Cougar Sports Saturday (BYU)

It’s a loaded edition of Cougar Sports Saturday with Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland as the guys cover everything from football bye week notes to basketball buzz with just five weeks to go until the team begins its most anticipated season yet.

Mitch Harper, Kyle Ireland and Producer Nate Slack wrap up the show with their final thoughts headed into next week. 

The next six weeks could make—or break—BYU Football’s 2025 season. Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland set the stage for a critical stretch that features road tests at East Carolina, Colorado, Arizona, and Iowa State, plus home games against West Virginia (on a Friday night) and rival Utah.

Starting in 2026, BYU will reassign season ticket seats annually—a major shift in how fans experience game day. Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland share their thoughts on the move, what it means for longtime season ticket holders, and how it could impact the atmosphere and fan loyalty in Provo.

With just five weeks until the BYU Cougars tip off the 2025‑26 season, the stage is set—and the non‑conference slate is nothing short of ambitious. The season officially begins with an exhibition game at Nebraska on October 18, followed by marquee matchups including North Carolina, Villanova, Wisconsin, UConn, and more. Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland break down what’s new: returning stars, early experiments in the lineup, how AJ Dybantsa and others could impact the team, and why this schedule matters more than ever as BYU looks to build on last season’s Sweet 16 run.

In this edition of Cougar Tales, Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland round up the latest news from BYU Basketball that may have flown under the radar. From the loaded 2026 Maui Invitational field—including Arizona, Clemson, Ole Miss, and more—to a Big Monday showdown with Arizona set for January 26 at 7 p.m., there’s plenty to get excited about. Plus, the guys react to BYU’s early tip-off against Nebraska and break down the official visit of top JUCO prospect KJ Perry, a dynamic 6'3" guard with big-time offensive upside who could join Dean Ruckert in the 2026 class. Don’t miss this fast-paced rundown of key hoops headlines.

In this new era of Cougar Sports Saturday, Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland face off in their first Top 5 battle.

A story that dominated headlines this past week came from comments made by AP voter Haley Swayer. Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland break down the reaction and offer their analysis on what was said

Mitch Harper is joined by Ari Temkin of Big 12 Radio for a wide-ranging conversation about BYU Football and its evolving role in the Big 12. Ari shares his insights on how the Cougars have looked so far this season, what’s surprised him about their transition into the conference, and where he sees BYU fitting in the broader Big 12 landscape.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland break down the biggest scores from across the nation, zeroing in on the Big 12 matchups that matter most to BYU fans.

The Cougars are 2-0—but what’s legit, and what still needs work? Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland break down what’s trending up and what’s trending down for BYU Football after a strong start to the season.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland break down how their expectations for BYU Football have shifted after two dominant wins for the Cougars.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland share their plans for the early bye week and speculate as to what BYU fans are going to do on a day with no BYU football.

Mitch Harper, Kyle Ireland, producer Nate Slack and intern Jasmine Poppinga share score predictions for BYU - Portland State.

Mitch Harper, Kyle Ireland and producer Nate Slack introduce a new segment where they share a key stat, player to watch and bold prediction ahead of the Portland State match-up.

Mitch Harper met up with Cody Hagen to talk with the sophomore receiver about the upcoming season.

Mitch Harper spoke with the former signal caller and offensive coordinator for the Cougars about Bear Bachmeier and expectations for the upcoming season.

New host Kyle Ireland was able to catch up with the Michigan transfer after practice earlier this week. Learn about his journey to BYU and what goals he has for himself this season.

Mitch Harper talks with Portland State associate athletic director Mike Lund to familiarize Cougar fans with BYU's first opponent.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland discuss BYU's leadership for the 2025 season.

Former Boise State, Lousiana Tech and Wake Forest quarterback Hank Bachmeier shares what tips and insights he's passed onto his brother Bear Bachmeier ahead of the freshman's first collegiate game.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland take a look at other games around the Big 12 and country. 

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland dive into the history of freshmen quarterbacks making their first career starts as Bear Bachmeier is set to make his tonight.

Mitch Harper and Kyle Ireland discuss whether or not BYU should continue playing FCS teams and take a look at other big time games being played around the country. 

