DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
BYU defeated Utah 24–21 in a nail-biter. BYU covered by 7.0; Game went Under by 4.5. The market closed at Utah -4.0 and the Blue Chip model made it Utah -0.3 - a gap of 3.6 points toward BYU, of which 2.6 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. Blue Chip Analytics had rated Utah 3.4 points stronger on a neutral field.
Utah failed on three fourth-down attempts inside BYU territory, including a 4th-and-1 at the BYU 12 and a 4th-and-7 at the BYU 28, leaving potential points on the board and allowing BYU to stay close.
Utah took a 14-10 lead early in the fourth quarter but then surrendered 14 unanswered points, including a go-ahead touchdown and a 22-yard rushing score by BYU's quarterback after a costly interception by Devon Dampier.
Devon Dampier threw for 244 yards and two touchdowns, and Daniel Bray rushed for a career-high 121 yards and a touchdown, but the team's inability to convert in the red zone and a key interception proved decisive.
Despite outgaining BYU and having more first downs, Utah's defense could not get a stop on BYU's critical fourth-quarter drives, allowing the Cougars to rally and take the lead.
Utah will look to rebound at home against Colorado on Saturday, needing to address red-zone efficiency and late-game execution to avoid a second straight loss.
BYU rallied from a 14-10 deficit in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 unanswered points to secure the win. This ability to perform under pressure and finish strong is a key trait for upcoming games.
LJ Martin rushed for 122 yards on 26 carries, his fifth 100-yard game this season. The Cougars' ground game, led by Martin, has been consistent and could be a major factor against Iowa State's defense.
BYU's defense forced three turnovers on downs, including two in the first half. This ability to make critical stops in high-leverage situations will be crucial against a tough Iowa State offense.
Bachmeier accounted for 229 total yards (passing and rushing) and two touchdowns, including a 22-yard run where he dragged three defenders into the end zone. His versatility adds a dynamic element to the offense.
BYU improved to 7-0 (4-0 Big 12) and has won three straight against Utah. This undefeated streak and rivalry win provide significant momentum heading into a road game at Iowa State.
At kickoff, conditions at LaVell Edwards Stadium were Clear, 38°F, wind chill 32°F with winds of 4 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.
Clear
38°F
| Measure | UtahAway | BYUHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 36 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Home game | 1,110 miles |
| Season total | 5,200 miles | 5,564 miles |
| Body clock | 18:00 | 18:00 |
| Rest | 7 days | 7 days |
.png)
