In front of a sold-out crowd of 64,000 fans at LaVell Edwards Stadium, the BYU Cougars triumphed once again over their in-state rivals, the Utah Utes, claiming a 24–21 victory and extending their winning streak in the storied Holy War to three consecutive games.
Led by freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, the Cougars overcame a gritty Utah defense and multiple lead changes to remain undefeated at 7–0 (4–0 Big 12), while the Utes fell to 5–2 (2–2 Big 12).
Bachmeier Shines in Rivalry Debut
Bachmeier finished 13-of-22 passing for 166 yards, two touchdowns, and 64 rushing yards, including a spectacular 22-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that effectively sealed the win. His dual-threat performance earned praise across social media and solidified his growing reputation as BYU’s next great quarterback.
“That last drive was all about confidence,” BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said. “Bear played like a veteran out there — calm, decisive, and tough.”
Key Moments That Defined the Game
After a defensive slugfest in the first quarter, BYU struck first with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Chase Roberts. Utah responded with a Ryan Davis touchdown pass from quarterback Devon Dampier, evening the score at 7–7 before halftime.
The Cougars regained momentum when kicker Will Ferrin nailed a 26-yard field goal, capitalizing on a muffed punt recovery by BYU’s Mana Carvalho.
Utah’s Daniel Bray exploded for a 49-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter — giving the Utes their first lead at 14–10 — but BYU answered immediately. Parker Kingston scored on a 12-yard rushing touchdown following Utah linebacker Lander Barton’s ejection for targeting Bachmeier, shifting the momentum back to the Cougars.
Minutes later, a crucial interception by safety Tanner Wall set up Bachmeier’s 22-yard rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 24–14. Utah’s late touchdown pass to Larry Simmons with 1:24 left brought the game within three, but an onside kick attempt failed to travel 10 yards, allowing BYU to run out the clock.
Penalties and Turnovers Haunt Utah
Despite outgaining BYU 470–370 in total yards, Utah was undone by 11 penalties for 72 yards and two turnovers, both of which led to Cougar points. “We just couldn’t get out of our own way,” Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham admitted. “When you commit that many mistakes in this rivalry, you pay for it.”
Security and Stadium Atmosphere
The rivalry game featured increased security measures after incidents in past years, including fans throwing bottles in 2024. Statues across BYU’s campus, including the Cougar and Brigham Young monuments, were wrapped in plastic to prevent vandalism. Police patrols and field restrictions helped maintain order during and after the game.
Fans were treated to a night of high energy, dramatic plays, and fierce but respectful competition. When the final whistle blew, BYU students once again stormed the field — a now-familiar sight following the Cougars’ recent dominance in the rivalry.
“Three straight over Utah — that’s history in the making,” said BYU linebacker Faletau Satuala, who finished with a career-high 12 tackles. “We knew we had to finish, and that’s exactly what we did.”
Looking Ahead
The Cougars remain undefeated as they look toward a potential Big 12 title run, while Utah will regroup before returning home next week.
Final Score: BYU 24, Utah 21
Records: BYU (7–0, 4–0 Big 12); Utah (5–2, 2–2 Big 12)
