Official announcement from the Big 12 Conference

BYU Stays Unbeaten with 44-Yard Field Goal to Beat Utah 22-21 in First Big 12 Rivalry Game

Nov 10, 2024, 07:06 AM

In the first Big 12 Conference rivalry game between Utah and No. 9 BYU, the Cougars emerged victorious with a 22-21 comeback win at Rice-Eccles Stadium, witnessed by 54,383 fans. Trailing 21-10 at halftime, BYU's defense held Utah scoreless in the second half. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff led the offensive resurgence, rushing for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit. A crucial defensive holding call against Utah on BYU's final drive kept the Cougars' hopes alive, allowing kicker Will Ferrin to nail a 44-yard game-winning field goal with three seconds remaining. The win keeps BYU's magical undefeated season alive at 9-0 (6-0 Big 12) and marks their first victory at Utah since 2006, extending their winning streak over Utah to two games. Utah Athletic Director Mark Harlan expressed his frustration post-game, stating, "This game was absolutely stolen from us... I am disgusted by the professionalism of the officiating crew tonight."