BYU Secures Third Victory Over Utah in Holy War Rivalry

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Brigham Young University (BYU) achieved its third consecutive victory against the University of Utah in their annual football rivalry, known as the Holy War. The game, a closely contested event during the 2025 NCAA season, concluded with a 24-21 score. This win impacts BYU’s national ranking and its standing within the Big 12 Conference.

Story Highlights:

BYU defeated Utah with a score of 24-21.
This marks BYU’s third consecutive win in the Holy War rivalry.
The victory is expected to enhance BYU’s position in the Big 12 Conference.
The rivalry holds significant cultural and historical importance in Utah.

Game Summary:

The Brigham Young University Cougars, ranked 15th, secured a 24-21 victory over the 23rd-ranked University of Utah Utes. The game was decided in the final moments, extending BYU’s winning streak in the rivalry to three games. This outcome is anticipated to improve BYU’s national ranking and its standing within the Big 12 Conference. The Holy War rivalry, deeply embedded in Utah’s cultural and religious landscape, continues to be a prominent fixture in college football.

BYU WINS THE HOLY WAR 🏆🔥@BYUfootball wins it in a close one vs Utah in Provo pic.twitter.com/BHADc26Tt2

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 19, 2025

Cultural and Historical Context:
The Holy War rivalry extends beyond football, reflecting the cultural and religious dynamics of Utah. BYU, affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the secular University of Utah have a long-standing competitive history dating back to either 1896 or 1922. The rivalry is characterized by its intensity and the passionate support from both fan bases. The recent shift to a conference game has further elevated the stakes.

Future Implications:

BYU’s recent success in the Holy War carries both immediate and long-term implications. In the short term, the victory is expected to boost BYU’s national ranking and improve its prospects for bowl game selections, while potentially affecting Utah’s postseason opportunities. Long-term, this shift in rivalry momentum may influence recruiting efforts, fan engagement, and the perception of both programs within the Big 12 and nationally. The rivalry remains a significant event, reinforcing cultural and religious identities in Utah and highlighting the enduring appeal of traditional college football rivalries.

Watch the report: BYU Wins Holy War; Bachmeier DESTROYS Utah; Cougs Are the Best Team in the Big 12?