Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars football is one of the most storied college football programs in the United States, combining a rich history, passionate fanbase, and a legacy of success on the gridiron. Over the decades, the BYU Cougars have become synonymous with excellence, innovation, and leadership under both legendary and modern coaches. Their contribution to college football includes Heisman Trophy winners, national championships, and a football philosophy that emphasizes high-octane offensive play and a commitment to faith and education. This in-depth article explores the history of BYU Cougars football, its key moments, coaching legends, standout players, and the program’s bright future.
The Early Years: Laying the Foundation (1922–1971)
BYU football traces its origins back to 1922 when the team was first established under coach Alvin Twitchell. Initially, the program experienced modest success, with the team competing in regional contests and local conferences. The early years were marked by struggles typical of a fledgling football program. It wasn’t until BYU joined the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) in 1962 that the foundation for future success began to be laid.
Early Struggles and Building Momentum
In its early decades, BYU football faced many challenges, both on the field and in recruiting players. As a religiously affiliated university—owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)—BYU had to attract players who were willing to adhere to its strict Honor Code, which requires students to uphold standards of behavior including abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and premarital sex.
Despite these challenges, the Cougars began to gain regional attention under coach Eddie Kimball in the 1930s and ’40s. However, it wasn’t until the arrival of coach Tommy Hudspeth in 1964 that the program started showing consistent improvements. Hudspeth’s leadership and the hiring of forward-thinking assistants helped lay the groundwork for the golden era of BYU football.
Joining the Western Athletic Conference (WAC)
The Cougars became a member of the WAC in 1962, joining a league that featured several competitive teams from the western United States. This shift in conference affiliation marked a turning point in BYU football, placing the program in a more competitive arena. Although the team initially struggled to find consistent success in the WAC, the move provided valuable experience and exposure.
The LaVell Edwards Era: Revolutionizing College Football (1972–2000)
No discussion of BYU Cougars football is complete without recognizing the transformative impact of coach LaVell Edwards, who took the helm in 1972. Edwards’ leadership revolutionized not only BYU football but also the broader landscape of college football. His offensive strategies, coupled with his calm demeanor and leadership, helped elevate BYU to national prominence.
LaVell Edwards: The Architect of BYU’s Success
LaVell Edwards, an assistant coach with a defensive background, was promoted to head coach in 1972, and his innovative vision of football quickly changed the trajectory of the program. Edwards favored an aggressive passing offense at a time when most college football teams relied on a run-heavy strategy. He introduced a pro-style, pass-first offense that was designed to spread defenses thin and exploit mismatches in the secondary.
This strategy not only made BYU football exciting to watch but also set the stage for record-breaking quarterbacks and high-scoring games. Edwards’ influence on college football is immeasurable, as his offensive philosophy was ahead of its time and later adopted by other programs across the nation.
The Rise of the Quarterback Factory
One of the hallmarks of BYU football under LaVell Edwards was its development of elite quarterbacks. BYU became known as the “Quarterback Factory,” consistently producing NFL-caliber talent. Some of the most iconic names in college football history, including Heisman Trophy winner Ty Detmer, NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young, and All-Pro quarterback Jim McMahon, honed their skills at BYU under Edwards’ guidance.
Jim McMahon
One of the most colorful and talented quarterbacks to play for BYU, Jim McMahon broke multiple NCAA records during his time with the Cougars. Known for his brash personality and on-field toughness, McMahon led BYU to its first bowl victory in 1980 when the team defeated SMU in the Holiday Bowl. McMahon’s ability to air the ball out in Edwards’ pass-heavy system made him a standout player, and he went on to enjoy a successful career in the NFL, most notably with the Chicago Bears, where he won Super Bowl XX.
Steve Young
Steve Young, one of the most legendary quarterbacks in BYU history, took the reins of the BYU offense in the early 1980s. Young’s dual-threat ability as both a passer and a runner made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. After his illustrious college career, Young enjoyed a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, leading the San Francisco 49ers to multiple Super Bowl championships and being named the Super Bowl XXIX MVP.
