What's Happening?
BYU has been ranked 18th in the 2026 college football SP+ rankings released by ESPN analyst Bill Connelly. This places BYU as one of the top two Big 12 programs in the rankings, alongside Texas Tech, which is ranked 7th. The Cougars are set to face Notre
Dame, ranked third, in a significant matchup. The SP+ rankings highlight BYU's challenging start to the conference play, with games against Arizona and TCU, both ranked within the top 35. The Cougars' performance in these early games could be crucial for their chances in the Big 12 championship.
Why It's Important?
The ranking is significant for BYU as it sets expectations for the upcoming season and positions them as a strong contender in the Big 12. A high preseason ranking can boost team morale and attract attention from recruits and fans. The Cougars' ability to perform well against top-ranked teams like Notre Dame will be critical for their playoff aspirations. Success in these games could enhance their national profile and improve their chances of securing an at-large playoff bid, which is crucial given their schedule does not include Texas Tech.
What's Next?
BYU will need to focus on their early conference games to maintain their high ranking and position themselves for a run at the Big 12 championship. Their performance against Notre Dame will be pivotal, as a win could significantly bolster their playoff resume. The team will also need to rely on strong performances from their key players and hope for favorable outcomes in games involving other top-ranked teams to enhance their playoff chances.
