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!

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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?

The HOUSTON COUGARS are gearing up for their inaugural Big 12 season, and head coach Willie Fritz is brimming with confidence. In this episode, Fritz offers an in-depth look at the program's readiness to compete at the highest level, emphasizing improved depth and intense competition across all positions. Fritz provides a detailed breakdown of the quarterback battle, drawing intriguing comparisons between Conner Weigman and Tulane's standout Michael Pratt. He also sheds light on the COUGARS' stacked running back room, featuring the dynamic duo of Re'Shaun Sanford and Dean Connor. The conversation shifts to the defensive side of the ball, where Fritz discusses new coordinator Austin Armstrong's adaptable scheme and its potential impact on the team's performance. He delves into the evolving landscape of college football, touching on the effects of NIL on recruiting strategies and the program's approach to balancing high school talent acquisition with transfer portal additions. Fritz shares his perspective on the increasing parity within the conference and the implications of playoff expansion for programs like HOUSTON. He offers candid insights into his coaching philosophy, discussing how he plans to tailor the offense to maximize his quarterback's strengths while maintaining a balanced attack. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the COUGARS' outlook as they prepare to make their mark in the Big 12. From strategic roster management to on-field tactics, Fritz provides a coach's-eye view of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for HOUSTON football. This episode is a must-listen for COUGARS fans and college football enthusiasts alike, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a program on the cusp of a new era in a power conference. 0:00 Intro: Willie Fritz at Big 12 Media Days 3:11 Depth and competition in offensive positions 6:36 Running back room competition and talent 10:21 Austin Armstrong's defensive transition and approach 15:56 Shasta's thumbs up/down segment at media day 18:00 NIL stories dominating Big 12 Media Days 22:35 Parity in the Big 12 Conference 27:11 Playoff models and regular season importance 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)