Position Group Rankings for BYU Football According to Phil Steele
As the 2025 college football season draws near, college football expert Phil Steele has released his highly anticipated team previews and position group rankings. For BYU football, which is entering its second full season in the Big 12 Conference, Steele’s analysis provides a revealing look at where the Cougars stack up position by position compared to their peers nationally and within the conference. While some areas reflect promise and depth, others highlight concerns that the Cougars must address to contend in the ever-competitive Big 12.
Quarterbacks: Top 40 Nationally
Phil Steele ranked BYU’s quarterback room among the top 40 in the country, a sign of moderate confidence in the group led by returning starter Jake Retzlaff and transfer backup Gerry Bohanon. Retzlaff, who started several games last season, showed flashes of dual-threat ability and leadership but struggled with consistency. Steele praised the quarterback room’s experience and upside, particularly noting offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick’s strong track record in quarterback development.
Running Backs: Outside Top 50
The Cougars’ backfield did not fare as well, landing outside Steele’s top 50. Last year’s ground game was among the least productive in the Big 12, and questions still surround the offensive line and lack of a proven lead back. Steele mentioned that while there’s potential in players like Aidan Robbins and LJ Martin, the overall unit must improve in both pass protection and short-yardage efficiency to rise in future rankings.
Wide Receivers & Tight Ends: Top 50
BYU’s pass catchers landed just inside the top 50. Steele acknowledged the size and physicality of the wideout group, led by Keanu Hill and Parker Kingston. At tight end, Isaac Rex’s departure leaves a hole, but Steele believes the group has enough depth to keep the offense balanced. He also noted that BYU’s receivers tend to perform well in Roderick’s pass-friendly schemes.
Offensive Line: Top 40
Despite last season’s inconsistency, BYU’s offensive line cracked the top 40 thanks to returning experience and depth. Steele highlighted players like Connor Pay and Kingsley Suamataia (if he returns from injury) as key pieces capable of elevating the entire offense. Improvement in this group could be the deciding factor in BYU’s offensive resurgence.
Defensive Line: Outside Top 60
One of BYU’s weakest-ranked units, the defensive line was listed outside Steele’s top 60. The Cougars struggled mightily with run defense and quarterback pressure in 2024. While there are some promising newcomers and returning contributors, Steele emphasized the need for increased physicality and production from this group if BYU wants to compete against Big 12 offensive lines.
Linebackers: Top 30
One of the brighter spots on defense, BYU’s linebacking corps landed in the top 30. Led by Ben Bywater and AJ Vongphachanh, Steele praised the athleticism and experience in the middle of the defense. This group is expected to be the heart of the defense once again, providing leadership and big-play potential.
Secondary: Top 45
BYU’s secondary came in at No. 43 nationally. While not elite, Steele sees potential in a group that returns several starters and added depth through the transfer portal. Improved communication and coverage consistency will be key to climbing these rankings next season.
Overall, Phil Steele’s position group rankings reveal a BYU team with solid pieces and experienced leadership, but one still needing development in key areas. As the Cougars continue adapting to Big 12 play, these rankings will serve as both a benchmark and a motivator heading into fall camp.
