BYU Football Opens 2026 Season Against Utah Tech
No. 14-ranked BYU hosts Utah Tech on Saturday to open its 2026 season, entering as a more-than-51-point favorite.
Game Basics
No. 14 BYU opens its 2026 season on Saturday at 6 p.m. MT against Utah Tech at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, according to BYU Athletics. The game will stream on ESPN+ and air on radio via 102.7 FM/1160 AM, per Deseret News. Ahead of kickoff, BYU released interviews with head coach Kalani Sitake, running back LJ Martin, quarterback Bear Bachmeier and defensive lineman Justin Kirkland.
Offensive Line Rebuild
After losing three starting offensive linemen, line coach TJ Woods added transfers Paki Finau (Washington), Zak Yamauchi (Stanford) and Jr Sia (Utah State), while retaining veteran Andrew Gentry and guards Sonny Makasini and Kyle Sfarcioc, Deseret News reports. Center Bruce Mitchell — named to several preseason All-America lists and the consensus Big 12 preseason first-team center — described the line's personality as "selfless, unified and fun" off the field but serious during games. Last season the unit allowed a sack on just 4% of pass attempts.
Running Backs and Predictions
Behind the rebuilt line, BYU features LJ Martin, the Big 12's leading rusher last season, along with a healthy Sione Moa — viewed by many as an NFL-caliber back, per Deseret News — plus reserves Preston Rex, Journee Tonga and freshman Devon Eka. BYU enters as a favorite by more than 51 points, and Deseret News projects a 58-3 final score. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick said the team will prepare for Utah Tech the same way it approaches every opponent. Separately, Yahoo Sports' preseason conference rankings placed the Big 12 among the top conferences and listed BYU among the contenders for the national title, though the outlet's report did not include specific figures.
