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

BIG 12 SQUAD - The Big 12's NIL ARMS RACE | How it's impacting BYU

lockedonpodcasts@gmail.com (Locked On Podcast Network) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Big 12 basketball’s NIL arms race intensifies as Oklahoma State and West Virginia surge past BYU and Texas Tech with headline-grabbing transfer portal moves. Can Oklahoma State’s spending power and West Virginia’s strategic recruiting vault them into the conference elite? Jake Hatch spotlights BYU’s portal strategy and lingering questions at center, while the squad debates if any team can keep pace with the league’s escalating competition. Off the court, rumors swirl around Cody Campbell’s son and the potential for seismic shifts in Big 12 football power dynamics. West Virginia baseball’s electric offense and pitching depth push them into the national conversation, even as BYU battles pitching concerns and Oklahoma State scrambles to rebuild a depleted staff. From Houston’s uneven portal rankings to the drama of Friday night games, every team is fighting for postseason position. Is a new Big 12 baseball hierarchy emerging—or will traditional powers reassert control as the season heats up?

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SLEPT ON: Why LJ Martin & Bear Bachmeier Will DOMINATE in Big 12 for BYU Football | Big Season Ahead for Kalani Sitake & BYU Cougars? | Transfer Portal Impact Players

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

The BYU football program;s 2026 football campaign is loaded with intrigue as rising quarterback Bear Bachmeier preps for a potential breakout in his sophomore season. After transferring from Stanford and producing a 3,000-yard passing year as a true freshman, Bachmeier is focused on improved physical conditioning and taking the reins of BYU’s offense with more confidence and authority. The offseason spotlight shines on new weapons: tight end transfers Walker Lyons (USC) and Roger Saleapaga (Oregon) quickly became spring standouts, poised to offset concerns in the wide receiver room after the departures of Parker Kingston and Chase Roberts. Big-bodied Kyler Kasper aims for a comeback after injury-plagued seasons at Oregon, while Jojo Phillips looks to take a leap if he remains healthy. Meanwhile, can the Cougars’ evolving receiving threats open new dimensions for the offense, and will Bachmeier’s decision-making and full year in the system translate to real gains?

Fans may wonder why running back LJ Martin remains relatively overshadowed despite being last season’s Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a top candidate to rewrite BYU’s all-time rushing records. Analysts question whether he’ll finally garner national attention or continue to fuel the offense quietly. On defense, a coaching shakeup brings new leadership: Kelly Poppinga steps in as defensive coordinator, joined by veteran analyst Gary Andersen to maintain continuity and discipline. Cade Uluave, a key linebacker transfer from Cal, joins forces with returning standout Isaiah Glasker, aiming to anchor one of the league’s top linebacker tandems and fill the void left by Jack Kelly’s NFL departure. While the front seven is loaded with experience, questions still loom about cornerback depth and whether new faces can add reliability behind starting duo Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander.

Special teams undergo a complete overhaul with new starters at kicker, punter, long snapper, and punt returner. Will Justin Ena’s approach as new special teams coordinator prevent any hiccups? As the Cougars prep for a crucial early-season test against Arizona and dynamic quarterback Noah Fifita, the outcome could set the tone for a season with 23 wins in the last 2 years at stake. With AJ Dybantsa’s NBA Draft decision looming over the basketball program, BYU fans have plenty to watch this spring and summer—will the Cougars turn transition into triumph?

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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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BREAKOUT: Colin Chandler Set to DOMINATE in Kevin Young & BYU’s Offense | Will He Explode in Year 1?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

BYU Basketball fans have reason to be excited as Collin Chandler returns home from Kentucky, ready to redefine his game under head coach Kevin Young. Previously limited mostly to a three-point specialist role at Kentucky, Chandler now has the chance to prove he’s more than just a perimeter threat. Averaging 9.7 points and shooting 41% from deep, Chandler showed impressive efficiency, but can BYU unlock his full potential as a three-level scorer, dynamic in transition and relentless at the rim? Kevin Young is known as one of college basketball’s most creative offensive coaches, and all eyes will be on his ability to help Chandler make the leap from role player to Big 12 star.

