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Game week is here for No. 14 BYU, and KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper delivers a jam-packed episode to get Cougar Nation fully locked in ahead of Saturday's season opener against Utah Tech at LaVell Edwards Stadium (6 p.m. MT, ESPN+ and KSL NewsRadio). Mitch opens the show with the biggest off-the-field headline of the week: the BYU athletic department has been restructured, with AD Brian Santiago no longer overseeing football operations directly. The move comes after weeks of public tension between Santiago and head coach Kalani Sitake, who turned down Penn State last winter and has been vocal about BYU needing to invest more resources into the football program. Sitake addressed the restructuring during his Monday press conference, sharing his thoughts on the changes and what they mean for the program moving forward. Mitch breaks down Sitake's comments and wonders: Will this be a distraction for BYU football in 2026? As it was last year leading up to the Big 12 Championship Game? Mitch Harper sits down with a familiar voice in the Utah sports broadcasting world — Rod Zundel, the "Voice of the Trailblazers" and Director of Broadcasting and Multimedia Content for Utah Tech Athletics — for a special game-week conversation previewing Saturday's BYU-Utah Tech season opener at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Before becoming the play-by-play voice calling Utah Tech football, men's basketball, and baseball on FM 99.5 in St. George, Zundel spent nearly 24 years at KSL-TV in Salt Lake City as a sports anchor and reporter. He hosted SportsBeat Saturday and Sunday, KSL 5 Golf Utah, and KSL 5 Outdoor Adventures. He's been calling Trailblazer games since 2022, when Utah Tech made its transition to Division I and the WAC, and now enters his first year covering the program in the Big Sky Conference. In the interview, Zundel gives Cougar Nation the insider view from St. George. He shares what Utah Tech looked like in its Week 0 season opener — a 54-0 loss to No. 1 Montana State at Greater Zion Stadium — and what third-year head coach Lance Anderson's team is working on as it prepares to travel to Provo for its first game against an FBS opponent this season. Zundel discusses the Utah Tech quarterback situation, and the players and schemes BYU fans should keep an eye on Saturday. He also touches on the state of Utah Tech athletics as the Trailblazers embark on their first season in the Big Sky, what the program's long-term trajectory looks like, and the unique challenge of preparing an FCS squad to walk into a packed LaVell Edwards Stadium and face the No. 14 team in the country. To close out the show, Mitch dives deep into BYU's first official depth chart of the 2026 season. Among the notable takeaways: true freshman wide receiver Legend Glasker is listed as a starter — the first true freshman to open as a starting wideout under Sitake. Cal transfer linebacker Cade Uluave has earned a starting nod at linebacker despite not yet playing a snap in a BYU uniform, and Oregon transfer Kyler Kasper slots in at another receiving spot. Bear Bachmeier returns as the unquestioned QB1 with Treyson Bourguet behind him. On defense, Kelly Poppinga's first depth chart as defensive coordinator features Faletau Satuala back at safety after recovering from his fractured foot, alongside Evan Johnson at corner and Keanu Tanuvasa anchoring the defensive line. Mitch goes position by position, highlighting the starters, the competition, and the names to watch Saturday night. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast sponsored by Zions Bank to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
BYU football wrapped up fall camp 2026 on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Student Athlete Building in Provo. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper was there to share his observations and analysis from the final day of camp. Now BYU shifts its attention to the regular season, which kicks off on September 5 against Utah Tech. After that, Mitch turned his attention to his depth chart projection for the 2026 season opener. The intel and observations Mitch gathered during BYU fall camp help shape his depth chart projection for the upcoming season. Who will emerge at wide receiver? The new era on defense under Kelly Poppinga? Mitch dives into all of it in his depth chart projection. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Hour 1 Starting Lineup: NCAA keeps doing NCAA things Don't overreact to week 1 What You May Have Missed Hour 2 Utes Insider Josh Furlong Weber State head coach Eric Kjar BYU LB Cade Uluave Hour 3 Utah OC Kevin McGiven More NFL to college football transfers Dolly Parton passes away Hour 4 Utah defensive coordinator Colton Swan Sports Roulette Final thoughts
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Host: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin) and Co-Hosts: Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
Earlier this week during media interviews, BYU defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga shared an opinion that sacks are the most overrated stat in football, and that 19 points per game allowed is all he really cares about. Mitch Harper and Nate Slack talk about why they do or don't agree with K-Pop before giving their expectations for this year's defensive unit.
