With fall just around the corner, excitement is building in Provo as the BYU Cougars gear up for what promises to be another compelling football season. Fall camp kicks off next week, and while last year’s impressive 11-2 finish left fans energized, this year’s squad faces more questions than answers. From the quarterback battle to the uncertainties on both sides of the ball, 2025 has all the makings of a pivotal season.
Despite the unknowns, that hasn’t stopped speculation. Drawing inspiration from colleague Brogan Houston, who recently took a shot at predicting outcomes for Utah’s new NHL team, it seemed fitting to turn the lens on BYU football and make a few daring forecasts of my own.
Before diving in, let’s be clear: these aren’t safe or conservative takes. These are bold predictions—meant to spark conversation, stir debate, and, most importantly, make the rollercoaster of college football even more fun. Whether any of these forecasts come true remains to be seen. But even if they don’t, there’s joy in the journey of looking ahead.
Let’s get into it.
1. A Quarterback Emerges as a National Star
One of the most pressing issues heading into fall camp is who will emerge as BYU’s starting quarterback. After years of high-caliber quarterback play, from Zach Wilson to Jaren Hall, and the recent success of Kedon Slovis, the Cougars are once again searching for their next signal-caller.
The prediction? Whoever wins the job won’t just steer the offense—they’ll become a national breakout star.
The quarterback competition has stirred a lot of discussion, with several promising contenders vying for the position. Though unproven, the talent pool is rich. The offensive scheme under offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick allows for high production and exposure, especially in big-game scenarios.
With several high-profile matchups on the schedule and a strong supporting cast, including a group of versatile receivers and experienced linemen, the stage is set for a Cougar quarterback to rise to prominence on the national stage. Think All-Big 12 recognition, Heisman buzz, or at least NFL Draft chatter by season’s end.
2. BYU Will Beat a Top-10 Opponent
Let’s raise the stakes even more.
In 2025, BYU will take down one of the nation’s elite—an opponent ranked in the top 10 when the game is played.
This may sound far-fetched, but BYU has built a reputation as a giant-slayer in recent years. Wins over storied programs such as USC, Wisconsin, and Tennessee have proven the Cougars can compete with and beat college football’s best.
In the Big 12, the opportunities will be there. With schools like Texas, Oklahoma State, and others regularly cracking the top of the rankings, BYU will almost certainly face a handful of top-tier teams. The prediction is that Kalani Sitake’s squad will step up and knock off at least one of them—perhaps even in a dramatic, last-minute fashion.
It won’t be easy, but if the Cougars continue to play disciplined football and execute their game plans effectively, an upset win over a major contender could be one of the defining moments of the season.
3. The Defense Will Finish Top 25 Nationally
Last season’s defense had its ups and downs, particularly against the run and in generating pressure. However, 2025 is shaping up to be different. There’s a renewed sense of urgency within the defensive unit, and this year’s group has the tools to make a serious leap.
The bold claim here: BYU’s defense will finish in the top 25 in the nation in total defense.
New additions via the transfer portal, internal development, and a retooled defensive strategy are all factors working in BYU’s favor. Defensive coordinator Jay Hill has a reputation for developing aggressive, disciplined defenses, and now with more time to implement his system, fans should expect a noticeable improvement.
Watch for big performances from emerging stars on the defensive line and secondary. If the front seven can consistently disrupt opposing offenses and the secondary can force turnovers, BYU will be in position to win games through defense—a refreshing change from recent years.
4. BYU Will Win 10+ Games Again
Following up an 11-win season is no small task, particularly with a more challenging Big 12 schedule and the loss of key players on both sides of the ball. Nevertheless, this prediction looks past the hurdles and bets on the foundation Kalani Sitake has built.
The Cougars are predicted to reach double-digit wins for the second year in a row.
Consistency and culture are at the heart of this projection. Sitake’s leadership has brought BYU into a new era of football, and despite some changes in personnel, the team retains enough experience and talent to stay competitive. The offensive and defensive lines are solid, the coaching staff is cohesive, and the program’s overall momentum is trending upward.
Key wins—especially early in the season—could spark another impressive run. Even if BYU stumbles once or twice in tough road games, expect this team to rally, refocus, and come away with another successful campaign.
5. Kalani Sitake Becomes a Finalist for National Coach of the Year
For this final prediction, let’s go big.
Assuming some or all of the earlier predictions come true—an emerging star at quarterback, a signature upset, a top-ranked defense, and a 10+ win season—Kalani Sitake will finally get the national recognition he deserves.
Sitake is predicted to be a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award in 2025.
Sitake has been the steady hand guiding BYU through conference realignment, quarterback transitions, and the jump to the Power Five. He’s built a program grounded in toughness, unity, and accountability. If the Cougars achieve national relevance again this season, Sitake’s leadership will be the driving force, and award voters won’t be able to ignore his impact.
Beyond awards, it would be a huge step for the BYU brand—elevating the program’s visibility and potentially helping in recruiting and national media coverage going forward.
Final Thoughts
While predictions are inherently risky—and bold ones even more so—there’s no denying the potential this 2025 BYU team holds. With an intriguing blend of youth and experience, an evolving defense, and several statement games on the schedule, the season could be a special one in Provo.
Of course, these five predictions may not all come to fruition. But even if one or two do, Cougar fans will have reason to celebrate another milestone in the ongoing evolution of BYU football.
Let the games begin.
