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Y’s Guys Podcast
March Madness, Alumni Game Week with Jimmer Fredette, Spencer Linton, Charlie Peterson Brandon Doman
Season 3, Ep. 45
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In this Sweet 16 edition of Y’s Guys, hosts Dave McCann and Brian Logan (filling in for Blaine Fowler) lead a packed show celebrating BYU Basketball’s return to the national spotlight. Presented by BradyPlus and distributed by the Deseret News, the show dives into BYU’s thrilling wins over VCU and Wisconsin, setting up a blockbuster Sweet 16 matchup vs. Alabama Thursday night in Newark. With national media attention, strong tournament performances, and the return of Jimmer Fredette to the program, the Cougar fanbase is energized like never before.
Jimmer Fredette, the last Cougar to lead BYU to a Sweet 16 (2011), joins live to reflect on the emotional return to Denver, what it means to advance deep into the tournament, and how this year’s squad is built for success. He highlights BYU’s defensive identity, praises Richie Saunders and Maika Mag, and outlines three keys to beating Alabama: limit turnovers, control the defensive glass, and hit free throws. Jimmer also reacts to Trey Stewart’s final possession decision vs. Wisconsin, talks about his fit in Kevin Young’s NBA-style offense, and gives a proud shoutout to Glens Falls High School’s 54-game win streak.
Next up is Charlie Peterson, former BYU quarterback and current QB for Team Navy in this Friday’s BYU Alumni Football Game. Charlie gives a scouting report on his roster (which includes Austin Collie, Devon Blackmon, and Harvey Unga), shares his excitement to suit up again, and jokes about protecting Blaine Fowler, his fellow QB and “oldest man in the field.”
Spencer Linton of BYUtv joins from the BYU Sports Nation set to share what it was like being in Denver for BYU’s Sweet 16-clinching win, the travel plans for New Jersey, and BYUtv’s wall-to-wall coverage of the big game. He also recaps Big 12 Pro Day, where Darrius Lassiter confirmed he won’t return next season, and previews Friday’s Alumni Game broadcast, where he’ll be on the mic with Dave and Blaine.
Brandon Doman, another former BYU quarterback, wraps the night by previewing Team Royal’s roster in the alumni game, featuring names like Fui Vakapuna, Cody Hoffman, Reno Mahe, and Aleva Hifo. Doman also weighs in on spring football, where Jake Retzlaff and the quarterbacks continue to develop after an 11-2 season. He closes by expressing admiration for BYU Basketball’s energy and chemistry heading into the Sweet 16.
The livestream also includes tournament analysis, NCAA stat comparisons between BYU and Alabama, a rundown of Big 12 teams still dancing, and a quick dive into campus sports updates across volleyball, tennis, baseball, softball, track, and golf.
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10. Max Hall Talks QB Battle, 2025 Basketball Schedule, lifelong fan Tim Filichia shares fun stories
01:50:23||Season 4, Ep. 10This week on Y’s Guys, hosts Dave McCann and Brian Logan deliver a defensive-heavy edition of the show as they spotlight BYU Football’s return as the Big 12’s top defense heading into fall camp. The Cougars rank No. 1 in scoring defense, total defense, pass efficiency defense, and turnovers—including a nation-leading 21 interceptions. Linebacker Jack Kelly sets the tone early by saying he’s aiming for 10 sacks this season—a bold goal with elite company behind him, including Cougar sack legends like Mekeli Ieremia and Jan Jorgensen.The show welcomes Max Hall, the winningest quarterback in BYU history, back to the desk to talk about quarterback battles, fall camp pressure, and what it takes to seize the starting job. Hall reflects on replacing John Beck in 2006, starting without prior game experience, and going on to win 32 games. He offers thoughtful insight into BYU’s current QB competition between Treyson Bourguet, McCae Hillstead, and Bear Bachmeier, and explains how BYU’s experienced defense and special teams give a new quarterback the best chance to succeed.Later, the show honors its "Y’s Guy for a Day" contest winner, Tim Filichia, a lifelong BYU fan from Colorado Springs who shares priceless stories from his time as a student from 1977 to 1985. Tim remembers listening to games on the radio at his wedding reception, cutting hair at the BYU Barbershop, and rooting for legendary QBs like Gifford Nielsen, Jim McMahon, and Steve Young. His segment adds a nostalgic and heartwarming touch to the episode.The crew wraps up with key updates from BYU Basketball, including a loaded non-conference schedule featuring matchups with Villanova, UConn, Wisconsin, Clemson, and potentially Miami or Georgetown. Recruiting buzz continues around Anthony Thompson, a 6’8” 5-star forward who has BYU on his final list. They also highlight Egor Demin’s NBA Summer League performance, Jane Hedengren’s ESPY win, and Heather Olmstead leading Team USA’s U-21 volleyball squad. Cougar Nation has a lot to look forward to.9. #1 Big 12 Recruiting Class, Jeff Hansen’s Takes, QB Resets, and Mountain America’s Nathan Anderson
