BYU, Utah Close Regular Season Strong as Big 12 Championship Looms
The final weekend of the regular season didn’t disappoint for BYU and Utah, who each handled business in their own way to close out impressive campaigns heading into the postseason.
BYU Finds Its Rhythm, Utah Rallies Again
BYU shook off a sluggish start in its home finale against UCF, eventually pulling away for a 41-21 win. It was a classic case of a team finding its footing after a flat first quarter. Once the Cougars settled in, they took control on both sides of the ball, showcasing the kind of balance that’s carried them to an 11-1 record and a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Utah, meanwhile, leaned on its resilience once again. For the second straight week, the Utes needed a fourth-quarter push to put away an opponent - this time on the road at Kansas.
A 31-21 comeback win pushed Utah to 10-2 on the season and served as another reminder that this team knows how to finish. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was effective - and that’s what matters in November.
Where the Rankings Stand After Week 14
Despite their strong finishes, the polls didn’t offer much movement for either team.
BYU held steady at No. 11 in both the Associated Press and US LBM Coaches polls. That consistency reflects the respect the Cougars have earned throughout the season - especially with a Big 12 title shot on deck against Texas Tech.
Utah, on the other hand, dropped one spot in both polls to No. 15.
It’s a slight dip, likely influenced by the Utes needing late-game heroics in back-to-back weeks. Still, a 10-win season and a top-15 ranking heading into bowl season is nothing to scoff at.
Big 12’s Power Players Heading Into Championship Weekend
The Big 12 heads into its title game with four teams in the national top 25, led by Texas Tech. The Red Raiders made a statement in their regular-season finale, blanking West Virginia 49-0. That dominant win bumped them up to No. 5 in the AP poll and No. 6 in the Coaches rankings, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with BYU.
Arizona also made a splash this week. After taking down rival Arizona State 23-7 in the Territorial Cup, the Wildcats jumped into the rankings for the first time this season, landing at No. 22 in both polls. It’s a deserved recognition for a team that’s quietly put together a strong 9-3 campaign.
Looking Ahead: CFP Rankings and What’s at Stake
The second-to-last College Football Playoff rankings will be released Tuesday at 5 p.m. MST on ESPN, and there’s plenty to watch for.
Last week, BYU came in at No. 11, holding a two-spot edge over Utah at No. 13. Utah had been No. 12 the week prior, but their recent close calls may be starting to weigh on the committee’s evaluation.
Texas Tech remains the Big 12’s top CFP contender, sitting at No. 5 last week. Arizona State checked in at No. 20, while Arizona was No. 25 - though the Wildcats’ win over the Sun Devils is bound to shake up that order.
For BYU and Texas Tech, the Big 12 Championship isn’t just about a conference crown - it’s a direct path to the playoff. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 10 a.m.
MST on ABC. With so much on the line, expect a heavyweight battle between two of the Big 12’s best.