Mitch Harper and new co-host Kyle Ireland break down BYU vs Portland State. 

In this week's show, Mitch Harper dives into BYU football’s biggest storylines — from SEC scheduling changes and College Football Playoff metrics to fall camp takeaways and game day traditions at Lavell Edwards Stadium. He also previews Bear Bachmeier’s first start, discusses offensive and defensive standouts, and shares listener stories about becoming Cougar fans. Plus, get updates on BYU commits and NFL alumni, and hear their playoff team predictions. The season begins next week!

Looking ahead to Bear Bachmeier’s first career start, Mitch Harper and producer Nate Slack share what they’re most excited to see from BYU in Week 1.

Mitch Harper and producer Nate Slack chat about their favorite game day traditions and share their wish list for the upcoming football season. They also discuss potential new wrinkles at LES, as hinted at by BYU’s Senior Associate Athletic Director of External Operations, David Almodova.

Mitch Harper shares his College Football Playoff predictions, breaking down which teams will earn automatic bids and which he thinks receive at-large selections.

Mitch Harper talks about the SEC moving to a 9-game conference schedule starting in 2026, which will require teams to play at least one Power 5 non-conference game each year—similar to what the Big 12 already does. He discusses what this could mean for BYU, including the chance to face Missouri in 2035 and whether it could lead to more frequent SEC opponents. Mitch also explains the College Football Playoff Committee’s new focus on Strength of Record (SOR) starting this year, noting BYU’s #7 ranking last season and how this metric could have helped the team.

Mitch Harper and producer Nate Slack discuss five-star BYU quarterback commit Ryder Lyons’ upcoming ESPN appearance and updates on former Cougars Kedon Slovis and Tyler Batty in the NFL.

Mitch Harper and producer Nate Slack share how they became BYU fans and read listener texts sharing their own origin stories.

Mitch Harper takes a closer look at some standout defensive superlatives for BYU Football as the 2025 season approaches — highlighting the top performer, most improved player, biggest depth chart climber, and a potential breakout candidate to watch this fall.

Mitch Harper breaks down some key offensive superlatives for BYU Football heading into the 2025 season — including the unit's top performer, the most improved player, a major depth chart riser, and a sleeper pick who could make an impact this fall.

BYU has never lost to an FCS opponent, but how have the Cougars fared against expectations and point spreads in those matchups? Mitch Harper takes a closer look at the numbers and performances.

Mitch Harper caught up with Kalani Sitake at the end of fall camp to get his thoughts on the past month of practices. Hear Kalani’s takeaways as BYU now turns its focus to the season opener against Portland State.

Mitch Harper shares his biggest takeaways from BYU’s fall camp. The defense looks strong and could be even better than last year. The team feels focused and ready heading into the 2025 season, building on the confidence they had a year ago. Expectations have shifted during camp as players and coaches made progress.

Mitch Harper breaks down BYU's decision to name Bear Bachmeier the starting quarterback for the 2025 season. Bachmeier becomes the eighth freshman in program history to start at quarterback, and notably, the first ever to start a season opener for the Cougars.

Get caught up with all you need to know about BYU football and its Big 12 competition as the season kicks off in just two weeks.

Mitch Harper breaks down BYU's placement in the season's first AP ballot.

Producer Nate Slack joins Mitch Harper for this week's edition of Cougar Tales. Also, new BYU Football Intern for KSL Sports Jasmine Poppinga jumps on to introduce herself.

Mitch Harper caught up with Chase Roberts to get his thoughts on this upcoming season.

The Big 12 is as wild and unpredictable as ever, and prodcuer Nate Slack and Mitch Harper are here to break it all down.

Mitch Harper gives some predictions for the Big 12 Conference as he previews the upcoming football season.

Mitch Harper shares some of his thoughts from the BYU practice that was open to Cougar Club members on Friday in LES.

Mitch Harper spoke with BYU DB coach Jernaro Gilford after practice earlier this week about what he's seen out of his group this fall.

Mitch Harper breaks down the history of true freshmen starting at QB for BYU football.