With Robert Wright III returning and the arrival of highly-touted talent Bruce Branch III, the Cougars’ lineup looks primed for a statement season. Jake Hatch points to the remarkable parallel between Chandler’s progression and Richie Saunders’ game-changing junior year under his guidance—Saunders went from a solid contributor to All-Big 12 First Team and Most Improved Player. Could Chandler be next in line for such a transformation? The mix of skill sets is deliberate: both Chandler and Branch excel off the ball, sidestepping last year’s “too many cooks in the kitchen” issue and building potential for a balanced, explosive offense.

Roster construction and chemistry loom large as BYU fills needs at center and polishes its game plan, but the foundation is set for a big leap. Chandler’s athleticism—on display since his high school days—sets him apart, and his two-year plan with BYU bodes well for both consistency and long-term growth. Returning home has already lifted his spirits and reinvigorated his drive, promising a statistically impactful season that could catch the attention of NBA scouts.

Will Chandler’s transition from Kentucky’s system to BYU’s unlock a new superstar? Can Kevin Young guide the Cougars to contender status in the Big 12 and beyond? With a revitalized roster and sky-high expectations, BYU Basketball’s new era stands on the brink. Don’t miss this analysis of Chandler’s return, the potential of the new Big Three, and how BYU could finally realize its long-promised breakthrough.

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MOMENTUM: BYU Basketball, Kevin Young’s Success IMPACTS Rob Wright III, CJ Rosser & BYU's Recruiting | BYU Targets Anton Bonke in Transfer Portal | Kennard Davis Jr.'s Legal Situation Resolves

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

BYU Basketball’s recruiting stock is soaring as elite prospects take notice of Kevin Young’s transformational influence in Provo. Top 2027 recruit CJ Rosser highlights BYU’s dramatic development of AJ Dybantsa, crediting BYU men's basketball coack Kevin Young for rapidly elevating talent and boosting draft profiles. As Rosser considers programs like North Carolina, Kentucky, and Alabama, will BYU’s proven track record with stars like Dybantsa and the fast-rising Bruce Branch III give the Cougars a real shot against powerhouse programs? Jake Hatch unpacks Rosser’s telling remarks, Rob Wright III’s decision to stay in Provo, and why BYU is suddenly in the national conversation for blue-chip recruits—despite lacking obvious ties.

Up front, the search intensifies for a game-changing center to anchor BYU’s 2024 roster. Eyeing reinforcements, BYU courts 7'2", 270-pound Anton Bonke, fresh off a breakout season with the Charlotte 49ers. How could Bonke’s inside-out game, rim protection, and ability to stretch the floor transform the Cougars’ offense? Jake Hatch weighs Bonke’s Big East and mid-major experience against contenders like Julius Halaifonua and Luigi Suigo, breaking down the archetype Kevin Young appears set on: size, shot-blocking, and strategic floor spacing. Would landing Bonke finally give BYU the type of true center needed to compete with Big 12 giants like Arizona?

Off the court, closure appears imminent for Kennard “Moo” Davis Jr. after his initial DUI charge is reduced to speeding—a critical development as BYU’s roster plans solidify. Jake Hatch provides the full context on Davis’s legal outcome, why a return to Brigham Young University seems unlikely, and reflects on Davis' impact during a turbulent season.

Will BYU’s recent successes keep luring top talent? Can Kevin Young’s NBA-style system and relentless recruiting overcome powerhouse competition? Don’t miss Jake Hatch’s detailed analysis as the Cougars chase new heights on and off the court.

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POWER MOVE: BYU Eyeing Julius Halaifonua Transfer, Aims to Secure ELITE Big Man for Upcoming Season

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

BYU Basketball zeroes in on Georgetown’s 7-foot, 260-pound sophomore Julius Halaifonua as a marquee transfer portal target. With proven Power 5 production—averaging nearly 10 points, over four rebounds, and over 60% shooting in the rugged Big East for Georgetown University—Halaifonua emerges as a potential game-changer for Kevin Young’s program. Can the Cougars land this New Zealand native and transform their frontcourt into a Big 12 force?

Jake Hatch examines the nuances of transfer portal recruiting, emphasizing the value of acquiring experienced big men in a market where top centers command staggering NIL deals. BYU’s willingness to invest, combined with the private institution’s “deep bag,” positions them as major players in this offseason tug-of-war. What makes Halaifonua even more intriguing is his possible eligibility for another year, his low turnover rate, and his stylistic similarities to NBA veteran Steven Adams—another New Zealand export whose quiet dominance is legendary.

