For the 18th time in program history, BYU finds itself listed in the College Football Playoff rankings.

The Cougars checked in at No. 7 in the initial rankings for 2025, which were released Tuesday night on ESPN.

It’s the highest position BYU has ever held in the initial rankings, beating last year’s opening spot of No. 9. The program’s highest-ever ranking was No. 6, which was achieved after starting 9-0 in 2024.

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If the current rankings were final, the Cougars would host No. 10 Notre Dame in Provo for the first round of the Playoff.

Right behind BYU at No. 8 is fellow Big 12 foe Texas Tech, who also happens to be the Cougars’ op

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