Get ready for a thrilling journey as we dive into the remarkable season of BYU football! A story of near-misses, triumphs, and the power of community.
BYU's football team, the Cougars, just missed out on the prestigious College Football Playoff, but they're not done yet! With a chance to end the 2025 season on a victorious note, they're gearing up for the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando, Florida. This will be their 42nd bowl game appearance, and the team is eager to make it count.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite not making the playoffs, BYU's football program has been a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the field. In a year that marked the university's 150th anniversary, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Cougars left an indelible mark.
On the Field: A Season of Victories and Recognition
BYU's head coach, Kalani Sitake, led the team to an impressive 11 victories for the second consecutive season. This achievement didn't go unnoticed, as 20 players earned All-Big 12 recognition, according to the Deseret News. Sitake himself was named Big 12 Coach of the Year, and running back LJ Martin took home the prestigious Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year award.
Four standout players, including Martin, center Bruce Mitchell, linebacker Jack Kelly, and safety Tanner Wall, were named to the All-Big 12 First Team. Additionally, quarterback Bear Bachmeier was recognized as the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year. Before the Big 12 championship game, Sitake made a bold move, turning down a lucrative offer from Penn State and choosing to stay at BYU, signing a contract extension. A decision that speaks volumes about his commitment to the team and the university.
Off the Field: A Community of Service and Kindness
BYU fans and players have been actively giving back through the Cougs Care initiative during the 2025 football season. BYU alumni chapters organized service projects at each road game, finding ways to meet the needs of the communities they visited. President C. Shane Reese described these efforts as "a party with a purpose," reflecting BYU's mission to develop Christlike leaders who serve their communities worldwide.
One of the most remarkable service efforts took place before the Big 12 championship. BYU organized a food drive, set up Light the World Giving Machine kiosks, and even donated 36,000 pounds of food to local food banks. Additionally, they sent 4,300 gallons of BYU Creamery milk to food pantries in need. It's a heartwarming display of generosity and community spirit.
BYU football players have also been mentoring BYU-Pathway students worldwide, a project that began in 2024. President Brian K. Ashton of BYU-Pathway Worldwide praised the partnership, calling it "amazing" and highlighting its impact in far-flung places.
Beyond these service projects, BYU has unique ways of welcoming visitors. Their band plays the opposing team's fight song, BYUtv showcases charitable efforts of opponent schools, and they practice "ice cream diplomacy," distributing creamy treats to visiting fans. Michael Johanson, executive director of the BYU Alumni Association, explained, "It's an opportunity to share goodness and kindness."
In a heartwarming gesture, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles handed out 4,000 half pints of ice cream to opposing fans at a home game, fostering a spirit of unity and goodwill.
The Power of Returned Missionaries
BYU's roster boasts an impressive number of returned missionaries. According to BYUCougars.com, 56 players served missions in 22 different countries, speaking 10 languages. Six of BYU's coaches, including Sitake, have also served missions. Currently, 10 players who signed with BYU are serving missions, and each week during the season, a returned missionary player shares an inspiring message about missionary work on social media.
Andrew Gentry, BYU's starting right tackle who served in the Utah Orem Mission, wrote, "Of all the preparation I did to play college football, nothing prepared me better than my mission." Safety Raider Damuni, who served in the California Oakland Mission, echoed this sentiment, calling his mission "the greatest experience of my life."
A Season to Remember
BYU's 2025 football season is a testament to the power of sports, community, and service. While they may have missed out on the College Football Playoff, their impact extends far beyond the field. As they prepare for the Pop-Tarts Bowl, the Cougars have a chance to end the season on a high note, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and kindness.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the wins and losses; it's about the values and the community that BYU football represents. A true testament to the power of sports in bringing people together.
What do you think? Is BYU's football program a shining example of sportsmanship and community engagement? Share your thoughts in the comments!
