No. 3 Utah Defeats BYU 28-20 to Break Holy War Streak and Push Toward Playoff

No. 3 Utah took care of business at home, pulling off a 28-20 victory over No. 9 BYU in the 104th Holy War to snap their three-game losing streak in the rivalry. The Utes exploded early with 14 quick points in the first five minutes, but BYU answered right back with 20 straight points to take control before halftime. The Cougars got huge air production out of Bear Bachmeier, who threw for 263 yards, but turnovers proved costly as he threw four interceptions. Meanwhile, Utah’s quarterback Devon Dampier did just enough with his legs and arm, rushing for 87 yards and two scores while throwing for two more to keep the Utes ahead despite two lost fumbles.

The turning point came in the second half, where Utah's defense shut down the Cougars completely and held them scoreless. BYU’s receivers had big plays, Legend Glasker led with 118 yards and a 75-yard touchdown, and Walker Lyons added 88 yards, but Bachmeier’s turnover trouble killed critical drives. Utah receiver Braden Pegan hauled in two touchdown catches, while defenders like Johnathan Hall (9 tackles) and Trey Reynolds (7 tackles and a pick) anchored a stingy Ute defense. With this huge victory, undefeated Utah essentially locks up a spot in the College Football Playoff, while BYU’s playoff hopes take a massive hit heading into the home stretch.