Following tonight’s inaugural College Football Playoff rankings, Kalani Sitake’s BYU came in at No. 7. This is the Cougars’ highest ranking ever in the initial CFP rankings and their second-highest all-time. They will take on Notre Dame in the playoffs as it stands.
According to PFSN’s Playoff meter, BYU is ranked just behind the ninth-best team in the nation. According to the PFM metrics, the Cougars are the favorites for the Big 12 conference title at 71.76% with Texas Tech just behind.
Kalani Sitake Sets His Priorities Straight For Texas Tech
The initial 12-team College Football Playoff rankings have been released, and alongside BYU, Texas Tech is also edging its way toward a playoff spot. According to PFSN’s PFM, they have a 40.73% chance of reaching the postseason as they take on BYU this weekend.
As Texas Tech gets ready for their matchup against BYU, Head Coach of the Cougars Kalani Sitake gave a glowing review of Texas Tech, showing immense respect towards Joey McGuire.
How can you not like this guy. He’s a straight class act.
“Always found ourselves cheering for… pic.twitter.com/JVKESMrcRQ
— Justin Margolius (@JustinMargolius) November 4, 2025
“Nope, haven’t talked about it. And probably won’t talk about it. We just focus on one thing and that’s being at the right mindset and avoiding all distractions as we go towards that game. All of our focus is on Texas Tech this weekend.” Sitake shared.
Going into the game between Texas Tech and BYU, it initially looked like it would be the battle of two 8-0 Big 12 teams. However, after the Red Raiders suffered a shock defeat to Arizona State, a win this weekend would solidify BYU’s hopes of winning the conference.
As things stand, both Texas Tech and BYU find themselves in playoff spots following the initial rankings. The Cougars are currently set to take on Notre Dame, while the Red Raiders face Big Ten opposition in Dan Lanning’s Oregon.
This weekend’s matchup could also be repeated. The Dec. 6 conference championship game is currently projected to be between BYU and Texas Tech, according to PFSN’s PFM. This also means the Big 12 could end up with two teams in the CFP.
“I really hope that the Big 12 gets the respect that I think this conference deserves,” Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire said ahead of the game. The Big 12 has never had two teams in the CFP’s and hasn’t won a national championship in over twenty years.
“We’ve always had a connection to Texas Tech. Always found ourselves cheering for them and their success, they have a great man at the head of their program with Joey McGuire.” Sitake stated ahead of the clash.
As things stand, with ESPN’s College GameDay heading to Lubbock, it could be one of the most decisive Big 12 clashes in years. The Utah Utes and Cincinnati are also waiting to potentially jump on the scraps, making the conference one of the most exciting in College Football.