BYU Cougars eye first College Football Playoff berth in 2026

BYU Cougars could make first College Football Playoff in 2026

The BYU Cougars are positioned to make their first College Football Playoff appearance in program history after finishing 12-2 in 2025. The Cougars return 64% of their production, the 18th-highest rate in the country, and head coach Kalani Sitake chose to stay in Provo instead of taking the Penn State job.

What happened last season?

BYU went 12-0 against every team except Texas Tech. The Cougars lost both meetings 63-14 and were outscored 63-14 in those games. That kept them out of the 2025 playoff despite a strong overall record. The team returns quarterback Tanner Mangum and most of its core, giving Sitake a veteran roster to chase history.

Why it matters for BYU Cougars

Josh Pate named the Cougars a legitimate playoff threat on his show. He pointed to the roster continuity and a schedule that avoids Texas Tech in 2026. The Cougars open at home against Utah Tech Trailblazers on September 6, 2026. Their toughest test is Notre Dame at home on October 17, a non-conference game that won’t affect Big 12 title hopes.

What comes next?

BYU opens the 2026 season at home against Utah Tech Trailblazers on September 6. The Cougars face Notre Dame at home on October 17, their only marquee non-conference tilt. If they avoid late-season stumbles, they can secure the Big 12 title and a first-ever Playoff berth. Sitake’s squad has the pieces to keep rising in the Big 12.