BYU football opens the 2026 season with high program expectations

BYU prepares for its 2026 season opener this Saturday at 6 p.m. MDT against an unstated opponent at LaVell Edwards Stadium. The Cougars enter the game ranked No. 14, their highest preseason ranking since 1985. Coming off a 12-2 season, the team features the Big 12 Coach of the Year, the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, and the Freshman Offensive Player of the Year. Head coach Kalani Sitake, offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, and defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga have set team expectations for national relevance and a potential College Football Playoff appearance. Media analysts currently project the team as a contender to win the Big 12 outright.

• 2:00 PMYahoo Sports — BYU’s season opener brings back the rejuvenating joy of fresh starts