In a long-awaited and historic achievement, BYU Football has produced its first Academic All-American in 14 years. This milestone not only highlights the individual success of the athlete involved but also signals a potential shift in the program’s academic culture. The recognition underscores the hard work and dedication of the student-athletes balancing rigorous academics with the demanding nature of football.
The honor went to senior linebacker Ben Bywater, who was named to the 2024 Academic All-America Team, an accolade that recognizes athletes for both their athletic and academic accomplishments. Bywater’s selection comes after a standout season on the field where he posted impressive stats, but it is his exceptional academic performance that truly set him apart. With a GPA above 3.90 in his major, Bywater exemplifies the balance of top-tier performance on the gridiron and in the classroom.
This award is especially significant as it marks the first time in over a decade that BYU Football has had an athlete recognized for this dual achievement. The last time a Cougar player earned this honor was in 2010, when defensive back Andrew Rich received the prestigious title. The gap of 14 years in between these honors speaks to the challenges and pressures student-athletes face, but also to the exceptionalism that is required to stand out in both fields.
Head coach Kalani Sitake expressed immense pride in Bywater’s achievement, emphasizing how it reflects the program’s values of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence both on the field and in academics. Sitake also highlighted the importance of academic success in preparing athletes for life after football, encouraging other student-athletes to pursue this balanced path.
Bywater’s success is a testament to the broader shift in the BYU Football program, which has been working to elevate its standards not only athletically but also academically. This recognition serves as an inspiring example for future generations of players to aim for both athletic excellence and academic distinction.
