College football analyst Greg McElroy has expressed strong confidence in BYU’s potential heading into the 2025 season, labeling the Cougars as a legitimate contender for the Big 12 title—even after the departure of quarterback Jake Retzlaff. The ESPN analyst’s take may raise eyebrows among fans and critics alike, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding BYU’s quarterback room. But McElroy believes the Cougars possess the depth, coaching, and overall team structure to compete at a high level in the conference.
Retzlaff, who entered the transfer portal earlier this offseason, was projected to be a leading candidate for BYU’s starting quarterback job after showcasing flashes of promise during the 2024 campaign. His exit created a significant hole, but McElroy doesn’t see it as a deal-breaker. Instead, he points to BYU’s improving defense, strong offensive line, and experienced coaching staff led by head coach Kalani Sitake as reasons the Cougars should not be counted out.
McElroy also emphasized the importance of BYU’s system over individual talent. “One guy doesn’t make or break a team,” he stated during a recent episode of Always College Football. “This is a program that has recruited well and developed depth. They may not have Retzlaff, but they’re far from out of the race.”
With the Big 12 undergoing continued changes and no single dominant team emerging in recent years, McElroy believes the title race is wide open—and that BYU is well-positioned to make a run. The Cougars will rely on players like running back LJ Martin and a retooled defense to fill the leadership gap left by Retzlaff’s departure.
As fall camp approaches, all eyes will be on Provo to see if McElroy’s bold prediction proves accurate—and whether BYU can turn offseason confidence into on-field r
esults.
