đ The BYU-Utah rivalry, often dubbed the âHoly War,â has long been one of college footballâs most intense and storied matchups. Now, with both programs competing in the Big 12, Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham believes this rivalry should carry even greater weightâpotentially shaping the outcome of the conference championship race.
Whittinghamâs comments at Big 12 media days reflect a shift in the rivalryâs significance. No longer just a battle for bragging rights within the state of Utah, the annual clash between the Cougars and Utes now has direct implications for postseason ambitions. âItâs not only a rivalry game,â Whittingham said, âbut a game that could and should be instrumental in who ends up winning the Big 12.â That sentiment underscores how conference realignment has elevated the stakes of this historic feud.
The rivalry has always been fierce, fueled by proximity, cultural differences, and decades of competitive tension. But being in the same league adds a new layer of urgency. Every win or loss now affects standings, bowl eligibility, and even potential playoff contention. Whittingham, who has coached in over two dozen of these matchups, understands the emotional and strategic weight they carry. His teams have often thrived in high-pressure environments, and he knows that a late-season showdown with BYU could be the difference between a title run and a missed opportunity.
Last seasonâs controversial finishâwhere a defensive holding call extended BYUâs game-winning driveâonly intensified the rivalry. Utahâs athletic director publicly criticized the officiating, claiming the game was âstolen.â While the Big 12 later confirmed the call was correct, the fallout added fuel to an already blazing fire. Whittinghamâs acknowledgment that the rivalry has been âratche