The discussion moves beyond statistics, homing in on cultural and institutional fit. Hatch details the significance of BYU’s honor code and how the program’s ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints could resonate with international players from the Pacific, particularly New Zealanders and Polynesians. Drawing parallels to AJ Dybantsa’s recent decision and referencing Kalani Sitake’s embrace of BYU’s unique standards, the episode sheds light on how the Cougar brand—inclusive of its values—can be a strength rather than a recruiting obstacle.

Listeners also get a deep dive into roster composition and the lessons learned from last season’s Big 12 campaign. With gaps exposed when Keba Keita was off the floor and a need for multiple legitimate centers, BYU’s approach this cycle is both aggressive and pragmatic. The talk weighs the impact of potentially pairing Halaifonua with Luigi Siguo, creating competition, depth, and insurance against the demands of the nation’s toughest basketball conference. From NBA-level staffing to a relentless pursuit of on-court success, BYU’s recruitment of Halaifonua signals an ambitious next phase for Cougar Basketball. Will BYU’s upgraded pitch and championship culture prove enough to land a cornerstone piece for the program’s future?

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Will College Football Elitism CRUSH BYU’s Playoff Aspirations This Season? BYU Faces Uphill CFP Climb | Collin Chandler Rising Under Kevin Young? | BYU Needs Julius Halaifonua Transfer Portal Addition?

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

The BYU Cougars are once again fighting for the respect and recognition they’ve earned on the gridiron. Despite an impressive 23-4 record over the past two seasons and multiple close calls with the College Football Playoff, the BYU football program opens the year at 19th in FanDuel’s playoff odds, trailing behind programs like Big 12 Conference rival Texas Tech and even Penn State under new head coach Matt Campbell. Jake Hatch breaks down what these odds say about the persistent national perception of BYU and the Cougars’ battle against Big Ten and SEC favoritism. He highlights pivotal matchups, including a potential Big 12 title game clash with Texas Tech and a mid-October home showdown against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish that could define BYU’s playoff destiny. The discussion zeroes in on whether Kalani Sitake’s squad has the roster depth and top-end talent to finally shatter the glass ceiling and force national media to take notice.

Switching focus to BYU Basketball, attention turns to the roster’s NBA potential under head coach Kevin Young. Jake Hatch explores why The Athletic praises Collin Chandler as an ideal transfer portal fit for BYU, spotlighting his three-level scoring ability cultivated at Farmington High and honed further at Kentucky. The episode draws intriguing parallels between Chandler’s anticipated leap and Richie Saunders’ meteoric junior-year rise, both shaped by Young’s player development philosophy. Listeners get an insider’s view on how Chandler, Rob Wright III, and five-star recruit Bruce Branch III could form a dynamic trio, potentially correcting last year’s issues with overlapping on-ball talents.

Transfer portal action intensifies as Julius Halaifonua, a 7-footer from Georgetown, enters the mix as a prized big-man target. Jake Hatch outlines Halaifonua’s Power Five production at Georgetown in the Big East Conference, his fit as a potential BYU version of Steven Adams, and how his New Zealand roots might connect him to BYU’s broader mission linked with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With the cost of adding elite centers skyrocketing, BYU’s recruiting strategy adapts, aiming to stockpile proven frontcourt talent for the grind of Big 12 play. Can Young’s aggressive approach in the portal build a Big 12 contender and unleash Chandler’s full potential?

Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of BYU’s quest for national relevance in football and the mounting excitement around its basketball rebuild.

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BYU's Hot Pursuit of Luigi Suigo Could TRANSFORM the Center Position for BYU Basketball & Kevin Young's Program

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

BYU Basketball zeroes in on 7'2" center prospect Luigi Suigo, whose rare mix of size, mobility, and EuroLeague experience has put him at the very top of Kevin Young’s recruiting board. Suigo could be the perfect solution to BYU’s glaring hole at the five, offering rim protection, rebounding muscle, and a skill set that allows him to impact the game both in the paint and beyond the arc. With the crossroads of his career rapidly approaching, Suigo must decide between leaping straight to the NBA, where he’s projected as a second-round pick, or embracing a transformative collegiate season in Provo, where a competitive NIL deal and NBA-caliber development program await.

