
BYU’s 2026 Defensive Overhaul Poised to Dominate the Big 12
Returning stars, new portal acquisitions and a revamped coaching staff position BYU to field one of the most formidable defenses in the conference and nationally for the 2026 season.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Faletau Satuala across Football.

Returning stars, new portal acquisitions and a revamped coaching staff position BYU to field one of the most formidable defenses in the conference and nationally for the 2026 season.

Kalani Sitake voices dissatisfaction with the Cougars' recent performance despite a 23‑4 record, emphasizing the need for continued growth as the 2026 season approaches.

The annual BYU Football Media Golf Classic at Timpanogos Golf Club in Provo united players, coaches and media, highlighting camaraderie and upcoming storylines.

The Cougars are projected to dominate both sides of the ball, with standout players poised for accolades and a marquee broadcast appearance.

BYU's fall practice will spotlight Kyler Kasper, a former Oregon standout whose size and spring‑practice work have coaches optimistic about his role in the 2026 season.

BYU’s fall practice begins in early August 2026, spotlighting slot corner Jonathan Kabeya as he seeks to overcome injury setbacks and lock down a key defensive role.

With the 2026 campaign opening against Utah Tech in under 40 days, BYU is shaping its roster around a returning head coach, a new offensive coordinator, and a running back poised to rewrite the program's record books.

On Dec. 26, Michigan announced the hiring of Jay Hill, a coach with a record of Big Sky titles and a rapid rise at BYU, to lead its defensive staff.

Jay Hill, a longtime disciple of Kyle Whittingham, was hired as Michigan's defensive coordinator on Dec. 26. His history of elevating BYU's defense and developing overlooked talent positions him to reshape the Wolverines' unit.

With 21 former four‑star recruits set for the 2026 fall camp, BYU is building the depth and talent needed to challenge for the Big 12 championship.

Bruce Mitchell, a first‑team All‑Big 12 selection, is focused on helping BYU return to the College Football Playoff while preparing for a 2027 NFL draft prospect role.

With fall practice set to begin in early August 2026, BYU’s defense is poised for a reshaped secondary, led by sophomore safety Tommy Prassas who looks to expand on a promising rookie season.

Senior safety Raider Damuni spent his summer in Tonga with teammates and coach Kalani Sitake, where a football camp, a fireside and a new employment center sparked a spiritual renewal that he now brings to Provo.

The University of Arizona’s football program is preparing for a challenging 2026 season, highlighted by key returning players, a stable coaching staff, and a slate of opponents that includes NAU, BYU, Northern Illinois, Washington State, Cincinnati and West Virginia.

Despite losing several defensive stalwarts, the Cougars enter the season with a strong offensive core and high expectations.
The network’s early rankings place Iowa State at the bottom of the Big 12, while Texas Tech is projected to repeat as champions, and three Iowa State players receive honorable‑mention recognition.

The conference revealed its preseason accolades, recognizing standout athletes from member schools ahead of the upcoming season.

With a 23‑4 record over the last two seasons and a second‑place preseason ranking, the Cougars are poised for a breakout year, highlighted by key players and a supportive coaching staff.

The Big 12 announced its preseason honors, recognizing standout players from across the league ahead of the upcoming season.

The Big 12 media panel recognized a record number of BYU players on its 2026 preseason all‑conference squad.

The conference unveiled its preseason honors, highlighting standout players from across the Big 12 and setting the tone for a competitive 2026 season.
The Big 12’s offseason drama centers on Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby, but the conference still forecasts a strong playoff push, highlighted by nine preseason All‑Big 12 selections, key awards for LJ Martin and Ben Roberts, and upcoming media days in Irving.

A preview of the 2026 Big 12 preseason all-conference team, highlighting standout players, award predictions, and the conference’s rising offensive and defensive stars.

The latest rankings for EA Sports College Football 27 highlight BYU’s strong representation, with multiple players earning elite ratings and positional rankings ahead of the July release.