BYU football pulled off a 27-20 victory over Arizona State to advance to 7-1, but the win felt far from satisfying for Cougar fans and analysts alike. The Cougars, favored by more than 17 points, found themselves locked in a much closer battle, showcasing both their unpredictable ceiling and lingering inconsistency. The team flashed moments of brilliance, particularly with a 95-yard drive that featured a crucial deep ball from Bear Bachmeier to Legend Glasker and finished with Sione Moa’s determined touchdown run. Yet frustration remained as BYU failed to play up to their ranking, underwhelming in key aspects such as coaching decisions, offensive execution, and overall game management.

A key theme that emerged was BYU's tendency to play to the level of their competition, raising questions about whether the Cougars can pull together a dominant, complete game when it matters most. As the College Football Playoff Committee gets set to release its initial rankings, BYU supporters await to see if their record outweighs concerns over consistency. Several points were raised, including whether the flashes of greatness can transform into a full 60-minute effort as the team heads into the most important stretch of the season.

The discussion explored the upcoming high-stakes showdown against the undefeated Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium, a rivalry that commands passionate attention across the Beehive State. Utah, now 8-0 and leading Big 12 play, poses the toughest test yet for BYU. Can the BYU Cougars rise to the occasion and match the intensity required for rivalry week? With playoff hopes and a potential spot in the Big 12 Championship hanging in the balance, BYU’s challenges—and opportunities—reach a pivotal moment. This matchup is about more than records; it's about validating the Cougars’ aspirations and answering whether they can turn potential into proof on one of college football’s biggest stages.

Support Locked On Cougars Hits:

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 Sponsors!

KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.

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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BYU football is taking center stage in college football news with news of an extended series against Notre Dame, one of the sport’s most storied programs. The conversation focused on the significance of this multi-year home-and-home arrangement, positioning BYU to host Notre Dame in Provo in 2028 and then travel to South Bend in 2029. This matchup pairs two global brands, promising not only excitement for Cougar fans but also major national exposure—recent BYU-Notre Dame contests have averaged over 9 million viewers and even peaked at 13.2 million, numbers that underscore the marquee status of these games.

A key theme that emerged was BYU’s strategic scheduling, ensuring the home faithful get to see at least one marquee opponent every season. The conversation explored how this three-year deal with Notre Dame fits in with the BYU Cougars' existing rivalries—particularly with Utah—and current agreements such as those with Boston College in 2028 and 2029. Several points were raised, including the possibility of shifting or buying out other games to prioritize the Notre Dame series, given the unmatched attention and prestige the Irish bring. The discussion also touched on the quick pivot that led to this extended series after USC backed out of its Notre Dame agreement, showcasing the behind-the-scenes efforts from BYU leaders like Brian Santiago and President Shane Reese in making these high-profile matchups a reality.

One concept discussed was the boost in visibility for BYU, with the Cougars potentially staking a claim as one of the “big dogs” in college football thanks to these premier contests. The arrangement appears mutually beneficial: BYU enhances its national profile while fans at LaVell Edwards Stadium are guaranteed world-class football showdowns. The episode leaves listeners wondering how these notable schedule shifts could impact not only win columns but also the entire trajectory of BYU football season after season.

Support Locked On Cougars Hits:

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 Sponsors!

KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.

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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The spotlight is on BYU football as the BYU Cougars look to reclaim their momentum following a surprising first loss of the season to UCF. After the Knights’ fans stormed the field and BYU’s national ranking took a hit, questions swirl about the team’s true identity—are they the squad that toppled Notre Dame, or the one that faltered against UCF? Now, BYU prepares for a crucial matchup against Arizona State, hungry to avoid a two-game skid and erase doubts about their legitimacy as a top-eight program.

The conversation focused on three major keys for BYU’s bounce-back. One concept discussed was the pressing need for a renewed focus on the basics, especially on defense. BYU’s tackling struggles came under scrutiny, with up to 21 missed tackles raising alarms that demand immediate attention. A key theme that emerged was restoring offensive balance, as the Cougars look to surpass their meager three yards per carry from the last game. Sione Moa, Preston Rex, Devon Eka, Journey Tonga, and Bear Bachmeier headline the rushers tasked with stepping up, especially in the absence of LJ Martin. The discussion explored whether BYU can impose their will against Arizona State’s struggling defense, giving their offense the boost needed heading into a rivalry clash with Utah.

