BYU Cougars eye Big 12 title as preseason buzz builds for 2026

BYU Cougars are the preseason darlings of the Big 12 in 2026, ranked as the league’s top brand by national pundits after a 12-2 season and a historic recruiting haul.

What’s driving BYU’s preseason hype?

The Cougars closed 2025 with 12 wins and return a mountain of firepower, led by Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin. Stewart Mandel of The Athletic tabbed BYU the No. 1 brand in the conference entering its fourth year in the Big 12. The hype isn’t just talk—BYU signed the highest-rated recruiting class in program history and locked up Kalani Sitake with a long-term deal.

Which players shape BYU’s title push?

Martin headlines a preseason All-Big 12 backfield that also includes center Bruce Mitchell, anchoring a line built to protect Bear Bachmeier. The Cougars’ defense leans on Keanu Tanuvasa up front and Cade Uluave at linebacker, a transfer from Cal filling the void left by Jack Kelly, a sixth-round Giants pick. Safety Faletau Satuala returns after a foot fracture, ready to lead a secondary that already has a 40-yard Pick Six on its résumé.

Bachmeier, the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year, threw for 3,000 yards and ran for 500 as a true freshman. Now he’s the league’s most scrutinized QB, tasked with proving he can lead BYU back to the top.

Why does this PR surge matter?

Preseason buzz shapes poll position, TV windows, and kickoff times—all of which influence the College Football Playoff rankings. BYU’s 2025 run to 12 wins already has the Cougars in the mix, but the real test starts Sept. 6 against Utah Tech.

What comes next for BYU?

The Cougars host seven home games in 2026, including a potential trap game vs. Utah Tech on Sept. 6. The opener kicks off a schedule where every win could sway playoff committee eyes—and every loss could derail the preseason narrative.

The Cougars open at home vs. Utah Tech on Sept. 6, 2026.