusive insider analysis on whether Ahmed could become the next impact transfer for head coach Kevin Young's program.

Abdullah Ahmed: From Westchester Knicks to BYU Basketball

Ahmed brings professional experience from the Westchester Knicks organization and presents an intriguing profile as a rim-protecting center. His rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability mirror the skill set that made Keba Keita valuable for the BYU Cougars. The recruiting battle centers on enrollment timing, with Houston also pursuing the talented big man. The NCAA's recent G-League eligibility ruling has opened new pathways for players like Ahmed to transition to college basketball.

Holy Cross Matchup: Perfect Opportunity for BYU Cougars

Holy Cross enters the Marriott Center ranked 341st out of 360 Division 1 teams in KenPom metrics, presenting BYU basketball with an ideal opportunity to refine their offensive system. Kevin Young's squad needs to establish their drive-and-kick offense by attempting approximately 30 three-pointers while building early-season confidence against overmatched competition.

Critical Areas for BYU Basketball Improvement

Following their Villanova opener, the Cougars must address several key weaknesses. Free throw shooting remains a concern that could haunt BYU in close Big 12 Conference games. Defensive rotations require sharpening, even against inferior opponents like Holy Cross. This home opener provides valuable game reps to establish offensive rhythm and defensive principles before facing tougher competition.

Recruiting Strategy and Season Outlook

The Abdullah Ahmed visit highlights BYU basketball's aggressive recruiting approach under Kevin Young. Adding another rim protector alongside Keba Keita would give the Cougars defensive versatility and depth in the frontcourt. The comparison between Ahmed's professional background and potential college impact raises fascinating questions about roster construction in modern college basketball.

This episode delivers essential insights for BYU Cougars fans tracking recruiting developments, analyzing Holy Cross as an opponent, and understanding what Kevin Young's team must accomplish to succeed in their challenging Big 12 schedule.

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BYU's UNDEFEATED Season Faces ULTIMATE Test Against Texas Tech | Can Bear Bachmeier DELIVER History? | Listener Mailbag | Game Preview & Prediction Nov 07, 2025

Show notes

The #7 BYU Cougars face the #8 Texas Tech Red Raiders in a historic top-10 showdown that could reshape the Big 12 Championship race and determine playoff positioning. Can the undefeated Cougars pull off the upset in hostile Lubbock with ESPN's College GameDay on-hand?

Jake Hatch breaks down why BYU enters as a surprising 10.5-point underdog despite their perfect 8-0 record and proven ability to win close games throughout the season. The Cougars have consistently found ways to victory, but this matchup presents their biggest challenge yet in a raucous road environment.

The analysis covers critical injury updates, including LJ Martin's shoulder status and his potential impact on BYU's rushing attack. True freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier faces his biggest test yet against Texas Tech's aggressive defense, which excels at forcing turnovers through ball-stripping techniques. Hatch examines how BYU's offensive line must protect against this relentless pressure while creating running lanes.

Field position battle emerges as a crucial factor that could determine the outcome. Special teams coordinator Kelly Poppinga's return game schemes provide BYU with a potential advantage, giving the Cougars opportunities to flip field position and control momentum. Turnover margin becomes paramount for both teams, as the squad that protects the football while creating takeaways will likely emerge victorious.

College Football Playoff implications loom large for the Big 12 Conference. Hatch addresses listener questions about potential first-round bye scenarios if BYU wins out, exploring how an undefeated season could position the Cougars for a coveted home playoff game at LaVell Edwards Stadium. The Big 12 Championship race hangs in the balance with this pivotal matchup.

Hatch delivers his bold prediction for the game, explaining why BYU's self-belief and championship mentality might overcome the hostile environment and point spread. The Cougars' resilience has been tested repeatedly this season, and their ability to execute in pressure situations could prove decisive.

This episode provides comprehensive game analysis, injury updates, playoff scenarios, and expert predictions for one of college football's most anticipated matchups. Discover why this showdown between undefeated BYU and Texas Tech could define the Big 12 season and determine who controls their playoff destiny.

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BIG 12 SQUAD - What Analysts Say About the BYU Cougars Ahead of Week Eleven Nov 06, 2025

Show notes

The College Football Playoff rankings have been revealed, and now have massive implications for the Week 11 matchup between the BYU Cougars and Texas Tech Red Raiders. How does the Big 12 move forward from these rankings? Can they fit three teams in with the Utah Utes also in striking distance? All that and more on the Big 12 Squad.

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