campfire
campfire
Brigham Young University’s (BYU) journey to the Big 12 has been a story of persistence, commitment, and belief, underscored by the unique character and traditions that define the program. For years, BYU fans, players, and coaches dreamed of competing at the highest level in college football, and joining the Big 12 was a significant leap toward that vision. Now, with the Cougars navigating their first Big 12 season and making a run at the College Football Playoff (CFP), the stories of how they reached this point resonate even louder.
Building Blocks of a Big 12 Dream
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BYU’s path to a Power Five conference was no overnight success. For nearly a decade, administrators tirelessly lobbied, leveraged connections, and explored every option to earn BYU a seat at the table of the top college football programs. BYU’s independence in football since 2011 was a major shift, one that required significant adaptability and resilience. Without a conference, scheduling became complex, and stakes were high with each game serving as an audition for inclusion in a Power Five league.
In 2021, after the departure of Texas and Oklahoma from the Big 12, BYU saw an opportunity to fill the void left by two of the league’s cornerstone programs. The Big 12 was looking for teams that could add stability, fan support, and a competitive spirit, and BYU fit the bill perfectly.
The Power of Pitches and Relationships
Securing BYU’s spot in the Big 12 involved a mix of creative pitches and strong relationships. Behind the scenes, BYU officials used everything from private dinners to impromptu presentations at hotels to make their case. They emphasized BYU’s national fan base, which is one of the largest in the country, and the program’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence and athletics. BYU’s deep-rooted values resonated with Big 12 officials looking for institutions with a strong identity and high standards of conduct.
In those critical meetings, BYU leaned into its distinct culture, a unique aspect for a university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. School officials pitched not just a football program but a culture of discipline, respect, and commitment to values that align with the Big 12’s emphasis on integrity and tradition.
The Role of Coach Kalani Sitake and Team Spirit
When Coach Kalani Sitake took over in 2016, he injected a new level of energy and excitement into the program. As a former BYU player himself, Sitake understood the culture and identity of BYU football, and his charismatic, player-focused style made him a natural fit to lead the program. His recruitment philosophy prioritized character and culture fit, ensuring that players would embrace the responsibility of representing BYU on and off the field.
Sitake has leaned heavily into BYU’s heritage, incorporating traditional storytelling and even campfire gatherings to build team unity. These events are more than just bonding moments—they allow players to connect with the program’s history and each other on a deeper level. Many players, some of whom are returned missionaries, bring unique perspectives and maturity to the team, fostering a distinct team culture that Coach Sitake has expertly harnessed.
Navigating the First Big 12 Season
Entering the Big 12 has been both a challenge and an opportunity for BYU. Facing top-tier opponents on a weekly basis demands not just skill but the ability to adapt quickly to high-stakes competition. The early-season schedule has tested BYU’s grit, and while there have been learning curves, the team’s resilience has shone through.
The fan support has been pivotal. BYU’s home games at LaVell Edwards Stadium regularly draw massive crowds, and the fan base’s intensity has traveled with the team. Visiting Big 12 stadiums filled with enthusiastic BYU supporters has bolstered the Cougars’ confidence, and this vibrant fan presence has not gone unnoticed by the Big 12 community.
BYU’s play style has also evolved to match Big 12 standards, with offensive and defensive adjustments aimed at competing with fast-paced, high-scoring teams. Coach Sitake’s emphasis on disciplined, hard-nosed football has helped BYU establish an identity that blends the best of their independent era with the new demands of the Big 12.
Eyes on the College Football Playoff
With each Big 12 victory, BYU inches closer to a legitimate shot at CFP contention. This new level of competition has shown that BYU can hold its own against some of the best programs in the country. Beyond athletic talent, the maturity and mental toughness of the players have become standout assets. BYU’s roster includes several players who, due to their missionary commitments, are older and have experienced high-pressure situations beyond the field.
The CFP conversation has been a dream for BYU fans, and now it’s a potential reality. To keep this momentum going, BYU’s players have fully embraced a “one game at a time” mentality. The challenge of proving themselves against a tough schedule and in a Power Five conference has brought out the best in the team. Each week, they see the Big 12 not as the endpoint but as the platform to reach even greater heights.
The Legacy and Impact Beyond Football
BYU’s Big 12 journey reflects the spirit of determination and community at the heart of the program. From hotel pitches to player-led storytelling sessions, the road has been as much about building a legacy as it has about winning games. This season is more than a debut; it’s a moment of validation for everyone who believed in BYU’s potential to compete on a national stage.
The impact of joining the Big 12 extends beyond the football program. It’s a source of pride for the university and its fans, especially as the Cougars set a path forward for sustained success and high-profile competition. BYU has shown that persistence, faith, and commitment to values can propel a program to the highest level of college athletics, serving as an inspiring model for other teams with similar ambitions.