The BYU Cougars scored a scheduling coup, inking a home-and-home series with the storied Notre Dame Fighting Irish—a move that electrifies their 2026 non-conference football slate and answers critics questioning the program’s strength of schedule. How did BYU orchestrate this high-profile showdown in Provo, and what does it signal about their standing in the Big 12 and the national landscape?
Jake Hatch unpacks the whirlwind events that led to Notre Dame filling the void left by USC’s sudden rivalry hiatus, explaining how the Cougars leveraged past disputes with the Irish for a true home game that had eluded them for years. This episode highlights why BYU refused to play second fiddle in negotiations, ensuring the Fighting Irish visit Provo before any trek to South Bend. Hear how Big 12 scheduling intricacies, the mandate for a Power Four opponent, and Cal’s cancellation all led to this unexpected opportunity—a testament to BYU’s adaptability and growing influence in college football.
Shifting to the hardwood, Jake Hatch analyzes freshman sensation AJ Dybantsa’s dazzling 33-point triple-double in BYU’s rout over Eastern Washington, marking BYU’s first triple-double since Kyle Collinsworth and raising questions about the Cougars’ Final Four potential. With BYU now ranked tenth nationally, can Dybantsa power the Cougars to new heights in Big 12 play, or will the team’s persistent slow starts haunt them against elite competition like Arizona, Kansas and Baylor? The discussion explores BYU’s offensive firepower, defensive concerns, and what Kevin Young’s coaching staff must address during their 12-day layoff.
Wrapping up, Jake Hatch shares heartfelt holiday reflections on community, the growth of Locked On Cougars, and the privilege of covering BYU athletics. The podcast thanks listeners for their support while offering a festive look ahead to the Pop-Tarts Bowl and the evolving future of Cougars sports.
Don’t miss strategic insights on one of the biggest scheduling moves in BYU history, the emergence of a generational basketball talent, and a candid assessment of where the Cougars stand as they chase a new era of gridiron and hardwood glory.
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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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