BYU pxp Kelly Poppinga
Hour 1 Starting Lineup NFL camps What you may have missed Hour 2 Utes insider Steve Bartle Good, Bad & Ugly Misc Hour 3 Aaron Roderick and Kelly Poppinga camp availability Utah players Lance Holtzclaw and Nate Ritchie Utah Mammoth city edition uniforms Hour 4 The Athletic college football insider Stewart Mandel Sports Roulette Final thoughts
Aaron Roderick and Kelly Poppinga camp availability Utah players Lance Holtzclaw and Nate Ritchie Utah Mammoth city edition uniforms
Hour 4 of Jake & Ben on August 18, 2026 Lakers Reporter Khobi Price talks Mark Walter's Sale of the Lakers & Turmoil of Buss Family Sound from BYU Camp: Hear from Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick & Defensive Coordinator Kelly Poppinga A Very Good Batch of Voicemails
The entirety of DJ & PK for August 19, 2026: HOUR ONE Elijah Reed and Nate Ritchie from Utah Fall Camp Gordon Monson, Sports columnist for the Salt Lake Tribune Aaron Roderick, Kelly Poppinga and Sione Moa from BYU Fall Camp HOUR TWO What is Trending: NBA, NFL, CFB, MLB, BYU, Utah, and RSL ESPN founder Bill Rasmussen dies at 93 Salt Lake is spoiled with great local owners HOUR THREE Bill Bender, college football writer for the Sporting News John Talty, college football writer for CBS Sports + MORE HOUR FOUR Preseason brawls and Training camps in NFL Slacker Radio Headlines Feedback of the Day
Hour one of DJ & PK for August 19, 2026: Elijah Reed and Nate Ritchie from Utah Fall Camp Gordon Monson, Sports columnist for the Salt Lake Tribune Aaron Roderick, Kelly Poppinga and Sione Moa from BYU Fall Camp
Kelly Poppinga Football Media Availability
Hear from BYU Defensive Coordinator Kelly Poppinga in his Media Availability on August 18, 2026.
BYU DC Kelly Poppinga Mitch Harper
Hour 1 Starting Lineup: Too much smoke around BYU program for there not to be some fire Is BYU delivering on promises to Kalani Sitake What You May Have Missed Hour 2 Morgan Scalley fall camp availability Good, Bad & Ugly Hour 3 BYU DC Kelly Poppinga Mitch Harper Hour 4 Yahoo! Sports NFL Frank Schwab Sports Roulette Final thoughts
BYU football offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga, and defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa spoke to the media after day five of fall camp practice at the Student Athlete Building in Provo, Utah, on August 10, 2026. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Rumors spread like wildfire across social media and fan message boards over the weekend that BYU athletic director Brian Santiago could be fired. It wasn't true. But did it add to the speculation? KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper breaks down what happened, how BYU's athletic department took the unusual step of having Associate AD for Communications Jon McBride post directly on CougarBoard to officially shut down the speculation. Santiago, who was named BYU's athletic director in May 2025 after Tom Holmoe's retirement, was spotted on the sideline at a BYU women's soccer game over the weekend and was at fall camp practice on Monday in a navy blue bucket hat. Co-worker Tyson Hutchins confirmed BYU created the official message board account earlier this year as a way to meet fans where they are — and called the rumor "ridiculous." In his first year leading the department, BYU finished No. 25 in the Learfield Directors' Cup Standings, the highest-ranked athletic department in the Big 12. Mitch shares his thoughts on the situation. Mitch shares his observations and notes from BYU football fall camp as the Cougars enter their second week of practice at the Student Athlete Building. True freshman wide receiver Legend Glasker continued to flash with the first-team offense, catching a deep ball from Bear Bachmeier during the media observation window. The tight end duo of Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga is emerging as a focal point of BYU's 12-personnel packages, with both making plays in team drills. Kelly Poppinga is settling into his first fall camp as defensive coordinator, and Kalani Sitake has praised the overall team speed as a noticeable improvement from a year ago. Mitch unpacks what he's seeing on both sides of the ball as BYU prepares for a season opener against Utah Tech on September 5. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Jake & Ben Full Show from August 10, 2026 Hour 1 Jake Has Had a Rough Morning Top 3 Stories of the Day: CFP Committing Meeting to Discuss Expansion, BYU Athletic Director Brian Santiago has NOT been fired, Ben Simmons eyeing return to NBA Basketball Legend Don Nelson Has Passed Away Hour 2 BYU Camp Media Availability - Hear from Defensive Coordinator Kelly Poppinga Is Jake Fancy for Having a "Vacation Mode" On his Fridge? Kyle Whittingham Clears Up What He Meant by "Not Hating" Ohio State Hour 3 Utah Camp Media Availability - Morgan Scalley With an Update on Utah's New Look Offensive Line Spurs Are Defending De'Aaron Fox after disappointing Playoff Performance Audio Vault: Panthers QB Bryce Young has an Awkward Interaction with Double Amputee Reporter Hour 4 College Sports Writer for CBS Sports John Talty joined to talk about the failure to pass the Protect College Sports Act and if this is an issue that can ever get solved. Who is the real victim in College Sports Right Now? Ben Catches up on the Kawhi Leonard Saga
