BYU Vs. Utah: The Holy War Rivalry

Nick Leason

-Oct 18, 2025

The BYU vs. Utah rivalry, often called the "Holy War," is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in college football. This article dives into the history, key moments, and future of this passionate in-state clash.

Key Takeaways

The BYU-Utah rivalry, known as the "Holy War," is a passionate and long-standing tradition in Utah.
The series is marked by memorable games, streaks, and intense fan involvement.
Multiple factors fuel the rivalry, including proximity, religious affiliations, and competition for state supremacy.
The future of the rivalry is uncertain with BYU's move to the Big 12, but efforts are being made to continue the tradition.
Key players and coaches throughout history have shaped the rivalry's narrative.
The economic and social impact of the game extends beyond the football field.

Introduction

The BYU vs. Utah football game is more than just a contest between two universities; it's a cultural phenomenon. The annual matchup, with very few exceptions, brings the state of Utah to a standstill, pitting neighbor against neighbor in a battle for bragging rights. The intensity surrounding this game is palpable, fueled by a complex mix of factors ranging from geographical proximity to religious differences and athletic ambitions. This article will explore the rich history of the rivalry, examine the key elements that contribute to its fervor, and consider the future of this beloved, if sometimes contentious, tradition.

What & Why: Unpacking the Holy War

What is the BYU-Utah Rivalry?

The BYU-Utah rivalry is the annual college football game played between Brigham Young University (BYU) and the University of Utah. It's a clash that transcends sports, embedding itself deeply within the cultural fabric of Utah. The game is commonly referred to as the "Holy War," a name that reflects the historical religious affiliations of the two universities, with BYU being owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Utah being a public university.

Why is the Rivalry So Intense?

Several factors contribute to the rivalry's intensity:

Proximity: The two universities are located just 45 miles apart, leading to shared recruiting pools, fan bases, and media attention.
Religious Affiliation: While not the sole driver, the religious differences between the universities add a layer of complexity to the rivalry. This aspect, while sometimes controversial, is an undeniable element of the game's history.
Competition for State Supremacy: Both universities vie for the top athletic program in Utah, making each game a crucial test of dominance.
History of Close Games: The series has seen numerous nail-biting finishes and dramatic upsets, further fueling the rivalry's intensity.
Year-Round Bragging Rights: The winner of the game earns bragging rights for the entire year, adding extra weight to the outcome.

Benefits of the Rivalry

Despite the intensity, the rivalry offers several benefits:

Economic Impact: The game generates significant revenue for both universities and the local economy through ticket sales, merchandise, and tourism.
Community Engagement: The rivalry fosters a sense of community and tradition, bringing people together to celebrate their respective schools.
National Exposure: The game often receives national media attention, showcasing Utah's vibrant college football scene.

Risks and Challenges

The passion surrounding the rivalry can sometimes lead to negative consequences: — Miami Airport Weather: Current Conditions & Forecast

Unsportsmanlike Conduct: The intensity of the rivalry can occasionally lead to inappropriate behavior from fans and, less frequently, players.
Divisiveness: The rivalry can create divisions within families and communities, particularly when emotions run high.
Pressure on Players: The immense pressure to win can take a toll on the student-athletes involved.

How-To: Navigating the Holy War as a Fan

Being a fan of either BYU or Utah during Holy War week is an experience unlike any other. Here's how to navigate it:

Embrace the Passion: The energy surrounding the game is contagious. Allow yourself to get caught up in the excitement, but remember to keep it respectful.
Know the History: Understanding the history of the rivalry adds depth to the experience. Learn about the key moments, players, and coaches who have shaped the series.
Attend the Game (if possible): Experiencing the game in person is a must for any serious fan. The atmosphere is electric.
Engage in Friendly Banter: Trash talk is part of the fun, but keep it lighthearted and avoid personal attacks.
Wear Your Colors: Show your support for your team by wearing their colors proudly.
Plan Ahead: Tickets to the game are highly sought after, so plan your purchase strategy in advance. Consider travel and parking logistics as well.
Follow Social Media: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments by following your team's social media accounts and relevant hashtags.
Be Respectful: Remember that it's just a game. Win or lose, treat opposing fans with respect.
Celebrate (or Commiserate) Responsibly: Whether you're celebrating a victory or mourning a loss, do so responsibly and avoid excessive behavior.
Look Forward to Next Year: The beauty of a rivalry is that there's always next year. The cycle of anticipation and excitement never truly ends.