01:43:41||Season 4, Ep. 9Visit: https://www.ysguys.comThis week on Y’s Guys, Dave McCann and Brian Logan (filling in for Blaine Fowler) break down the latest from the BYU sports world, led by massive momentum in football recruiting. The headline story? BYU now holds the No. 1 recruiting class in the Big 12 for 2026 and No. 21 nationally according to 247Sports. Special guest Jeff Hansen, recruiting expert from 247Sports and CougarInsider.com, joins to explain how the Cougars landed stars like 5-star QB Ryder Lyons, 4-star TE Brock Harris, OL Bott Mulitalo, and DL Braxton Lindsey—plus high-upside commits like McKay Madsen (2025 class). It’s the strongest class in school history, and Jeff outlines why BYU’s Big 12 move, mission culture, and NIL strategy are all playing huge roles.The show also highlights Jake Retzlaff’s official departure from BYU and his farewell message to Cougar Nation, while celebrating the Cougars' postseason impact: BYU generated $10.9 million in combined football and basketball postseason earnings for the Big 12—second only to Texas Tech. Meanwhile, conference realignment and College Football Playoff restructuring continue to evolve, with Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark promoting a 5–11 model for the 16-team CFP set to begin in 2026.Beyond football, the show celebrates AJ Dybantsa’s first pitch at Fenway Park, his exclusive trading card deal with Fanatics, and his growing off-court brand. Egor Demin’s NBA Summer League performances are tracked, and BYU Olympic athletes are also making noise: Meghan Hunter wins the Bob Bowlsby Award for excellence, while Suli Davis helps Team USA earn silver at the U-19 Volleyball World Championship.The show closes with a visit from Nathan Anderson, Executive VP of Mountain America Credit Union, who shares a personal BYU story packed with faith, sports, and heart—ranging from facing Shawn Bradley in high school, to a surprise health scare, and even rivalry week tension in a BYU–Utah marriage. Add in ROC pass updates, a Connor McGregor quote, and reminders to sign up for the Ephraim Hope Golf Tournament, and this week’s episode delivers the full blend of football, faith, and fun Cougar fans have come to expect.8. Top 10 BYU Football Moments from Last Season, Parker Kingston on His Great Plays, and Chad Pritchard
02:09:01||Season 4, Ep. 8This week on Y’s Guys, Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler gear up for Big 12 Media Days and look back at an unforgettable BYU football season with the show’s Top Ten Moments of 2024 countdown. From Will Ferrin’s last-second game-winner vs. Utah to Parker Kingston’s 90-yard punt return vs. Kansas State, the hosts relive the wildest highlights, including kickoff return heroics, trick plays, and fourth-quarter magic. It’s a celebration of BYU’s grit, speed, and playmaking from wire to wire.Football headlines continue as the team previews the Cougars’ delegation heading to Frisco, Texas for Media Days. Chase Roberts, LJ Martin, Keanu Tanuvasa, Isaiah Glasker, and Jack Kelly will represent the team as storylines swirl around the quarterback battle, the post-Retzlaff locker room dynamic, and BYU’s potential Big 12 rise. Athlon Sports preseason honors are stacking up for BYU, and their 2026 recruiting class is already the highest-rated in program history—trailing only Texas Tech in Big 12 rankings.Guest interviews add personality and inspiration to the show. Parker Kingston, preseason All-American return man and breakout wide receiver, joins live to discuss the quarterback room, his legendary punt return touchdown, and who Cougar Nation should watch for this fall. Later, Gary Heaton stops by to preview the Ephraim Hope Charity Golf Tournament in support of children’s education in Uganda. Finally, Chef Chad Pritchard, founder of Fat Daddy’s Pizza, dishes on feeding the Cougars, BYU fandom in Texas, and the art of pizza and perseverance.The episode closes with an Olympic-caliber update on AJ Dybantsa, fresh off an MVP run with Team USA at the FIBA U19 World Cup, and shout-outs to rising stars like Delaney Gibb and Jane Hedengren. Egor Demin’s NBA Summer League debut is just days away. Throw in some birthday trivia, a Jim Gaffigan quote, and a shoutout to sliced bread, and you’ve got another lively mix of football, faith, and fun from the biggest BYU livestream in the world.7. Retzlaff Out, Lyons In, Guest Jared Price on Krešimir Ćosić, John Bytheway Reflects on Y’s Best Year
