BYU football: How have the Cougars fared in independence?
By Ron Jensen
This is the third article of a three-part series on the sustainability of independence for BYU football, looking at the best wins since 2011.
To examine the effectiveness of Independence, we need to look at how BYU football performed these last seven years. While the Cougars have a 56-34 record with three victories in six bowl appearances, what success really boils down to is the quality of their wins.
Here’s a glance at the best wins for the Cougars since becoming an independent:
Honorable Mention:
- Arizona (2016)
- @ Michigan State (2016)
- @ California (2015)
- Virginia (2015)
- Washington State (2012)
- @ Oregon State (2011)
- @ Mississippi (2011)
Although these are decent wins over Power-5 programs, these teams ended their seasons without winning records or bowl invitations. Because of this, they shouldn’t be considered among the top wins for BYU’s independent era.
No. 10: BYU vs Toledo, Sept. 20, 2016
This barnburner ended up a 55-53 win for the Cougars. Though it was probably closer than it should have been, it was entertaining to say the least. Toledo ended up being a formidable opponent, finishing the season will a 9-4 record and Camellia Bowl appearance.