A Season of High Hopes
Kalani Sitake, the head coach of the BYU Cougars, has voiced his frustration with the team’s recent performance despite a 23‑4 record over the past two seasons. He argues that the Cougars could have finished games more decisively, a sentiment he repeats when reflecting on the Pop‑Tarts Bowl victory over Georgia Tech in December.
The 2026 campaign carries expectations that surpass any previous year of Sitake’s tenure, which began in 2016, and may even eclipse the dominance of LaVell Edwards’ mid‑1980s squads. Analysts and a Big 12 preseason poll place BYU among the favorites to finish first or second in the league, a projection that has heightened the pressure on the coaching staff and players alike.
Defensively, the Cougars boast what senior safety Raider Damuni describes as the best unit he has ever been part of. With safety Faletau Satuala confirmed fit for the season opener against Utah Tech on September 5, and backups such as Tommy Prassas, Jarinn Kalama and Cannon DeVries ready to step in, the secondary appears deep and aggressive. Linebacker corps, bolstered by Cal transfer Cade Uluave — an all‑Big 12 preseason selection — alongside Isaiah Glasker and Siale Esera, promises to be a formidable force against both the run and the pass.
On offense, the team will lean on starter Bear Bachmeier, Big 12 preseason offensive player of the year LJ Martin, and tight ends Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga, who impressed during spring camp. Concerns linger over running back depth after Martin’s shoulder surgery, but sophomore Sione Moa has recovered from a 2024 compartment syndrome injury, and freshman Devaughn Eka from Lehi High adds further depth. The offensive line, anchored by returning starters and Washington transfer Paki Finau, is expected to remain a strength under coach TJ Woods.
Despite the optimism, Sitake repeatedly emphasizes humility and hunger, warning that complacency could erode progress. He notes that the schedule — beginning with Utah Tech at home on September 5 and featuring matchups against Arizona, Colorado State, TCU, Iowa State, Notre Dame, UCF, Arizona State, Utah, Baylor, Kansas and Cincinnati — will test the team’s resolve week after week.