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

Will the BYU Cougars DELIVER the Upset & Silence Doubters Against Powerful Iowa State? | BYU Football Roster Turnover Sizeable | Ammon Montenegro Chronicles His Return From Health Scares

The BYU Cougars face a defining moment as they welcome the Iowa State Cyclones to the Marriott Center in a pivotal Big 12 basketball showdown. With Kevin Young’s program reeling from injuries—most notably to Richie Saunders—Jake Hatch spotlights how BYU’s resilience and home-court advantage could turn this perceived mismatch into a statement victory. Can the Cougars seize a signature Quad 1A win to solidify their NCAA tournament seeding and silence critics questioning their toughness and defense? The episode examines Iowa State’s road game vulnerabilities, the Cyclones’ dynamic trio of Milan Momčilović, Joshua Jefferson, and Tamin Lipsey, and how BYU’s offensive grit could give them the upper hand. Hatch analyzes the mock selection committee’s surprising projection of BYU as a 6-seed, breaking down what this means for the Cougars’ tournament trajectory and the stakes of their remaining schedule against UCF, West Virginia, Cincinnati, and Texas Tech. Turning to football, BYU is days from launching spring ball, and Kalani Sitake’s squad faces a new era with one-third of the roster turning over—33 newcomers, including high school standouts and transfers like Jaren Pula, Kennan Pula, Cade Uluave, Devaughn Eka, Paki Finau, and Zach Yamauchi, are out to prove themselves alongside returning stars Bear Bachmeier and LJ Martin. Jake Hatch emphasizes how increased internal competition and refreshed depth will be critical as BYU chases a Big 12 title and potential College Football Playoff berth. The schedule’s big tests—Notre Dame, Utah, Arizona State, and Arizona—make this spring’s culture of competition more urgent than ever, raising the question: can this rebuilt group become national contenders? Capping the episode, cheer captain and social media favorite Ammon Montenegro opens up with his inspiring recovery from sepsis and pneumonia, reflecting on what surviving a life-threatening illness taught him about gratitude, faith, and seizing the moment. Montenegro shares insights on BYU’s unique campus culture, his influential community presence, and how the support system—from coaches like Jocelyn Allen to teammates—propels both personal and university success. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at the heart, transformation, and ambition defining Cougar athletics. 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 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. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win Turbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com. 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.

BIG 12 SQUAD - Kansas State FIRES Jerome Tang | How this IMPACTS BYU

Kansas State faces turmoil as the administration looks to avoid paying Jerome Tang’s $18.7 million buyout, sparking debate among Big 12 insiders about program integrity and leadership. Are contract loopholes undermining the conference’s coaching culture, and where does Kansas State now rank in the Big 12 basketball hierarchy? The Big 12 Squad tackles whether poor performance should justify firing for cause and the impact of high-stakes transfer portal gambles. BYU contends with a wave of bad luck—losing a top football receiver to criminal allegations and basketball’s Richie Saunders to a torn ACL. The hosts question accountability within the Cougars’ program as off-field scandals resurface for the second straight year. Plus, hear candid locker-room takes, cruise ship disasters, and plenty of banter, as the Locked On Big 12 crew breaks down implications for conference standings and speculates on BYU’s ability to stay competitive amidst setbacks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BYU Basketball FIGHTS On After Richie Saunders Loss—AJ Dybantsa Can IGNITE Their March Madness Run | Ammon Montenegro Talks BYU Cheer & Influencer Life

The BYU men's basketball program fought through adversity as they challenged the Arizona Wildcats on the road, showcasing newfound grit and the transformative performance of star freshman AJ Dybantsa. Despite the season-ending loss of Richie Saunders, BYU proves they can still make noise in March, with Dybantsa breaking Danny Ainge’s freshman scoring record by dropping 35 points in Tucson. Can the Cougars bottle this self-belief and compete as Big 12 and NCAA tournament contenders?Jake Hatch breaks down Arizona’s narrow win and what BYU needs to do to reach their Sweet 16 aspirations. Conversations focus on BYU’s defensive struggles, worrying three-point shooting volume, and a lack of signature Quad 1A wins that could impact seeding. Rob Wright’s steady contributions and the team’s response to in-game adversity frame the narrative—are the Cougars deferring too often from deep, or is a more aggressive NBA-style offense the answer as they prep for Iowa State? With a 1-6 record against Top 25 teams but a competitive edge that suggests more is possible, BYU’s March resume hangs in the balance.Special guest Ammon Montenegro, BYU cheerleader and rising social media presence, gives listeners a rare courtside look at Cougar athletics. From high school football dreams and a turn at Snow College, to leading the charge on the sidelines of LaVell Edwards Stadium, Montenegro recounts his journey to Division I cheer and the energy of game day on the front row. He shares candid insights on the realities of cheerleading, the impact of supporting fellow student athletes, and how building a wholesome, inside-BYU perspective has resonated with fans online.Locked On Cougars brings exclusive analysis, player spotlights, and unique behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find anywhere else. Is AJ Dybantsa the difference between an early exit or a second-weekend run for BYU? Can Cougar Nation rally around its stars, both on and off the court, to rewrite the program’s history this March? Don’t miss this essential episode for BYU fans hungry for hope and inside access.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/everydayerclubJake 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 applyMazda - 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 youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-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 AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.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.