Jake Hatch provides deep insight into Suigo’s skill set and explores why he stands out among other center prospects previously linked to BYU. The episode shines a spotlight on Suigo’s shot-blocking instincts, pick-and-roll versatility, and track record against elite competition—highlighting clips like his defensive stand against AJ Dybantsa during the U17 World Cup. The conversation covers BYU’s targeted recruiting approach, contrasting Suigo’s profile with alternatives, and touches on the unique challenges and opportunities with international prospects navigating NBA Draft timelines.

Listeners get a breakdown of BYU’s high-stakes pitch: leveraging the program’s NBA-inspired system, robust player support staff, and a proven record of elevating international talent. Luigi Swigo discusses the strategic arguments laid out by Kevin Young and staff—from financial incentives that rival NBA rookie contracts to development infrastructure designed to fast-track players toward first-round draft status. If Suigo opts for BYU, could his presence catalyze a new era of Cougar Basketball dominance in the Big 12 and on the national stage? And if negotiations stall, what’s Plan B in the quest to anchor the paint for the Cougs next season?

With deadline drama looming and suitors lined up, BYU’s future at center hinges on this pivotal decision. Will Luigi Suigo become the linchpin in Kevin Young’s vision, or will the search for an impact big man push deeper into summer? Cougar fans and college basketball insiders alike are watching closely for the answer.

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NBA FACTORY: BYU Basketball & Kevin Young RELOAD With Bruce Branch III as Next SUPERSTAR | Luigi Suigo Emerges as Prime Center Prospect | Another 'Jane-rational' Showing

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

BYU men's basketball eyes another leap as Bruce Branch III dazzles at the Jordan Brand Classic, posting a dominant double-double and fueling talk of a third straight lottery-caliber prospect for Kevin Young’s "NBA factory" in Provo. Can Branch be the latest in a rising line of BYU stars—following Egor Demin and AJ Dybantsa—projected to hit the NBA draft’s highest tiers? His impressive blend of length, three-level scoring, relentless rebounding, and natural fit in fast-break-heavy systems pairs perfectly with Kevin Young’s vision of an NBA-ready program. Jake Hatch breaks down how Branch’s skills, attitude, and upside fill the exact gaps BYU faces heading into the next season, especially at the forward spot. What does this mean for BYU’s one-and-done pipeline, and how will Branch elevate a roster already brimming with next-level talent?

But the Cougars’ rebuild doesn’t stop at the wing. BYU’s biggest transfer portal target is 7’2” Luigi Suigo—a Euroleague-tested, physically imposing center whose NBA decision looms. Jake Hatch analyzes how BYU’s NIL offerings stack up against second-round draft projections and why Suigo’s rim protection, pick-and-roll skill, and offensive versatility make him the dream anchor for Kevin Young’s up-tempo attack. How realistic is landing Suigo, and what could his presence do for a BYU squad that needs interior muscle after last season’s shortcomings? Insightful details on coaching pitch, NIL economics, Euroleague background, and player development set the stage for a high-stakes recruiting battle.

The podcast shifts to BYU baseball, where Trent Pratt’s team battles through a loaded Big 12 and eyes a potential NCAA Regional berth—can they maintain consistency after losing the Arizona State series? Also featured: the meteoric rise of freshman track star Jane Hedengren, who smashed her third NCAA record at the Brian Clay Invitational and looks set to become a "Jane-erational" figure on the national scene. With a jam-packed offseason swirling with transfer news, ongoing spring football notes, and Olympic sports highlights, Locked On Cougars keeps fans primed for all things BYU. Will the Cougars keep building their NBA pipeline and postseason credentials across every sport?

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CHAMPIONSHIP MINDSET: Will BYU Football DELIVER a Natty to Provo? Andrew Gentry Declares BYU Capable

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

BYU Football is on a mission for greatness as right tackle Andrew Gentry, a national champion with Michigan, joins forces with Kalani Sitake and the Cougars to chase ultimate glory. Can Andrew Gentry’s winning mentality and the program’s emphasis on culture elevate BYU to the College Football Playoff? The energy surges as Jake Hatch and Gentry explore what it takes to build a championship team in Provo—and whether this group has the mentality to bring a national title back to Cougar Nation.

The conversation unlocks insider insights into BYU’s offensive line, where Andrew Gentry credits coach TJ Woods' relentless standard and the squad’s unbreakable bond for their progress. Andrew Gentry explains how the Cougars might not match Alabama or Ohio State in five-star prospects, but they have all the necessary pieces thanks to a unique culture defined by “love and learning.” He reveals the difference between Big Ten and Big 12 battles in the trenches, highlighting the importance of adapting to faster edge defenders and improving his own pass protection since transferring from Michigan.

