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

• Why Kalani Sitake’s Contract REDEFINES BYU Football | INSIDE the Tension & Triumph | Brian Santiago On Notice? | BYU Hoops Rumbles Back in NYC | Do Your Job, Brett Yormark!

  Can Kalani Sitake’s new contract extension truly reshape the trajectory of BYU football, or is university leadership still holding the program back? Jake Hatch dives into the layers behind Sitake’s record-breaking deal with Brigham Young University—a fourth extension in as many years—and what it signals for the Cougars’ ambitions in the Power Four era. While Sitake publicly pushed for the deal, Jake Hatch questions why BYU administration hesitated and why Athletic Director Brian Santiago only granted Sitake the “capability”—not the authority—to fully control the football program, drawing a sharp contrast with legendary coach LaVell Edwards’ era. With BYU aiming for national relevance, is it enough to say Sitake can lead, or must he be empowered to make critical decisions on staffing, resources, and NIL strategy? The episode explores how substantial raises and multi-year contracts for assistants, plus a major influx of NIL funding, could elevate BYU’s recruiting and retention—but only if leadership evolves with the sport’s demands.On the basketball front, AJ Dybantsa’s second-half heroics ignite BYU’s dramatic comeback win over Clemson at Madison Square Garden. Jake Hatch spotlights Dybantsa’s dominant 22-point half, surpassing Clemson’s entire team output, and unpacks his growing case as a future NBA top draft pick. The buzzer-beating three from Rob Wright not only secures the win but highlights the Cougars’ resilience, camaraderie, and next-level potential as Big 12 play approaches. Bench strategy, defensive adjustments, and the promising chemistry between Dybantsa and teammates hint at a season with serious national implications.Wrapping up, Jake Hatch scrutinizes Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark’s lackluster defense of BYU’s College Football Playoff snub, calling attention to conference politics and missed opportunities to advocate for deserving programs. With rivals like the SEC and ACC boldly lobbying for their teams, does the Big 12 risk falling behind by not vigorously supporting its own? Listeners are left to ponder whether BYU can break through administrative obstacles on and off the field—or if their path to glory demands stronger backing from conference leadership. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU’s power plays and the potential roadblocks ahead in both football and basketball.Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL 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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• BYU Playoff Hopes SHATTER as Notre Dame, CFP Committee SPURN Cougars' Big Season | SEC & Big 10 Bias Fully Displayed | Notre Dame is Chicken | BYU Faces Georgia Tech in Pop-Tarts Bowl

  The BYU Cougars’ latest College Football Playoff snub exposes deep flaws in the CFP committee and power-conference bias. Jake Hatch breaks down BYU’s season-long pursuit of a playoff berth, analyzing how their 11-win campaign and the Big 12’s limited representation were steamrolled by shifting committee rules and questionable treatment of championship losses. Debate heats up as Hatch compares BYU’s résumé to those of Oklahoma, Miami, Alabama, and Notre Dame, pointing to moving goalposts and rules that seem to favor SEC and Big Ten teams. With playoff slots worth millions, Hatch highlights how financial incentives and lack of transparency further erode trust in college football’s postseason system.Notre Dame intensifies the drama by opting out of the bowl season entirely after being snubbed for a playoff spot. This last-minute change sets the stage for BYU to square off against Georgia Tech in the highly anticipated Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Hatch discusses the ramifications of Notre Dame’s exit—not just for BYU and bowl organizers, but for the future of college football as other programs could contemplate following suit. He reviews Big 12 penalties for postseason opt-outs and notes the competitive drive of BYU and Georgia Tech, emphasizing how bowl games remain crucial for athletes and fans, even as the playoff expansion looms.Turning to the matchup itself, Hatch previews a clash of physical, run-heavy teams as BYU and Georgia Tech bring power football and versatile offenses to Orlando. Standout players like Haynes King for Georgia Tech and Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin for BYU are set to make this a must-watch contest. Hatch covers concerns about NFL Draft-related opt-outs and transfer portal moves that could reshape each roster before kickoff, while also reflecting on bowl travel tradition and the opportunity for fans to turn disappointment into destination viewing. Is this electric matchup a chance for BYU to prove the committee wrong on a national stage?With the CFP landscape in chaos and bowl game traditions under scrutiny, Hatch offers a passionate outlook and invites listeners to join the All Access insider group for deeper analysis and exclusive content. How will BYU respond to adversity—and can the Cougars set a new precedent for postseason success?Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayers Group by clicking here!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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL 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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• REACTION: Big 12 Title Game Blowout SHATTERS BYU's Hopes & Their CFP Dream is Circling the Drain? | BYU Needs to Learn From TTU's Success & Roster Construction

