Episode Details

The 2026 recruiting cycle is still relatively early, but BYU, Texas Tech, and Baylor have indeed made some impressive waves, showing a strong surge in their recruiting efforts. It highlights the impact of their new Power Four conference affiliation and aggressive strategies under their respective coaching staffs.

Here's a look at why their 2026 classes are generating so much excitement:

BYU Cougars

BYU's 2026 class is shaping up to be one of the best in program history, a significant leap for a program that often hovered outside the top 50 in recruiting rankings. As of mid-July 2025, BYU's class has been highly ranked nationally, even briefly reaching the No. 1 spot in the Big 12.

Key highlights and reasons for their success:

Elite Talent: The class is headlined by five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons (Folsom, CA), a massive get for the Cougars. They've also secured commitments from highly-rated in-state talents like four-star tight end Brock Harris (Pine View, UT) and four-star offensive lineman Bott Mulitalo (Lone Peak, UT).

National Reach: While traditionally strong in Utah, BYU is expanding its reach, landing commitments from players in Arkansas (LB Braxton Lindsey) and Oklahoma (DL Nehemiah Kolone), among other states, often beating out other Power Four programs.

Jay Hill's Impact: Defensive coordinator Jay Hill has been credited with the significant improvement in recruiting, noting that being a Power Four program has made a "world of difference."

Consistency: The Cougars have accumulated a solid number of commitments early in the cycle, with many highly-rated three-star prospects and several four-stars, signaling a consistent ability to attract talent.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

Texas Tech has also been on an incredible run in 2026 recruiting, demonstrating the impact of a strong NIL program and Coach Joey McGuire's relentless approach. They have also held the No. 1 spot in the Big 12 recruiting rankings at points.

Factors contributing to their strong class:

Five-Star Anchor: A huge commitment from five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo (Mansfield Lake Ridge, TX) immediately elevated their class to an elite level. This is the type of blue-chip talent that can transform a program.

Beating Out Powerhouses: Texas Tech has reportedly beaten out traditional giants like Ohio State, Texas, Notre Dame, and Michigan for some of their elite prospects, showcasing their growing appeal and resources.

Depth of Talent: Beyond Ojo, they've secured commitments from multiple four-star prospects, including running back Ace Rowden and safety Donovan Webb, along with a strong contingent of highly-rated three-star players, particularly from the talent-rich state of Texas.

NIL Prowess: Reports suggest that Texas Tech's NIL program is among the most competitive in the country, playing a significant role in their ability to attract and secure top talent.

Baylor Bears

Baylor has shown strong momentum in the 2026 class, particularly with a flurry of recent commitments that have propelled them up the Big 12 and national rankings.

Key aspects of their strong recruiting:

Blue-Chip Additions: Baylor has landed commitments from several four-star prospects, including defensive lineman Jamarion Carlton (Temple, TX) and wide receiver Jordan Clay (San Antonio, TX). They also recently secured a commitment from four-star safety Jordan Deck.

Local Focus: The Bears have been eff