BYU Cougars are primed for another explosive season—can they finally capture the elusive Big 12 Championship and punch a ticket to the College Football Playoff? With Bear Bachmeier returning after a sensational freshman campaign and LJ Martin poised for another run as the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, BYU faces no regression on offense. Jake Hatch highlights how keeping their stars and bolstering both sides of the ball with strategic portal additions puts BYU squarely in the national conversation. The Cougars’ coaching staff, including the expected promotion of Kelly Poppinga at defensive coordinator, is building depth and talent across the roster, aiming to overcome last season’s playoff heartbreak and capitalize on their current momentum. Is BYU’s culture and development model the secret weapon behind their recent 12-2 season surge?
The discussion also spotlights BYU’s quarterback room shakeup: JUCO standout Daunte Bell joins the ranks from Mount San Antonio College, following in the footsteps of Southern California legends like Steve Sarkisian and Jake Retzlaff. How will Bell’s elite size and skillset push competition for the backup QB spot behind Bachmeier? Jake Hatch analyzes how this addition addresses depth concerns after McCae Hillstead’s transfer and Emerson Geilman’s mission departure—can the Cougars continue their run of successful JUCO quarterback transitions?
Shifting to hoops, BYU men’s basketball preps for their Big 12 home opener against Bobby Hurley’s Arizona State squad. Fresh off a statement win over Kansas State, BYU looks to extend their 10-game win streak. With defensive intensity at an all-time high and AJ Dybantsa leading the nation in scoring, can BYU protect the Marriott Center and remain undefeated in conference play? The episode breaks down key matchups, rotation adjustments, and the impact of Keba Keita possibly be unavailable and the emergence of Abdullah Ahmed in the frontcourt.
Packed with analysis, roster updates, and insider perspectives, this episode tackles the Cougars’ big-picture prospects for the 2026 football season and their basketball ascent in the Big 12. Can BYU sustain its rise and deliver breakthrough success on both fields of play?
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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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