The countdown to the 2026 college football season is already ticking for BYU, with the first game against Utah Tech scheduled in less than 40 days. The Cougars are coming off a 12‑2 season that earned them a Big 12 Championship Game berth and a top‑15 national ranking, setting high expectations for another strong campaign.
A revamped offensive arsenal
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2025, will lead a passing attack that lost its top three receivers — Chase Roberts, Carsen Ryan and Parker Kingston — to graduation. To fill the void, BYU has added transfers Kyler Kasper from Oregon and Walker Lyons from USC, while also welcoming newcomers Jojo Phillips, Tiger Bachmeier, Tei Nacua and Reggie Frischknecht back into the fold.
The defense will be overseen by new coordinator Kelly Poppinga, who replaces Jay Hill after his move to Michigan. Poppinga inherits a core group that includes returning players Keanu Tanuvasa, Isaiah Glasker, Evan Johnson and Faletau Satuala, giving the unit continuity as it looks to improve on previous seasons.
Running back LJ Martin emerged as the Big 12’s most prolific rusher in 2025, topping the conference in both attempts and yards and earning Offensive Player of the Year recognition. He is now just 1,361 yards away from surpassing BYU’s all‑time rushing record, adding a personal milestone that could further energize the offense.
Head coach Kalani Sitake is entering his 11th season at the helm, a tenure marked by steady growth and recent championship success. His experience, combined with the blend of returning talent and fresh additions, positions the Cougars to contend for another conference title and a deep postseason run.