This was also BYU's third season with at least a share of the MWC title (co-champions with CSU and Utah in 1999, and sole champions in 2001).

Among the returning starters were quarterback John Beck, running back Curtis Brown, linebacker Cameron Jenson and tight end Jonny Harline.

They steadily rose in the rankings mainly on the strength of an offense that finished the regular season 5th in the nation in scoring and 4th in passing yards of 323.5 per game.

Notably, BYU defeated TCU (then ranked #15) by 31-17 putting an end to the Horned Frogs' 13-game winning streak.

John Beck Jonny Harline Jake Kuresa Bronco Mendenhall Curtis Brown Sete Aulai Cameron Jensen Quinn Gooch Bryan Kehl Jared McLaughlin Nate Meikle Wide receivers Offensive guards Offensive tackles Centers Offensive linemen Tight ends Fullbacks Quarterbacks Running backs Defensive line Defensive ends Defensive tackles Defensive backs Linebackers Cornerbacks Safeties Punters Kickers