No. 2 BYU saw its undefeated season come to an end on Saturday after a 31-39 double overtime loss to UCF. The Cougars were unable to overcome a series of penalties and missed tackles in a game that saw UCF succeed on 51% of plays compared to BYU's 42% success rate.
The game was marked by several errors from BYU, including substitution miscues that forced multiple timeouts and untimely penalties. In a pivotal moment, Keanu Tanuvasa was flagged for a 15-yard penalty after shoving a UCF player after a play, which helped set up a field goal attempt. Faletau Satuala blocked that kick to force overtime, but the momentum shifted further in double overtime when Kendal Wall was flagged for a roughing the kicker penalty. This call gave UCF a first down, leading to a touchdown that effectively decided the game.
Offensively, BYU's Bear Bachmeier recorded a touchdown pass to Legend Glasker in the first overtime. Kyler Kasper, an Oregon transfer, had a significant performance with 6 catches for 129 yards. Despite the loss, BYU's defense managed a goal-line stand in the first overtime to keep the game alive, though the unit struggled to contain the Knights, who were more physical on the line of scrimmage.
This loss follows a significant victory for BYU just one week prior, when the Cougars defeated no. 2 Notre Dame. While the Cougars are expected to remain in the top 10 in upcoming rankings, the defeat significantly impacts their College Football Playoff prospects, leaving the team with no remaining margin for error as they seek to win out to reach Arlington.
BYU's defense, which had been among the best in college football through six games, will need to address execution and effort under Kelly Poppinga and his staff following the performance in Orlando.