02:05:04||Season 4, Ep. 7On this special Y’s Guys Independence Week episode, hosts Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler lead a packed show filled with BYU headlines and patriotic celebration. They kick things off with breaking football news: Jake Retzlaff has officially entered the transfer portal after a rocky offseason involving pending legal matters and a 7-game honor code suspension. His departure clears the way for a fresh QB competition among McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier—while also symbolizing a firm message from BYU leadership that standards still matter. In contrast to Retzlaff’s exit, the program is buzzing with excitement after securing 5-star quarterback Ryder Lyons, the highest-rated BYU commit in over 15 years.Guest Jay Drew, BYU beat writer for the Deseret News, joins the show to break down the quarterback shuffle, the impact on preseason rankings, and how Lyons’ commitment places BYU in the upper echelon of 2026 recruiting classes. With Big 12 Media Days around the corner and no preseason poll expected this year, the next few weeks are critical for BYU’s momentum heading into fall camp on July 29.In a fascinating second interview, Jared Price, President of Eddy and the man behind the global success of Ancestry’s DNA program, shares stories from his mission in Croatia—where he followed in the spiritual footsteps of BYU basketball legend Kresimir Cosic. Price helped translate the Book of Mormon into Croatian, continuing a project Cosic had started decades earlier. He also discusses his switch from tech innovation to leadership at Eddy and his deep personal and professional connection to BYU.The show wraps with John Bytheway, who reflects on faith, patriotism, and what it means to be a Cougar fan during this momentous year. From Sweet 16 basketball and national championships in cross country to the recruiting haul of LDS stars Brock Harris, Ryder Lyons, and McKay Madsen, John highlights the values and legacy that set BYU apart. With Stadium of Fire, Balloon Fest, and the Grand Parade just days away, the episode feels like a love letter to Cougar Nation and the American spirit.6. QB Ryder Lyons to Choose, Freedom Festival Preview w/Jim Evans, Giveaway, BradyPlus CEO Travis Brady
01:36:46||Season 4, Ep. 6Our charity golf tournament: https://www.ephraimhope.org/2025-golf-tournamentThis week on Y’s Guys, Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler dive into one of the most pivotal moments in recent BYU recruiting history: the impending announcement from 5-star quarterback Ryder Lyons, who is set to choose between BYU and Oregon. Lyons just wrapped up his official visit to Provo—his final stop—and if he picks BYU, he’ll be the Cougars’ first 5-star QB signee since Jake Heaps in 2009. Already boasting the best 2026 recruiting class in school history, BYU could be positioning itself for a new era under Kalani Sitake.The football updates continue with a nod to Phil Steele’s preseason All-America team, where Parker Kingston earns honors as both wide receiver and punt returner. Will Ferrin is also recognized after tying the school record with 16 field goals last season. Plus, Blaine and Dave break down the latest BYU staff promotions, preview Big 12 Media Days, and spotlight new wide receiver commit Graham Livingston.In basketball, the focus shifts to the NBA Draft and Egor Demin’s rising stock, with projections placing him anywhere from 8th to 13th overall. AJ Dybantsa is officially named to the USA U19 National Team for the FIBA World Cup in Switzerland, while Trevin Knell joins Jimmer Fredette as part of Team USA’s 3x3 squad. BYU also ranks third in the Big 12 in returning scoring production, with key contributors like Richie Saunders, Keba Keita, and Dawson Baker back for 2025–26.Other highlights include a segment with Jim Evans from America’s Freedom Festival and BradyPlus CEO Travis Brady, who reflects on leadership, patriotism, and the growth of his company. The show also celebrates Jane Hedengren’s national high school record in the 3,000 meters, BYU’s top-5 national rankings in Track and Cross Country, and a new chapter for Church education as Elder Clark G. Gilbert announces record-breaking BYU system enrollment.5. Ryder Lyons Decision Looms, American Heritage Class Myths, Kevin Young Stays, Football Projections
