Loading...
Loading...

The BYU Cougars look poised for a landmark season, thanks to a winning bet on roster continuity and impressive returning production statistics that could power a College Football Playoff push. Jake Hatch breaks down why Kalani Sitake’s program leads the Big 12 in defensive returning production, retaining 69%—good for 6th nationally according to ESPN’s Bill Connelly. Not a single two-deep player with eligibility remaining left Provo, underscoring a culture that values loyalty and growth. With standouts like Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin set to take the next step, and the addition of proven transfers such as Paki Finau, Jr Sia and Zak Yamauchi, BYU is generating serious buzz. Could this extraordinary level of continuity and development provide BYU the edge they need to challenge college football’s established powerhouses? Will a schedule featuring Notre Dame as a marquee matchup prove the Cougars are legitimate playoff threats?
On the hardwood, BYU basketball’s rebuilding efforts are firmly in the spotlight. Kevin Young is casting a global recruiting net, targeting international standouts like British guard Quinn Ellis while cementing elite commitments such as Bruce Branch III, a reclassified top-10 prospect now projected as a 2027 NBA lottery pick. NBA draft projections already peg Branch as a possible No. 2 overall selection, signaling the Cougars’ rise as high-major recruiting players. Beyond Branch, the arrival of Dean Rueckert and the pursuit of Quinn Ellis—who boasts accolades like LBA Best Young Player and Italian Cup MVP—highlight BYU’s aggressive strategy. With heavyweights like Kentucky, Duke, and Houston courting the same talent, can BYU’s NBA development pipeline and NIL resources help win key recruiting battles?
Meanwhile, BYU women’s basketball continues its postseason surge under Lee Cummard, advancing to the WBIT quarterfinals with dominant performances from stars like Delaney Gibb. After a resounding win over Missouri, the Cougars prepare to host Stanford, aiming for a semifinal berth and a chance to end the season on a high. Will these postseason triumphs and standout individual performances solidify BYU as a rising force in both the Big 12 and nationally? Catch the comprehensive analysis and see what’s next for Cougar Nation.
Support Locked On Cougars:
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms and on YouTube!
Join the NEW Locked On Cougars Everydayer Club by clicking here!
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.
Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub
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!
Gametime - 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 apply
Wayfair - Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home
SupplyHouse - Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/tm to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S-H Five College for 5% off your first order at https://supplyhouse.com. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service
Coast -Right now, Coast Pay is offering our listeners up to $2,000 credit when you get started at https://coastpay.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE.
Term Apply. The Coast Visa®️ Commercial Credit Card is issued by Celtic Bank. All card accounts are subject to credit approval
Mazda - This episode is brought to you by Mazda. We put that same drive into every detail. Wins define the moment. Putting in the work – That defines you. Stay tuned for highlights in this week’s “Moving the Game Forward.” There’s more to a Mazda, because there’s more to you
FanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering$300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.
Turbo Tax - This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.
Robinhood - You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood.
Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin.
Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts
are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.
5-Hour ENERGY - Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon
Indeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
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].
Part of the Locked On Podcast Network – Your Team. Every Day.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
No transcript available for this episode.

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

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

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