Full Breakdown
BYU vs. Utah: A Rivalry Showdown in Provo
10/14/2025, 4:14:30 PM
Overview of the Matchup
The highly anticipated college football rivalry between the No. 15 BYU Cougars and the No. 23 Utah Utes is set for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. This matchup, known as "The Holy War," features both teams ranked in the AP Top 25, with BYU boasting a perfect 6-0 record and Utah at 5-1. The game will kick off at 6 p.m. MT and will be broadcast live on FOX.
Recent Performance
Both teams enter the game with strong performances in recent weeks. The Utes have rebounded impressively after a loss to then-No. 17 Texas Tech, achieving back-to-back victories against West Virginia (48-14) and No. 21 Arizona State (42-10). Meanwhile, BYU has made history by starting the season with six consecutive wins for the second year in a row, including a notable double-overtime victory against Arizona.
Broadcast and Coverage
The game will be covered by FOX, featuring commentators Jason Benetti, Robert Griffin, and Alexa Landestoy. Additionally, Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff will be present in Provo, highlighting the significance of this rivalry matchup. Notably, ESPN's College GameDay will not be attending, as they will be covering the Georgia vs. Ole Miss game in Athens, which has drawn criticism from some, including podcast personality Pat McAfee, who expressed that Provo would have been a more fitting choice.
Team Updates and Depth Chart
As the teams prepare for the rivalry game, BYU has made notable adjustments to its depth chart. Sophomore Faletau Satuala is set to start at strong safety following an injury to Raider Damuni. Additionally, cornerback Jonathan Kabeya is making his season debut on the depth chart after recovering from an injury sustained during fall camp.
Importance of the Rivalry
The BYU-Utah rivalry is deeply rooted in the culture of college football in Utah, drawing significant attention from fans across the state. The matchup not only impacts the standings in the Big 12 but also holds considerable emotional weight for players and supporters alike. With both teams performing well this season, the stakes are high, making this game a pivotal moment in their respective campaigns.
Official Statements & Responses
Pat McAfee remarked on the significance of the game, stating, “That would’ve been amazing to be at, The Holy War... An entire state... loves ball.” His comments reflect the enthusiasm surrounding the rivalry, underscoring its importance to the local community and college football landscape.
What's Next
Following the rivalry game, BYU will face the Iowa State Cyclones on October 25, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 1:30 p.m. MT. This upcoming matchup will also be broadcast on FOX, continuing the Cougars' challenging schedule in the Big 12.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans eagerly await what promises to be an exciting and competitive showdown between two of college football's storied programs.
