The BYU Cougars brace for pivotal changes as Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick reveals that quarterback Bear Bachmeier’s injury is “not serious” and expects him ready for the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Georgia Tech. With bowl season approaching, roster stability takes center stage— how will BYU handle player opt-outs and portal defections in a landscape where program culture and player commitment are being tested? Jake Hatch offers insights from inside BYU football’s first day of bowl practices, addressing Jay Hill’s confidence in retaining most defensive starters and the significance of finishing the season with energy after missing out on the College Football Playoff. What will be the impact of departures like Dominique McKenzie, and how will the team’s leadership group ensure focus in Orlando?

On the hardwood, BYU basketball faces its own crossroads. With four “buy game” non-conference matchups ahead, Jake Hatch explores three pressing questions: Who will Coach Kevin Young trust as his core rotation after losing key contributors like Dawson Baker and Nate Pickens to injury? Can the Cougars solidify frontcourt depth, especially with newcomer Abdullah Ahmed’s eligibility promising a boost behind starter Keva Keita? And, perhaps most crucially, will BYU rediscover its trademark shooting consistency in time for the physical challenges of Big 12 competition? Listeners get the rundown on potential role players— from Dominic Diamonde in the backcourt to a potential spark from Tyler Miris— and why resolving first-half scoring woes could be the key to sustaining momentum against top-tier rivals.

The episode also spotlights a major coaching transition for BYU women’s volleyball as Heather Olmstead steps down after a record-setting run. What prompted this change, and who are the early favorites to take over one of BYU Athletics’ most consistent programs? Jake Hatch weighs Rob Nielsen’s candidacy, considers names from Jerem Jordan’s coaching shortlist, and reflects on the legacy Olmstead leaves in Provo. As the Smith Fieldhouse’s future comes up for discussion, the strength of Cougar tradition meets the uncertainties of coaching turnover and roster flux.

Packed with roster news, strategy breakdowns, and key coaching narratives, this live edition of Locked On Cougars is a must-listen for every BYU fan navigating football and basketball's December crossroads. Will the Cougars capitalize on these moments, or will change derail their conference and postseason ambitions?

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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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