Get a candid look at BYU’s locker room culture, where mutual care and accountability fuel buy-in at every position. Andrew Gentry compares Jim Harbaugh and Kalani Sitake, recognizing their shared passion for football and genuine care for their players. Gentry revisits his unusual recruiting path—from a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orem, Utah and a pivotal meal at Tucano’s with Harbaugh, to fulfilling a lifelong dream by coming home to BYU.

As the Cougars eye an even stronger campaign after last season’s Big 12 title game appearance, Andrew Gentry makes his ambitions clear: to become one of the best offensive linemen in BYU history and to help deliver the program’s first national championship since 1984. The episode closes on tradition and legacy, as Andrew Gentry discusses the story behind his jersey number and the responsibility of carrying on a family and positional legacy.

Will BYU’s blend of talent, culture, and championship mindset be enough to conquer the Big 12 and the nation? This episode offers an inside look at a team—and a leader—on the verge of something special.

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REJECTED: BYU Cougars Take a Stand Against Private Equity—Brian Santiago’s Bold Vision REVEALED | BYU Football Recruiting Continues Rise Along With BYU Baseball | Dave Bevan Joins Fan Friday

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

The BYU Cougars double down on their distinct identity, refusing to chase the private equity deals now reshaping college sports finances. BYU athletic direction Brian Santiago’s public commitment to independence comes as Big 12 rivals like Utah pursue staggering $500 million windfalls through Otro Capital, but BYU’s refusal raises the question: will values-driven leadership keep the Cougars in the national conversation or put them at a resource disadvantage? Jake Hatch unpacks why BYU’s fierce institutional independence—rooted in its ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and a powerful, deep-pocketed donor base—means they can call their own shots, sidestep external influence, and continue shaping their own trajectory in the Big 12 Conference. Listener insight spotlights how BYU’s current philosophy keeps power in Provo’s hands, even as conference peers and national programs jump headfirst into the private capital revolution.

Recruiting battles intensify as BYU football pursues high-profile prospects Blake Wong and Sione Felila, locking horns with blue-blood programs like Ohio State, Oregon, UCLA, and Utah. How far can Kalani Sitake’s culture and BYU’s Big 12 rise carry them against collegiate recruiting giants? Jake Hatch examines the evolving landscape and the Cougars’ increasing relevance in major recruiting circles. BYU baseball enters the spotlight with a six-game win streak punctuated by a 19-9 rout over #23 Arizona State, signaling a program on the rise and strong NCAA regional potential. Team depth, explosive offense, and standout performances from players across the roster have set BYU apart.

A pivotal story unfolds as Robert Wright III shuns Kentucky to stick with Kevin Young’s vision at BYU, marking a new era for Cougar hoops alongside talents like Collin Chandler and Jake Wahlin. What makes BYU suddenly a destination for both top LDS athletes and elite out-of-state prospects? Fan Friday guest Dave Bevan joins Jake Hatch to recount superfan adventures at over 50 venues, analyze why Big 12 membership is changing the game for BYU athletics, and share the “secret weapon”—his undefeated daughter—for must-win showdowns at Utah and Notre Dame.

Is this truly a “golden age” for BYU fans? Don’t miss an episode packed with insider stories, roster insights, and future-shaping questions for Cougar Nation.

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BIG 12 SQUAD - The Big 12's RIDICULOUS Schedule Exposed | What this means for BYU

lockedonpodcasts@gmail.com (Locked On Podcast Network) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Big 12 football faces fan backlash as Texas Tech gets two Saturday games stripped, with a marquee matchup against Houston moved to Friday night. The Big 12 Squad debates the impact of weeknight games on local attendance, high school football culture, and the conference’s national exposure. Does this scheduling decision actually give Houston a major advantage, and why isn’t the Big 12 showcasing its top games on Saturdays like the SEC? The squad also explores massive shifts in college basketball: NIL deals and NBA draft prospects are reshaping Big 12 rosters as stars like Joseph Tugler and AJ Dybantsa weigh million-dollar decisions. Is college basketball’s calendar out of sync with the pros? Plus, Big 12 baseball’s heavyweights stumble while Kansas leads the standings—should athletic departments invest in sports beyond football and men’s basketball, or is NIL funding now changing the game for non-revenue sports forever?

