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Analysis: No. 15 BYU steals, legally and with no complaining this time, another rivalry win over No. 23 Utah

Cougars improved to 7-0 and got their third-straight win over the Utes by forcing turnovers and stuffing the Utes on fourth down

Published: Oct 19, 2025, 12:10 a.m. MDT

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) hurdles Utah safety Jackson Bennee (23) during a run as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

By Jay Drew

Jay has covered sports in Utah for more than 30 years and has been writing for the Deseret News since 2019.

BYU stole Saturday night’s rivalry game against the rival University of Utah like Yogi Bear steals picnic lunches.

Legally, hungrily, for the entire world to see, and with no apology needed this time — from either side.

Leading the way, of course, was the Cougars’ own Bear, the true freshman with B. Bachmeier on the back of his jersey and, now, the whole of Cougar Nation in the pocket covering his ample back side.

The 19-year-old from Southern California added to his ever-growing legend in his seventh career game in front of 64,794 delirious fans at LaVell Edwards Stadium — sans the thousand or so dressed in red — helping BYU grind out its third-straight win in the series with Utah for the first time since 1992.

Utah won in the stats column, for the most part, but the Cougars won on the scoreboard by a count of 24-21 with a national television audience (Fox) and the biggest crowd at LES since BYU played Notre Dame in 2004.

“It was exhilarating. There were a lot of emotions,” said Bachmeier, in his typical low-key style. “It was good to get the win.”

For the No. 15 Cougars (7-0, 4-0), one of only two unbeaten teams left in the Big 12 and one of only six unbeatens in the Football Bowl Subdivision, it was a bit similar to last year, when a few late breaks went their way in a 22-21 victory over the Utes in Salt Lake City. That, of course, prompted Utah athletic director Mark Harlan to host an impromptu news conference to complain about the officiating, which earned him a hefty fine from the Big 12.

BYU’s freshman QB became a legend Saturday, even if he doesn’t quite yet know it

3 takeaways from No. 15 BYU’s rivalry win over No. 23 Utah

How social media reacted to BYU’s win over Utah

For the No. 23 Utes (5-2, 2-2), it was also a painful reminder of last year’s meltdown at Rice-Eccles — only this time Utah can only blame itself and not the officiating. Utah racked up 470 yards — to BYU’s 368 — but committed two incredibly costly turnovers and sputtered in the red zone like those days in 2015 and 2016 that cost then co-offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick his job.

Said Roderick, BYU’s OC, as he entered the press box elevator on his way to the field to join the field storming and celebrate what will go down in the books as an “upset” because Utah was favored by a field goal:

“Three games is officially a win streak.”

Head coach Kalani Sitake was a bit more humble, using the bulk of his opening statement at the postgame news conference to praise losing coach Kyle Whittingham, who just might have coached his last game at the stadium in which he played.

“A great game, and glad we got the victory, obviously, but really excited about just the overall performance in all three phases,” Sitake said. “The guys played their butts off, and the fans were amazing tonight in the stadium. You could feel it — the energy.

“I am glad that we were able to make the plays. We knew that it would take all three phases to do this, and we knew that it would be a fight to the end. And you have to give a lot of credit to Utah for their performance.”

The Cougars won this game because they took care of the ball — they caught a huge break when Utah’s Jackson Bennee picked off Bachmeier, but a defensive holding penalty on a teammate negated the interception — and were able to physically wear down the Utes in the trenches.

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham talk prior to BYU and Utah playing at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) jumps over Utah defensive tackle Pupu Sepulona (45) and Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) during a run into the endzone for a rushing touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

With his right ankle heavily taped, Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) sets to deliver a pass as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

