A Big 12 coach has drawn attention for candid remarks about BYU’s football program, expressing concerns over the team’s readiness for conference play.
Southern Utah head coach DeLane Fitzgerald, following a 41–16 loss to BYU, questioned the Cougars’ offensive capabilities. He stated, “BYU’s inability to run the football on us… is a combination of us being good and them not being where they are supposed to be.” Fitzgerald further commented on BYU’s offensive line, suggesting it might not be prepared for the rigors of Big 12 competition.
Additionally, BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick highlighted the physical demands of the Big 12, noting that incoming teams might face challenges adapting to the conference’s intensity. He remarked, “These teams that are coming into the Big 12… are going to have a little bit of a rude awakening on how physical the Big 12 is.”
Despite these critiques, BYU has shown resilience and growth. After a 5–7 record in their inaugural Big 12 season, the Cougars rebounded with a 10–2 finish, culminating in a decisive 36–14 victory over Colorado in the Alamo Bowl. This turnaround underscores the team’s commitment to adapting and competing at a high level within the conference.
As BYU continues to navigate the challenges of Big 12 play, the program remains focused on development and competitiveness, aiming to solidify its position within the conference. 
