No, you’re not imagining things—BYU football is genuinely at the top of the Big 12 standings with an unblemished 5-0 record. As the conference matchups have unfolded, expected contenders like Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and Utah have each suffered at least one loss, creating an opportunity for Kalani Sitake’s squad. However, Cougar fans remain understandably cautious about their team’s credibility.
After all, if BYU wins the Big 12, they secure an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff, and many are questioning whether this team truly belongs in the mix. The Big 12 is wide open, and the Cougars are leading the way. With a strong defense, an impressive list of victories, and noticeable player growth, BYU is for real. I’m here to provide a thorough evaluation of this football team and outline three reasons why they are a legitimate contender for the Big 12 title this season.
It didn’t take long for the Jay Hill era to spark a revival on the defensive side of the ball. The Cougars boast a top-25 defense this season, allowing just 16.5 points per game, even after facing three power conference opponents so far. With creative blitz schemes and defensive backs eager to intercept any pass thrown their way, they have disrupted opposing quarterbacks, including K-State’s Avery Johnson, who threw two interceptions in Provo after having only had one in his entire college career before that. The Cougars create chaos for their opponents, averaging 2.3 takeaways per game—an impressive stat that can be relied upon whether Sitake’s team is trying to catch up or extend a lead. While Roderick’s offense has shown some inconsistency, this defensive unit is deep and talented enough to support them when needed.
Do you recall that video of a runner whose journey through a Utah canyon was interrupted by a Cougar? That tough cat didn’t shy away from a challenge, and these Cougs share that same determination. When BYU entered SMU’s territory with few expectations of pulling off an upset, they stood their ground. Similarly, when Kansas State visited LaVell Edwards Stadium, the Cougars went on the attack against their top-15 opponent. The Big 12 schedule is filled with tough competition, and BYU has many obstacles ahead in their remaining seven games, but this team isn’t intimidated by challenging matchups—they are undefeated against the spread this season. While running the table might not be realistic, a new belief has emerged that BYU can triumph in any of their upcoming games.
It’s been said numerous times that Jake Retzlaff was labeled the worst quarterback in the Big 12 Conference during the preseason. However, BYU’s success can largely be attributed to his impressive performances. While his season hasn’t been without its flaws—he faced challenges with turnovers against SMU and Baylor—Retzlaff has effectively answered his critics through the first five games. Currently, he’s one of only five FBS quarterbacks with over 1,200 passing yards and 150 rushing yards, catching the attention of national media. Is he flawless? Not necessarily. Yet, in nearly every game, he’s delivered perfectly placed passes or made tough runs to sustain drives. He’s a resilient player and a natural leader. Although there’s still room for growth, the Cougars are fortunate to have Retzlaff at the helm of their offense.
Gameday picks.
Nick Saban: “That QB — Retzlaff — made a big believer of me last week.” pic.twitter.com/oLq3rv40Zk
— Robby McCombs (@rtmccombs) September 28, 2024
Do I genuinely think that this year’s Big 12 champion is in Provo, Utah? Not just yet. However, the undeniable fact about this year’s BYU football team is that no one expected them to get this far. I’m excited to see what else they have in store!
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