In 2024, Brigham Young University (BYU) emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 Conference, showcasing a defense that ranked among the best in the league. Under the guidance of head coach Kalani Sitake and his seasoned defensive staff, BYU’s defense became a cornerstone of the team’s success, setting a high bar for the program’s future in the power-five conference. But despite the strong performance, the Cougars are not resting on their laurels. They are looking ahead, with eyes set on refining their game and pushing for even greater accomplishments in 2025.
BYU’s 2024 defense proved to be a significant step forward for the program. The team’s defensive unit consistently stifled opposing offenses, ranking near the top in key statistical categories such as total defense, rushing defense, and points allowed per game. The Cougars’ defense excelled in creating turnovers, pressuring quarterbacks, and dominating in the trenches. A mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen provided the defensive depth necessary to compete at the highest level of college football. However, as is often the case with successful programs, there is always room for improvement.
In 2025, BYU will look to build upon their 2024 success by focusing on a few key areas. One of the primary goals will be improving their pass defense, particularly in the secondary. While BYU’s defensive line and linebacker corps were solid in 2024, the secondary occasionally struggled against high-powered passing attacks from Big 12 offenses. With many of the top quarterbacks in the country playing in the conference, the Cougars know that improving their coverage schemes, communication, and ability to force turnovers will be essential to maintaining their dominance in 2025.
Another area of focus will be maintaining the defensive front’s effectiveness against both the run and pass. BYU’s defensive line was impressive in 2024, but with the high pace and varied schemes in the Big 12, it’s crucial for the defensive front to remain disciplined and adaptable. The coaching staff will likely emphasize further development in stunts, blitzing schemes, and gap integrity to keep offenses off balance. The ability to generate consistent pressure and create negative plays will remain vital for the team’s success.
The Cougars’ defensive depth is also something to be celebrated, but it is an area where continued improvement will be important in 2025. The Big 12 features a relentless slate of tough, fast offenses, and BYU will need to rotate players frequently to maintain fresh legs throughout the season. The emergence of younger players, including freshmen and sophomores, will be critical in ensuring that the defense does not miss a beat, even as they face the demanding competition.
Coach Sitake’s philosophy, which combines a balanced mix of aggressive playmaking and disciplined defense, will continue to be a driving force for the program. BYU has built its defensive identity around tough, physical football, and this will remain a hallmark of their strategy in 2025. The defensive staff’s commitment to fostering a competitive culture and developing young talent will only raise the program’s overall defensive ceiling.
Ultimately, while BYU’s defense in 2024 was among the best in the Big 12, the program’s ambition is to not only maintain that level but to improve upon it. For BYU, the journey toward greater success in 2025 will involve refining their strengths, correcting weaknesses, and continuing to evolve within the ever-challenging landscape of Big 12 football. The bar has been set high, and the Cougars are determined to exceed it.