Kelly Poppinga is the defensive coordinator at BYU. As a player at BYU, Kelly earned both All-Conference and Academic All-Conference honors. As a senior, he led the Cougars with 113 tackles and helped BYU win consecutive conference championships in 2006 and 2007. He later spent time with three NFL teams and was part of the Arizona Cardinals organization during its run to Super Bowl XLIII (43). Kelly has coached college football since 2009, with stops at BYU, Virginia, and Boise State. And as a coach, he has helped develop several top NFL linebackers, including Kyle Van Noy, Sione Takitaki, and Fred Warner. In this episode we discuss the following: Kelly was crushing it at USU when he got the prompting: follow your dreams. That meant transferring to BYU at a time when players didn't transfer. He lost friends, lost playing time, and even risked losing his girlfriend. And then when he got to BYU, he doubted himself every day as a scout team player. But because he persisted, he ended up as team captain on an all-time great BYU team. Even though Kelly and his wife wanted to stay in Provo, they each individually got the prompting, while sitting in the temple, to head to Virginia. Again it was tough. His wife was 9 months pregnant. They had to move across the country. But it paved the way for an amazing run at Virginia, a 13-year mentorship from Bronco Mendenhall, and now the opportunity for Kelly to return to BYU. We have to put ourselves in uncomfortable positions for us to grow. As Kelly said, we're prone to take the easy path, where it's hard to grow. But by making ourselves uncomfortable, we're forced to grow.
Kelly Poppinga Football Media Availability
Hour 2 of Jake & Ben on August 10, 2026 BYU Camp Media Availability - Hear from Defensive Coordinator Kelly Poppinga Is Jake Fancy for Having a "Vacation Mode" On his Fridge? Kyle Whittingham Clears Up What He Meant by "Not Hating" Ohio State
BYU football Defensive Coordinator Kelly Poppinga addressed the media as the BYU Cougars continue training camp in Provo.
What to expect from the BYU defense in Year 1 of defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga
As BYU football opens fall camp this week, KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper breaks down the expectations for first-year defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga. With Jay Hill now at Michigan, "K-Pop" inherits a defense that ranked sixth nationally in returning production and helped BYU go 23-4 over the past two seasons. Poppinga discussed the influence of learning the defense under Hill and the experiences that have prepared him for this moment — 18 years of coaching that trace all the way back to a defensive internship under Bronco Mendenhall. Mitch dives into what that means for BYU in 2026, how much continuity BYU fans should expect, and where Poppinga plans to add his own flavor with a talented and deep roster on that side of the ball. On the offensive side of the ball, Mitch dives into the wide receivers with Fesi Sitake. Who will emerge as WR1? The leaders, the young guys, Sitake gives insight into his room in a one-on-one conversation with Mitch. Also on today's episode, Mitch discusses BYU basketball, where the Cougars concluded summer practices. They also officially announced the signing of 6-foot-9 Polish center Jakub Urbaniak. The 23-year-old big man averaged 8.9 points and 5.7 rebounds across the EuroCup and PLK last season for Slask Wroclaw and brings FIBA national team experience with Poland. Head coach Kevin Young called Urbaniak a versatile player on both ends of the floor, praising his motor and competitiveness. With BYU still carrying two open roster spots, Mitch explores what Urbaniak's signing means for the Cougars' frontcourt and what Kevin Young may still have in the works before the 2026-27 season tips off. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
BYU football hired Kelly Poppinga as the new defensive coordinator to replace Jay Hill. Poppinga is excited for the talent he inherits in his first year as the defensive play-caller. This is a news update that aired on KSL NewsRadio. You can listen to the daily Cougar Tracks updates on KSL NewsRadio at 5:55 a.m., 7:55 a.m, 3:55 p.m., and 5:55 p.m. on 102.7 FM, 1160 AM, and the KSL NewsRadio app. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Football season is officially here. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper kicks off the week with a loaded Monday edition of Cougar Tracks as BYU football players report for fall camp — the opening chapter of what could be a historic 2026 season in Provo. Fall Camp Preview — Mitch breaks down everything you need to know as Camp Kalani gets underway. With Bear Bachmeier entrenched as a returning starting quarterback for the first time for BYU since 2023 without a QB competition, the spotlight shifts to wide receiver battles and Year 1 under new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga. How will Kalani Sitake's squad handle what may be the loftiest preseason expectations in program history coming off a 12-2 campaign? Mitch identifies what is keeping Kalani Sitake up at night entering the season. 