The Houston Coogs alumni are gearing up for a shot at reclaiming their collegiate glory in The Basketball Tournament (TBT), a high-stakes summer competition with a million-dollar prize. Matt McDonald, head coach of the "Forever Coogs" and current video coordinator for the University of Houston, sits down to provide an in-depth look at this exciting tournament. McDonald unveils the star-studded roster that's set to take the court, featuring fan favorites like Galen Robinson and Rob Gray. He also introduces exciting new additions to the team, including Tyrece Radford and Tevin Smith, who bring fresh talent and energy to the squad. As the mastermind behind the Forever Coogs, McDonald offers exclusive insights into the team's preparation strategies and the unique challenges posed by the tournament's Elam Ending format. He discusses the delicate balance of managing his TBT coaching duties while maintaining his role with the Houston basketball program. The conversation delves into the team's fortunate first-round bye and their upcoming nationally televised game on Fox Sports 2, highlighting the increased exposure and pressure that comes with it. McDonald shares his thoughts on how this tournament experience is shaping his coaching career and potentially opening doors for future opportunities. Throughout the discussion, McDonald analyzes the Forever Coogs' chances at clinching the grand prize, breaking down their strengths and potential obstacles. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the team's dynamics, practice routines, and the strategies they hope will lead them to TBT victory. Listeners will gain exclusive access to the inner workings of a TBT team, understanding the blend of nostalgia and fierce competition that drives these former collegiate stars. As the Forever Coogs aim to add another chapter to Houston's basketball legacy, this episode provides an engaging preview of their quest for TBT supremacy and the potential for these Coogs to become champions once again. 0:00 Intro to Forever Coogs and TBT 4:05 Matt McDonald joins to discuss coaching 8:49 McDonald's journey to coaching Forever Coogs 13:29 Roster breakdown and player highlights 18:09 Discussing Derrick Griffin and veteran players 22:01 Galen Robinson's importance to the team 24:30 Balancing TBT coaching with UH duties 28:36 Upcoming game details and tournament format Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

SEC's fear of Big 12 dominance? Conference rivalries heat up as scheduling debates intensify. Is the SEC's late-season "cupcake" strategy a sign of weakness?

Jake Hatch and the Big 12 Squad dissect the growing tension between conferences, analyzing Brett Yormark's playoff model impact and Greg Sankey's response. The hosts explore how NIL deals are reshaping recruiting landscapes and team rankings. BYU's innovative tourism initiative for visiting fans takes center stage, sparking discussions on enhancing the college football experience.

From comparing Big 12 powerhouses to SEC and Big Ten titans, to debating the merits of various college towns, this episode offers insider perspectives on the evolving dynamics of college football. Tune in for a deep dive into the strategies shaping the future of the sport and the conferences vying for supremacy.

The Big 12's Recruiting Conundrum: A Deep Dive Parker Ainsworth explores the complex landscape of college football recruiting, focusing on potential biases in rankings and their far-reaching consequences for the Houston Cougars and the Big 12 conference. This episode scrutinizes the intricate relationship between recruit rankings, media perception, and College Football Playoff selection, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the politics shaping collegiate athletics. Rivalries take center stage as Ainsworth examines their crucial role in college sports. He proposes compelling matchups for Houston in their new conference home, discussing how these rivalries could elevate the program's profile and fan engagement. The host outlines strategies for the Cougars to actively foster these new competitive relationships, potentially transforming the dynamics of the Big 12. In an exciting development for Houston basketball, Ainsworth breaks down the latest recruiting news, including a legacy offer to Aziz Olajuwon, son of NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon. This segment analyzes the implications of such high-profile recruits on program prestige and performance, while also examining the broader trends in college basketball recruiting. Throughout the episode, Ainsworth weaves together these three key themes - recruiting challenges, the importance of rivalries, and basketball recruiting developments - to paint a comprehensive picture of Houston's evolving position in the collegiate sports landscape. Listeners will gain insights into how these factors interplay and potentially shape the future of not just the Cougars, but the entire Big 12 conference. This thought-provoking episode challenges listeners to consider the multifaceted nature of college sports, where on-field performance is just one piece of a complex puzzle involving media narratives, historical rivalries, and recruiting strategies.Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts! 0:00 Intro: House rigging recruiting rankings exposed 3:37 Impact on Big 12 and Houston Cougars 7:19 Need for objective recruit ranking system 11:12 Space race rivalry between Houston and UCF 15:59 Potential rivalries for Houston in Big 12 20:45 Houston offers Hakeem Olajuwon's son Aziz 24:00 Pressure of legacy recruits at Houston 27:13 Houston's 2026 basketball recruiting targets

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

Is Koby Young the next big star for the Houston Cougars football team? This episode dives deep into the journey and aspirations of the promising wide receiver as he prepares for his debut season with the Cougars.

