Sep 19, 2026 · 1h 40m
BYU rises atop Big 12 rankings after fast start
Best of BYU Sports Nation - Week Sept 14 - Sept 18
The episode tests whether BYU’s early football success reflects sustainable execution before conference play and a demanding basketball season.
- 1BYU’s defense and ball security have powered a resilient 2-0 start despite a first road test against Colorado State.
- 2Bear Bachmeier’s development and deeper offensive contributions give the Cougars greater upside, especially through improved deep passing.
- 3BYU’s top Big 12 ranking raises the stakes for playoff positioning, while basketball and women’s soccer face tougher conference challenges.
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The hosts reveal BYU at the top of the week-three Big 12 power rankings, then debate whether the placement reflects genuine conference strength.
The brief
BYU’s 2-0 start rests on resilience against Arizona, a defense that tightened after halftime, and an offense increasingly capable of explosive plays.
Tommy Prassas, Preston Rex, and Adam Breneman frame Colorado State as a genuine road test, with pressure packages, turnovers, and line play likely to decide the matchup.
The discussion singles out Bear Bachmeier’s offseason growth, improved deep passing, and expanding cast of playmakers as signs that BYU’s offense can keep developing.
Hosts debate whether BYU’s number 11 ranking and Big 12 position leave enough playoff margin for error, especially with conference champions and Notre Dame affecting the field.
The episode closes by shifting to a difficult BYU basketball schedule, women’s soccer’s need for confidence, and a Big 12 landscape crowded with credible challengers.