Former BYU linebacker David Nixon recalled a significant sack and forced fumble from the last time the Cougars won a game in Fort Worth, Texas. Nixon, who serves on the BYUtv pre-game and post-game broadcast crew, noted that the play remains a defining moment from his career.
The victory occurred on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006, when BYU defeated No. 17 TCU 31-17. The win ended a 13-game winning streak for the Horned Frogs. Nixon described his contribution during the game as a blind-side sack and forced fumble against TCU quarterback Jeff Ballard. The play, which Nixon said he has seen on social media, resulted in a fumble recovered by BYU defensive lineman Matangi Tonga at the 8-yard line, leading to a touchdown run by Manase Tonga.
The 2006 matchup followed a 51-50 overtime loss for BYU against TCU in 2005 while Nixon was on a mission in Ecuador. In the 2006 win, BYU quarterback John Beck completed 23 of 37 passes for 321 yards and three touchdowns. Other scoring contributors included Michael Reed, who caught a 40-yard touchdown pass, and tight end Jonny Harline. The Cougars finished that season with an 11-2 record after winning the Las Vegas Bowl against Oregon.
BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick noted that playing in Fort Worth can be difficult due to the loud environment and the tradition of the TCU program. He referenced a 44-11 loss for the Cougars in 2023 during their first year in the Big 12. Nixon, who recorded 275 career tackles during his tenure at BYU, expressed confidence in the current linebacker depth, specifically highlighting Cade Uluave and Isaiah Glasker.
Nixon will not be attending the upcoming Saturday game in Texas because he is coaching his son in a game against Farmington. The Farmington game is being coached by former BYU safety Andrew Rich.
