Analyzing Each of BYU's Football Non-Conference Games for the 2026 Season

It is a sad time without football.

After BYU having a stellar season in the Big 12 for the 2025 season, finishing 11-1 overall, 8-1 in conference play. Outstanding true freshman, Bear Bachmeier led BYU to an amazing season.

BYU also lost some important seniors. Such as, Tanner Wall (SAFETY), Chase Roberts (WIDE RECEIVER), Will Ferrin (KICKER), Sam Vander Haar (PUNT KICKER), Jack Kelly (LINEBACKER), Carsen Ryan (TIGHT END), Isaiah Jatta (OFFENSIVE LINEMAN), and Logan Lutui (DEFENSIVE END), along with many other seniors very important to the team.

What will the 2026 season look like for the BYU Cougars?

This coming season is looking a little different. Conference play starts early, with a non-conference game against Notre Dame in the middle of the season. Let's break it down.

Season Opener! BYU will start their season at home against Utah Tech on September 5th. Utah Tech finished their season 2-10 overall and 1-9 in United Athletic Conference play.

BYU will play Colorado State on September 19th at Colorado State. Colorado finished last season 2-10 overall.

BYU will play Notre Dame at home on October 17th. Notre Dame had an impressive season again after losing the National Championship the previous year to Ohio State 34-23. Notre Dame, like BYU, barely missed the CFP. They finished 10-2, and are independent, meaning they are not in a conference. Notre Dame was scheduled to play against BYU in their bowl game, but refused to. This lead to BYU and Notre Dame agreeing to a 2 year football series, with Notre Dame playing BYU away in 2026 and BYU playing at Notre Dame in 2027. This is likely to be a very good game.

Photo courtesy of BYU Athletics