About this episode
Kevin Young’s meteoric rise at BYU has caught the attention of college basketball heavyweights—could a blue blood program poach the Cougars' head coach? With North Carolina and Creighton opening up major coaching vacancies, Jake Hatch explores the pressing question: Could be BYU at risk of losing Young, whose NBA experience and exceptional recruiting have transformed BYU into a national force? After consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, a Sweet 16 run, and landing elite recruits like AJ Dybantsa, Egor Demin, and Bruce Branch III, BYU is suddenly a prime destination for top talent and coaches alike. The discussion centers on Young’s long-term ambitions, the appeal of family life in Provo, and whether BYU’s investment in facilities and NIL is enough to keep him from being lured away by powerhouse programs, especially those willing to break with tradition and spend big.
The episode features an exclusive interview with Demario Warren, BYU’s new defensive passing game coordinator and safeties coach. Warren offers insider perspective on his transition back to Utah, his approach to building relationships across the revamped secondary, and the importance for the BYU football program of staying hungry despite returning standouts like Raider Damuni and Faletau Satuala. Warren shares how BYU’s defensive scheme, including its signature single-high safety look, is under review—will the Cougars innovate under defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga and head coach Kalani Sitake to stay ahead of Big 12 rivals who are now targeting BYU’s strategies after its red zone dominance last season? Warren also highlights emerging talents like Jarinn Kalama and Tommy Prassas, stressing the focus on depth and adaptability as BYU eyes another leap forward on defense.
Rounding out the show, listeners are treated to the remarkable story of Ethan Shuley, a former BYU track athlete who abandoned distance running after repeated injuries—only to become one of America’s fastest marathoners while living in Japan. Is Shuley destined for a spot on Team USA at the L.A. 2028 Olympics, or will his journey spawn a feature film? Plus, BYU baseball scores a hard-fought 6-5 win over Utah, moving within striking distance of .500 and building momentum for the home series against Oklahoma State. Jake Hatch delivers expert analysis, insider interviews, and news that keeps BYU fans and college sports enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
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