Will the BYU Cougars truly be at full strength for the Pop-Tarts Bowl showdown with Georgia Tech? Jake Hatch takes a critical look at internal optimism from coaches Aaron Roderick and Jay Hill, spotlighting the tough choices facing key contributors like Jack Kelly, LJ Martin, and Bear Bachmeier. Weighing the risks of injury against high-stakes NFL Draft preparations, these stars must determine whether to play or protect their pro futures. The conversation digs into the likelihood of opt-outs, BYU’s robust locker room culture under Kalani Sitake, and how the bowl could serve as an early casting call for the next generation of Cougar standouts.
The hoops scene heats up as BYU prepares for a heavy-favorite matchup against the Pacific Tigers, while the spotlight shines on AJ Dybantsa after coach Kevin Young hinted he could explode for 50 in a blowout. Jake Hatch scrutinizes Young’s game plan, the potential rewards (and risks) of letting a star showcase his full arsenal, and how these “money games” offer insights before the Big 12 gauntlet begins. Listeners get a preview of crucial individual matchups, including Richie Saunders and Kaba Keita’s defensive assignments, and learn why these tune-ups boost both BYU’s depth and mid-major athletic budgets.
As the transfer portal buzz intensifies, Jake Hatch singles out Liona Lefau—a proven Texas Longhorns linebacker and former BYU target—as priority No. 1 for replenishing a defense facing the loss of Kelly and possibly Isaiah Glasker. With Lefau’s starting experience in the SEC and Big 12, deep BYU recruiting connections, and versatile potential in Jay Hill’s system, the Cougars are primed to address key needs with impact talent. The episode wraps up with insights on BYU’s evolving recruiting strategies, the realities of the modern transfer market, and a rallying call for fans to stay tuned as the Cougars position themselves for a new era of competition.
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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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