The BYU Cougars enter the 2026 season with high expectations following a 12-2 campaign in 2025. After reaching the Big 12 Championship Game, the program in Provo is looking to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff. Head coach Kalani Sitake, who recently signed an extension, leads a roster built on continuity and significant talent across the offense and defense.
The offense is headlined by quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who earned Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors after a standout season. He is supported by reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin, who rushed for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. While the receiving corps is being rebuilt through the transfer portal with players like Kyler Kasper and Walker Lyons, the offensive line remains a strength, anchored by center Bruce Mitchell and returning tackle Andrew Gentry.
Defensively, the Cougars feature a stout unit that includes standout linebacker Isaiah Glasker and safety Faletau Satuala. The addition of Cal transfer Cade Uluave is expected to bolster a linebacker corps that remains a core strength of the team. The defensive line features Keanu Tanuvasa and Bodie Schoonover, contributing to a unit that expects to remain highly competitive in the Big 12.
The special teams unit remains a primary question mark for the upcoming season following the departures of previous specialists. On the schedule, the Cougars will host seven home games and face a marquee matchup against Notre Dame on October 17. A significant rivalry game against Utah is also scheduled for November 7.
Preseason consensus places the Cougars among the top contenders in the Big 12. Analysts suggest that if the retooled receiving corps and special teams can perform, the team is positioned to compete for a Big 12 Championship and a Playoff berth.