02:02:11||Season 4, Ep. 5In this week’s edition of Y’s Guys, we dive into the latest developments across BYU sports, kicking off with a spotlight on five-star QB recruit Ryder Lyons, who made his official visit to BYU this weekend after a stop at Oregon. The panel discusses the implications of his looming decision, and what it could mean for the quarterback depth chart. Meanwhile, ESPN’s Football Power Index puts BYU’s College Football Playoff chances at 12.6%, while LJ Martin ranks among the top returning Big 12 running backs, and Jake Retzlaff holds the 7th-best QB grade according to Pro Football Focus.Basketball news dominates the middle segment, as Kevin Young’s historic coaching extension locks him in at BYU for 8–10 years, a massive commitment by the program following his debut Sweet 16 season. The newly released Big 12 basketball schedule promises high-energy home matchups with Arizona, Houston, and rival Utah, plus a road-heavy slate including Baylor, Kansas, and West Virginia. With Egor Demin officially receiving a Green Room invite for the NBA Draft, the Cougars continue gaining national traction.This week’s featured guests are BYU American Heritage professors Chris Karpowitz and Kelly Patterson, who tackle the Top 5 Myths about American Heritage, one of the university’s most dreaded and loved graduation requirements. From fears about failing to myths about political bias and boredom, the professors offer sharp insight and good humor—revealing that they themselves graduated from BYU without taking the class! Their candid discussion also highlights how student-athletes perform in the course, and how teaching the class has evolved.Additional headlines include James Corrigan’s national title in the 3000m Steeplechase, BYU’s strong showings in Track & Field, softball phenom Rita Tavita’s commitment, and shoutouts to Madi Allphin White, named College Sports Communicators’ Videographer of the Year. The show wraps with historic notes, sports birthdays, and a memorable quote from Tony Gwynn, capping off another fun, insightful, and Cougar-filled livestream.4. Kevin Young Stays, Andrew Gentry Interview, Football Projected for 8 Wins - Can They Beat the Odds?
01:46:23||Season 4, Ep. 4Visit: https://www.ysguys.comOn this week’s Y’s Guys livestream, with Brian Logan filling in for Dave McCann, the show kicks off with major headlines in BYU sports. The top story: Kevin Young’s contract extension, locking in BYU’s head coach “for the foreseeable future,” following his Sweet 16 debut season. The Phoenix Suns were reportedly interested in bringing him back to the NBA, but BYU acted swiftly. On the personal side, the Youngs are also expecting their fourth child this fall—a baby girl. The show also reacts to the House v. NCAA settlement, which paves the way for direct school payments to athletes starting this summer.Dave checks in live from the Deseret News High School Sports Awards, where he’s emceeing and Travis Hansen is the keynote speaker. Meanwhile, BYU Football summer workouts are underway, and the crew highlights ESPN’s Football Power Index projections: 8 wins expected, 29th national ranking, and a 12.6% chance to reach the College Football Playoff. They also preview key games this fall and break down the upcoming bowl season schedule—including a potential Big 12 appearance in the Alamo or Citrus Bowl.Special guest Andrew Gentry, a 6’7", 327-pound transfer from Michigan, joins the show to talk about his road to Provo. Gentry reflects on his time under Jim Harbaugh, why he ultimately chose BYU, and what it was like getting recruited while serving a mission in Argentina. From blocking in the national championship win over Washington to preparing for the BYU–Utah showdown on October 18, Gentry brings a championship pedigree to the Cougars’ O-line.The show wraps with basketball updates, including BYU vs. Clemson at Madison Square Garden in the Jimmy V Classic and a rematch with Wisconsin in Salt Lake. Dick Vitale ranks BYU No. 7, and Egor Demin remains a possible NBA first-round pick. There’s also news from Track & Field, Women’s Volleyball, Soccer, and a spotlight on Jane Hedengren, who just broke a national mile record. The “On This Day” trivia features Secretariat, Donald Duck, and Cyndi Lauper, and the team congratulates Utah Valley University on joining the Big West Conference in 2026.3. Dave & Blaine Welcome Chris Crowe on LaVell, and Scott Kavanaugh on Events & Marriott Center Madness