1-on-1 with Andrew Gentry — Mitch sits down with BYU starting right tackle Andrew Gentry (#75) for an extended conversation. The 6-8, 315-pound RS-Senior and Michigan transfer discusses what was accomplished during summer conditioning and the offensive line's goals entering camp. Plus, Gentry opens up about his NFL aspirations and using 2026 as his final audition for scouts — following a 2025 season where he started all 14 games and earned Big 12 Honorable Mention Offensive Newcomer of the Year. New ROC Ticketing Policy Reaction — BYU Athletics dropped major changes to the student ROC Pass system just days before passes go on sale today at 10 a.m. MT. Mitch reacts to the overhaul: football and men's basketball ticket claims will no longer be first-come, first-served, all ticketed events now require individual ticket claims, and students who claim tickets but don't show up will face reduced access going forward. With ROC Passes now priced at $250 and the student section consolidated into the south end zone at LaVell Edwards Stadium, Mitch weighs in on whether these changes fix long-standing frustrations — or create new ones — heading into a season with blockbuster home games against Arizona, Iowa State, and Notre Dame. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Host: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin) and Co-Hosts: (ronthe3manweav)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
BYU football fall camp is almost here. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper breaks down the key storylines to watch for in camp.
visit: https://www.ysguys.comDave McCann and Blaine Fowler returned to the Y's Guys studio after the show's first-ever remote broadcast at the Redmond Farm Store. The June 22 show featured BYU basketball newcomers Collin and Hannah Chandler, John Wilson from Succeed in School and BYU Pathway Worldwide, BYU Super Fan Luana Rowe, and former BYU and NFL defensive lineman Bronson Kaufusi.The show opened with BYU football recruiting updates following one of the biggest official visit weekends of the year. Dave and Blaine highlighted several top recruits and commitments, including Jeremiah Williams, Bodie Sparrow, Yuhila Wolfgramm, Brody Rudnick, Titan Dijon, Ryan Wooten Jr., Jackson Rex, Ezranel Sanavi, and Kamoni Adams. They also discussed Brett McMurphy ranking Kalani Sitake as the top coach in the Big 12 and previewed Big 12 Media Days in Frisco, Texas.BYU basketball was another major focus with the NBA Draft beginning the next night. Dave and Blaine discussed AJ Dybantsa's chance to become the first No. 1 NBA Draft pick in BYU history and Richie Saunders' rising draft stock despite his injury. They also promoted the Ephraim Hope Mission auction items signed by AJ and Richie, with proceeds supporting education for children in Uganda.Collin Chandler and his wife, Hannah, joined the show to share their story, from knowing each other in elementary school to returning home to Utah after Collin's time at Kentucky. Collin talked about his original BYU commitment, his mission in England, the decision to follow Mark Pope to Kentucky, and what ultimately brought him back to BYU. Hannah discussed supporting Collin through college basketball, marriage, and the transfer decision. Together, they shared how prayer, family, and friendship shaped their journey.Taylor Lovell was named the Redmond Re-Lyte Athlete of the Week after winning the NCAA national championship in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. Taylor became BYU's fourth women's steeplechase national champion in six years, reinforcing BYU's growing reputation as “Steeplechase U.”John Wilson joined the show to discuss Succeed in School, a Church educational program connected to BYU Pathway Worldwide. John explained how the program helps youth around the world prepare for higher education, build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and deepen faith in Jesus Christ. He shared stories from Ghana and Utah showing how Church education can bless young people both globally and locally.BYU Super Fan Luana Rowe, who turns 90 this year, joined the show in person to share decades of Cougar memories. Luana talked about attending BYU beginning in 1954, watching the football stadium grow from 5,000 seats to LaVell Edwards Stadium, her memories of Ty Detmer and the Miami win, her love for Jimmer Fredette, and her experience on the BYU cruise.Bronson Kaufusi closed the guest lineup by previewing Charity of Champions, a flag football event bringing more than 40 current and former NFL players to Utah to support local charities. Bronson also discussed helping former players stay connected after football, BYU's defensive identity under Kelly Poppinga, and why Kalani Sitake's family-centered culture continues to resonate with recruits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mitch Harper had an interview with BYU football's Raider Damuni after a spring practice. Hear how Raider feels he fits in the new defense under new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga.
