The BYU vs Utah rivalry, often referred to as the “Holy War,” is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in college football. This year, the stakes are higher than ever as the two teams face off in the Big 12 conference. With BYU currently ranked No. 9 and undefeated, the game on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah, promises to be one of the most consequential rivalry games in a generation. Let’s delve into the history, the intensity, and the significance of this epic matchup.
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The Origins of the Rivalry
Early History and Conference Changes
The BYU vs Utah rivalry dates back to 1896, with the first meeting taking place that year. For most of its history, the game was played as a conference matchup. The schools moved together through various conferences, including the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, the Skyline Conference (1938), the WAC (1962), and the Mountain West (1999). However, the Pac-12 came calling and pried Utah away before the 2011 season, ushering in BYU’s independent era and subsequent move to the Big 12 last year.
Intensity and Significance
The rivalry, known as the “Holy War,” is as intense as any game in college football. Tom Holmoe, BYU’s athletic director since 2005, recalled his first experience with the rivalry during his freshman year. “It was a cold day, but it was hot on the field,” said Holmoe, who went on to win all four games he participated in against Utah. Holmoe is convinced that the BYU vs Utah rivalry is one of the greatest in college football history.
The Impact of Conference Realignment
Utah’s Move to the Pac-12
When Utah moved to the Pac-12 in 2011, the rivalry took on a new dimension. The lack of conference stakes had no bearing on game day, but Utah’s departure and elevation to Power 5 status introduced a new point of contention between the schools. The games started playing in September instead of November and, for the first time since World War II, took years off.
BYU’s Move to the Big 12
Last summer, the future of the rivalry was in jeopardy due to conference realignment. However, the Pac-12 collapsing created a domino effect that led to Utah joining the Big 12, reuniting the Utes and Cougars as conference rivals once again. This move has reignited the intensity of the rivalry, making the upcoming game one of the most consequential in recent history.
Memorable Moments in the Rivalry
The USC-UCLA Tradition
One of the unique traditions of the BYU vs Utah rivalry is the wearing of home uniforms by both teams, regardless of the venue. This tradition, inspired by the USC-UCLA rivalry, was introduced by Holmoe in 2011. “I said, ‘One of the great things about the USC-UCLA rivalry is they play in their home colors for every game. Let’s do it,'” Holmoe recalled. This tradition adds to the color and pageantry of the game.
Iconic Moments
Some of the most legendary moments in the rivalry are only tangential to the results. In 1999, a BYU fan attempted to tackle a Utah cheerleader, leading to a bizarre on-field incident. In 2012, Utah fans rushed the field three times during and after the Utes’ upset of then-No. 25 BYU. These moments highlight the intensity and passion of the rivalry.
The Current State of the Rivalry
BYU’s Dominance and Utah’s Struggles
This year, BYU has been dominant, debuting at No. 9 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings. The Cougars are undefeated and have scored 34 or more points in each of their five Big 12 games so far. In contrast, Utah has struggled, dropping their past four games and losing quarterback Cam Rising to another season-ending injury. The Utes are 1-4 in the Big 12 and are unlikely to reach bowl eligibility.
The Importance of the Game
Despite Utah’s struggles, the rivalry burns hot. “To own the state of Utah, to sour out those guys’ season, it would be big for us and the team,” said Utes running back Jaylon Glover. The game is not just about pride; it’s about meaningful stakes that could significantly impact the conference title and a potential berth in the College Football Playoff.
Key Players and Statistics
BYU’s Offensive Power
BYU is averaging 37.6 points per game against Big 12 opponents. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff is responsible for 16.0 points per game this season, with 27 total touchdowns (21 passing, six rushing) in 12 career starts. The Cougars’ offensive prowess is a significant factor in their undefeated season.
Utah’s Defensive Strength
Utah is allowing opponents to convert on 25.4% of third-down attempts, which leads the Big 12 and ranks second in the FBS. The Utes have had either a 100-yard rusher or a 100-yard receiver in seven of their first eight games this season. Despite their struggles, Utah’s defense remains a formidable force.
How to Watch the Game
Fans can watch the game for free via a trial of DirecTV Stream or fuboTV. You can also watch via a subscription to Sling TV, which is offering half off your first month. The game will be broadcast on ESPN at 10:15 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 9, 2024.
Conclusion
The BYU vs Utah rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in college football. This year’s game promises to be one of the most consequential in recent history, with BYU ranked No. 9 and undefeated, and Utah struggling but determined to play spoiler. The game is not just about pride; it’s about meaningful stakes that could significantly impact the conference title and a potential berth in the College Football Playoff.
