BYU vs Utah. The Holy War. The biggest sports rivalry in the Beehive State is finally returning after a two-year hiatus, and significant inconsistency since the Cougars and Utes parted ways in 2011--BYU to become an independent, and Utah to join the now sold-for-parts Pac-12.
This is the meeting that both teams circled on their schedule at the beginning of the season. It was the game Utah wanted to win when they were the favorite to win the Big 12, and it's the game BYU wants to win now that they're atop the conference.
Now, with Utah at a crossroads and BYU desperate to remain unbeaten, this game has major implications for both teams, despite the fact that BYU has much more to lose if the result turns sour.
Both teams are coming off a bye and will be well-rested and well-prepared to battle as conference rivals again. BYU's team is looking strong and stable, with excellent quarterback play and a stellar defense behind them. Utah's defense is still as strong as ever, but Cam Rising's injury left the Ute offense looking inept and uncertain to the point that their offensive coordinator stepped down mid-season.
On paper, this should be an easy win for BYU, currently on an 8-game win streak, when compared to Utah and their 4-game slide. In a complete role-reversal, the Cougars are the playoff contenders and the Utes are fighting for bowl eligibility.
Whittingham's team is desperate to win this game--BYU needs to control the game from start to finish. It's up for grabs and the Holy War never fails to entertain.
Here's everything you need to watch the Cougars battle their rivals from up north.
How to Watch BYU vs Utah:
Date: November 9, 2024
Time: 8:15 PM MT
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT
Channel: ESPN
Odds: BYU -5