Full Breakdown
BYU Football Opens 2025 Season Against Portland State
8/30/2025, 10:04:55 PM
Game Overview
The Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars are set to kick off their 2025 football season against the Portland State Vikings on Saturday, August 30, at 6 p.m. MDT. The game will take place at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, which has a capacity of 62,073. This matchup marks the second meeting between the two teams, with BYU having won the previous encounter in 2017 by a score of 20-6. BYU enters the game after a successful 2024 season, finishing with an 11-2 record and a tie for first place in the Big 12 Conference.
Team Context
BYU is looking to build on last year's success, where they achieved a notable victory against Colorado in the Alamo Bowl. The Cougars are currently ranked No. 23 in the preseason Coaches’ poll. In contrast, Portland State, a member of the Big Sky Conference, is coming off a disappointing 42-0 loss to Tarleton State, leaving them eager to score their first points of the season. The Vikings finished the 2024 season with a 3-8 record and are projected to struggle again this year.
Key Players to Watch
A significant storyline for BYU is the debut of true freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who is set to make history as the first true freshman to start a season opener for the Cougars. Bachmeier, a former Stanford commit, will be supported by a revamped offensive line and a strong running game led by LJ Martin and Sione Moa. Tight end Carsen Ryan is expected to play a crucial role as a reliable target for Bachmeier.
Portland State's offense, which struggled in their previous game, will face a formidable BYU defense that was ranked No. 1 in the Big 12 last season. Defensive coordinator Jay Hill's unit is expected to apply pressure on the Vikings' quarterbacks, who have already shown inconsistency.
Official Statements & Responses
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake emphasized the importance of starting the season strong, stating, “It’s one of the 12 games we have guaranteed on our schedule, and this one happens to be week one.” Meanwhile, Portland State coach Bruce Barnum acknowledged the challenge ahead, expressing admiration for BYU but affirming his team's intent to compete.
Predictions and Expectations
Analysts predict a significant margin of victory for BYU, with estimates ranging from 38 to 52 points. The Cougars are favored by approximately 43 to 44 points, reflecting their strong roster against a struggling Portland State team. Observers expect BYU to establish an early lead, utilizing their ground game while allowing Bachmeier to gain confidence in the passing attack.
What's Next
Following this game, BYU will face Stanford, while Portland State will travel to North Dakota for their next matchup. The outcome of this game will set the tone for both teams as they navigate their respective seasons.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Quotable “I think the approach is just to make sure that we’re playing at our best.” — Kalani Sitake, Head Coach, BYU
- “We’ll take our shot, we’ll take our best shot at them and see what we can do.” — Bruce Barnum, Head Coach, Portland State
This season opener promises to be a pivotal moment for both BYU and Portland State as they embark on their 2025 campaigns.