The time left in a timeout is shown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Officials review a hit as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) is swarmed by teammates after scoring a rushing touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU cheerleaders walk into the stadium prior to BYU and Utah playing at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) makes a cut as he runs as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) avoids Utah linebacker Levani Damuni (3) as he runs as they play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU linebackers Siale Esera (54) and Bodie Schoonover (48) celebrate an effective rush on Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) as they play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Byrd Ficklin (15) runs off the field as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU safety Tanner Wall (28) turns as Utah quarterback Byrd Ficklin (15) yells in celebration after a powerful run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Byrd Ficklin (15) drags a few BYU players during a run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) passes the ball as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Byrd Ficklin (15) drags a couple BYU players during a run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes the ball just before BYU linebacker Bodie Schoonover (48) gets to him as they play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) cuts back with the ball as BYU safety Faletau Satuala (11) cuts him off as they play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa (57) calls for cheers from the fans as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) gives the play to the offense as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah tight end Otto Tia (89) celebrates as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) hands off to BYU running back LJ Martin (4) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) runs in the open field as the Cougars and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) runs into Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) on a run up the middle as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) runs up the middle as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) splits Utah safety Tao Johnson (5) and Utah safety Jackson Bennee (23) during a run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) eyes Utah safety Jackson Bennee (23) just before jumping over him during a run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

The BYU offense steps to the line as they and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU students cheer as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah cheerleaders perform as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) gets into open field on a run as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham and BYU head coach Kalani Sitake hug after the game as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Fans rush the field after the game as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake is swarmed by fans after the game as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) celebrates after scoring a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston (11) jumps into the end zone for a touchdown just ahead of Utah linebacker Levani Damuni (3) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU fans cheer as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. BYU won 24-21. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A BYU fan cheers as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. BYU won 24-21. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU defensive back Evan Johnson (0) is hit with a pass interference call in the end zone on Utah wide receiver Tobias Merriweather (18) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU defensive back Evan Johnson (0) argues his case with an official after being called for a pass interference call in the end zone on Utah wide receiver Tobias Merriweather (18) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) spins after taking the snap and looks downfield as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah tight end Dallen Bentley (88) fumbles the ball into the eager hands of Utah wide receiver Tobias Merriweather (18) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) and Utah cornerback Smith Snowden (2) crash to the turf after Snowden disrupted the pass as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) sprints into the open field and around the outside on his way in for a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) sprints down the sideline for a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) sprints in for a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A Utah fan screams at the officials as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Dejected Utah fans watch as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A dejected Utah fan watches as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU fans cheer as they watch BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham yells at the officials during the game as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) dives over Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU safety Tanner Wall (28) intercepts a pass over Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah linebacker Levani Damuni (3) just gets enough of the foot of BYU running back LJ Martin (4) to bring him down as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham yells at the official after no penalty was called after Utah running back Wayshawn Parker (1) was shoved by BYU defensive tackle John Taumoepeau (55) at BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham yells at the officials after no penalty was called after Utah running back Wayshawn Parker (1) was shoved by BYU defensive tackle John Taumoepeau (55) at BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham runs down field yelling after no penalty was called after Utah running back Wayshawn Parker (1) was shoved by BYU defensive tackle John Taumoepeau (55) at BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah running back Wayshawn Parker (1) falls to the field after getting shoved by BYU defensive tackle John Taumoepeau (55) at BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) points downfield after gaining a first down as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) races downfield with the ball and eyes Utah safety Jackson Bennee (23) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU cornerback Tayvion Beasley (15) tries to knock the ball away from Utah tight end JJ Buchanan (81) as BYU and Utah play at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes the ball during the second half of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) passes the ball during the second half of the game against of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU mens basketball star AJ Dybantsa, center, sways with the crowd during “power” in between the third and fourth quarter of the game between BYU and Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa (57) hypes up the crowd second half of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake yells out to his players during the second half of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) runs with the ball during the second half of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston (11) avoids the tackle by Utah linebacker Levani Damuni (3) and slips into the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) breaks a tackle by Utah defensive end John Henry Daley (90) during the second half of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah running back Daniel Bray (13) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) slips out of reach of Utah linebacker Levani Damuni (3) as he carries the ball after a catch during the second half of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) scrambles during the second half of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) points after converting a first down during the second half of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) is shoved into the end zone by his teammates during the second half of the game against against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) breaks a tackle by Utah defensive tackle Pupu Sepulona (45) during the second half of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) celebrates after scoring a rushing touchdown during the second half of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) is pressured by BYU linebacker Jack Kelly (17) during the fourth quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah fans leave the stadium early as BYU leads 24-14 during the fourth quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah cornerback Blake Cotton (16) breaks up a pass intended for BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) during the fourth quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) passes the ball during the fourth quarter of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Larry Simmons (12) catches a pass for a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans prepare to rush the field as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans rush the field as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

