ARLINGTON, Texas – BYU is headed to the Big 12 Championship Game to face No. 5 Texas Tech after securing its place in the league title matchup following a series of results this past weekend.The No. 11 Cougars (10-2, 7-2 Big 12) clinched their spot thanks to utah’s 31-21 victory over Kansas, ensuring they could finish no lower than tied for second place in the conference. Texas Tech (10-1, 7-1 Big 12) also secured a championship berth with Arizona State’s loss.
BYU’s path to the title game was bolstered by a 26-14 win over Cincinnati the previous week, led by LJ Martin and the offensive line.Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark publicly advocated for BYU’s inclusion in the College football Playoff, highlighting their strength of record and schedule compared to teams like Notre Dame during a televised broadcast.
Before facing Texas Tech, BYU will conclude its regular season at home against UCF. The Knights boast a strong defense, ranking among the best in the Big 12, allowing just 22.0 points per game. Malachi Lawrence is a key player for UCF, ranking seventh in the league with 11 tackles for loss and fourth with seven sacks, while Jayden Bellamy has nine passes defended.
“This game is what gets you there,” BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick said.”You have to win this game, and we respect this team a lot.”
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake has repeatedly stated he will not campaign for a CFP bid,focusing instead on controlling their own destiny.
“When we set out at the beginning of the season, the goal was to win a Big 12 title,” defensive coordinator Jay Hill said. “You can’t win it until you go to the game. We have an opportunity to get that done this week.”
