The Utah Utes defeated the BYU Cougars 28-20 in the 2026 Holy War on Saturday, Nov. 7, snapping the Cougars' winning streak in the rivalry. The matchup, held at Rice-Eccles Stadium, carried high stakes as both teams were positioned for a College Football Playoff spot and a potential Big 12 Championship Game berth.
Utah quarterback Devon Dampier recorded 177 passing yards, 87 rushing yards, 29 receiving yards, and four total touchdowns. Dampier's performance included a rushing touchdown in the first quarter, a 29-yard receiving touchdown on a fourth-down trick play in the third quarter, and a fourth rushing score in the fourth quarter to secure the lead. Cornerback James Chenault Jr. contributed to the defense with an interception in the second quarter that prevented a potential 27-14 deficit.
BYU's offense saw significant highs and lows. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier completed 21 of 35 passes for 272 yards, with one touchdown and four interceptions. While the Cougars scored 20 unanswered points in the second quarter to take a halftime lead, Bachmeier's turnovers proved costly. Freshman wide receiver Legend Glasker provided a highlight with a 75-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter, finishing as the team's leader in receiving yards.
The BYU defense found success through the pass rush, as Cade Uluave and Bodie Schoonover combined for two first-half sacks. After allowing 138 total yards on the first seven plays of the game, the BYU defense held the Utes to 35 total yards on the final 23 plays of the first half. However, the Cougars struggled with discipline, finishing the game with 11 penalties for 80 yards.
The rivalry game took place at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah. The outcome impacts the postseason landscape for both programs as they compete for championship opportunities.
