Utah defeated BYU 28–20 in the 98th edition of the Holy War on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.
The game began at 10 a.m. local time. Utah linebacker Trey Reynolds intercepted BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier’s pass in the end zone with 4:46 left to preserve the 28–20 lead. According to The Associated Press, the crowd’s reaction shook the stadium and contributed significantly to the atmosphere.
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Fans arrived well before kickoff. Red-clad Utah supporters filled the upper deck by 9 a.m. Tailgating started as early as 7:15 a.m., featuring chile verde breakfast burritos and Jameson whiskey. Blue-clad BYU fans encountered chants, mock vomiting sounds, and signs crossing out the "Y" in "BYU." One banner read: HELL IS REAL. IT'S IN PROVO.
The rivalry is rooted in geographic proximity — the campuses are 45 miles apart — and cultural contrast. BYU is approximately 98% Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the University of Utah is about 36% LDS. Former Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham played and coached at BYU. Current BYU head coach Kalani Sitake served as Utah’s defensive coordinator.
After the final whistle, Utah fans waved toward BYU supporters and shouted taunts. Etta James’ “At Last” played over the public address system. As Sitake exited the field, Utah fans applauded him from the stands; he returned the gesture. Utah quarterback Devon Dampier was surrounded by teammates and fans in an emotional postgame celebration.
Judy Bishop, a longtime Utah fan, stood alone on a sidewalk after the game, repeating “Yes! Yes, yes, yes, yes” into her phone while listening to a replay of Reynolds’ interception. She described the relief that followed years of workplace and neighborhood banter intensified by prior losses.
More: NCAAF · BYU Cougars · Utah Utes
