Nick Saban Calls BYU the Big 12's Most Impressive Team
BYU is 3-0 and ranked No. 10 in the AP Poll, the highest-ranked team in the Big 12. Nick Saban said the Cougars have impressed him most in the conference, pointing to quarterback Bear Bachmeier's improved passing and the team's strong running game. BYU plays at TCU on Saturday.
BYU enters its TCU matchup at 3-0 and No. 10 in the AP Poll, making it the Big 12’s top-ranked team. The conference has five schools in the AP top 20: BYU, Texas Tech, Utah, Oklahoma State and Houston.
Nick Saban praised the Cougars on Friday, citing Bear Bachmeier’s improved passing efficiency, his running ability, BYU’s ground game and a physical defense. Last year, Bachmeier, then a freshman, helped BYU win 12 games and later showed dropback promise. TCU has surrendered over 20 points in only one game, a 21-13 defeat at UCF.
Saban’s praise could elevate BYU’s national profile and draw more casual viewers to its game at TCU. That attention may benefit fans, students, alumni and local businesses around game-day communities through increased media coverage, travel and merchandise interest. It might also shape how recruits and commentators view the Big 12 race, though one coach’s opinion cannot determine results. For BYU supporters, the comments may raise expectations and make each conference matchup feel more consequential.