Anonymous Big 12 coaches are sounding off, and their candid remarks paint a clear picture: Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program have quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. This podcast dives into the high praise from within the league, exploring why BYU's physical style, top-tier defense, and burgeoning reputation as a power player are earning respect across the Big 12 Conference.

We'll unpack the compliments from these anonymous coaches, who are witnessing firsthand the Cougars' impact. Their observations highlight BYU's commitment to a tough, physical brand of football that is proving challenging for Big 12 opponents. This isn't just about wins and losses; it's about the identity BYU is forging in the trenches and on every down.

A significant point of admiration centers on BYU's defense. We'll discuss what makes this unit "top-tier" in the eyes of opposing coaches, from their disciplined schemes to the talent and tenacity of players like those developed by Jay Hill and Sione Po'uha. The ability to consistently stifle Big 12 offenses is a hallmark of a program that means business.

Furthermore, these coaches are acknowledging BYU's rapid ascent to becoming one of the "power players" in the league. This goes beyond just competitive results; it speaks to the program's overall approach to recruiting, player development, and its strategic navigation of the modern college football landscape, including NIL and the transfer portal. It's a recognition that BYU isn't just participating in the Big 12; they're actively shaping its competitive dynamics.

This episode will explore the implications of this internal respect. How does this perception from opposing coaches influence recruiting battles, game planning, and the overall narrative surrounding BYU football? Does it solidify their position as a legitimate contender for the Big 12 championship?

Join us as we reveal what Big 12 coaches are truly saying about Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars, and why their physical play and defensive prowess are making them a program of envy and respect in the conference.

BYU Basketball is making a resounding statement with its non-conference scheduling, reportedly lining up a neutral site game against the UConn Huskies this November in Boston, MA. This podcast dives into the strategic significance of this high-profile matchup, which also serves as a homecoming of sorts for star recruit AJ Dybantsa, and how it underscores Kevin Young's intent to capitalize on the surging national attention surrounding the BYU Cougars.

This game against the reigning national champions isn't just another non-conference contest; it's a marquee event designed to test BYU's mettle against the very best in college basketball. We'll explore why Kevin Young and the athletic department are so intent on scheduling top-tier matchups, demonstrating their commitment to preparing the team for the rigorous Big 12 Conference play and building a legitimate national contender.

The Boston location adds a compelling narrative, providing a homecoming game for AJ Dybantsa, who hails from the New England area. We'll discuss the excitement and potential impact of Dybantsa playing in front of his home crowd, and how this strategic scheduling move maximizes the attention on BYU's burgeoning star and the program as a whole. It's a clear signal that BYU is embracing its new national profile.

This episode will analyze the implications of facing a powerhouse like UConn. What will the Cougars learn from competing against a program with such a strong championship pedigree? How will this early-season test help identify strengths and weaknesses, and accelerate the development of key players under Kevin Young's guidance?

Furthermore, we'll discuss how this type of scheduling enhances BYU's NCAA Tournament resume and national perception. Consistently playing and performing well against elite competition is crucial for securing favorable seeding and solidifying a place among college basketball's top programs.

Join us as we break down the highly anticipated BYU vs. UConn showdown, the significance of AJ Dybantsa's homecoming, and why Kevin Young's bold scheduling strategy is a clear indication that the BYU Cougars mean business on the national stage.

BYU Football has secured a monumental victory on the recruiting trail, signing four-star offensive line prospect Alai Kalaniuvalu after a very public and intense back-and-forth battle that saw him flip allegiances multiple times, including a previous commitment and signing with the Oregon Ducks. This podcast dives into the dramatic recruitment saga and celebrates another massive four-star addition for Kalani Sitake and the BYU Cougars in the past month, joining Nusi Taumoepeau and Bear Bachmeier.

We'll dissect the rollercoaster recruitment of Alai Kalaniuvalu, a top-tier offensive lineman whose decision captivated the college football world. His initial commitment to Oregon, followed by a public flip to BYU, and then the final signing with the Cougars, underscores the fierce competition for elite talent in the modern era. This episode explores the factors that ultimately led Kalaniuvalu to choose Provo, highlighting the persistent efforts of Kalani Sitake and his coaching staff.

The significance of this signing cannot be overstated. Kalaniuvalu represents a foundational piece for BYU's offensive line, a crucial unit for success in the physical Big 12 Conference. His presence will immediately elevate the talent level and depth, providing vital protection for the quarterback and opening lanes for the running game.

This commitment also marks a remarkable trend for BYU, as Kalaniuvalu becomes the latest four-star prospect to join the Cougars in recent weeks, following the additions of defensive lineman Nusi Taumoepeau and quarterback Bear Bachmeier. We'll discuss how this surge in high-profile recruiting signals a new era for BYU football, demonstrating their ability to win head-to-head battles against traditional Power 4 programs.

We'll analyze the impact of these collective four-star additions on BYU's roster and their aspirations in the Big 12. Are these commitments a sign that Kalani Sitake is building a consistent contender capable of challenging for conference championships and national relevance?

Join us as we break down the dramatic recruitment of Alai Kalaniuvalu and celebrate BYU's unprecedented run of four-star commitments, solidifying their position as a rising force in college football.

Join the Locked On Cougars Insider Group by clicking here! There is a free 14-day trial before you're charged anything

Support Us By Supporting Our Locked On Podcast Network Sponsors!

Monarch Money - Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel - Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

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.

SOURCE: BYU Football Built 'Legit Big 12 Power' Under Kalani Sitake | Could Jake Retzlaff Derail It? 28:35 Share

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

Shownotes Transcript

SOURCE: BYU Football Built 'Legit Big 12 Power' Under Kalani Sitake | Could Jake Retzlaff Derail It?