Provo, Utah – The Brigham Young University football program enters the 2026 season with a deep, experienced roster that could make it a serious Big 12 title challenger. After finishing second to Texas Tech last year, the Cougars are returning several starters on both sides of the ball.
Offensive outlook
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier is back after a breakout freshman year, and he will again pair with running back LJ Martin, who led the conference in rushing yards last season. Martin logged 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns, while Bachmeier contributed 527 rushing yards, 11 scores on the ground and 3,033 passing yards with a 65% completion rate.
The receiving corps has lost its top three veterans, so the team will rely on freshmen and transfers such as Walker Lyons from USC and Kyler Kasper from Oregon to provide reliable targets. Senior wide receiver Jojo Phillips, who managed 161 yards on 14 catches despite missing half the season with injuries, remains the most experienced option.
Defensive strengths
Defensively, BYU returns two of its three leading linebackers and a host of playmakers in the secondary. Isaiah Glasker, Evan Johnson and Faletau Satuala anchor a unit that ranked second in interceptions in the Big 12 last season, with Johnson tying for the league lead at five picks. New transfer linebacker Cade Uluave, a California product who recorded 100 tackles last year, joins Glasker and Siale Esera at the linebacker spot.
The defense’s ability to force turnovers will be a key factor as the team adjusts to first‑year coordinator Kelly Poppinga, who replaces Jay Hill after Hill’s move to Michigan.
Special teams and schedule
Special teams see a complete turnover, with the departure of kicker Will Ferrin, who set a school record with 25 consecutive field goals and 120 straight extra points. The Cougars will need new talent at kicker, punter and returner.
BYU’s 2026 schedule includes a home game against No. 4 Notre Dame and matchups at TCU (Oct. 3) and at No. 21 Utah (Nov. 9). Notably, the schedule omits fellow Big 12 contenders No. 23 Houston and No. 12 Texas Tech, the teams that handed BYU its two losses last season.
Coach Sitake’s outlook
Head coach Kalani Sitake emphasized depth as a cornerstone of the team’s confidence, stating, “We feel like we need more than 11 starters in all three phases and we feel good about our depth.” With returning talent and new additions, the Cougars aim to translate that depth into consistent performance and a shot at the conference crown.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
