The BYU Cougars signal a new era in Big 12 recruiting, snagging their first 2027 commitment from Tytan DeJong—a dynamic athlete who chose BYU over powerhouses like Michigan, Miami, and Utah. Is BYU’s measured, selective recruiting approach paying off as the program looks to elevate its status on the national stage? Jake Hatch breaks down DeJong’s impact, focusing on his rare versatility as a linebacker, defensive end, and tight end, plus his standout production at Mountain Ridge High School. With offers from elite programs and a Big 12 title game appearance fueling momentum, BYU’s strategic patience could redefine their long-term roster strength.

The spring football scene features transfer Paki Finau, pegged as BYU’s starting left tackle after coming over from Washington. Finau highlights how relationships with TJ Woods and team camaraderie guided his decision, sharing candid stories from a fun behind-the-scenes interview as teammates try to distract him. Hatch explores Finau’s transition from guard to tackle, the critical leadership roles of Bruce Mitchell, Kyle Sfacioc, Andrew Gentry, Trevor Pay, and Sonny Makasini, and how Bear Bachmeier’s quarterbacking style is uniting the offensive line. Together, these moves suggest a cohesive culture ready to fuel BYU’s push for the College Football Playoff.

BYU women’s basketball continues its season of firsts: Lee Cummard’s squad secures a slot in the WBIT final, achieving their first win over Kansas since joining the Big 12. Delaney Gibbs, Olivia Hamlin, and Sidney Bennally drive the surge, showing depth and resilience with the championship hardware now within reach. Hatch teases a deeper look into the Columbia Lions matchup while celebrating BYU’s breakthrough under Cummard.

Momentum on the diamond builds as BYU baseball claws back into Big 12 contention, thanks to walk-off homers from Easton Jones and Keoni Painter against Oklahoma State. With key series wins and a matchup against Kansas State, coach Trent Pratt’s squad aims to generate buzz and climb in the standings. Is BYU positioning itself for sustained excellence—on the field, court, and recruiting trail?

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 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.