The Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars brought their football season to a spectacular close with an 11-2 record, clinching their place as one of the top stories of college football for 2024. After being projected to finish near the bottom of the Big 12 Conference, BYU defied expectations by claiming the Alamo Bowl title against the Colorado Buffaloes, finishing the game with a decisive 36-14 victory.
Leading up to this triumph, the Cougars displayed remarkable resilience and talent throughout the season. The celebratory mood surrounding the team wasn't just about the win; it marked the culmination of hard work and dedication. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff threw for 151 yards during the bowl game, wrapping up his year with impressive stats totalled over the entire season, including nearly reaching 3,000 yards passing.
Among the highlights, the standout performances of several players drew attention during the review of the season. Retzlaff’s overall passing yards stood at 2,947, making him the third-highest passer during the Kalani Sitake era, trailing only former quarterbacks Zach Wilson and Jaren Hall. Meanwhile, running back LJ Martin shone brightly with his 723 rushing yards, solidifying his role as the primary ball carrier, especially after returning from injuries, which had limited his play early on.
Chase Roberts also contributed significantly, leading the team with 854 receiving yards and demonstrating his reliability by recording 52 receptions—despite enduring injuries later in the season. Together, these athletes, with their impressive performance statistics, exemplified the depth and determination of BYU football.
Will Ferrin emerged as remarkable as well, not just as the team's leading scorer, but also making history as the second player under Sitake’s regime to surpass 100 points scored within the same season. He finished with 113 total points, making 24 of 27 field goals and maintaining perfection on extra points.
Defensively, linebacker Isaiah Glasker led the team with 70 tackles, showcasing his ability to step up when it mattered most. His exceptional performance extended to making significant plays, as he also contributed toward the team’s national-leading total of 22 interceptions. Glasker’s presence on the field has bolstered team defense with his tactical prowess and capability to stop the plays.
The incredible success of the BYU football program this season cannot be underscored solely by the recognition of individuals; it also stemmed from cohesive teamwork. The Cougars outperformed expectations by not only winning 11 games but also creating memorable moments, such as successfully competing against ranked teams.
From the Alamo Bowl victory to integrating new talents, BYU faced challenges admirably and emerged stronger, demonstrating the growth and evolution of their program. The excitement of the season left fans eagerly anticipating what’s next.
With many key players such as Retzlaff, Martin, and Roberts expected to return next year, expectations are high as the team gears up for what could be another promising season. The glimpses of teamwork and collective effort exuded by athletes during 2024 signal potential for even greater achievements.
Reflecting on the season, Retzlaff’s and other players' contributions might serve as cornerstones for the upcoming three seasons, setting the foundation for what BYU can accomplish moving forward. With lessons learned and successes celebrated, the team will advance with confidence to tackle the next challenges
BYU's remarkable 2024 campaign demonstrated not only the capabilities of the players but also the promise carried by the program itself. It is safe to say the chapter of 2024 will be remembered as one of the defining seasons not just for the Cougars but also the Big 12, as they look to make noise on the national stage.