Young takes listeners through his transition from high school to college football, detailing the rigorous off-season training regimen that's shaping him both physically and mentally. He offers exclusive insights into the team's evolving offensive strategy under the guidance of Coach Nagle, and paints a vivid picture of the competitive yet supportive atmosphere in the quarterback room.

The episode highlights the unique leadership culture within the Cougars, where Young describes a collaborative environment that encourages input from players at all levels. This approach, he explains, is fostering a sense of ownership and unity among the team.

Listeners will gain an insider's perspective on Young's relationships with his teammates and his unwavering confidence in his abilities on the field. He shares the story of his recruitment, revealing how Coach Fritz's persistent efforts ultimately swayed his decision to join Houston.

Young doesn't hold back, making a bold statement about being "unguardable" and expressing his excitement for the team's urgent push towards success this season. His enthusiasm is palpable as he discusses the Cougars' potential and his role in the team's aspirations.

This episode offers fans and football enthusiasts alike an intimate look at a rising star in college football, providing a mix of personal anecdotes, team insights, and the raw ambition of a young athlete ready to make his mark in the sport.

0:00 Intro: Koby Young joins Locked on Cougs

3:41 Young's recruitment process and choosing Houston

7:22 Learning from veteran receivers on the team

10:59 Changes in Houston's offense under new coaches

14:48 Coach Sherm's impact as a mentor figure

17:30 Young's role as future veteran for incoming recruits

20:24 Teammates' standout qualities and skills

24:27 Anthony Ganji predicted most successful post-football

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

The college football landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and this episode dives deep into the heart of these changes. At the Big 12 media days, the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era took center stage, with coaches like BYU's Kalani Sitake calling for more transparent guidelines. Parker Ainsworth and Jake Hatch unpack the conference's unified stance on a 5+11 playoff model, exploring its potential ramifications for both the Houston Cougars and BYU Cougars. As Power 4 scheduling complexities loom large, our hosts dissect recent recruiting victories that are reshaping program trajectories. The commitments of 5-star quarterbacks Ryder Lyons to BYU and Keisean Henderson to Houston have sent shockwaves through the recruiting world. We examine how these high-profile signings are not only charting new courses for their respective programs but also influencing the decisions of other top-tier prospects. In an era where NIL deals and transfer portals dominate headlines, BYU's faith-based approach and Houston's community-centric strategy are proving to be powerful differentiators. Our hosts provide insider insights into how these unique selling points are helping both programs compete against established Power 4 juggernauts in the fierce recruiting battlefield. From the changing dynamics of player compensation to the evolving strategies in talent acquisition, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the forces reshaping college football. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, you'll gain valuable perspectives on what these changes mean for the future of the sport and your favorite teams. Tune in for an in-depth analysis that goes beyond the headlines, offering nuanced takes on the most pressing issues in college football today. 0:00 Intro: NIL dominates Big 12 media days 3:03 Coaches' contradictory stances on player compensation 6:56 Pushing for 5+11 playoff model 13:47 Scheduling tougher non-conference games 18:49 Importance of high-profile matchups 21:18 Top QB recruits boost BYU and Houston 25:48 Retaining recruits and changing perceptions Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