A BYU fan makes an upside-down “U” with their fingers as Utah players head to the locker room while fans rush the field as BYU defeats Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU president Shane Reese crowd surfs after BYU fans rushed the field after BYU defeated Utah 24-21 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU fans wave goodbye to Utah fans after rushing the field at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) dives for a first down during the second quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) makes a catch against BYU cornerback Therrian Alexander (1) during the first quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU linebacker Jack Kelly (17) hypes up the crows during the first quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) scrambles during the first half of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) celebrates after scoring a receiving touchdown during the first quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) catches the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah fans cheer for the camera before the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

The Cougarettes perform in between quarters during the first half of the game between BYU and Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU punter Sam Vander Haar (35) celebrates with kicker Will Ferrin (44) after Ferrin made a field goal during the second quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Fans yell first quarter of the game between BYU and Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) catches a pass during the first quarter of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU cornerback Mory Bamba (4) jumps in celebration with cornerback Therrian Alexander (1) after making a stop on fourth down during the first quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU players kneel in prayer as Utah takes the field before the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) runs with the ball during the first quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) makes a catch over Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) during the second quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) yells in celebration after scoring a receiving touchdown during the second quarter of the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU kicker Will Ferrin (44) kicks a field goal to take a 10-7 lead over Utah during the second quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU running back Preston Rex (12) runs against Utah linebacker Trey Reynolds (37) during the first quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU defensive end Hunter Clegg (90) celebrates after sacking Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) during the first quarter of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) is sacked by Utah defensive tackle Aliki Vimahi (95) during the first half of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham looks on during the first half of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah defensive tackle Semi Taulanga (99) runs with the ball against BYU cornerback Mory Bamba (4) after lining up as a wide receiver during the first half at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Mana Carvalho (28) muffs a punt during the second quarter of the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) looks for an open receiver to pass to as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah safety Tao Johnson (5) gestures toward the BYU students after the Utes made a fourth down stop as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Larry Simmons (12) brings in a catch over BYU defensive back Jonathan Kabeya (2) as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU defensive back Evan Johnson (0) celebrates a defensive play with BYU safety Faletau Satuala (11) as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) scores a touchdown with Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) defending as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) runs with the ball with (16) BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker (16) chasing as BYU and Utah on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts (2) makes a catch over Utah cornerback Elijah Davis (9) and takes it in for a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) gestures toward the camera after scoring a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) reaches out for the ball as he brings in a touchdown catch as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) celebrates a touchdown with DUPLICATE***Utah wide receiver Bryson Baker (80)***Utah wide receiver Creed Whittemore (80) BYU and Utah on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) gets rid of the ball just ahead of Utah defensive end John Henry Daley (90) as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah wide receiver Ryan Davis (9) gestures toward the BYU student section after scoring a touchdown as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) dives forward on a 4th and one as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah safety Jackson Bennee (23) defends BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston (11) as he makes a catch over the middle as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU fans cheer as BYU and Utah play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa (57) smiles as he arrives at LaVell Edwards Stadium before the in-state rivalry game against Utah in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU players arrive before the in-state rivalry game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) arrives at Lavell Edwards Stadium before the in-state rivalry game against Utah in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) warms up before the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Singer-songwriter Benson Boone looks on from the sidelines during warmups of the game between BYU and Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU linebackers Isaiah Glasker (18) and Jack Kelly (17) embrace before the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) catches a ball during warmups before the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham looks on before the game against BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake looks on before the game against Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Rio Giancarlo, Deseret News

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake greets fans as BYU and Utah prepare to play at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah fans cheer ahead of BYU and Utah playing at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) greets fans as the Cougars enter the stadium as BYU and Utah prepare to play at Lavell Edwards Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A Utah fan walks in with BYU fans ahead of the game at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU and Utah on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU fans cheer and celebrate ahead of the team marching into Lavell Edwards Stadium as BYU and Utah preparee to play on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A split house at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo as BYU and Utah fans wait for the game on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) warms up ahead of BYU and Utah playing at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

BYU fans get painted up ahead of the BYU and Utah game at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah fans look around the stadium ahead of the BYU and Utah game at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier (4) stretches out with teammates ahead of BYU and Utah playing at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Utah cheerleaders pose for a photo ahead of BYU and Utah playing at Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

And, of course, Bachmeier was simply phenomenal, most notably on a 22-yard touchdown run that gave BYU a 24-14 lead with 4:22 remaining. There were some anxious moments for the blue team and its fans thereafter, but that was essentially the biggest play of the game.

