The Washington Huskies land an intriguing defensive tackle prospect in Ta'a Malu for their 2026 recruiting class. Can this raw talent develop into a Big Ten force?

Locked On Huskies host Roman Tomashoff breaks down Malu's commitment, highlighting his MMA background and explosive first step. The discussion covers Washington's defensive line recruiting strategy, balancing immediate impact players with developmental prospects like Malu. Key topics include the critical pursuit of four-star DT TI Umu-Cais, challenges in securing top D-line recruits, and adapting to Big Ten football's deep rotations. Tomashoff analyzes how recent misses from Jedd Fisch and Jason Kaufusi impact Washington's long-term plans and potential solutions.

Don't miss this in-depth look at the Huskies' defensive line recruiting and its implications for their future in the Big Ten.

0:00 Intro

1:00 Washington adds three-star defensive tackle Ta'a Malu

5:36 Importance of building defensive line depth

9:10 Four-star DT TI Umu-Cais is crucial for the Huskies' future

13:13 Expanding recruiting footprint in the Big Ten

Become a Locked On Huskies Insider: joinsubtext.com/lockedonhuskies

Donate to UW Goalie Mia Hamant's Fight Against Cancer: https://gofund.me/4295a379

Locked On Huskies is part of the Locked On Podcast Network

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 BETSwhen 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)

Jedd Fisch and the Washington Huskies are pursuing some of the nation's most underrated recruits for their 2026 recruiting class ahead of Big Ten play, 3-star WR Blaise LaVista and 3-star DB Rahsjon Duncan.

Locked On Huskies host Roman Tomashoff breaks down LaVista's impressive high school stats and potential fit in the Huskies' offense under Jimmie Dougherty and Kevin Cummings. The discussion covers impact players for the upcoming football season, including Adam Mohammad and Penn State transfer Omari Evans. Basketball takes center stage with an in-depth analysis of German forward Hannes Steinbach's FIBA U19 World Cup performance and how he fits into coach Danny Sprinkle's roster alongside promising transfer portal additions like USC's Desmond Claude and Wesley Yates. Tomashoff explores the team's depth, potential lineups, and raised expectations for the season.

Don't miss this insider look at Washington Huskies' football recruits and basketball's path to a potential top 20 ranking.

0:00 Intro

1:30 Blaise LaVista, underrated WR target

6:15 Rising DB Rahsjon Duncan

11:09 Adam Mohammad: Perfect Big Ten back

15:43 Omari Evans: Potential for explosive plays

17:45 Raiden Vines-Bright: Freshman with big-play ability

19:46 Hannes Steinbach: Standout at FIBA U19 World Cup

24:51 Washington's deep and talented basketball roster

Become a Locked On Huskies Insider: joinsubtext.com/lockedonhuskies

Donate to UW Goalie Mia Hamant's Fight Against Cancer: https://gofund.me/4295a379

Locked On Huskies is part of the Locked On Podcast Network

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 BETSwhen 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)

Big Ten football power rankings spark heated debate. Is Penn State truly the top dog, or will Ohio State reclaim their throne?

Spencer McLaughlin and his all-star panel dissect the conference's hierarchy, with USC's placement igniting fierce discussion. Mark Culkin makes a bold case for the Trojans' ascent, while others question their readiness. The crew also analyzes Washington's potential dark horse status and Indiana's win total prediction for the upcoming season.

Key topics include defensive improvements, quarterback performances, and the impact of challenging schedules on team success. Jacob Goins and Craig Sheeman offer optimistic outlooks for the Hoosiers, but can Indiana really hit 9 wins against a tough slate?

Tune in for expert insights on your favorite Big Ten teams and players as the season approaches. Will your team rise or fall in the rankings?