The BYU Cougars football team concluded their 2024 season on a high note, dominating last weekend's Valero Alamo Bowl with a decisive 36-14 victory over the Colorado Buffaloes. This game not only allowed the Cougars to finish the season with an outstanding 11-2 record, but it also reframed perceptions of their program as they made their case for inclusion in the final AP Top 10 rankings.
The standout performance came from running back LJ Martin, who tallied 93 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns. Martin opened the scoring with an impressive 1-yard rush early in the game and added another touchdown with a 9-yard run later, showcasing his ability to deliver when it mattered most.
Throughout the season, Martin was instrumental to BYU’s offense, ending the season with 695 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns. His performance against Colorado earned him the limelight, and many observers noted the buzz on social media questioning why the Cougars were not being considered for playoff contention—especially compared to teams like Alabama and South Carolina.
BYU's success can be traced back to their ability to compete at higher levels than many expected before the season started. Entering this season, there were doubts about their potential within the Power 4 Conference, but the Cougars responded by achieving nine victories against power conference opponents, setting records and proving skeptics wrong.
Analyzing the Cougars’ overall performance, assistant coach Kevin Young discussed the challenges faced particularly leading up to the Alamo Bowl. "We knew it was going to be key to maintain our energy and exploit our strengths against Colorado, who was touted for their elite talent," Young remarked. "We aimed to capitalize on any weaknesses they displayed, which is precisely what we did."
This impressive win, their first bowl game victory since 1996, has not only amplified excitement around the program but also has sparked discussions about where they might land in the final AP Poll, set to be released on January 21. Many analysts speculate BYU could achieve its first Top 10 finish since 1996, making this year’s season particularly significant.
With the majority of teams ranked directly above them having lost their bowl games, the Cougars’ upward movement seems likely. They entered the Alamo Bowl ranked 17th and, following such a commanding performance, the expectation is they could rise significantly—perhaps even reaching ninth or tenth.
Historically, BYU's football program is known for some stellar performances. They finished within the Top 10 only twice: once as No. 7 after the 1983 season and again at No. 1 after the 1984 season. The prospect of reclaiming their status among the elite teams has become more tangible with this season’s success.
Future forecasts for BYU's ranking are bolstered by the changing dynamics of college football. The expanded playoffs this year provided opportunities for perceived "lower-tier" teams to shine, and BYU made full use of this new reality. They aim to continue this momentum with aggressive recruiting and strategic development as they look toward next season.
Despite the challenges the Cougars faced throughout this season, particularly with injuries and inconsistent performances early on, they maintained grit and determination. BYU’s reputation appears poised for elevation, with expectations for their performance altering perceptions within collegiate football.
The narrative surrounding BYU’s performance aligns with observers' predictions for their upcoming season. Analysts highlight not only the Cougars' on-field success but also their off-field potential for recruiting and building on this season’s triumph. The program's ability to aggregate talent and nurture player growth will be determinants of how BYU competes moving forward.
BYU's football season was more than just wins; it became about building camaraderie and resilience on the field. Cougars fans are hopeful not only for this upcoming offseason but also for what next season holds. The stakes are higher as the Cougars aim for continued success and stability within the Big 12 Conference.
Looking to solidify their ranking and build upon this winning momentum, BYU’s coaching staff are now focused on ensuring the Cougars remain not just competitive, but dominant. With key players returning and potential new recruits swirling the rumors, Cougar Country is ready for another exciting season.
Heading forward, their ability to duplicate this year's success and capture the coveted top rankings will depend on the foundation laid by this impressive season. The atmosphere is charged with excitement about the Cougars’ next steps and the incoming football campaigns.