“The man, the myth, the legend,” said receiver Chase Roberts as Bachmeier stepped up to the podium at the postgame presser.

And who’s to argue? What the 19-year-old who was with Stanford last spring has done the past few months is simply unbelievable, and that carried on Saturday, a week after he almost singlehandedly led BYU to that 33-27 win in double overtime at Arizona.

“We wanted to put it on his shoulder, and it paid off,” Sitake said.

New Mexico transfer Devon Dampier was almost as good for Utah in his first rivalry game, finishing with 15 carries for 64 yards on the ground and passing for 244 yards and two TDs. Dampier’s 2-yard touchdown pass to Larry Simmons with 1:24 left cut BYU’s lead to 24-21, but Utah’s ensuing onside kick didn’t work as a Ute was flagged for illegally touching the ball before it traveled 10 yards.

Highlights, key plays and photos from No. 15 BYU’s thrilling win over No. 23 Utah

“Dampier is a great athlete; he makes people miss,” said Sitake.

Bachmeier makes them look silly, at times, then struggles to find ways to describe his life the past three months. He completed 13 of 22 passes for 166 yards, including the 17-yard touchdown strike to Chase Roberts to open the scoring.

Roberts said he and Bachmeier spent 30-35 minutes after practice this week working on that back-shoulder throw, getting the timing just right.

“It has been a crazy kind of roller coaster (ride),” Bachmeier said. “… We have been here before and we just gotta keep it rolling.”

Senior safety Tanner Wall, a former walk-on who said he has been cheering for BYU over Utah since he “came out of the womb,” made the fifth interception of his career, then ranked it as the best yet “because it came in the Holy War.”

With Utah on the move after Parker Kingston’s 12-yard TD run gave BYU a 17-14 lead — a play after Ute stud Lander Barton was ejected for targeting Bachmeier on a vicious hit as Bachmeier was delivering a 26-yard pass to former Ute Carsen Ryan — Wall outjumped Utah’s Daniel Bray for the pigskin.

“We lost the turnover margin 2-0, tough to do that against a team that is 6-0, a highly ranked team,” said Whittingham. “It is tough to do that.”

Bray had given Utah its first lead, 14-10, with a 49-yard run, untouched, to the end zone with 14:11 remaining in the contest. The TD got the Utah crowd back into the game, and put BYU fans on their seats. Big mo was wearing red.

But credit BYU and Bachmeier for answering quickly with one of their best drives of the season. Kingston’s TD capped an 81-yard drive in five plays.

“It was a back and forth game,” said Sitake. “We maybe made a few more plays than they did. … The hair on my arms just stands up thinking about it."

A case could be made that BYU stole the game from the Utes in the first half, as Utah picked up 238 yards in the first 30 minutes, but had just seven points to show for it as BYU’s defense turned the Utes over on downs twice in the first half.

The Utes were in control late in the first half after knotting the score 7-7 with an 11-yard Ryan Davis TD reception, and then forcing a three-and-out. But returner Mana Carvalho muffed Sam Vander Haar’s short punt, and BYU’s Talan Alfrey jumped on it.

Alfrey, Roberts, reserve tight end Ethan Erickson and Wall are the only players remaining on the BYU team that ended Utah’s nine-game winning streak in the series with the 26-17 win in 2021.

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“To be 3-0 against them, it is pretty special and something I will cherish for the rest of my life, for sure,” Roberts said.

The way the half ended was maddening for the Cougars, although they regained the lead on a 26-yard field goal by Will Ferrin. BYU had the ball at the Utah 11 after Bachmeier’s 3-yard run on fourth-and-1, but Roderick called two running plays when the Cougars were out of timeouts. Bachmeier had to spike the football on third down to stop the clock and give BYU a chance to get its field goal team on the field.

Bachmeier’s explanation: “We got the field goal, and we won by three. That was pretty important.”

Indeed it was.