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Coming into the 2024 football season, BYU was only projected to win a measly four games, but across all units, the Cougars rose above expectations, having their best season in 15 years.
These three aspects of BYU football surprised everybody last season, and if they can replicate them in 2025, another special season may be in store
BYU has never been a team known for its stellar special teams play, but in 2024 the Cougars were possibly the best special teams unit in the country.
In total, the Cougars returned two kickoffs for touchdowns, two punts for touchdowns, led the Big 12 in field goals made, and converted on two fake field goals.
You have to go back to 2014 to see the last time when a BYU kick returner found the end zone. Keelan Marion did it twice in 2024, most notably against Utah in a close rivalry win. Had Marion not scored in Salt Lake City, BYU might have lost to its rival.
The last punt return touchdown for BYU was in 2013, but Parker Kingston broke that drought with two touchdowns in 2024. Against Kansas State, Kingston scrambled for a total of 137 yards for his epic highlight that landed him on the SportsCenter To
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Both Chase Roberts and Darius Lassiter had excellent seasons, tallying over 40 receptions, 700 yards, and four receiving touchdowns each. Having two elite receivers was a massive benefit for quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who had a breakout season.
However, with Darius Lassiter out of eligibility, BYU will need to fill the hole with either someone from the existing receiving room, or in the transfer portal.
Keelan Marion is an established veteran who may be able to fill in, but can he really get 20 more receptions and 350 more yards? Marion is an effective playmaker, making his mark as a receiver, returner, and rusher, but he might be most effective for BYU in his current role.
Young standouts JoJo Phillips and Parker Kingston had moments of excellence, but will need to have major improvements in the offseason if they want to take over the Lassiter slot.
