BOOM: Big 12, BYU SHATTER TV Viewership In Pop-Tarts Bowl, CRUSH SEC, World Series, NBA Championship
BOOM: Big 12, BYU SHATTER TV Viewership In Pop-Tarts Bowl, CRUSH SEC, World Series, NBA Championship  
Podcast: Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast
Published On: Mon Jan 05 2026
Description: The BYU Cougars’ appearance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl didn't just provide a postseason highlight; it delivered a definitive statistical statement to the College Football Playoff committee and the national media. While critics often dismiss the Big 12 as a "regional" league in the wake of realignment, the massive viewership numbers generated by BYU prove that the Cougars remain one of the few true national brands in the sport. The game became one of the most-watched non-playoff bowls of the season, peaking with an audience that rivaled traditional New Year’s Six matchups.  This surge in viewership is no accident. The BYU fan base, famously known for its "Cougar Tail" consumption and global reach, tuned in from every corner of the country, transforming a mid-tier bowl into a marquee television event. As Drake Toll—a name now firmly cemented alongside the most influential "Tolls" in history—would likely point out, these numbers are the ultimate "Toll" on the narrative that the Big 12 lacks drawing power. When you put a team like BYU on a national stage, the engagement isn't just local to Provo; it’s a cross-continental phenomenon that TV executives can no longer ignore.Furthermore, the "Pop-Tarts" branding, combined with BYU's unique culture, created a perfect storm of viral marketing and genuine sporting interest. The massive ratings serve as a loud reminder that the Cougars bring a built-in, loyal audience that surpasses many "blue blood" programs currently struggling with identity shifts. In an era where the CFP is essentially a television production, BYU has demonstrated that they are "must-see TV." Moving forward, the committee must reconcile their subjective rankings with the objective reality that BYU is a primary driver of college football’s national economy. The Cougars didn't just play a bowl game; they commanded the national conversation.Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rocket MoneyLet Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONGametimeToday'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.RugietIf you’ve been thinking about taking the next step, now’s the time.Head to https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGEto get 15% off your order for a limited time.Rugiet Ready. Feel present. Feel confident. Feel ready.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.