
Ten Teams Eye First College Football Playoff Spots This Season
ESPN’s latest analysis highlights ten programs that could break new ground with their inaugural College Football Playoff appearances, each bringing distinct storylines and strengths.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Bear Bachmeier across Football.

ESPN’s latest analysis highlights ten programs that could break new ground with their inaugural College Football Playoff appearances, each bringing distinct storylines and strengths.

From Texas Tech’s title defense to Utah’s overhaul and TCU’s renewed ambitions, the Big 12 enters a pivotal summer break with new faces, returning starters and breakout hopes.

After a knee injury ended his junior season prospects, Cody Hagen medically retires from football, leaving BYU with a reshaped wide receiver unit and new faces ready to lead the offense.

The Big 12 is poised for a dynamic receiving corps this fall, with elite returnees, impactful transfers and fresh talent vying for the top spot.

Washington’s standout lineman Paki Finau joins BYU, filling a critical void and earning immediate praise as the Cougars prepare for the upcoming season.

Kalani Sitake’s recent contract extension at Brigham Young University has unlocked new resources that are reshaping the Cougars’ athletic landscape, enabling staff retention, facility upgrades, and stronger competition across multiple sports.

John Sanders, a JUCO dual‑threat quarterback, has pledged to BYU for the 2026 season, adding depth to a quarterback room that already features starter Bear Bachmeier and competitors Treyson Bourguet and Enoch Watson.

A look at the Cougars' spring progress, key players, and the schedule that could shape their championship aspirations

The upcoming season will hinge on the performance of quarterbacks across the Big 12, from Arizona’s Noah Fifita to Texas Tech’s uncertain situation, as each program evaluates its options and potential challenges.

A look at three pivotal wins that defined BYU’s dominance over Utah, highlighting the players, plays and turning points that shaped the rivalry.

After an 11‑win season, Utah is ranked inside the top 25 and poised to contend for the Big 12 title. The upcoming home schedule pits the Utes against a slate of formidable opponents, with the BYU rivalry emerging as the centerpiece.

From quarterback surges to defensive reshuffles, the Big 12’s spring practices have produced a cascade of storylines that may or may not translate into fall success.

A look at how quarterback Bear Bachmeier, analyst David Pollack and strategic roster moves position BYU for a potential College Football Playoff breakthrough in 2026.
A select group of college quarterbacks is emerging as the most talented class in recent memory, drawing attention from analysts, fans and NFL scouts alike.

The latest post‑spring rankings highlight Texas Tech at No. 1, with BYU and Utah close behind, offering a glimpse into the dynamics shaping the Big 12 ahead of the fall.