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Robert Wright III STAYS PUT! Why He Spurned Mark Pope & Kentucky for BYU | Jake Wahlin Returns Home | Keving Young's Remaining Transfer Portal Needs

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome into a massive "Commitment Edition" of Locked On Cougars with your host Jake Hatch. We lead off today’s show with a definitive statement from the Transfer Portal: Robert Wright III is officially returning to Provo! This was the recruiting battle that had the entire fan base on edge, as Wright took a high-profile visit to Lexington to meet with former BYU head coach Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats. In an era where blue-blood programs often pick off the Big 12’s best talent, Kevin Young proved that BYU is now a destination that can hold its own against the giants. We dive deep into why Wright chose to spurn the allure of Rupp Arena to stay the course in Provo, discussing the "NBA-lite" development plan Young has implemented and how Wright’s All-Big 12 talent is the foundational piece for the Cougars' 2026-27 campaign. This isn't just a retention; it’s a massive win on the national recruiting trail that signals a shift in the hierarchy of college basketball.

The momentum continues as we discuss a significant homecoming for a local star. Jake Wahlin, the 6-foot-10 forward and Provo native, has officially committed to play his final season of college basketball for his hometown team. Wahlin’s journey has come full circle after stops at Utah and Clemson, and he brings a much-needed veteran presence to the Marriott Center. We analyze the tactical advantages of adding a 6-10 player with Wahlin’s mobility; his ability to switch on the perimeter and provide secondary rim protection makes him a Swiss Army knife for Kevin Young’s defensive schemes. Being a local product, Wahlin understands the culture and the stakes of BYU basketball, making him a perfect locker-room fit for a roster that is being rebuilt with high-level talent from across the country.

We wrap up the show by taking a hard look at the remaining scholarship spots and the clear priorities for the coaching staff as the portal window begins to narrow. While the backcourt is now one of the best in the Big 12, the frontcourt still requires heavy lifting. We examine the urgent need for multiple centers—specifically looking for a true "rim runner" and a physical "enforcer" who can bang with the elite bigs of the Big 12. Furthermore, we discuss why Kevin Young isn't done looking for perimeter shooting. To maximize the gravity and playmaking of Robert Wright III, BYU needs elite "knock-down" threats to prevent defenses from collapsing. We lay out the blueprint for the final three weeks of the recruiting cycle and what it will take for BYU to cement themselves as a Top-25 program heading into the fall.

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Preseason Ranking MANDATORY for BYU's CFP Hopes? | Rob Wright Transfer Portal Update & BYU's NIL Dominance Angers Rivals

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

On today's episode of Locked On Cougars, host Jake Hatch dives into the high-stakes world of the College Football Playoff and why the preseason polls might matter more for Kalani Sitake and the BYU Football program than ever before. With the 12-team format in place, we discuss the "prestige gap" and why the Cougars likely need to start inside the Preseason Top-25 to ensure they have the resume runway to crack the CFP field if they deliver the double-digit win season fans are dreaming of and expecting. Does a "power four" schedule in ghe Big 12 Conference provide enough of a boost, or is a Top 25 starting spot the only way to guarantee an at-large seat at the table in December?

The conversation then shifts to the hardwood and the ongoing Transfer Portal saga surrounding Robert Wright III. We analyze whether Kevin Young and the BYU Men’s Basketball staff have "put all their eggs in one basket" regarding Wright's return. Is there a Plan B in place, or is the strategy entirely dependent on retaining Wright? We look at the potential roster implications and what it says about BYU's aggressive approach under their NBA-vetted leadership as they continue to remake the roster via the NCAA Transfer Portal.

Finally, we address the noise coming from across the state and the conference. BYU’s NIL prowess is officially making rival fanbases uncomfortable. We break down why the "NIL envy" is reaching a fever pitch and why it is fundamentally spurred by jealousy. With wealthy BYU boosters and a unified donor base providing the Cougars with the financial firepower to attract and retain elite talent, the competitive landscape has shifted. We explain why BYU fans should embrace the "villain" role as the program uses its unique resources to build a powerhouse in the Big 12 era.

Inside the Episode:

CFP Path: Why the Preseason Top 25 is a must-have for BYU's postseason math.

The Wright Watch: Evaluating the risk/reward of Kevin Young’s portal strategy.

NIL Dominance: Why rival fans are angry at BYU's fundraising success and booster support.

