Get ready for a showdown that’s as intense as it gets—this weekend’s Utah vs. BYU matchup isn’t just another game; it’s a clash of titans with more on the line than ever before. But here’s where it gets controversial: Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, usually open about upcoming opponents, has gone uncharacteristically silent about this year’s BYU team. So, what’s he not saying? And this is the part most people miss—while he’s tight-lipped about the 2025 Cougars, he’s more than willing to dive into the rivalry’s broader significance, especially now that both teams are back in the same conference. Could there be a strategy behind his silence? Let’s dig in.
In his weekly press conference, Whittingham briefly touched on the statistical similarities between No. 23 Utah and No. 15 BYU, noting their nearly identical rushing, passing, and scoring numbers. Both teams are also defensive powerhouses, ranking in the upper third of the Big 12 in key stats. ‘It should make for a great matchup,’ Whittingham said, but that’s about all he’d reveal. Bold move? Absolutely. By keeping his cards close to his chest, Whittingham is either playing mind games or simply focusing on his own team’s preparation. Either way, it’s a tactic that’s got everyone talking.
Statistically, the teams are mirror images. Utah averages 248.2 rushing yards per game (No. 8 nationally), while BYU isn’t far behind at 238 yards (No. 11). Passing-wise, Utah’s 211.5 yards per game (No. 87) is nearly identical to BYU’s 210.2 (No. 90). Even their scoring is close: Utah at 39.5 points per game (No. 16) and BYU at 37.5 (No. 21). Defensively, it’s the same story—both teams are in the top 20 for yards allowed per game, with Utah giving up 293.5 and BYU 263.5. The only area where BYU pulls ahead is rushing defense, ranking No. 23 compared to Utah’s No. 61.
But here’s the real kicker: This is only the fourth time—and the first since 2009—that these rivals have faced off while both ranked in the AP Top 25. ESPN gives BYU a 51% chance of winning, but Vegas favors Utah by 3.5 points. It’s anyone’s game, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both teams are still in the running for the Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff spot, making this one of the most crucial matchups in the rivalry’s history.
Whittingham did, however, take a moment to praise the former Utah coaches now at BYU, including head coach Kalani Sitake, offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick, and defensive coordinator Jay Hill. ‘They were outstanding for us,’ he said, adding that Sitake, a close friend, has become an ‘outstanding head coach.’ But is this praise a subtle distraction? Some might argue it’s a way to shift focus away from the game itself.
When asked about BYU’s freshman quarterback, Bear Bachmeier, Whittingham deflected, saying, ‘I’m just going to focus on us this week.’ Fair enough, but it’s hard not to wonder what he’s really thinking. Meanwhile, Utah quarterback Devon Dampier, a newcomer to the rivalry, acknowledged its significance: ‘We’ll be dialed into it for sure.’
The rivalry’s intensity has always been high, but being in the same conference again has amplified it. Whittingham noted that in the Mountain West, the game was traditionally the season finale, adding to the buildup. Now, with the Big 12 schedule, it’s earlier in the season, which changes the dynamic. ‘It’s almost the same, but just not quite,’ he said. Is this a hint that the rivalry has lost some of its edge? Or is he downplaying it to keep his team focused?
With the transfer portal reshaping rosters—Utah’s is 50% new—fewer players have experienced this rivalry firsthand. Whittingham and his staff are taking time to educate the newcomers, emphasizing its historical and national significance. ‘It’s one of the better rivalries in the country,’ he said. But as the Utes prepare to face the Cougars for the first time in three tries, the question remains: Can Utah finally secure a win, or will BYU continue its streak?
Here’s where you come in: Do you think Whittingham’s silence about BYU is a strategic move, or is he simply staying focused on his team? And with both teams so evenly matched, who do you think will come out on top this Saturday? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
