The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the BYU Cougars, as the program welcomes back two of its most influential playmakers.
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin are expected to anchor the offense, giving the team a blend of experience and dynamic talent that fans hope will translate into a strong start.
Key Roster Additions
Head coach Kalani Sitake has emphasized a physical, disciplined approach, a stance that was recently underscored by an anonymous Big 12 assistant coach who labeled BYU as the conference’s most formidable squad, citing their size, speed, and scheme.
Athlon Sports’ projections place Texas Tech atop the Big 12, forecasting a second‑place finish for BYU, but the forecast comes with caveats: Texas Tech’s star quarterback Brendan Sorsby is currently barred from competition after a wagering violation, and the Cougars will be missing key receivers Parker Kingston and the retired Cody Hagen.
Defensively, BYU will contend with the departure of defensive coordinator Jay Hill, who left for a position at Michigan, and the graduation of several stalwarts from the previous year’s line, creating both gaps and opportunities for younger players.
Backup quarterback Will Hammond is currently rehabilitating from an ACL injury and is not expected to be fully cleared until a few games into the season, adding depth concerns at the signal‑caller position.
Despite these challenges, the Cougars’ schedule features marquee matchups against Arizona, Notre Dame, and Utah, games that analysts have flagged as must‑watch moments that could influence bowl eligibility and playoff positioning.
If the team can stay healthy and capitalize on its offensive firepower, the early optimism could materialize into a season that not only secures a top bowl berth but also positions BYU to ‘skyrocket’ in the national rankings, driven by increased funding and a refreshed roster.