BYU Football Aims to Repeat Success, Navigate Uncertainty
The BYU Cougars are looking to build on a surprising 2024 season, but face new challenges and higher expectations as they prepare for the 2025 season. The team’s success hinges on key players and their ability to handle the pressure.
Expectations Rise After a Stellar Season
Following a challenging first year in the Big 12, few anticipated **BYU** would become a standout team. They quickly defied these predictions. The team’s remarkable performance, which included a dominant Alamo Bowl victory over Colorado, has set a new standard.
Head coach **Kalani Sitake** isn’t letting the previous achievements get to the team’s head. He humorously suggested that everyone should predict them to finish at the bottom again. But, the Cougars are gearing up to face tougher expectations.
Key Players and Potential Challenges
The availability of senior quarterback Jake Retzlaff is a major storyline. He performed well in 2024 but is now dealing with legal issues that may impact his future with the team.
“They kind of see what we’ve got to get after.”
—Kalani Sitake, Head Coach
Should **Retzlaff** be unavailable, the team will look to **McCae Hillstead** and **Treyson Bourguet**, both of whom have experience from other universities. This season, the pressure on both quarterbacks, along with the rest of the team, will be intense.
The Cougars’ defense was ranked in the top 20 nationally last year. With only a few returning starters, the defense’s performance will be crucial. According to recent analysis, BYU’s defensive performance is under a lot of pressure as they are dealing with the loss of star players. (NCAA 2025).
Upcoming Matchup Against Colorado
**BYU** is set to face Colorado on September 27 at Folsom Field. This will be a rematch of last season’s Alamo Bowl, which the Cougars won decisively. The game will be aired on ESPN.
Key Players to Watch
Key players to watch include linebacker **Isaiah Glasker**, who led the team in tackles and tackles for loss. Also, keep an eye on linebacker **Jack Kelly** and running back **LJ Martin**, who had a solid season. Quarterback **Jake Retzlaff** and wide receiver **Chase Roberts** also played a crucial role.
Offseason Changes and Transfer Portal Activity
The Cougars had significant movement during the offseason, with several players entering the transfer portal. Some notable departures were All-American kick returner/receiver **Keelan Marion**, linebacker **Harrison Taggart**, and safety **Crew Wakley**. Despite these losses, **BYU** brought in 13 transfers.
The team added players such as tight end **Carsen Ryan** and defensive tackle **Keanu Tanuvasa** from rival **Utah**. Additionally, **Andrew Gentry** (Michigan) and **Tiger Bachmeier** (Stanford) joined the team. **Tayvion Beasley**, who played under head coach **Deion Sanders** at Jackson State, is another key transfer.
With a mix of returning stars and new talent, **BYU** aims to maintain its winning momentum. The team’s ability to integrate new players and navigate potential disruptions will determine their success.
