No. 9 BYU fell to No. 3 Utah 28-20 on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in the first Top-10 matchup in the history of the series. Despite a scoring flurry that resulted in 20 consecutive points during the first half, the Cougars were unable to execute in the second half, ultimately falling to the Utes.
Offensive Struggles and Turnovers
The Cougars struggled with ball security and discipline throughout the contest, recording four turnovers and eight penalties for a total of 45 yards. Sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier completed 21 of 35 passes for 272 yards, throwing one touchdown and a career-high four interceptions. Bachmeier also led the team in rushing with 59 yards on eight carries.
Key Offensive Performers
Legend Glasker led the BYU receiving corps with 118 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown reception. Walker Lyons contributed 97 yards on seven catches, averaging 13.9 yards per catch. While the BYU offense amassed 391 total yards, the Utes countered with 328 yards of offense.
Defensive Performance
The BYU defense recorded 11 tackles for loss and forced two fumbles, holding Utah to a single missed field goal. Cade Uluave led the defensive effort with seven tackles, including two solo tackles, one tackle for loss, and a sack. Faletau Satuala and Bodie Schoonover combined for 12 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and one forced fumble.
Game Progression
Utah's offense secured the victory with touchdown drives in the third and fourth quarters. Earlier in the game, the Utes established a 14-0 lead in the first quarter through a 22-yard touchdown run by quarterback Devon Dampier. Following a fumble recovery by Therrian Alexander III, BYU took a 20-14 lead in the second quarter after LJ Martin scored on a rushing touchdown.
Coaching Reaction
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake addressed the media in a postgame press conference on Nov. 8, 2026, following the loss to the Utes.
Matchup Context
The loss occurred during a highly anticipated matchup at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Cougars' first-half momentum, which included a touchdown by Glasker and a touchdown by Martin, was ultimately erased by Utah's second-half scoring.
