RIVALRY RELOADED: Are BYU & BYU Set to DOMINATE the Big 12 Title Race This Year? | Transfer Portal

Could the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes be on a collision course for a historic Holy War rematch in the Big 12 title game? With both teams boasting advantageous schedules and rosters stacked with playmakers like Bear Bachmeier and Devin Dampier, the stakes have never been higher. Hosts Jake Hatch and JT Wistrcill break down the paths to Arlington, questioning whether Texas Tech’s soft conference schedule gives them an automatic shot at the Big 12 crown, or if the November matchup between Utah and BYU will determine who faces the Red Raiders on championship weekend.

Kyle Whittingham’s move to Michigan has sent shockwaves through Utah, BYU, and the entire college football landscape. The discussion explores Whittingham’s aggressive recruiting tactics—not just plundering star players and top coaches but even targeting future Utah commits, with Salesi Moa and JJ Buchanan highlighted as key losses. How will BYU cope without Defensive Coordinator Jay Hill and elite cornerbacks coach Jernaro Gilford? Jake Hatch sees the retention of Gary Anderson and the promotion of Kelly Poppinga as critical moves, yet questions linger about sustaining the Cougars’ cornerback excellence. Meanwhile, Utah faces its own uncertainties, replacing its entire offensive line and key position coaches like Jim Harding and Lewis Powell lalong with offensive coordinator Jason Beck. Can the Utes reload under new leadership, or is an 8–4 season likely?

The rivalry extends to the hardwood, with Saturday’s BYU-Utah basketball showdown set for high drama after the Cougars’ recent collapse against Texas Tech. Will AJ Dybantsa redeem himself and cement his legacy in the Holy War rivalry, or can Terence Brown challenge BYU’s dominance? JT Wistrcill casts doubt on Utah’s ability to keep pace in the physical Big 12 basketball gauntlet, citing roster inconsistencies and lack of scoring depth. With Alex Jensen tasked with rebuilding and the Huntsman Center’s attendance woes, all eyes are on player development rather than win totals.

From recruiting battles and offseason drama to game-by-game playoff scenarios, Locked On’s crossover episode offers insider analysis, bold predictions, and real questions about the future of Utah and BYU athletics. Who emerges on top when the dust settles?

#BYUfootball #BYUCougars #BYU #BYUhoops #BYUbasketball #Big12Conference #Big12 #GoCougars #GoCougs #LockedOnCougars #LOC #BrighamYoungUniversity

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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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