The 2024 BYU Cougars football team concluded a remarkable season with an 11-2 record, highlighted by a dominant 36-14 victory over Colorado in the Alamo Bowl.
This impressive performance led to numerous postseason accolades for both players and coaches, reflecting the team’s excellence across various facets of the game.
Big 12 Conference Honors
Thirteen BYU players received All-Big 12 recognition, underscoring the team’s depth and talent. Notably, kicker Will Ferrin was named Co-Special Teams Player of the Year, sharing the honor with Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel. Ferrin’s consistency was evident as he converted 21 of 24 field goal attempts and remained perfect on all 38 extra-point tries. His season highlights included a game-winning 44-yard field goal against Utah and a career-long 54-yarder at Baylor.
On the defensive side, senior defensive lineman Tyler Batty earned First Team All-Big 12 honors. Batty’s leadership and relentless pursuit of opposing quarterbacks were instrumental in anchoring BYU’s defensive line. Additionally, offensive lineman Caleb Etienne was named to the First Team Offense, showcasing his pivotal role in protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes.
Defensive back Jakob Robinson secured a spot on the Second Team Defense, reflecting his prowess in the secondary. Special teams standout Keelan Marion was recognized as a Second Team Return Specialist, highlighting his impact in the return game. Kicker Gino Garcia also earned Second Team honors, contributing significantly to BYU’s special teams success.
Statistical Leaders
Quarterback Jake Retzlaff led the Cougars’ offense with 2,947 passing yards, narrowly missing the 3,000-yard milestone. His performance ranks third in passing yards during the Kalani Sitake era, following Zach Wilson and Jaren Hall. Retzlaff also contributed 417 rushing yards, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
Sophomore running back LJ Martin spearheaded the ground attack, amassing 723 rushing yards and nine total touchdowns (seven rushing, two receiving). Despite missing three games due to injury, Martin’s efforts were crucial in maintaining offensive balance.
Wide receiver Chase Roberts led the receiving corps with 52 receptions for 854 yards and four touchdowns. His consistent playmaking ability provided a reliable target for Retzlaff throughout the season.
Defensively, linebacker Isaiah Glasker topped the tackle chart with 70 total tackles, including 14.5 tackles for loss, leading the Big 12 in that category. His versatility was further demonstrated by three interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown against Arizona. Linebacker Jack Kelly led the team with five sacks, bolstering the pass rush. The Cougars’ secondary was formidable, with Jakob Robinson, Tanner Wall, and Glasker each recording three interceptions, contributing to BYU’s nation-leading total of 22 picks.
National Recognition
BYU’s success extended beyond conference honors, with several players receiving national attention. The Associated Press included four Cougars in its All-Big 12 selections, reflecting the team’s prominence on a larger stage.
Team Achievements
The Cougars’ 11-win season exceeded preseason expectations, where they were projected to finish 13th in the Big 12. Their Alamo Bowl victory over Colorado not only capped off a successful season but also positioned them for a potential top-15 ranking in the final AP poll. This achievement marks a significant milestone in BYU’s football history, showcasing the program’s growth and competitiveness on the national stage.
In summary, the 2024 season was a testament to BYU’s resilience, talent, and strategic execution. The numerous individual accolades and team accomplishments reflect a program on the rise, poised for continued success in the coming years.
