In the world of college football, rivalries can define a season, and the clash between Utah and BYU is no exception. Recent remarks from Utah's quarterback highlight the importance of the upcoming game against their long-standing rival.
SALT LAKE CITY — Although there's an outdated, unwritten rule about when to start discussing an upcoming opponent, it’s hard to ignore the significance of that next game, especially when it involves a historic rivalry. This often means that media inquiries about opponents should start only after the previous game has concluded.
Following a commanding 42-10 victory over Arizona State at Rice-Eccles Stadium late Saturday night, Utah is now gearing up for another crucial matchup in the Big 12, but this time, they face their archrival BYU at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo. As the clock struck midnight, marking the transition from Saturday night to Sunday morning, it was clear that it was time to focus on the Cougars, despite that archaic guideline.
Devon Dampier, a junior quarterback for the Utes, is not a Utah native nor does he have any family ties to the state. Having transferred from New Mexico only in January, it’s pertinent to wonder how much Dampier, who hails from Phoenix, truly understands the fervor surrounding the so-called "Holy War" between these two teams and what it represents for local fans.
After an impressive performance that saw him accumulate 224 total yards, including 120 rushing yards and three touchdowns, Dampier responded candidly to questions about the rivalry. "I understand the significance of this game," he stated confidently, clearly aware of the magnitude of the upcoming clash.
To provide further context, Dampier was flanked by two teammates: Jackson Bennee, a sophomore safety from Holladay, known for his standout days at Olympus High, and John Henry Daley, a redshirt sophomore defensive end from Alpine who previously starred at Lone Peak and even transferred from BYU. Given their local backgrounds, it was natural to inquire whether they had filled Dampier in on the gravity of the Utah-BYU rivalry.
With a smile and a sideways glance at his teammates, Dampier confirmed, "Yep, yep, I'm aware."
The rivalry is always a significant event, but this particular contest marks the 103rd meeting in a series that stretches back to 1922 and carries with it even more weight now. This is largely due to the strong performances from both teams. As the Utes prepare for their showdown, it’s important to note that both teams are currently in contention for a spot in the Big 12 championship game, which will take place on December 6 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Utah boasts a record of 5-1 with 2-1 in the Big 12, having just bested Arizona State, while BYU, with an unblemished record of 6-0 and 3-0 in the Big 12, recently triumphed over Arizona in a thrilling double-overtime finish. Notably, BYU stands among three teams that remain undefeated in conference play, alongside Texas Tech and the surprising Cincinnati — who are set to visit Rice-Eccles on November 1.
Another loss in the conference would significantly diminish Utah's chances of making it to the title game. While last year's championship participants—Arizona State and Iowa State—finished the season at 7-2, the stakes for this game could not be higher. Just as the matchup against the Sun Devils felt critical, traveling down I-15 to face the Cougars carries a similar urgency this week.
"It should make for an exciting game — a one-loss team up against an undefeated one," said Utah's head coach Kyle Whittingham. "It’s shaping up to be one of the largest sporting events in the state of Utah, much like it is every year."
So as we stand on the brink of this rivalry showdown, it’s hard not to feel the electric anticipation. Will the Utes rise to the challenge, or will the Cougars maintain their perfect record? Let us know your thoughts: What do you think will happen in this pivotal game? Are you rooting for your team or do you think BYU has the upper hand? We’d love to hear your opinions!