Big 12 Power Dynamics: How financial backing is changing BYU's recruiting ceiling.

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BYU Lands Tyler Betsey as Kevin Young’s Transfer Portal Strategy DELIVERS Big 12 Shooting FIREPOWER | Andrew Gentry Wants BYU Football National Championship | BYU Baseball Trending Up!

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

On the hardwood, Jake Hatch examines BYU men’s basketball’s aggressive pursuit of outside shooting talent. The addition of former Syracuse and Cincinnati three-point specialist Tyler Betsey signals a pivotal shift in strategy for Kevin Young’s roster construction, emphasizing Power 5 experience and reliable high-volume shooting. The breakdown explores why Betsy’s shooting prowess and Big 12 pedigree could be the missing ingredient BYU needs—especially after struggles with portal additions last season. With Collin Chandler and Betsy both bringing 40%+ from deep, will Young’s spacing and offensive philosophy finally click, allowing playmakers like Bruce Branch more freedom to attack?

BYU football is poised to chase hardware as national champion Andrew Gentry brings instant credibility—and massive expectations—to Provo. With a strong belief in BYU’s championship-level culture under Kalani Sitake, Gentry opens up to Jake Hatch about lessons from his Michigan days, the power of genuine “love and learning,” and what it will take for this O-line to dominate in the Big 12 Conference. Can Gentry’s leadership and experience elevate BYU’s locker room from contender to true title threat? Along the way, they revisit Gentry’s unique path, his family ties to the BYU Cougars, and his ambition to leave a lasting legacy as one of the best offensive tackles in BYU history.

The momentum continues as BYU baseball enjoys a historic Big 12 sweep over Houston and pushes its win streak to five with a victory at Lamar, sparking postseason hopes for the Cougars. Jake Hatch highlights the pitching resurgence, clutch hitting, and why timely wins over conference rivals could land Trent Pratt’s squad in an NCAA Regional for the first time in years. He also offers a candid assessment of what’s needed to close the gap—a physical, true big man for basketball, and sustained discipline on the diamond.

Is BYU on the verge of breaking through in football, basketball, and baseball? From transfer portal moves to leadership in the trenches, Locked On Cougars serves up insight, optimism, and the scoop on what’s next for Cougar Nation’s ascent on the national stage.

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IDEAL FIT? BYU Cougars BOOST Roster With Collin Chandler, Pursue Keanu Dawes Aggressively in Transfer Portal | BYU Baseball Enjoying Big 12 Success

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

BYU men's basketball makes a statement as Collin Chandler commits and returns to Utah, sending shockwaves across the Big 12. Can Kevin Young leverage Chandler’s dynamic skillset to elevate the Cougars to a Sweet 16? A proven 41% three-point shooter with the size and athleticism to play both guard spots, Chandler arrives not only to fill a critical roster need after a season of offensive inconsistency but also to bring local pride and high-level SEC experience back to Provo. With Rob Wright’s status still in flux, Chandler could emerge as either BYU’s starting two or be trusted with ball-handling duties if needed—an intriguing possibility considering his pick-and-roll game and high-volume, high-efficiency shooting, especially against top-tier competition.

Jake Hatch spotlights the next potential roster domino: Keanu Dawes. After stints at Rice and Utah, Dawes could be a perfect modern four for BYU, fitting Kevin Young's NBA-style spacing and shooting demands. Hatch breaks down Dawes’ underappreciated contributions, including a surprising 37% clip from deep in Big 12 play, his physicality at 6’9”, and his competitive edge shaped by tough environments at Utah. Would playing alongside improved bigs and shooters in Provo unlock his full potential? Listeners get insider perspective on BYU’s evolving transfer portal strategy, what Chandler and Dawes would mean for future rotations, and the crucial balance between offensive firepower and much-needed defensive improvement on the perimeter.

Rounding out the episode, Hatch celebrates BYU baseball’s unexpected surge after sweeping Houston, putting the "Bat Cats" in the top half of the Big 12 standings with real postseason aspirations under Trent Pratt. Could Miller Park’s iconic backdrop see meaningful games in May? BYU softball also gets a shout-out for its sweep over Houston as both programs pick up momentum after enduring rocky Big 12 transitions. With the transfer portal still buzzing and spring storylines heating up, don’t miss this fast-paced breakdown of Cougar athletics’ brightest headlines and turning points.