Loyal Cougars Podcast

Last year, BYU was flying high after beating Utah—undefeated, confident, and rolling. Then came back-to-back heartbreaks against Kansas and Arizona State.

This year feels familiar… but maybe different.

BYU’s coming off another emotional Holy War win, but the players know what’s at stake. They’ve lived through the post-Utah letdown before, and this time, they’re saying all the right things.

Iowa State has talent, but their offense has struggled when Rocco Becht isn’t on. If BYU plays with that “disrespected underdog” edge—and keeps their focus—they should come out of Ames with the win.

Can the Cougars prove they’ve learned from last year’s stumble?

The Holy War might be over for this season, but there’s still a lot to discuss.

When you look at where these two programs are headed, the picture is starting to shift.
BYU’s young core—guys like Bear, LJ, and Akana—are just getting started. Utah, meanwhile, is losing key veterans to the NFL. Add in the NIL era, and you start to see two programs moving in very different directions.

BYU’s stock is rising. Utah’s window might be closing.

What do you think? Are the Cougars set to take control of the rivalry for the foreseeable future?

Although friends, there’s a clear contrast between the head coaches in this rivalry.

Kyle Whittingham’s intensity and competitiveness have defined Utah football for years—but sometimes that same edge comes across as arrogance and pettiness.

Kalani Sitake? He’s every bit as competitive, but he leads from a different place. He’s genuine, grounded, and fueled by love for his players, his fans, and even his rivals.

Two coaches. Two styles. One rivalry that brings it all to the surface.

Who would you rather play for?

We’re thinking Zach Wilson might be a pretty good comp for RyderLyons. Who would you compare him to?