BYU had a great season in 2024. They were picked to finish thirteenth in the Big 12 and only win four games. BYU went on a tear, winning their first nine games. BYU beat teams they should not have, like Kansas State and SMU, and made late magic against Utah and Oklahoma State.
BYU was a surprise in last year’s College Football Playoff conversation, ranked as high as seven. the Cougars then had two heartbreaking losses to Kansas and Arizona State, falling a few yards short both times. Despite the rough couple of games, BYU finished tied for first in the Big 12. A blowout win against Colorado in the Alamo Bowl placed an exclamation point on an unbelievable season.
The way-too-early rankings across the nation boast BYU as one of the most likely to compete for a playoff spot.
Way-too-early Top 25:
9. ESPN
18. CBS
Just outside the top 10: FOX
What is the expectation for BYU in 2025?
BYU Football set the bar high last year. They had an 11-win season and looked like College Football Playoff material. Last-minute miracles and blowout statements combined for a truly memorable season.
BYU has their work cut out for them this year. Fans, coaches, and pundits alike are expecting a bigger and better performance. BYU also has a big advantage: altitude. BYU is one of the highest teams above sea level in the Big 12. BYU uses this to its advantage and it makes it difficult for lower-elevation teams to perform well for an entire football game.
BYU should be able to get into the College Football Playoff, even if they don’t win the Big 12. BYU has the talent and the strength to win games in the postseason. BYU can compete with the big dogs in College Football. They have a strong blend of pass and run, complemented by a strong and aggressive defense. BYU has a strong special teams group as well, led by kicker Will Ferrin and return specialist Keelan Marion. BYU had some big plays on special teams, like the punt return against Colorado and the game-winning field goal at Utah.
Overall, the BYU Football team is good enough to make the College Football Playoff. The bar is high and BYU will need to work together on offense, defense and special teams.