Mitch Harper discusses Bear Bachmeier as potential Week 1 starting QB for BYU.

Catch the best of Cougar Sports Saturday from August 9, 2025.

BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill breaks down the defense's performance in today's scrimmage, the progress of the defensive line, and how the defense is shaping up as they prepare for the upcoming season.

College football expert Phil Steele joins Mitch Harper to preview the 2025 BYU Football season. They break down the Cougars’ strengths, key questions heading into year three in the Big 12, and where BYU stacks up in one of the nation’s toughest conferences.

Kalani Sitake spoke with the media following today's scrimmage.

BYU wide receiver coach and passing game coordinator Fesi Sitake joins the show live as the first scrimmage of fall camp wraps up.

Mitch Harper reacts to BYU being ranked No. 23 in the preseason coaches poll.

Mitch Harper sits down with BYU Tight Ends Coach Kevin Gilbride for an in-depth look at the tight end room as fall camp rolls on.

Mitch Harper breaks down some of the comments made by BYU coaches and players from week two of fall practices.

Mitch Harper breaks down the latest developments from BYU Football’s fall camp as Week 2 wraps up with a pivotal scrimmage. The quarterback competition is intensifying, with McCae Hillstead, Bear Bachmeier, and Treyson Bourguet each making their case for the starting job. Mitch shares his insights from the media observation periods of practice, who’s gaining momentum, and what to expect heading into Week 3.

Matt Baiamonte had the chance to talk with sophomore running back Sione Moa after the first Day of Fall Camp.

Matt Baiamonte caught up with the coach of the linebackers Justin Ena after practice on Day 3 of Fall Camp.

In Matt Baiamonte’s final episode of Cougar Sports Saturday, he and Mitch Harper dive into the latest from BYU Football Fall Camp as the season approaches. Then, the duo takes time to reflect—sharing favorite memories, stories, and moments from their years together on the show.

Mitch Harper, Matt Baiamonte and producer Nate Slack share memories and laughs on last time on Cougar Sports Saturday.

Longtime friend and former Cougar Sports Saturday co-host Alex Kirry from KSL Sports returns to the show to share memories, laughs, and behind-the-scenes stories with Matt Baiamonte. As Matt prepares for his next chapter with BYU Radio, the two reflect with Mitch Harper on their time behind the mic and what made their years on the show so special. They also dive into the current BYU quarterback battle and share thoughts on the upcoming season.

CBS Sports recently ranked Big 12 teams based on strength of schedule, and BYU’s placement sparked some conversation. Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte break down the rankings and share their thoughts on where the Cougars landed—and whether CBS got it right.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte reflect on their most memorable moments—both the highs and the lows—from their time co-hosting Cougar Sports Saturday. As Matt prepares to embark on a new opportunity with BYU Radio, the duo looks back on their shared journey, celebrating the stories, laughs, and milestones that defined their time together on the air.

Producer Nate Slack joins Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte to talk about the uniforms BYU will be wearing this season.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte battle in one final Top 5 clash, racing to name the top five BYU kickers with the most FG makes this century.

BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill met with the media to break down key position battles, provide updates on player injuries, and share insights from fall camp. Get the latest on how the Cougars' defense is shaping up ahead of the season.

Matt Baiamonte sits down with returning star safety Tanner Wall for an inside look at BYU’s 2025 defense. Wall shares his thoughts on key defensive standouts, the unit’s mentality heading into the season, and what he's personally focused on achieving this year.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte dive into the BYU defense and share their biggest takeaways from what they've seen so far.

BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick addressed the media following Day 3 of fall camp, offering insights on the quarterback competition, offensive line depth, the running back group, and more. Hear his thoughts on how the offense is shaping up early in camp. Also, catch what former BYU QB Jake Retzlaff had to say about BYU during his first media appearance as a Tulane quarterback.