Ty Detmer
In 1990, Ty Detmer brought home the Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious award in college football, solidifying BYU’s reputation as a quarterback powerhouse. Detmer set numerous NCAA records, including career passing yards, and led BYU to significant victories during his tenure. Detmer’s Heisman win was a watershed moment for the program, bringing national attention and further cementing the legacy of LaVell Edwards’ offense.
1984 National Championship: A Season to Remember
The pinnacle of BYU football’s success under LaVell Edwards came in 1984 when the Cougars captured the national championship. That season, BYU went undefeated, finishing with a perfect 13-0 record. Led by quarterback Robbie Bosco, the Cougars capped off the season with a victory over Michigan in the Holiday Bowl, earning BYU its first and only national title.
BYU’s 1984 championship is a point of pride for the program, marking it as one of the elite college football teams of the era. The Cougars’ triumph was notable not only because they were a non-traditional powerhouse but also because they were able to compete at the highest level despite the program’s unique challenges, such as adhering to strict academic and moral standards.
The Post-LaVell Edwards Era: Adapting to a Changing Landscape (2001–2015)
After LaVell Edwards retired in 2000, BYU football entered a period of transition. Maintaining the high standards set by Edwards was no easy task, and the Cougars faced challenges in a rapidly evolving college football landscape. However, the program continued to strive for success, experiencing ups and downs while remaining competitive on the national stage.
The Gary Crowton Years (2001–2004)
Following Edwards’ retirement, Gary Crowton was named head coach of the Cougars. Crowton’s tenure started with promise as BYU posted a 12-2 record in 2001 and earned a berth in the Liberty Bowl. However, the program struggled in the following years, leading to Crowton’s departure after the 2004 season.
Bronco Mendenhall Era (2005–2015)
In 2005, Bronco Mendenhall took over as head coach, bringing a new sense of discipline and a renewed commitment to defense. Mendenhall’s tenure is widely regarded as a period of stabilization and resurgence for BYU football. Under his leadership, the Cougars consistently ranked among the nation’s top programs and made frequent bowl appearances.
Consistent Success and Bowl Appearances
During Mendenhall’s time at the helm, BYU became a regular participant in postseason play. The team won multiple bowl games and had several 10-win seasons, establishing itself as a consistent competitor in the Mountain West Conference (MWC) and, later, as an independent team. Mendenhall’s emphasis on discipline, defense, and player development helped maintain BYU’s reputation as a respected program.
Going Independent
One of the most significant developments during Mendenhall’s tenure was BYU Cougars Football decision to leave the Mountain West Conference and become an independent football program in 2011. The move was motivated by several factors, including the desire for greater national exposure, scheduling flexibility, and the ability to negotiate more lucrative television contracts.
Independence allowed BYU to schedule high-profile opponents from across the country and create a unique identity outside of a conference structure. However, it also came with challenges, such as the lack of a guaranteed path to a major bowl game or conference championship.
Recent Years: Kalani Sitake and the Future of BYU Football (2016–Present)
In 2016, Kalani Sitake, a former BYU Cougars Football and defensive coordinator, was named head coach of the Cougars. Sitake’s appointment marked the beginning of a new era for BYU football, characterized by a focus on rebuilding, recruiting, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of college athletics.
Kalani Sitake’s Vision and Leadership
Sitake brought a fresh perspective to the program, emphasizing a family-oriented culture and a renewed commitment to physicality and toughness on the field. His approach has resonated with players, fans, and recruits alike, helping BYU remain competitive in an increasingly difficult college football environment.
Under Sitake’s leadership, the Cougars have achieved several notable victories, including wins over traditional powerhouse programs like Wisconsin and USC. Sitake’s ability to connect with players and his strategic acumen have positioned BYU as a team to watch in the coming years.
Zach Wilson and the 2020 Breakout Season
One of the defining moments of the Sitake era came during the 2020 season when quarterback Zach Wilson led BYU to an impressive 11-1 record. Wilson’s stellar play, characterized by his ability to make BYU Cougars Football