Examples & Use Cases: Defining Games and Moments

The BYU-Utah rivalry is filled with legendary games and unforgettable moments. Here are a few examples:

The 1993 Snow Game: In a blizzard, BYU quarterback John Walsh led a last-minute drive to secure a 31-28 victory over Utah.
LaVell Edwards's Dominance: BYU coach LaVell Edwards had a dominant run in the series, winning 18 of 29 games against Utah.
Utah's 9-Game Win Streak (2010-2018): Utah enjoyed a long period of dominance, winning nine consecutive games against BYU, a painful era for Cougar fans.
BYU's Comeback in 2021: In the first game after the 9 game losing streak, BYU held on to win in a close and emotional match.
The Holy War in the Future: With BYU joining the Big 12 conference, the rivalry's future scheduling is uncertain, making each game even more precious.

These examples highlight the emotional rollercoaster that defines the BYU-Utah rivalry. Each game writes a new chapter in the ongoing saga, contributing to the series's rich history and lore.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices for Fans

Be Loud and Proud (But Respectful): Cheer enthusiastically for your team, but avoid personal insults or offensive behavior.
Know the Traditions: Familiarize yourself with the traditions associated with the rivalry, such as tailgating rituals and chants.
Support Local Businesses: Patronize businesses in the community that support your team.
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and analysis related to the game.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Taking the Rivalry Too Seriously: Remember that it's just a game. Don't let the rivalry consume you or damage relationships.
Engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Avoid taunting, fighting, or any other behavior that could tarnish the reputation of your team or the rivalry.
Making Assumptions Based on Religious Affiliation: The rivalry should be about football, not religious prejudice. Avoid stereotypes or offensive remarks.
Overspending on Tickets or Merchandise: It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend. Set a budget and stick to it.
Forgetting the Bigger Picture: College football is about more than just wins and losses. Enjoy the camaraderie, the tradition, and the overall experience.

FAQs

1. Why is the BYU-Utah game called the Holy War? The name reflects the historical religious affiliations of the two universities, with BYU being owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Utah being a public university. However, the name is sometimes controversial, and many prefer to simply call it the BYU-Utah rivalry game.

2. How long has the BYU-Utah rivalry been going on? The series dates back to 1896, with occasional interruptions. It's one of the oldest and most enduring rivalries in college football.

3. Who has won the most games in the BYU-Utah series? As of the last completed season, Utah holds the overall lead in the series.

4. Will BYU and Utah continue to play each other now that BYU is in the Big 12? Both universities have expressed a desire to continue the rivalry. Scheduling details are still being worked out, but efforts are being made to maintain the annual game.

5. Where is the BYU-Utah game played? The game alternates each year between BYU's LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo and Utah's Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. — Baker, LA USPS Drop-Off: Locations & Hours

6. What makes the BYU-Utah rivalry so special? The combination of proximity, history, religious undertones, and the high stakes involved make the BYU-Utah rivalry a unique and compelling spectacle.

Conclusion with CTA

The BYU-Utah rivalry is more than just a football game; it's a cultural institution. The passion, tradition, and history surrounding this annual clash make it one of the most captivating rivalries in college sports. While the future scheduling remains somewhat uncertain, the spirit of the Holy War will undoubtedly endure. To stay updated on the latest news, game schedules, and analysis, visit your respective university's athletic website or follow reputable sports news outlets. Get ready for the next chapter in this epic rivalry! — Deebo Samuel: The NFL's Versatile Star

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 16:30 UTC