BYU earned a 27-20 victory over Arizona State on Saturday, October 31, 2026, highlighted by a strong performance from the defensive secondary. While the one-touchdown margin may disappoint some fans, the Cougars' defense recorded a season-high six sacks during the contest at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
The defensive effort was bolstered by standout individual performances, including safety Faletau Satuala, who led the team with nine total tackles, five of them solo, and one tackle for loss. Defensive back Jayven Williams, playing in the absence of cornerback Evan Johnson, recorded seven tackles and three passes defended. Additionally, safeties Raider Damuni and Tommy Prassas each contributed three tackles, while Damuni recorded one pass defended. Cornerback Kevin Doe also contributed with two tackles.
Six different players recorded sacks for the Cougars: Bodie Schoonover, Isaiah Glasker, Cade Uluave, Nusi Taumoepeau, Ace Kaufusi, and Miles Hall. Taumoepeau’s strip sack of Arizona State quarterback Jake Fette, recovered by Glasker, set up BYU's first touchdown of the game.
The BYU offense struggled on the ground, totaling only 47 rushing yards with an average of 1.6 yards per attempt. The team was hindered by the absence of Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin and backup Preston Rex. Other offensive line absences included Trevin Ostler and Andrew Gentry.
Sione Moa scored two touchdowns, including one from a goal-line scrum. On the final scoring drive, a 95-yard drive—the longest of the season—ended with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Bear Bachmeier to Kyler Kasper. Bachmeier, who finished with 15 yards on 16 carries, recorded his 12th touchdown of the season during the game.
Arizona State's offense was led by Cardae Mack, who ran for 123 yards on 23 carries. The Sun Devils' receivers Derek Eusebio and Omarian Miller combined for 11 catches, though their longest reception was a 20-yard touchdown. Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham noted the impressive atmosphere at BYU, stating that he had never seen student fans practicing chants two hours before kickoff.
Following this victory, BYU is scheduled to travel to Salt Lake to face the undefeated Utes.
