BYU and Utah Make History in Final AP Top 25 Football Poll
In a historic moment for collegiate football, BYU and Utah have both secured spots in the final AP Top 25 poll, marking the first time each team has finished ranked within the top 15. The 2025-26 poll was released recently, showcasing their impressive performances throughout the season.
Final Rankings of BYU and Utah
The Brigham Young University Cougars completed the season with a record of 12-2, ending up at No. 11 in the final AB Top 25 poll. This position ties with their 2020 ranking, marking the highest finish under coach Kalani Sitake.
On the other hand, the University of Utah, with an 11-2 record, finished at No. 14. This ranking reflects their continued success under coach Kyle Whittingham. Notably, this will be the last time Whittingham leads the Utes as he moves on to a position at Michigan.
Other Notable Rankings
The final poll crowned Indiana as the national champion, taking the No. 1 position. The top five is rounded out as follows:
- No. 2: Miami
- No. 3: Ole Miss
- No. 4: Oregon
- No. 5: Ohio State
Big 12 champion Texas Tech followed closely in the rankings at No. 7. Meanwhile, Houston and TCU represented the conference at No. 22 and No. 25, respectively.
Historical Significance for BYU and Utah
BYU now claims a total of 21 end-of-season rankings throughout its history, while Utah secures its 12th. Notably, former BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s Tulane team finished at No. 18, and Michigan, in its final season with Whittingham, ended at No. 21.
Interestingly, Notre Dame finished a spot ahead of BYU at No. 10 despite not participating in the College Football Playoff. The Irish declined an invitation to face BYU in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Had the rankings been reversed, it would have marked BYU’s first top-10 finish since 1996.
Looking Ahead
Both teams are already being recognized in ESPN’s early predictions for the 2026 season. BYU is positioned at No. 11, while Utah holds the No. 25 spot, indicating continued growth and competitiveness in college football.
