Utah rallies past BYU 28-20, stays undefeated

Utah defeated BYU 28-20 on Saturday to remain undefeated, rallying from a six-point halftime deficit behind four interceptions of quarterback Bear Bachmeier. The third-ranked Utes improved to 9-0, while BYU fell to 7-2 after its second loss of the season.

Utah trailed 20-14 at halftime after BYU scored 20 consecutive points following the Utes’ fast start. Utah then shut out the Cougars in the second half, scoring 14 unanswered points to take the lead and secure the win. The Utes opened with two touchdowns on their first two drives, building a 14-0 advantage.

Quarterback Devon Dampier accounted for all four of Utah’s touchdowns, throwing for two and running for two. He completed 14 of 26 passes for 177 yards and rushed for 87 yards. Dampier also made a 29-yard reception on a fourth-down play in the third quarter.

Bachmeier completed 21 of 35 passes for 272 yards and a touchdown, and ran for 59 yards, but was intercepted four times. Utah’s defense made three interceptions in the second half. BYU drove into scoring range late, but interceptions in the end zone stopped two drives. Nate Ritchie made the final pick with two seconds remaining, ending the Cougars’ last possession.