  The dream season hit a brick wall in Arlington, Texas, as the BYU Football program suffered a devastating 34-7 blowout loss to the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Big 12 Championship Game. Despite sporting an absolutely remarkable 11-2 overall record, this performance was a gut-punch that leaves the program—and the entire fanbase—reeling. We dedicate this episode to a raw, no-holds-barred post-mortem analysis of what went wrong in this title-deciding game.We start by dissecting the complete offensive collapse. BYU's potent attack, which had carried them through the regular season, managed a mere seven points against a tenacious Red Raiders defense. We look at the personnel decisions, the scheme failures, and the mounting pressure that led to stalled drives and critical turnovers. Was it the stage that was too big? Did Head Coach struggle to adjust to Texas Tech’s blitz packages? We break down the film to find the painful answers.The Fallout: CFP Chances Dwindle Despite 11-2 RecordThe result wasn't just a loss; it was an execution of their College Football Playoff (CFP) aspirations. The Cougars entered the game knowing a win would guarantee a spot among the elite four. Now, with a decisive 34-7 defeat on their resume, the conversation shifts from getting in to did they show enough over the course of the season? We analyze the damage this Big 12 Championship Game result does to their standing, especially compared to other Power Five contenders. How will the CFP Committee view an 11-2 team with one blowout loss vs. teams with fewer games or similar records?We also turn our attention to the unsung heroes of the game—the BYU defense—which played valiantly despite being consistently put in terrible field positions. While the scoreboard shows a wide margin, the defense kept the Cougars within striking distance early on. We give credit where it's due and discuss which players cemented their legacy as true Cougars warriors this season, regardless of the final outcome.Moving Forward: Bowl Game and Big 12 FutureWhat happens now? We look ahead to the bowl game selection and what it means for the senior class. More importantly, we discuss the necessary adjustments that need to be made this offseason to ensure that next time the BYU Football program reaches the Big 12 Championship, they are mentally and physically prepared to seal the deal. This loss stings, but it also provides a clear blueprint for improvement as a new force in the Big 12 Conference.Don't miss this crucial episode of LOCKED ON COUGARS as we process the defeat, evaluate the season’s impressive 11-2 record, and determine what the future holds for the program's quest for CFP relevance.Join the Locked On Cougars Insider Group by clicking here! There is a free 14-day trial before you're charged anythingJake 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!Omaha Steaks: Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.Wayfair: Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7thGametime: 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 applyFanDuel: Right now, new customers can bet just five dollars and get three hundred in bonus bets if you win. Go to FanDuel.com to get startedFANDUEL 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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• BYU Cougars Will SHOCK Texas Tech in High-Stakes Big 12 Title Game & Make Their CFP Dreams Reality | Big 12 Postseason Awards & CSC/NIL Madness

  BYU Football faces its defining moment as the Cougars prepare to battle Texas Tech for the Big 12 championship in a sold-out AT&T Stadium. A win not only secures BYU its first Big 12 title but could catapult them into the College Football Playoff, challenging a system that’s underestimated their breakthrough season. Can Kalani Sitake’s team seize this generational opportunity and force the playoff committee to reconsider BYU’s national standing?Jake Hatch spotlights the historic significance of this matchup—BYU’s chance to establish itself as a true Big 12 power just three seasons after joining the league. He analyzes the 30,000-foot stakes surrounding the Big 12 title game, comparing BYU’s journey to previous giants like Penn State and reflecting on the electric atmosphere expected in Arlington. Key matchups include Bear Bachmeier versus Behren Morton and LJ Martin versus Cameron Dickey, with reinforcements like Sione Moa and Justin Kirkland set to boost BYU’s defense. Will returning stars provide the x-factor needed for an upset?Recognition for the program pours in, as Sitake earns Big 12 Coach of the Year and LJ Martin captures Offensive Player of the Year honors. Bachmeier’s Offensive Freshman of the Year award highlights BYU’s talent pipeline, with Bruce Mitchell, Jack Kelly, and Tanner Wall all named to the All-Big 12 first team. Jake Hatch details how player development and a robust recruiting pipeline are fueling a new era for the Cougars, making them a force for years to come.Off the field, BYU’s reported $10–$15 million NIL investment raises questions about compliance, competitiveness, and the controversial College Sports Commission agreement. Will BYU navigate NCAA politics without compromising its future? Jake Hatch weighs in on the risks, the poker-like dynamics between Power 4 programs, and the importance of retaining both talent and legal flexibility. With accolades rolling in and the national narrative shifting, Cougar Nation watches as BYU attempts to shatter expectations and write a new chapter in college football lore.Join the Locked On Cougars Insider Group by clicking here! There is a free 14-day trial before you're charged anythingJake 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. 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 [email protected]. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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• BIG 12 SQUAD - What Analysts Say About the Season for the BYU Cougars

  Big 12 heavyweights BYU and Texas Tech shake up the championship picture as powerhouse coach Kalani Sitake nearly exits for Penn State, triggering a wild flurry of NIL deals and university power plays. Is the Big 12’s new financial arms race redefining the path to playoff success, or will legacy programs like Baylor and Kansas State be left behind? The roundtable debates elite coaching moves, jaw-dropping staff salaries, and the explosive influence of boosters and collectives across the conference.Locked On’s squad of insiders spotlights BYU’s dramatic retention saga, Texas Tech’s bold investments, and why schools like Colorado are facing multimillion-dollar deficits. The hosts question playoff selection criteria, analyze rivalry scheduling strategies, and ask whether the Big 12 committee made the right call in pitting BYU against Texas Tech. Can innovative fundraising and NIL strategies thrust these programs into national contention, or will conference politics hold them back? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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