Arizona Wildcats Missing Koa Peat, BYU Cougars Down Richie Saunders—Is Tonight a NIGHTMARE Scenario? | Who Steps Up & Leads Their Team to Victory? | BYU & Arizona Set Big 12 Tone Early This Fall?

The BYU Cougars’ fortunes take a dramatic turn as star shooter Richie Saunders is lost for the season, shaking up the lineup just before a high-stakes battle with Arizona Wildcats in Tucson. Will AJ Dybantsa and Rob Wright—who have both shown they can go for 40 points in Big 12 play—find enough support from a thin BYU bench? Or will Arizona’s physicality and defensive mastery overwhelm BYU, even with Koa Peat out for at least a week? The Wildcats, led by Brayden Burries and Jaden Bradley, look to assert themselves and prove they can grind out critical wins even when shorthanded.Jake Hatch and Leif Thulin break down how injuries are affecting both sides, questioning whether BYU can survive their first game without Richie Saunders in the intimidating McKale Center, and how Arizona’s spacing and depth have changed following Koa Peat’s absence. Key topics include leverage shots, the need for BYU’s bench—players like Aleksej Kostic and Tyler Mrus—to step up, and late-game execution as Arizona tries to fix recent slip-ups against Kansas and Texas Tech. The duo explore emotional factors, potential rally cries, and coaching philosophies, asking whether BYU’s lineup adjustments could spark newfound chemistry or simply thin the margin in conference play.The conversation then pivots to football, previewing the Big 12 lid-lifter: BYU vs. Arizona in Provo. Both programs come off strong seasons, returning offensive stars Bear Bachmeier for BYU and Noah Fifita for Arizona, setting up what could be a tone-setting clash for the league. Hatch and Thulin weigh the importance of early-season matchups, strategies for transfer portal usage, and the merits of continuity versus annual roster overhauls. Will Arizona’s defense continue to be opportunistic? Can BYU’s developmental approach push them from playoff flirtation to true contender status?Packed with in-depth analysis, senior leaders, and pivotal matchups, this episode delivers insights for Wildcats and Cougars fans alike. Don’t miss the breakdown of BYU’s and Arizona’s evolving strategies, pressure moments, and what these games mean for the Big 12’s shifting power structure.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/everydayerclubJake 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 applyMazda - 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 youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-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 AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.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.

Sexual Assault ALLEGATIONS Once Again Upend BYU Football’s Season—How Do BYU & Kalani Sitake RESPOND? | Where Does BYU Basketball Turn Post-Richie Saunders? | Hope Still on Horizon for BYU Cougars?

BYU sports are reeling after a devastating 72-hour stretch that could define the future of Cougar athletics. Standout wide receiver Parker Kingston, fresh off a breakout season and poised to become a marquee face of the Big 12, has been dismissed from the football program following felony sexual assault charges. Can head coach Kalani Sitake steady the ship and maintain the team’s high ambitions as BYU loses not just an offensive star, but also experiences a second straight offseason rocked by serious controversy? Drake Toll and Jake Hatch dissect the bombshell, contrasting Kingston’s immediate expulsion with previous cases like Jake Retzlaff’s, and examine what this means for the Cougars’ conference outlook. With promising young talents such as JoJo Phillips and Tate Nakua now in the spotlight, will the Cougars retool quickly enough to stay in title contention, and how aggressively can BYU pursue key targets in the upcoming transfer portal window?Adding to the turmoil, the BYU basketball program endures a gut punch as All-Big 12 performer Richie Saunders suffers a torn ACL, ending his season and likely his Cougars career. The loss raises burning questions: Can AJ Dybantsa and Rob Wright shoulder the scoring and leadership burden? How many injuries can Kevin Young’s squad sustain before NCAA tournament hopes fade? With six scholarship players sidelined, Utah high school prospects waiting in the wings, and a portal search likely, the Cougars’ ability to rebound is put to the ultimate test. Hatch offers insight into coaching strategies, what it means for BYU’s on-court grit, and why Saunders’ absence could be the tipping point in their quest for a historic Final Four run.The episode wraps with a look at the emotional state of Cougar Nation—can fans find hope while mourning not just star athletes, but the recent passing of BYU matriarch Patti Edwards? The hosts explore the resilience in the Cougars’ DNA and debate whether brighter days are ahead in Provo, both on the gridiron and hardwood. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of BYU’s most challenging week in recent memory, as Toll and Hatch take you inside the headlines, heartbreak, and the pursuit of redemption in the Big 12..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/everydayerclubJake 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 applyMazda - 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 youFanDuel - Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It's the last call for football on FanDuel. If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you winTurbo Tax - For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today5-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 AmazonIndeed - Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcastFANDUEL 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 LockedOnBYU@gmail.com.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.