Unless BYU puts together a string of great seasons, the odds are BYU isn't going to be ranked at the beginning of the season. Maybe BYU is hovering just outside the top 25.

The problem with independence is the tough early schedule with a loss or two. It never gives BYU a chance to climb in the rankings. Unfortunately, non P5s need that undefeated record to get noticed. If BYU can start the season with 3-4 wins before having to take on the tougher competition, the odds of getting ranked are much higher. And at that point, BYU might be high enough that a loss won't drop them out of the top 25.

But we all know the big problem. It's nearly impossible for the Holmoe to build a schedule with the tough games on the back end of the schedule. So going forward, BYU is always going to be at a disadvantage with rankings and scheduling.