The 2026 college football preseason AP poll is already generating buzz as analysts project where the Cougars will land.
Preseason Outlook
Historical context shows that BYU last appeared in the top 15 back in 1985, a year after capturing the 1984 national championship, underscoring the program’s occasional resurgence.
Current momentum is fueled by a 23‑4 record over the past two seasons and an 11th‑place finish in the 2025 AP poll, positioning the team as a credible contender.
Key Factors
Key returnees include LJ Martin, the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, who anchors an offense that has already attracted deeper recruiting classes.
Analysts outline three scenarios: an optimistic outlook that could see BYU break into the top ten, a realistic projection of 14th overall, and a cautious estimate that still guarantees a ranking no worse than 16th.
The optimistic scenario hinges on voters valuing proven production and the Cougars’ strengthened schedule, while the baseline forecast reflects a consensus that the team will start the season inside the top 25.
Even in the worst‑case mapping, the projection avoids a drop below 16th, a threshold that would preserve the program’s recent upward trajectory.
Overall, the consensus suggests BYU is poised to begin the 2026 campaign with a respectable preseason ranking, setting the stage for a season that could exceed expectations.