Several points were raised, including the importance of BYU setting the tone early and leaving no doubt about their capabilities from kickoff to the final whistle. The prediction is a 34-17 win for BYU, but all eyes are on whether the Cougars can deliver a dominant performance and reestablish themselves as contenders. Will BYU’s fundamentals and balanced attack prove too much for Arizona State, or will lingering mistakes leave the door open for more questions about this Cougar squad?

Support Locked On Cougars Hits:

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 Sponsors!

KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.

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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big 12 Conference is making headlines and setting a precedent in college sports by imposing a $100,000 fine on UCF after the infamous “F the Mormons” chant echoed during their football showdown against BYU. With earlier incidents involving Colorado, Arizona, Cincinnati, and Colorado State, the persistent targeting of BYU and its affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reached a tipping point. The conversation focused on the conference’s no-tolerance stance as Brett Yormark and other Big 12 leaders push for meaningful change, making it clear that hate speech and bigotry have no place—on or off the field.

A key theme that emerged was the introduction of new and severe penalties, including a $500,000 fine for repeat offenses and direct in-game consequences such as unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in football and technical fouls in basketball. These measures are designed to hit both the scoreboard and the universities' finances, sending a powerful message to fan bases and programs alike. The discussion explored the broader sportsmanship initiatives previously attempted by Colorado, Cincinnati, and Colorado State, but questioned whether these efforts had enough teeth to effect real change. The new disciplinary actions are positioned as a turning point, with the Big 12 hoping to set a league-wide standard for inclusivity and mutual respect.

Several points were raised, including the impact that hateful environments can have on fans—particularly those of the targeted faith—and the irony that substituting any other religion's name into such chants would likely provoke national outrage and media scrutiny. The debate now centers on whether these aggressive deterrents will finally put an end to bigoted behavior in college athletics or if entrenched rivalries and stadium culture will continue to undermine efforts at reform. Will the Big 12’s stand ripple across the sport, making hostile fan actions a thing of the past?

Support Locked On Cougars Hits:

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 Sponsors!

KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.

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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The BYU-Utah rivalry, one of college football’s most intense matchups, faces a dramatic shakeup as the Big 12 Conference and ESPN scheduled this year’s bout for 10 AM Mountain Time kickoff on November 7th. With the anticipation of two top-10 teams clashing, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark and the conference are gambling that a prime national TV slot will draw millions of viewers, potentially recreating the ratings success of the BYU-Notre Dame showdown earlier in the season. Can this strategy translate local passion into national attention and elevate the rivalry’s stature, or does it risk diluting the game-day experience that makes college football unique?

This early kickoff brings a host of logistical challenges and new dynamics to the forefront. The discussion explored how such a start disrupts traditional pregame preparations for players, who now face pre-dawn routines and compressed schedules that could impact on-field performance. The ripple effects extend into the stands and beyond, as families must decide between long-standing youth sports commitments and supporting their teams at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Tailgating traditions face revision, with fans preparing for a “breakfast tailgate” in lieu of the usual afternoon festivities, highlighting the cultural shifts forced by TV-driven scheduling.

One concept discussed was the Big 12’s choice to place national reach and viewership numbers above regional traditions and the local fan experience. A key theme that emerged was whether securing a coveted noon Eastern window is worth the potential alienation of passionate local supporters who define the essence of the BYU-Utah rivalry. With the Big 12 and ESPN betting big on high ratings and increased visibility, the conversation focused on the possible long-term implications—will this move create a new national must-watch, or sow resentment by placing TV priorities over tradition? Listeners are left weighing whether this gamble elevates or undermines one of college football’s defining rivalries.

Support Locked On Cougars Hits:

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 Sponsors!

KALSHI: Today's hit is sponsored by Kalshi. Download Kalshi and use code HIT to get $25 when you trade $25.18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory.

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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.