BYU and Utah's Shocking Rankings Revealed: Are They Set for a Fall or Rise in 2023?

The upcoming college football season brings elevated expectations for the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes, both of whom finished the 2025 season ranked in the top 15 of the Associated Press Top 25. With impressive rosters and revamped coaching staffs, both teams are poised for strong performances in the upcoming year.

BYU concluded the 2025 season with a remarkable 12-2 record, reaching the Big 12 championship game for the first time and ultimately finishing at No. 11 in the final AP rankings. The Cougars retained head coach Kalani Sitake, which was a significant win for the program, especially since he declined an offer from Penn State to remain at his alma mater. Following some offseason coaching changes, including assistants moving to Michigan, BYU is projected to be a formidable contender in the Big 12 again.

In contrast, the Utes wrapped up their season at 11-2, securing a victory in the Las Vegas Bowl and finishing at No. 15. However, they have faced greater challenges during the offseason. Coach Kyle Whittingham resigned and accepted a position at Michigan, taking several assistants and players with him. Now, first-year head coach Morgan Scalley faces the task of building a new foundation for the Utes while retaining key talent, such as quarterback Devon Dampier.

As national media outlets release their way-too-early top 25 rankings, both teams find themselves with notable placements. According to CBS Sports, BYU is ranked No. 17, with analysts highlighting the potential impact of losing three top receivers from last season. Despite this, quarterback Bear Bachmeier is expected to step up after a breakout year. For Utah, they are ranked No. 24, facing a transitional period as Scalley aims to maintain the physicality previously instilled by Whittingham.

Early Rankings Overview

In USA Today's rankings, BYU is positioned at No. 14, with analysts noting that the Cougars will benefit from home games against both Arizona schools and the absence of Texas Tech from their schedule. The team boasts a solid offensive lineup, including contributions from running back LJ Martin and a new defensive coordinator to enhance an experienced unit. Meanwhile, Utah is ranked No. 19, with enough foundational talent left to remain competitive in the Big 12, even after Whittingham's unexpected departure.

ESPN rated BYU even higher at No. 12, emphasizing the Cougars’ success in securing Sitake. With a solid roster featuring key players like Bachmeier and Martin, they are looking to build on their recent achievements. Utah, on the other hand, is listed at No. 18, with Scalley needing to manage significant shifts in the coaching staff and player roster while keeping the program's competitive edge alive.

Other Big 12 teams also received recognition in these early rankings. Texas Tech, after some concerning news regarding quarterback Brendan Sorsby's personal struggles, was placed at No. 11 by CBS Sports but dropped to No. 15 by USA Today. With a favorable early-season schedule and a solid recruiting class, they remain a team to watch, despite the setbacks. Houston also entered the conversation, ranked No. 23 in USA Today, following a 10-3 season and ongoing positive trajectory under head coach Willie Fritz.

As the season draws closer, both BYU and Utah will need to leverage their talent and adapt to the changes within their programs. For fans, the excitement is palpable—these teams have the potential not just to compete, but to thrive in a rapidly changing college football landscape. As both sets of Cougars and Utes prepare for what lies ahead, their journeys will undoubtedly capture the attention of college football enthusiasts across the nation.