BYU football makes strong preseason case with returning stars
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 12, 2026, 10:55 PM
Last updated Jul 12, 2026
BYU football is positioning itself as a preseason contender in the Big 12 following a successful 12-2 season. Strong public relations efforts have highlighted the Cougars, particularly running back LJ Martin, who is recognized as the preseason Offensive Player of the Year. The program also boasts a record-breaking recruiting class and a newly extended contract for head coach Kalani Sitake. With seven home games scheduled this fall, including a high-profile matchup against Notre Dame on October 17, expectations for the Cougars remain high. Their next challenge will be maintaining performance to complement their strong public image.
- •BYU finished the 2025 season with a 12-2 record.
- •LJ Martin is honored as the Big 12's preseason Offensive Player of the Year.
- •The Cougars have signed their highest-rated recruiting class in program history.
- •Coach Kalani Sitake has a newly extended long-term contract.
- •Seven home games are scheduled, including a key matchup against Notre Dame.
- 10:55 PMYahoo Sports — Preseason publicity has BYU in position to strike big
"The circle of life is simple for a program like BYU. This leaves the Cougars with two battles to fight — public relations and performance. Understandably, performance wins out in the end, but the ending is so often choreographed by private and public perception.
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