COUGARS CLIMB: BYU CRACKS PRESEASON AP TOP 25 IN STUNNING TURNAROUND
In one of the most talked-about surprises ahead of the 2025 college football season, Brigham Young University (BYU) has made an unexpected leap into the Associated Press (AP) Preseason Top 25, landing at No. 24—a spot few predicted after last year’s underwhelming finish.
After a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw the Cougars finish 5–7 and miss out on bowl eligibility, national attention had largely shifted away from Provo. But the narrative has flipped dramatically thanks to a combination of roster reinforcements, key returning starters, and a revamped coaching strategy heading into year two of BYU’s transition into Big 12 competition.
> “This ranking is more than just hype—it reflects the national belief that BYU has the pieces to compete at a high level this year,” said Mark Schlabach, ESPN senior college football analyst. “Their schedule is tough, but there’s momentum building in Provo.”
What’s Driving the Buzz?
Veteran Leadership
Quarterback Ryder Burton, now entering his junior season, is expected to make a big leap after showing flashes of brilliance last year. With a full offseason under new offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, the offense is expected to be more dynamic and better tailored to Burton’s strengths.
Elite Recruiting and Transfer Wins
BYU brought in one of its strongest recruiting classes in recent memory, ranked No. 27 nationally, and landed key transfers from SEC and Pac-12 programs, including a standout defensive end from Florida and a veteran cornerback from Oregon State.
Defensive Overhaul
The defense—one of the team’s biggest weaknesses last year—has been completely overhauled. New defensive coordinator Jay Hill has installed a more aggressive scheme, and early reports from fall camp indicate that speed and intensity have drastically improved on that side of the ball.
Coaching Stability
Head Coach Kalani Sitake, now in his 10th season, has rebuilt trust among fans and analysts alike after a rocky transition into the Power Five. With a strong support staff and a renewed focus on fundamentals, BYU looks more prepared for the grind of Big 12 play.
A Schedule That Will Test Their Ranking
BYU opens the 2025 season at home against No. 17 Arizona State, a game that could either solidify their Top 25 status or drop them out of the rankings early. Other marquee matchups include road trips to Texas Tech and Oklahoma State, and a much-anticipated rivalry showdown with Utah in late November.
> “This team has a chip on its shoulder,” said junior linebacker Ben Bywater, who returns from injury to anchor the defense. “We know what people were saying last year, and we’re ready to prove we belong.”
Fan Reaction
Cougar Nation has responded with excitement and cautious optimism. Social media lit up shortly after the rankings were released, with fans praising the team’s hard work and offseason turnaround.
> “We’ve been waiting for this moment. Being in the Top 25 again feels like the start of something special,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
While preseason polls don’t guarantee postseason success, BYU’s inclusion in the AP Top 25 sends a clear message: the Cougars are back in the conversation—and they’re hungry to prove they deserve to stay there.
Their climb into the rankings may be a surprise to some, but in Provo, the feeling is clear: this is just the beginning.