01:54:56||Season 4, Ep. 3In this edition of Y’s Guys, Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler deliver another packed episode covering BYU Football, Basketball, recruiting updates, and standout performances across Cougar athletics. They open the show with kickoff times and TV assignments for four of BYU’s 2025 games, including matchups against Portland State, Stanford, Colorado, and West Virginia—all primetime games on ESPN. With BYU’s impressive 28–4 record in its last 32 night games, the hosts discuss the importance of game time momentum and national exposure.Visit: https://www.ysguys.comRecruiting headlines include a huge flip: 4-star offensive lineman Alai Kalaniuvalu, who originally committed to BYU, then flipped to Oregon, has now flipped back to the Cougars. He’ll join BYU in 2027 after his Church mission. McKay Madsen, another 4-star signee, just defended his California state championships in both shot put and discus before leaving for Argentina. The hosts also celebrate the College Football Hall of Fame’s new eligibility rules, which now allow Mike Leach, a LaVell Edwards disciple, to be inducted.Basketball buzz heats up as BYU's non-conference schedule features national powerhouses like Villanova, Clemson, UConn, Wisconsin, and a Thanksgiving tournament featuring Miami, Dayton, and Georgetown. Preseason rankings have BYU as high as No. 3 in Gary Parrish’s CBS Sports poll, with insiders like Kevin O’Connor predicting AJ Dybantsa, Richie Saunders, and Rob Wright could all be NBA Draft picks.The episode also includes interviews with Chris Crowe, a member of LaVell Edwards’ first BYU team and retiring English professor, and Scott Kavanaugh, venue manager for LaVell Edwards Stadium and the Marriott Center, who shares stories from his time running major Vegas venues. Updates from Track & Field, Men’s Golf, and Softball highlight All-American performances by Ilove’a Brittingham and Team USA nods for Trent Moser. The episode wraps with the “Cougarboard Question of the Week,” On This Day trivia, and an inspirational quote from Lou Gehrig.2. What's Next for BYU Football With or Without Retzlaff, Potential QB Race & DT Commit, Spring Sports
01:40:01||Season 4, Ep. 2Visit: https://www.ysguys.comIn this Memorial Day edition of Y’s Guys, hosts Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler honor those who have served while breaking down critical updates in BYU sports. The episode opens with a recap of quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s uncertain status following a civil lawsuit and what that means for BYU Football heading into fall. The crew explores who might step in—McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, or Bear Bachmeier—and how the offense can adapt, especially with key returners like LJ Martin, Chase Roberts, and a dominant O-line.The show also covers BYU’s latest football commit, 6’4", 335-pound defensive tackle Alvin Puefua, who chose the Cougars over Miami, Utah, and Arizona. The team discusses ESPN’s Top 30 quarterbacks, where Retzlaff still lands at No. 17, and what to watch for in BYU’s early schedule: Portland State, Stanford, and East Carolina. They also dive into the new College Football Playoff format, which now rewards the Top 4 teams regardless of conference affiliation.On the basketball front, AJ Dybantsa is invited to USA Basketball’s U19 training camp, and BYU’s updated non-conference schedule includes exhibition games against Nebraska (Oct. 18) and North Carolina (late October at the Delta Center). The show also celebrates the Marriott Center’s Top 10 national ranking for arena atmosphere and highlights Delaware at BYU (Nov. 11) as the first regular-season matchup.The show wraps with updates from spring sports: Men’s Golf pushes for a top-8 finish at NCAA Championships; Softball’s Ilova’a Brittingham is named a Freshman All-American; Track & Field heads to the NCAA West Prelims with both teams ranked in the top 7; and Baseball finishes a strong Big 12 tournament run. Other features include the launch of the “Y’s Guy for a Day” fan contest, this week’s inspirational quote from John Wayne, and a look at BYU’s upcoming summer calendar.