The Hype Around BYU Football: A Closer Look at the 2026 Season
There’s something electric in the air when it comes to BYU football this year. Personally, I think the buzz surrounding the 2026 season is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory. With quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin returning, expectations are through the roof. But what makes this particularly fascinating is the anonymous praise from a Big 12 assistant coach, who went as far as to call BYU the best team in the conference. Bold words, right?
Why the Hype Matters
Let’s be clear: hype doesn’t always translate to wins. But in this case, the excitement feels different. From my perspective, the return of Bachmeier and Martin isn’t just about talent—it’s about continuity. These two aren’t just players; they’re the heartbeat of the team. What many people don’t realize is that continuity at key positions can be the difference between a good season and a great one. If you take a step back and think about it, BYU’s offensive core is as solid as it gets in the Big 12.
The Anonymous Coach’s Take: Fact or Fiction?
Now, let’s talk about that anonymous coach. He called BYU the most physical team in the conference, with the best coaches and the most energy. In my opinion, this is where things get interesting. Physicality is subjective, and last year, Texas Tech clearly outmuscled BYU in the trenches. So, is this coach seeing something we’re not? Or is there an agenda at play? One thing that immediately stands out is the timing of these comments—four months before the season starts. It’s almost as if he’s setting the narrative early.
The Bigger Picture: BYU’s Place in the Big 12
What this really suggests is that BYU is no longer the underdog in the Big 12. They’re a force to be reckoned with. But here’s the kicker: Athlon Sports still predicts Texas Tech to win the league, despite their quarterback woes. This raises a deeper question: Is BYU being underestimated again? Or is the hype overblown? Personally, I think it’s a bit of both. BYU has the talent, but the road to a championship is never easy.
The X-Factors: Injuries, Transfers, and Departures
A detail that I find especially interesting is the impact of key departures and injuries. BYU lost starting receiver Parker Kingston and Cody Hagen to medical retirement. Meanwhile, Texas Tech’s quarterback situation is a mess with Brendan Sorsby’s ineligibility. These aren’t small details—they’re game-changers. If you ask me, the team that navigates these challenges best will come out on top.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for BYU?
If BYU lives up to the hype, this could be their year to dominate the Big 12. But let’s not forget the schedule: games against Arizona, Notre Dame, and Utah will test their mettle. In my opinion, these matchups will define their season. If they can stay healthy and execute consistently, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them in the College Football Playoff conversation.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the thing: college football is unpredictable. Preseason predictions are fun, but they’re rarely accurate. What makes BYU’s story so compelling is the blend of talent, hype, and uncertainty. Are they the best team in the Big 12? Maybe. But as we’ve seen before, the season is a marathon, not a sprint. Personally, I’m excited to see how it all unfolds. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that in college football, anything can happen.
