The BYU Cougars find themselves on the verge of playoff disappointment, sparking outrage and a call to action—are the College Football Playoff rankings simply rigged for SEC and Big Ten powerhouses? Jake Hatch takes center stage, dissecting the latest CFP rankings and calling out the cherry-picked metrics that are keeping BYU at No. 11, outside the realistic at-large bids. With the Big 12’s quiet leadership and the specter of the “bid stealer” label haunting BYU’s postseason hopes, this episode digs deep into how national narratives, conference politics, and perceived bias are shaping the playoff. Will Brett Yormark finally take a stand? Why are multiple two-loss teams outpacing the Cougars in the eyes of the committee? Jake Hatch doesn’t hold back, offering passionate analysis on what BYU’s playoff snub means for the program and how the decision-makers’ silence affects Big 12 legitimacy across college football.

Special guest Carsen Ryan brings a player’s perspective in an exclusive one-on-one. On the verge of his final home game, the Cougar tight end opens up about his journey from UCLA and Utah to BYU, his pride in making tight end play central again in Provo, and what sets BYU’s offensive approach apart. Carsen Ryan reveals the grind of blocking, the satisfaction of springing stars like LJ Martin for big gains, and what it’s like lining up in multiple formations. He shares insight on leadership within the locker room, game prep against UCF’s defensive front, and how his style mirrors NFL standouts George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk. Hear first-hand reflections on Senior Day emotions, the postseason outlook, and the quest to leave a lasting legacy in BYU blue.

Plus, Jake Hatch provides a must-listen preview of BYU Basketball’s Thanksgiving clash with the Miami Hurricanes in the Terry’s Chocolate Invitational. Find out which Cougars to watch, what makes Miami a dangerous foe, and why AJ Dybantsa, Rob Wright, and Richie Saunders could be primed for a holiday highlight. Are the Cougars peaking at the right time and ready to silence their critics on both the gridiron and hardwood? Don’t miss this action-packed deep dive into BYU’s most pressing storylines.

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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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