BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said during a Monday news conference that the team is prioritizing upcoming work over their recent rise to No. 2 in the AP poll. The ranking follows a 28-21 upset of Notre Dame on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026.
The Cougars are preparing for a matchup this Saturday at the Bounce House against UCF. Sitake noted that the team intends to focus on a week-to-week schedule and aims to complete 12 regular season games.
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week and the AP Player of the Week following the win over the Irish. Bachmeier completed 23 of 36 passes for 224 yards and a touchdown, while adding 45 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, and a receiving touchdown. He is the first BYU quarterback to record a passing, rushing, and receiving touchdown in a single game since Steve Young in the 1983 Holiday Bowl.
Tight end Walker Lyons recorded a go-ahead touchdown pass with 1:47 remaining in the game against Notre Dame. Senior linebacker Cade Uluave was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week after recording nine tackles, including six solo tackles, three quarterback hurries, and a tackle for loss.
BYU also earned the Big 12 Offensive Line of the Week after the team rushed for 115 yards on 30 attempts without allowing any sacks against the Notre Dame defense.
The victory included returns from senior linebacker Isaiah Glasker and senior safety Raider Damuni. While cornerbacks Trey Alexander III and Jayven Williams sustained second-half injuries, Sitake indicated they should be available for Saturday's game. Senior running back LJ Martin remains unavailable due to a lower body injury.
The Cougars' next game is scheduled for Saturday against UCF.
