REACTION: One Step Closer! #11 BYU RUMBLES in 26-14 Road Win at Cincinnati | LJ Martin's Career Night | 'F--- the Mormons' Chants Mar Contest

The BYU Cougars power past Cincinnati with LJ Martin’s monster 266-total yard, two-touchdown performance, signaling their intent to clinch a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game. With Bear Bachmeier leading the offense and a ferocious ground game, BYU controls its destiny—one win away from facing Texas Tech in Arlington. Despite key injuries to top receiver Chase Roberts, the relentless approach adopted by Kalani Sitake and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick proves BYU’s resilience, especially after surviving the Big 12’s toughest stretch. Is this team ready to break playoff barriers and demand national respect? Jake Hatch offers expert postgame analysis, dissecting how BYU’s return to “bully ball” shifted the game’s momentum and established a new offensive identity. Standouts like Ciale Acera shine on defense, helping the Cougars limit Cincinnati’s air attack despite Brendan Sorsby’s 300 passing yards. The episode reviews critical moments, including a controversial blown whistle that erased a defensive touchdown, and evaluates how BYU’s clean, mistake-free football set the tone for a crucial matchup against UCF. Upcoming frigid temperatures in Provo could benefit BYU as they prepare to host a Knights squad fighting for bowl eligibility but untested in cold, high-altitude conditions. Off the field, Jake Hatch confronts the controversy of Cincinnati’s bigoted “F the Mormons” chant, highlighting BYU and the Church’s significant donation of 27,000 pounds of food to Cincinnati’s student pantry and addressing likely disciplinary actions from the Big 12. The episode raises important questions about the visibility and treatment of protected religious classes in college sports environments. Hatch calls for Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark and BYU officials to ramp up public support as the College Football Playoff committee continues to overlook the Cougars despite their 21-3 record over two seasons. Beyond football, Locked On Cougars celebrates BYU’s broader athletic success—women’s soccer advances in NCAA tournament play via another penalty shootout, women’s basketball crushes Wisconsin, and women’s volleyball secures key victories, reflecting a powerful weekend across Cougar Nation. Listeners get insider info on ticketing, game-time updates, and travel tips for fans eyeing the Big 12 title game in Arlington. Will BYU handle UCF, force a playoff conversation, and flood AT&T Stadium with navy blue? Don’t miss Locked On Cougars for comprehensive analysis, highlights, and bold predictions on BYU’s quest for glory in the Big 12 and beyond.