BREAKING NEWS: BYU Football Former Coach Bronco Mendenhall Explains Why the BYU Cougars Won’t Win the Division Title if Nothing Is Done About This
Provo, Utah – December 13, 2024
In a stunning revelation that has sent ripples through the BYU football community, former head coach Bronco Mendenhall has publicly explained why he believes the Cougars will not win their division title unless significant changes are made. Mendenhall, who led the team from 2005 to 2015, took to social media and made a series of pointed comments regarding the team’s current performance, providing insight into what he believes is holding BYU back from reaching its full potential.
“The talent is there, but it’s not enough,” Mendenhall said in an exclusive interview with a local sports network. “I see a team that’s capable of competing at the highest level, but there’s one glaring issue that has to be addressed if they want to have a shot at the division title – and frankly, the coaching staff knows exactly what needs to change. If nothing is done, they won’t make it.”
Mendenhall’s comments come at a time when BYU, currently a member of the Big 12 Conference, is on the cusp of a critical season. After a promising start to the 2024 campaign, the Cougars have struggled to maintain consistency, dropping key games that have hindered their chances of competing for the division crown. Though the Cougars boast a talented roster, Mendenhall’s perspective sheds light on some deeper issues that could prevent the team from achieving its ultimate goals.
“First and foremost, there’s a need for a more aggressive and unpredictable offensive scheme,” Mendenhall explained. “They can’t afford to keep relying on the same offensive playbook, especially in the Big 12, where defenses are fast, physical, and relentless. BYU needs to mix things up, create more mismatches, and trust in the talent they have to make big plays. It’s not just about running the ball between the tackles or relying solely on the quarterback to make plays with his arm; they have to take more risks.”
Mendenhall went on to say that the Cougars have also failed to establish a consistent rhythm on defense, particularly in terms of creating turnovers. “Defensive schemes need to be more opportunistic. BYU has been good at stopping the run, but they’re not creating enough turnovers or making the kind of disruptive plays that change games,” he added. “That’s the difference between a good team and a championship-caliber team in this conference.”
While Mendenhall’s analysis may be tough to hear for current players and coaches, it’s hard to argue with the success he had during his tenure at BYU. Under his leadership, the Cougars achieved consistent bowl eligibility, developed an identity as a tough, disciplined team, and made major strides in national recognition. Mendenhall’s ability to develop players and adjust his strategy to exploit weaknesses in opposing teams was a key reason for his success, and it’s clear he believes BYU needs a similar approach today.
Despite the challenges facing the current program, Mendenhall remains optimistic about the future. “BYU has the resources, the talent, and the fan support to be a legitimate force in the Big 12,” he said. “But if they don’t adjust their approach, they will continue to fall short when it matters most.”
While the BYU coaching staff, led by head coach Kalani Sitake, has not officially commented on Mendenhall’s assessment, the former coach’s words have certainly raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. The pressure is on for Sitake and his staff to implement necessary changes, especially as the Cougars look to navigate the increasingly competitive Big 12 Conference in the coming years.
As the Cougars prepare for the 2025 season, one thing is certain – the spotlight is on the coaching staff to make the adjustments that could turn the tide and put BYU back in contention for the division title. Time will tell if Mendenhall’s warnings will be heeded, but BYU fans are hoping that the team’s next chapter is one of championship success.
Stay tuned for more updates on BYU football as the Cougars work to turn things around for the future.