BYU quarterbacks McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier met with the media following the first day of fall football practices. Hear their thoughts on the start of camp, position battles, team chemistry, and what they're focusing on this season.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte share their observations and takeaways from the first week of 2025 BYU football fall camp.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte bring you the best moments from recent episodes, including bold predictions for BYU Football’s 2025 fall camp and Max Hall’s take on the quarterback battle. Richie Saunders joins the show to preview a highly anticipated BYU Basketball season, while the guys also react to Memphis’s $200M Big 12 bid. Plus, a breakdown of BYU’s strong non-conference hoops schedule and frustrations around Delta Center ticketing. 

BYU guard Richie Saunders joins Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte to preview the 2025–26 season. Saunders shares insights on offseason workouts, team chemistry, and what Cougar fans can expect as BYU enters year three in the Big 12. He also talks about his expanded role, leadership in the locker room, and the team’s mindset heading into a highly anticipated season.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte break down BYU’s loaded non-conference schedule, which features several big-time games in high-profile neutral-site venues. The guys also discuss why some teams still won’t visit the Marriott Center and why fans are frustrated that Delta Center games aren’t included in the season ticket package.

We're 100 days out from what may be the most anticipated season in BYU basketball history. With the projected No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft now on the roster and key talent returning, expectations are higher than ever in Provo. Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte dive into why this season feels different and what needs to happen for the Cougars to live up to the hype.

In this week's Top 5 battle, Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte try their best to name the five BYU linebackers with the most rushing yards in a single season since 1972.

Former BYU quarterback Max Hall joins Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte to share his thoughts on the Cougars' current quarterback battle between McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier. Hall also gives his perspective on what it takes to lead at BYU, how this year’s team is shaping up heading into fall camp, and what fans should watch for in 2025.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte react to the report that Memphis offered up to $200 million in private funding to secure a spot in the Big 12. Is this a smart move, or a desperate gamble? The guys break down what this means for conference realignment and whether the Big 12 should even consider the Tigers' pitch.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte outline what Cougar fans should be keeping an eye on as the team gears up for the season.

As fall camp kicks off next week, Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte break down their record predictions for BYU Football in 2025. With major question marks surrounding the quarterback position following Jake Retzlaff’s transfer to Tulane, the battle between McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier looms large. The guys dive into how the outcome of that QB race could shape the Cougars' season and what fans should realistically expect as BYU enters year two in the Big 12.

This week on Cougar Sports Saturday, Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte highlight the top BYU football and basketball storylines. They break down the quarterback battle, spotlight linebacker Jack Kelly with an exclusive interview, and examine how recruiting success is shaping national perception. On defense, they preview the 2025 D-line with key transfers coming in and the departure of Tyler Batty. Plus, BYU basketball is generating major buzz in Kevin Young’s second season, with AJ Dybantsa and other potential NBA talent leading the way.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte break down the buzz surrounding BYU basketball in Kevin Young’s second season as head coach. With high-level talent already on the roster, including star freshman AJ Dybantsa, the guys discuss his chances to win the Naismith Player of the Year and the realistic possibility of BYU having up to three first-round NBA Draft picks.

In this segment, Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte take a closer look at BYU’s 2025 defensive line as part of the Cougars' position preview series. With veteran leader Tyler Batty off to the NFL, the defensive front is entering a new chapter. The guys highlight key additions like Utah transfer Keanu Tanuvasa and Oklahoma State transfer Justin Kirkland, and explain how both could impact BYU’s defensive identity. Who will step up as a difference-maker up front? How will the Cougars adjust without Batty on the edge? Get expert analysis, camp updates, and everything to watch for this fall.

For this week's Top 5 clash, Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte are tasked with naming the five Big 12 teams with the best all-time home win percentage.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte dive into BYU’s recent success on the recruiting trail and what it means for the program’s future. They discuss why recruiting rankings matter more than some fans might think, how high-profile commitments can shift national perception, and what this momentum says about Kalani Sitake’s vision.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte weigh in on a video clip that went viral this past week.

Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte turn the spotlight on BYU linebacker Jack Kelly. The guys break down what makes Kelly a rising force on the Cougars’ defense and share what head coach Kalani Sitake had to say about his leadership, work ethic, and playmaking ability. They also play a conversation Mitch had with Kelly at Big 12 Media Days.