DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
BYU defeated Arizona 33–27 in a closely contested finish. BYU covered by 3.5; Game went Over by 13.5. The market closed at BYU -2.5 and the Blue Chip model made it BYU -8.2 - a gap of 5.7 points toward BYU, of which 4.9 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
BYU overcame a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit, tying the game with 19 seconds left on a 2-yard touchdown run by freshman QB Bear Bachmeier, then won in double overtime. This shows the team's mental toughness and ability to perform under pressure, which could be crucial against Utah.
Bachmeier threw for 172 yards, one TD, and two interceptions, but also ran for 89 yards and two TDs on 22 carries, including the game-winner in OT. His rushing ability adds a dynamic element to the offense, but his interceptions highlight inconsistency that Utah's defense may exploit.
LJ Martin rushed for a career-high 162 yards and a touchdown, providing a reliable ground attack. This balance will be key against Utah's defense, as controlling the clock and keeping the chains moving can limit Utah's offensive opportunities.
BYU's defense forced a fourth-down incompletion in the end zone to seal the win, despite allowing 27 points. Linebacker Siale Esera had 16 tackles, but the unit showed vulnerability on Arizona's 36-yard TD run. Improving run defense will be critical against Utah's rushing attack.
BYU improved to 6-0 (3-0 Big 12) for the second straight season, maintaining their undefeated status. The win keeps them in contention for the Big 12 title, and the upcoming rivalry game against Utah (Oct. 18) will be a major test of their championship credentials.
Arizona lost 33-27 in double overtime to No. 18 BYU after leading by 10 points in the fourth quarter. The Wildcats had a chance to tie in the second OT but Noah Fifita's fourth-down pass was dropped in the end zone, marking their second loss in three games.
Noah Fifita threw for 219 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Kris Hutson had 106 receiving yards and a touchdown on nine catches. Kedrick Reescano added a powerful 36-yard touchdown run, but the offense stalled in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Arizona's defense allowed BYU to rally from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter, giving up a game-tying touchdown with 19 seconds left. The unit also failed to stop BYU's freshman quarterback on key runs, including the game-winning 7-yard touchdown in double overtime.
The game was delayed 75 minutes early in the second quarter due to lightning from Hurricane Priscilla's remnants. Arizona led 14-7 at the time but struggled to maintain momentum after the break, though they still took a 17-14 halftime lead.
Arizona (4-2, 1-2 Big 12) travels to Houston on Oct. 18. The Wildcats need to bounce back from this tough loss and improve their consistency, especially in closing out games, to stay competitive in the conference race.
At kickoff, conditions at Arizona Stadium were Partly cloudy, 73°F with winds of 5 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Partly cloudy
73°F
| Measure | BYUAway | ArizonaHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 555 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Home game | Home game |
| Season total | 5,009 miles | 2,333 miles |
| Body clock | 18:00 | 17:00 |
| Rest | 8 days | 8 days |
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