The NCAA Transfer Portal surges into full swing as more than 1,000-plus football players, including some from BYU, hit the portal in search of new opportunities, raising the stakes for programs hoping to reload ahead of next season. With defensive coordinator Jay Hill bound for Michigan and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick linked to the Utah Utes, BYU faces a unique challenge—how do you recruit elite portal talent with such uncertainty on your coaching staff? Kalani Sitake’s renowned ability to establish culture, connect with recruits, and instill confidence in the program takes center stage, becoming BYU’s greatest asset during this tumultuous period.
Jake Hatch details the key positions BYU must address to remain competitive in the Big 12. Running back emerges as the top need, especially with LJ Martin’s NFL decision looming and the departure of others leaving a void for a “bell cow” back. Wide receiver is next—Chase Roberts’ absence begs for a transfer who can step in as a true No. 1 threat, joining JoJo Phillips and Parker Kingston. The secondary demands attention, particularly if Faletau Satuala chooses not to return, while depth at nickelback and cornerback remains thin behind Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander. On the offensive line, the left side needs a major overhaul after the graduation of starters Isaiah Jatta and Weylin Lapuaho. Linebacker also enters the conversation, especially if Isaiah Glasker’s future remains uncertain, as BYU looks for hybrid defenders like Nusi Taumoepeau to fill critical roles.
Player departures so far—such as Marcus McKenzie, Dominique McKenzie, McCae Hillstead, and Ikinasio “Iki” Tupo—do open up scholarship slots without drastically impacting immediate production, but underscore the necessity for swift, savvy portal work. The show analyzes how BYU can use both its brand and an improved NIL war chest, reportedly bolstered by Kalani Sitake’s contract extension, to attract impact players and build quality depth across the board.
Turning to basketball, the spotlight shifts to BYU’s Big 12 debut at Kansas State, where the Cougars (ranked No. 10 nationally) face their first true road test after a long holiday layoff. PJ Haggerty leads a dynamic Wildcats squad capable of explosive scoring runs, and with this matchup nationally televised on CBS, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Jake Hatch evaluates BYU’s readiness after weeks away and questions whether Kevin Young’s tactical acumen can weather the gauntlet of the nation’s toughest basketball conference. Will BYU football navigate transfer turbulence and fill critical needs, and can BYU basketball seize the Big 12 spotlight from day one led by AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders and Rob Wright?
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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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