BYU defense
2024 national rankings: 24th in points allowed, 28th in yards allowed, 21st against the pass
2023 national rankings: 96th in points allowed, 106th in yards allowed, 91st against the pass

What has changed: The familiarity with second-year coordinator Jay Hill and his scheme has paid off for returning players, such as linebacker Isaiah Glasker, who leads the team in tackles for loss (9.5) and has added two interceptions, two sacks and a forced fumble; and cornerback Jakob Robinson (3 interceptions, 4 pass breakups, 4.5 tackles for loss). The biggest growth has come against the pass, as the Cougars rank second nationally behind Texas in net yards per pass attempt (5.31), up from 53rd last season (7.08).

"You have to be realistic about what these guys are able to take and I think the staff is starting to understand that a little bit more now," coach Kalani Sitake told ESPN. "Sometimes patience being the answer is not what people want to hear. There's some things that you just cannot speed up and understanding the scheme and how it relates to the offense and special teams, to help the team get victories."

The Cougars have held seven of their nine opponents to fewer than 200 passing yards. They have at least one interception in all nine games and are tied for second nationally in total interceptions with 16. BYU has multiple interceptions in each of its past six games.

The defense also was helped by adding a player who completely knew Hill's scheme in Jack Kelly, who played under Hill at Weber State before transferring. Kelly leads BYU in sacks (four) and quarterback hurries (nine).

"It's an expertise that he brings and being able to be flexible and do so many different things," Sitake said of Kelly. "He probably knows more about this than anyone on the defense. He's a big part of our success. But if you ask him, everybody's increased their knowledge and their football IQ, especially in the scheme."