The Utah Utes and BYU Cougars fought fiercely in an intense “Holy War” showdown that went down to the final seconds, leaving fans of both teams excited about the exciting 22-21 game. Utah’s narrow loss to ninth-ranked BYU included dramatic turnovers, highlight plays and a late-game controversy that will linger in discussions. Despite Utah’s valiant effort to end their losing streak, the Utes came up short, making it their fifth straight loss after starting the season strong at 4-0.

In a slow start for both offenses, BYU broke through for the first time with a 23-yard field goal by Will Ferrin in the first quarter. But the Utes responded early in the second quarter with an impressive drive led by freshman quarterback Brandon Rose, who was doing his best. first start of race. Rose’s 20-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brant Kuithe showed his potential and gave Utah a 7-3 lead. BYU responded immediately, however, as Keelan Marion electrified fans with a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, regaining the lead at 10-7.

Undeterred, Rose continued to orchestrate Utah’s offense effectively. On a carefully balanced 12-play drive, he found Kuithe again, this time for a 1-yard touchdown that restored Utah’s lead, 14-10. Utah’s offense continued to click as Rose connected with running back Micah Bernard for a 7 yard touchdown passgiving the Utes a promising 21-10 halftime lead. Utah’s halftime lead reflected the team’s renewed offensive energy, fueled in large part by Rose’s maturity and his connection with Kuithe. However, Kuithe’s departure in the third quarter due to injury marked a turning point, forcing Utah to lean heavily on its defense.

Utah’s defense held strong, holding BYU to nine points during the second half until the final moments. Then, controversy arose in the final minutes when Utes defensive tackle Junior Tafuna appeared to have secured the victory by sacking BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff on fourth down. However, a penalty against Utah negated the play, extending BYU’s drive. BYU took advantage of the opportunity, with Ferrin kicking a 44-yard field goal with just four seconds left to edge Utah, 22-21.

Utah’s final lateral attempt on the ensuing kickoff failed, sealing their heartbreaking defeat. Head coach Kyle Whittingham was visibly upset and confronted the officials after the game over the pivotal penalty.

Rose finished 12 of 21 for 112 yards and two touchdowns. He tried to keep up with Retzlaff, who threw for 219 yards. Bernard was an offensive bright spot with 17 carries for 78 yards and surpassed 2,000 career rushing yards. Rose was hot in the second quarter, but the offense sputtered after that. The Utes have lost five in a row but have not lost any by more than 13 points.

Utah will now look to regroup as it faces a strong colorado teamled by Deion Sanders, hoping to change the trajectory of their season. For BYU, this close victory leaves questions as they continue their push in the Big 12.