TONE-SETTER: BYU Football Hopes STANDARD Will Take Root Saturday & Show Us Big 12 Contender Glimpses | Preston Rex Hopes All 'Eat' Against Utah Tech | BYU & Utah Are Same But Different?

BYU football set the stage for a statement season opener against Utah Tech—will Kalani Sitake’s squad deliver the dominant start BYU fans expect, and how prepared is the team for a looming revenge showdown with Arizona? Jake Hatch breaks down why the BYU Cougars should be able to “name their score” against Utah Tech and what BYU’s coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, genuinely hopes to extract from this lopsided matchup. Clean execution, disciplined game prep, and establishing a competitive standard are top of mind as the veteran offense—featuring Bear Bachmeier at quarterback and LJ Martin in the backfield—looks to sharpen its rhythm before the competition gets far tougher. The episode highlights Preston Rex’s journey from free safety to running back, capturing his candid memories of the previous BYU vs. Utah Tech meeting and the learning curve since switching positions. Rex reflects on his early struggles fresh off his mission—letting up a touchdown and dropping an interception—and how time, coaching, and mentorship from teammates like Sione Moe and LJ Martin have fueled his development. Insightful discussion centers on Rex’s expanded grasp of offensive schemes, pass protection responsibilities, and the family-like dynamic in the running back room. The prospect of seeing not just Rex and Martin, but also up-and-coming backs like Devaughn Eka, Journee Tonga, Lucky Finau, and Logan Payne take snaps if the score gets out of hand sets the stage for depth pieces to shine under the Lavell Edwards Stadium lights. Jake Hatch also takes listeners behind the scenes on the topic of jersey sponsorships, clarifying recent debates sparked by BYU Olympic sports uniforms featuring BYU Continuing Education patches. Armed with inside info, Jake Hatch explains how BYU Continuing Education operates as a self-sufficient entity, countering rival fan claims that tithing dollars from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are subsidizing Brigham Young University athletics or sponsorship deals—an important talking point ahead of another rivalry season. The pod serves up a blend of practical insights and fan ammunition for any water cooler debate. Locked On Cougars is your go-to for comprehensive BYU football coverage, from strategic objectives vs. Utah Tech to the anticipation and preparation for critical upcoming early season games against Arizona and TCU.