The 2024 football slate for BYU is being judged not by win‑loss projections but by the personal thrill each matchup promises.
Why excitement matters more than rankings
The author places the Notre Dame game at the summit, citing a long‑standing desire to see the Cougars prove themselves on a national stage and to earn respect for the Big 12.
Just behind it, the clash with Utah carries playoff ramifications and rekindles a rivalry that has defined recent conference battles.
Other games that spark anticipation include a potential trap against UCF, a revenge‑filled encounter with Arizona State, and a nostalgic showdown with Iowa State that recalls early Big 12 adjustments.
The schedule also features a close‑call memory against Colorado State, a quarterback duel with Baylor, and a clash with TCU that the writer dubs the conference’s new rivalry after Utah.
Even the lower‑ranked matchups, such as the season‑opening game versus Utah Tech, generate excitement because they mark the first step of a new campaign and promise unexpected moments.
Overall, the ranking reflects a personal narrative that weaves past memories, future hopes and the simple joy of watching the Cougars compete, offering fans a fresh lens through which to view the upcoming season.