Houston Cougars football recruiting takes center stage in this episode, showcasing the program's rising prominence with two game-changing commitments. Paris Melvin Jr. and Jayden Warren, both highly sought-after prospects, choose UH over several high-profile programs, marking a significant shift in the Cougars' recruiting landscape. Host Parker Ainsworth provides an in-depth analysis of these crucial additions to the Cougars' roster. He highlights Warren's exceptional speed, drawing comparisons to Olympic-level track athletes, and explores how this asset could revolutionize UH's offensive strategies. Melvin's versatility becomes a focal point, with Ainsworth detailing how his skill set could be utilized across multiple positions, adding depth and flexibility to the team. The discussion expands to potential future recruits, with particular attention given to Davian Groce and Lakeyleon Graves. Ainsworth examines their strengths, potential roles within the team, and the impact their commitments could have on UH's competitive edge. The conversation emphasizes the critical importance of offensive and defensive line recruiting for long-term program success, with Ainsworth offering insights into the coaching staff's strategy for building a formidable presence in the trenches. In an exclusive segment, the podcast features an interview with entrepreneur Frederick, the creative force behind Section 12X, a fresh and exciting Houston Cougars merchandise brand. Frederick shares his journey in establishing the brand, detailing the inspiration behind his unique designs that capture the essence of Cougar pride. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of navigating licensing agreements and the meticulous process of bringing his vision to life. The interview explores the overwhelmingly positive fan response to Section 12X products, with Frederick discussing how he's tapped into the passionate Cougar fanbase. He reveals plans for future designs and collaborations, hinting at exclusive releases that are sure to excite UH supporters. This episode provides listeners with a comprehensive look at the current state and future prospects of Houston Cougars football, from recruiting triumphs to innovative fan engagement through merchandise. It's an essential listen for anyone invested in the program's growth and success. 0:00 Two 4-star commits for Houston Cougars 3:32 Jayden Warren commits, bringing Olympic-level speed 7:38 Impressive group of offensive weapons for 2026 11:15 More potential recruits in Houston's sights 15:20 Importance of offensive line recruiting 18:53 New Houston Cougar merchandise brand launches 23:37 Focus on vintage logos and unique designs 27:29 Upcoming polo releases and fall product pipeline Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

Big 12 media days ignite fierce discussions on NIL deals and conference realignment, prompting the question: Are these recent changes fundamentally altering college football's landscape? Parker Ainsworth and JT Wistrcill take a deep dive into the far-reaching impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) on recruitment strategies. They explore the diverse and often conflicting viewpoints of coaches, highlighting the growing need for comprehensive regulation in this new era of college athletics. The hosts meticulously analyze the Big 12's ambitious expansion plans, focusing on the integration of new powerhouses like the Houston Cougars and Utah Utes. They examine how these additions will reshape the conference's competitive balance and overall standing in the college football hierarchy. Ainsworth and Wistrcill offer an in-depth breakdown of the proposed changes to the College Football Playoff format, discussing the potential implications for the Big 12's championship aspirations. They weigh the pros and cons of the new system and speculate on how it might alter team strategies and fan experiences. In a compelling segment, the duo presents a hypothetical championship matchup between Utah and Houston, dissecting the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. They spotlight key players who could make a difference, including the dynamic Devin Dampier and the promising Conner Weigman, offering listeners a tantalizing preview of potential future clashes. The episode also features expert analysis on the shifting power dynamics within the Big 12, exploring how traditional powerhouses are adapting to the influx of new talent and the changing financial landscape of college sports. Listeners can expect insider perspectives, bold predictions, and thought-provoking discussions on how these seismic shifts in college football will affect their favorite teams, rivalries, and the overall fan experience in the coming seasons. Tune in for an episode packed with insider knowledge, spirited debate, and unparalleled insight into the evolving world of Big 12 football. 0:00 Intro: NIL dominates Big 12 media days 3:45 Coaches call for NIL regulation and tampering rules 7:16 Debate over playoff format and conference parity 10:48 Big 12 pushes for 5+11 playoff model 14:25 Importance of brand power in college football 18:29 Big 12's competitive potential in expanded playoff 22:33 Analyzing potential Houston vs Utah matchup 26:20 Closing thoughts on Big 12 media days Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

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

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 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)

Big 12 Media Days Shake Up College Football Landscape. Is a new era of NIL deals and conference realignment on the horizon?

Parker Ainsworth, Jake Hatch, and JT Worcestershill break down the biggest stories from Frisco, Texas. The hosts analyze Joey Maguire's call for player contracts, Brett Yormark's firm stance on playoff formats, and the debate over Big 12's depth. Key topics include the enforcement of NIL rules, the 5+11 format's impact on conference standing, and the pros and cons of parity vs. dominant teams.

Don't miss this insider look at college football's future. Will the Big 12 emerge as the deepest conference in the nation?