Turnovers Could Decide BYU-Utah’s Biggest Rivalry Game

Published November 3, 2026. BYU and Utah are preparing for a rivalry game that could become the highest-ranked meeting between the schools. The teams’ recent matchups offer a clear theme: mistakes with the ball have repeatedly changed the result.

In last year’s game in Provo, BYU recovered a Utah punt fumble to set up a field goal, then intercepted Devon Dampier late in the contest before Bear Bachmeier scored a decisive touchdown. BYU also benefited from multiple takeaways in its 2024 win in Salt Lake City, including a fumble recovery on the final play that secured a 22-21 victory.

Utah’s 2021 loss in Provo began with two first-quarter turnovers, which helped BYU end a nine-game losing streak in the series. The Utes, however, turned the tables in 2019: two interceptions returned for touchdowns and another recovered fumble helped produce a 30-12 win.

BYU has won its past three games against Utah while holding a plus-seven turnover margin. This season, Utah has forced 13 turnovers, while BYU has committed eight. Each team has also had a takeaway contribute to a major win this year, but the preview argues those earlier plays will matter less than what happens in the rivalry itself.

The matchup is expected to draw attention to the quarterbacks, running backs and home-field advantage, but ball security may prove more consequential. A fumble, interception or other miscue could quickly swing the game, making each possession important.