Houston Cougars gear up to defend their back-to-back Big 12 crowns, but can they set the tone against longtime rival Cincinnati Bearcats? Parker Ainsworth previews the stakes-packed conference opener, spotlighting the Bearcats’ tough, physical play led by point guard Jizzle James and imposing big man Moustapha Thiam. The conversation breaks down how Cougar standouts Emanuel Sharp, Houston’s defensive intensity, and Chris Cenac’s matchup will be put to the test in a game with major postseason implications. Key topics include Kelvin Sampson’s reaction to a disappointing win over Middle Tennessee, why Houston can’t overlook Cincinnati despite eyes on Texas Tech, and how this matchup could determine both teams’ Big 12 trajectories. Will Houston’s experience and grit prevail against a motivated Cincinnati squad desperate to boost its NCAA tournament resume and secure Wes Miller’s job? Find out what to watch for as conference play begins with a bang. 0:00 – Houston’s Big 12 Opener 1:36 – Middle Tennessee Recap 4:59 – Big 12 Strength & Schedule 7:56 – Importance of Cincinnati Game 11:56 – Houston vs. Cincinnati History 14:26 – Cincinnati Roster Breakdown 17:56 – Matchup Challenges 21:17 – Player Matchup Analysis 25:03 – Houston’s Adjustments Needed 27:17 – Game Prediction & Closing Thoughts Be sure to follow and subscribe to Locked On Coogs to hear the latest on all things Houston Cougars, wherever you get your podcasts! 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! 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. Rugiet If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step, now’s the time. Head to https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get 15% off your order for a limited time. Rugiet Ready. Feel present. Feel confident. Feel ready. FanDuel Today'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)