As rivalry week approaches, the Utah Utes have surged past the BYU Cougars in the latest Big 12 power rankings, setting up one of the most anticipated matchups in recent memory. Both teams enter the weekend ranked — No. 23 Utah and No. 15 BYU — marking the first time since 2009 that the two programs meet with national rankings attached.

The Utes, coming off a commanding 42-10 victory over Arizona State, climbed from sixth to a tie for second place in this week’s rankings. Led by quarterback Devon Dampier, who rushed for over 100 yards and guided the offense to its fourth 40-point game of the season, Utah appears to have found its rhythm at the perfect time.

Meanwhile, BYU maintained its No. 4 spot after a thrilling 33-27 double-overtime win over Arizona. Running back LJ Martin surpassed 600 rushing yards for the season, continuing to anchor an offense that has thrived in clutch moments.

At the top of the conference, Texas Tech remains in first place with a 6-0 record, followed by Utah and Cincinnati, who share the second spot. The Utes’ dominant win over the defending Big 12 champion Sun Devils solidified their standing as one of the league’s most balanced teams, pairing an explosive offense with a defense that has steadily improved since early September.

This weekend’s clash at LaVell Edwards Stadium carries massive implications — not just for state bragging rights, but also for the Big 12 title race. Utah’s dynamic attack and BYU’s undefeated record promise a fierce, emotionally charged contest that could reshape the national conversation around both programs.