BYU football wrapped up spring practices for the 2026 season. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper shared his takeaways from what he learned in spring ball about this BYU squad. Some of the key takeaways centered around the wide receiver group, tight ends, and quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Also, year one under defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga. Then, finally, what does Indiana's National Championship do to inject hope and optimism that BYU could reach those same heights? Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
BYU football defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick spoke with the media on April 2, 2026, on the final day of spring practices. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Kelly Poppinga Media Availability
Hour 2 of JJ & Alex with Jeremiah Jensen and Alex Kirry. MacKenzie Weegar, defenseman for the Utah Mammoth BYU Spring Football Sucks to be YOU!
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Host: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin) and Co-Host: (ronthe3manweav)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
BYU insider Mitch Harper
Kelly Poppinga Media Availability
BYU football nears the finish line of spring practices for the 2026 season. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper gives the latest updates from spring camp. Kalani Sitake believes new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga has exceeded expectations so far in spring ball. Also, one of the challenges of spring is finding a nice balance between achieving goals and keeping players healthy in the roster limit era. Returning production numbers by ESPN's Bill Connelly. BYU ranks among the nation's best in returning production entering the 2026 season. What does that mean for the floor for this BYU team in 2026? College Basketball is entering a golden era for viewership in the NCAA Tournament. What does that mean for BYU hoops going forward? Then, finally, Mitch Harper caught up with BYU wide receiver Reggie Frischknecht at spring practices as he prepares for his redshirt sophomore season. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Host: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin) and Co-Host: (ronthe3manweav)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
Villanova PxP Ryan Fannon BYU spring football check-in Final thoughts
Kelly Poppinga Media Availability
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Host: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin) and Co-Host: (ronthe3manweav)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
BYU football has completed three days of spring practice for the 2026 season. It's a perfect opportunity to break down the potential of the offense and defense after the first week of spring ball. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper breaks it down with commentary from offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick and first-year defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga. What's the potential for Bear Bachmeier in year two? Who will be the wide receivers that emerge for the Cougars without Chase Roberts and Parker Kingston? The defense looks to take another step forward with a revamped coaching staff. What's their potential in 2026? Also, in this episode of Cougar Tracks, breaking down the senior class for BYU basketball that includes star Richie Saunders as they prepare to take on Texas Tech. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Hour 1 Starting Lineup: Jazz insider Ben Anderson BYU OC Aaron Roderick Hour 2 The Ringer Senior NBA writer Howard Beck BYU DC Kelly Poppinga Misc Hour 3 Utah Mammoth insider Cole Bagley
The Ringer Senior NBA writer Howard Beck BYU DC Kelly Poppinga Misc
Kelly Poppinga Media Availability
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
BYU basketball falls to the No. 1-ranked Arizona Wildcats at the Marriott Center, 86-83. KSL Sports BYU Insider Mitch Harper shared his closing thoughts on the loss and what he learned from the game. BYU basketball hosted five-star recruit Bruce Branch III on his official visit in Provo. Also, how the loss impacted BYU in Bracketology. Then, finally, Mitch closes out his Post-Portal Depth Chart projection series for BYU football in 2026 with the defensive side of the ball. With new additions such as Cade Uluave from Cal, plus a long list of returning talent, how will Kelly Poppinga's defense potentially look in 2026? Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676
Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676