Celebrating a Century of Cougar Gridiron Glory: BYU's Top 100 Football Moments

As the Brigham Young University Cougars prepare to embark on their 100th season of football in 2024, it's the perfect time to reflect on the program's rich history and the most iconic moments that have defined its legacy. From championship triumphs to record-breaking performances, the Cougars have etched their name in the annals of college football lore. Join us as we delve into the top 100 games that have shaped the BYU football experience, showcasing the grit, determination, and sheer brilliance that have made this program a true powerhouse in the western United States.

Reliving the Cougar Conquest: A Century of Unforgettable Moments

Signature Wins Over Powerhouse Programs

BYU's football program has long been synonymous with its ability to punch above its weight, taking down some of the most formidable opponents in the nation. One such victory came in 1979, when the Cougars faced off against the 14th-ranked Texas A&M Aggies. Led by the innovative coaching of LaVell Edwards, BYU's high-powered offense proved too much for the Aggies, as they capitalized on four lost fumbles to secure an 18-17 triumph. This landmark win not only solidified the Cougars' status as a force to be reckoned with, but it also set the stage for their continued success against power conference foes.In 1992, BYU once again demonstrated its ability to topple a ranked opponent, this time in the form of the 14th-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions. Traveling to Provo, the Cougars put on a dominant display, leading 30-3 at one point and ultimately prevailing 30-17. Kalin Hall's 117-yard rushing performance and Ryan Hancock's three touchdown passes were the driving forces behind this emphatic victory over a storied Big Ten program.

Conquering the Continent Down Under

While BYU's football prowess is often showcased on the national stage, the Cougars have also made their mark on the international scene. In 1987, they embarked on a unique journey, traveling over 8,500 miles to Melbourne, Australia, to take on the Colorado State Rams in the Melbourne Gridiron Bowl. Despite the unconventional location, the Cougars emerged victorious, earning a hard-fought 30-26 win. Led by quarterback Sean Covey's three-touchdown performance, this game not only provided a memorable experience for the players and fans but also demonstrated the Cougars' ability to adapt and excel in any environment.

Dominating the Rose Bowl

The Rose Bowl, a hallowed ground for college football, has also witnessed the Cougars' dominance. In 1983, BYU traveled to Pasadena to take on the UCLA Bruins, and the Cougars wasted no time in asserting their superiority. Quarterback Steve Young led the charge, throwing for a touchdown and rushing for two more, as the Cougars cruised to a 37-35 victory. Despite Young's three interceptions, the Cougars' stifling defense and a dominant rushing attack proved to be the difference, showcasing the team's well-rounded capabilities.

Conquering the Giants: Victories Over Ranked Opponents

BYU's football program has long been known for its ability to take down highly ranked opponents, and the 1985 season opener against Boston College was no exception. Fresh off their national championship triumph in 1984, the Cougars faced the challenge of the post-Heisman quarterback Doug Flutie era for the Eagles. Undeterred, BYU's Robbie Bosco put on a masterclass, throwing for 508 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Cougars to a 28-14 victory at Giants Stadium in New Jersey.The Cougars' dominance over ranked opponents continued in 1988, when they faced off against the 19th-ranked Texas Longhorns. BYU's offense was firing on all cylinders, as they cruised to a 47-6 victory, with Rodney Rice's 70-yard interception return for a touchdown sparking a 20-0 fourth-quarter run that left the Longhorns reeling.

Establishing Independence with a Statement Win

The Cougars' transition to independent status in 2011 was marked by a significant victory over the Ole Miss Rebels in SEC country. Facing a Rebels team that had struggled the previous season, BYU made a bold statement by going on the road and securing a 14-13 win. The Cougars' defense was the star of the show, holding Ole Miss to just 214 yards of total offense and making a crucial late-game strip-sack that led to the game-winning touchdown by Kyle Van Noy.

Conquering the Bowls: Dominant Postseason Performances

BYU's football program has long been synonymous with success in the postseason, and the Cougars have delivered some truly memorable performances in bowl games over the years. In 1981, BYU faced off against Washington State in the Holiday Bowl, with quarterback Jim McMahon leading the charge with 342 passing yards and three touchdowns, including the game-sealing score to Scott Pettis.The Cougars' dominance in bowl games continued in 1994, when they faced off against the Oklahoma Sooners in the Copper Bowl. BYU's John Walsh was the catalyst, throwing four touchdowns as the Cougars cruised to a 31-6 victory, snapping a five-game bowl losing streak and delivering an emphatic statement against a powerhouse program.