NINE COUGARS NAMED PHIL STEELE PRESEASON ALL-BIG 12 — BYU Sends a Message to the Big 12 Powerhouses
In a jaw-dropping preseason recognition that’s turning heads across college football, nine BYU Cougars have been named to Phil Steele’s Preseason All-Big 12 Teams, solidifying BYU’s status as a rising force in the conference.
From explosive playmakers to dominant linemen, the Cougars’ roster is being taken seriously — not just by their fans, but by national analysts. For a program still relatively fresh to the Big 12 battleground, this announcement is a warning shot to traditional powerhouses: BYU isn’t here to blend in — they’re here to compete.
Leading the charge is wide receiver Chase Roberts, a first-team selection after a breakout season that saw him emerge as the go-to target in BYU’s high-powered offense. Joining him are standouts like Tausili Akana on defense, known for his relentless pressure off the edge, and running back LJ Martin, whose bruising yet agile style earned him second-team honors.
Phil Steele, known for his meticulous and respected preseason picks, praised the Cougars’ depth, leadership, and development, calling them “a team that could surprise everyone come November.”
For head coach Kalani Sitake, this is more than individual recognition — it’s a cultural milestone. “This speaks to the character and work ethic of our players,” Sitake said. “We’ve built this from the ground up, and now the rest of the country is taking notice.”
With nine Cougars making the cut, BYU enters the 2025 season not as underdogs, but as legitimate contenders — and maybe, just maybe, as dark horse champions in a crowded Big 12 race.
The message is clear: Provo has power, and the Cougars are ready to roar.
