Utah Tech dropped its 2026 road opener against in-state opponent and Big 12 No. 14/15 BYU with a 63-7 loss on Saturday night at LaVell Edwards Stadium, according to a September 5 report. The Trailblazers struggled to overcome three costly turnovers in the first half to prevent a larger deficit against the Cougars.
The Cougars established a 21-0 lead early in the second period following two of Utah Tech's three first-quarter turnovers. A third turnover on the Trailblazers' first possession of the second quarter allowed BYU to extend its lead to 42-0 by halftime.
Utah Tech recorded 184 total yards of offense. Junior quarterback Bronson Barben, who entered the game in the second quarter, completed 12 of 22 passes for 115 yards. Running back Ace Chatman scored the team's only touchdown on a one-yard run during a 75-yard drive in the third quarter. Chatman finished the game with 38 rushing yards on 12 carries.
Wide receiver Darnell O'Quinn recorded 41 yards on three receptions, while tailback Kona Crowell had four receptions for 21 yards. Defensively, Quincy Lejay, Moe Passi, and Brevin Czosnyka each recorded seven tackles, and linebacker Will Alovao earned his second sack of the season.
BYU finished the game with 521 total yards of offense, including 308 rushing yards. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier completed 16 of 20 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for a touchdown in the first half.
Utah Tech Head Coach Lance Anderson stated that while the score was not what the team desired, there were encouraging signs in the offense's ability to sustain drives late in the game. Anderson noted the team needs to improve on fundamentals such as blocking and tackling.
Utah Tech is scheduled to continue its non-conference schedule next Saturday at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula against Montana. The kickoff is set for 1 p.m. MT.
