Utah Triumphs Over BYU in Thrilling College Football Clash

The intense rivalry known as the Holy War began early this year, delivering a memorable face-off between Utah and BYU. No. 3 Utah defeated No. 9 BYU, 28-20, in a game full of excitement and critical implications for the College Football Playoff and Big 12 championship.

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier starred in the victory, boosting his chances in the Heisman Trophy race. Dampier completed 14 of 26 passes for 177 yards, resulting in two touchdowns, while adding 87 rushing yards and two more touchdowns to his stats.

Utah’s win marked their 15th straight, the longest active winning streak in college football, effectively ending a three-game losing streak to BYU. This victory keeps Utah undefeated and firmly in position to secure a spot in the Big 12 championship game and the College Football Playoff.

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier celebrates a first down run during an NCAA college football game against BYU. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)

Despite the loss, BYU suffered a significant setback to their College Football Playoff and Big 12 championship aspirations. The game began at 10:00 a.m., with Utah making the first move. Dampier’s 22-yard touchdown run led the Utes to a quick 7-0 advantage, their eighth opening touchdown drive of the season.

After forcing BYU into a three-and-out, Utah’s offense struck again. Dampier connected with wide receiver Braden Pegan for a 46-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0. It was Utah’s first double-digit lead over BYU since 2019, but BYU fought back strongly.

BYU’s response started with two field goals, narrowing the gap to 14-6. A 75-yard touchdown pass from Bear Bachmeier to Legend Glasker brought BYU within one point, shifting the momentum entirely. BYU capitalized on a fumble recovery with an LJ Martin 4-yard touchdown run, moving ahead 20-14.

Devon Dampier of the Utah Utes throws a pass against the Brigham Young Cougars. (Getty Images)

The game remained tight as Utah struggled with turnovers. BYU’s defense forced another turnover deep in Utah’s territory. However, Utah managed a critical stop, preventing BYU from extending their lead with an interception by James Chenault Jr.

Utah’s defense continued to hold strong in the second half. Lance Holtzclaw intercepted Bachmeier, offering Utah another chance. Though Utah stumbled with a missed field goal, the defense persisted, allowing the offense to regain composure.

Braden Pegan’s 14-yard touchdown reception from Dampier reclaimed the lead for Utah at 21-20. The momentum swung further in Utah’s favor as Dampier drove down the field, benefiting from a BYU pass-interference penalty to advance further.

Dampier scored once more on a 3-yard run, solidifying the lead at 28-20. On BYU’s final drive, Trey Reynolds’ interception on third-and-goal eliminated their scoring threat. Nate Ritchie sealed Utah’s triumph with an interception in the closing seconds.

Legend Glasker makes a touchdown catch during the game against Utah. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)

Bachmeier ended with three interceptions, despite having just four before the game, completing 21 of 35 passes for 272 yards and one touchdown. Utah remains undefeated, set to face No. 22 Arizona next. BYU aims to recover against Baylor in their upcoming matchup.