2024 Among BYU’s Greatest Seasons
BYU football is one of the sport’s most storied programs. Where does 2024 rank among its best seasons? It belongs near the top.
The all-time greatest BYU season is undoubtedly 1984. That year, the Cougars went undefeated at 13-0, capped by a win over Michigan in the Holiday Bowl to claim their only national championship. It remains the last time a non-Power Five team has won the title.
After 1984, the debate opens up. BYU has had five one-loss seasons since 1933, with 1996 standing out due to its 14-1 record and Cotton Bowl victory. Other notable seasons include 1979, 1980, and 1983, each featuring one-loss teams. The 2001 team won 12 games, a feat achieved only four times. In 2020, BYU finished 11-1 amid the pandemic.
This year, BYU’s Alamo Bowl win over Colorado capped an 11-2 record, marking the 13th season in program history with at least 11 wins. Despite two losses, the 2024 team deserves a spot on BYU’s “Mount Rushmore” of seasons.
Toughest Schedule Yet
As a Power Five team, BYU faced one of its hardest schedules ever, playing 11 Power Five opponents and winning nine of those matchups. This was the most Power Five wins in school history. By College Football Reference, it was BYU’s ninth-toughest schedule since 1923.
By comparison, the 1984 team played only three Power Five-level teams (Pitt, Baylor, and Michigan), and the 1996 team faced just three as well. The 2024 Cougars nearly quadrupled that.
Quality Wins
The Cougars didn’t just play tough opponents; they beat them. BYU earned a statement win over SMU, which finished the regular season 11-1 and reached the College Football Playoff. Additionally, BYU defeated Baylor and Kansas State, both with at least eight wins, and earned a ranked victory in the Alamo Bowl over No. 20 Colorado.
In contrast, the 1984 team only defeated one ranked opponent (No. 3 Pitt), while the 1996 team beat three, though some had disappointing final records.
Defying Expectations
Most great BYU teams entered seasons with high expectations, but not in 2024. The Cougars were picked 13th in the Big 12 preseason poll, and Vegas set their win total at just 4.5. Many doubted BYU would even qualify for a bowl.
Under head coach Kalani Sitake, BYU exceeded every prediction. They turned outside skepticism into motivation, nearly tripling their expected win total and contending for the Big 12 title.
Championship Contention
BYU remained in the hunt for the Big 12 Championship and a College Football Playoff spot until late in the season. A narrow loss to Arizona State and a slip-up against Kansas ultimately cost them, but their overall résumé was among the nation’s best, with ESPN ranking them No. 7 in Strength of Record.
Strong Finish
BYU has sometimes faltered in bowl games, but not in 2024. After a midseason stumble, they closed with a dominant Alamo Bowl victory over a Colorado team led by Heisman winner Travis Hunter and star QB Shedeur Sanders. BYU’s defense stifled Colorado in a 36-14 win, making it one of the most impressive bowl performances in school history.
Special Teams Excellence
BYU’s 2024 special teams were unmatched. Kicker Will Ferrin set a school record with 24 field goals, including a game-winner against Utah. The Cougars also recorded five return touchdowns, earning Keelan Marion First Team All-America honors for his kickoff returns.
Defensive Revival
Jay Hill revitalized BYU’s defense, which ranked top 20 nationally in scoring, total yards, passing yards, and takeaways. Their 22 interceptions led the country.
Historic Bowl Performance
The Alamo Bowl, one of the Big 12’s top bowl games, featured a marquee opponent in Colorado. BYU’s emphatic win showcased their talent and cemented their season as one of the program’s best.
Ranking the 2024 Team
While 1984 and 1996 remain BYU’s top seasons, 2024 deserves a place in the top four. With its grueling schedule, standout moments on special teams, and a dominant bowl win, the 2024 Cougars left an indelible mark on BYU football history.