BYU Football: Ranking the Cougars' Must-Win Games for 2012

In the world of sports, it is not uncommon to find a few games on a team's schedule that can change their entire season.

With that being said, there are a few on BYU's upcoming slate. Whether they are season openers or rivalries, these three games are definitely must-wins for the Cougars.

If even one of these games ends up being a loss, BYU's season could be in peril.

3. Washington State

With a new coach and a different offense, Washington State will look like a different team. Many think that they could be a national contender within a few years—and this all starts on August 30th.

A season-opening loss at home could set the tone for the next few games, or even the rest of the season for BYU. With a road game in Salt Lake City against the Utes coming up two weeks later, it is vital that the Cougars (of BYU, that is) come up with the win.

2. Notre Dame

Any time a team can go to South Bend and leave with a win is considered a great accomplishment.

And that's exactly what BYU should aim to do.

This October game could be the start of a new rivalry between the Fighting Irish and the Cougars, and with another road game against Georgia Tech coming the week after, it is necessary that BYU wins this contest.

1. Utah

The last time these two teams met, we all know what happened.

Now, the Cougars have a chance to get revenge in a Saturday-night game at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

Besides, this could be that last contest in the rivalry. If BYU wants to end it on a bright note, they must win this one. To make the stakes higher, the Cougars play Boise State on the road the following week.