Nov 4, 2026 · 50 min
BYU’s playoff path runs through No. 3 Utah
BYU No. 9 in CFP Rankings, Utah Showdown Preview | BYU Sports Nation
BYU’s No. 9 playoff ranking gives Saturday’s rivalry game unusually high stakes, with a loss potentially forcing the Cougars to rely on outside chaos.
- 1BYU’s No. 9 ranking reflects a strong résumé but leaves little room for error against No. 3 Utah.
- 2The hosts debate whether beating Utah is essential for BYU’s playoff hopes and examine Big 12 and at-large paths.
- 3Hans Olsen and Walker Lyons emphasize defensive execution, offensive preparation, and the uncertainty surrounding L.J. Martin.
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Walker Lyons explains what BYU learned from the UCF and Arizona State games before his first rivalry matchup with Utah.
The brief
BYU opens at No. 9 in the first College Football Playoff rankings, while No. 3 Utah creates the clearest remaining test of the Cougars’ résumé.
Spencer Linton and Jarom Jordan debate whether BYU must beat Utah to reach the playoff, weighing a loss, Big 12 title-game routes, at-large chances, and the chaos required.
Hans Olsen calls the ranking acceptable because BYU can improve its position directly, then stresses a defensive slugfest and the importance of L.J. Martin’s availability.
Walker Lyons previews his first BYU–Utah rivalry game, discussing lessons from UCF and Arizona State, offensive execution, the running game, and preparation for a hostile environment.
The episode’s central tension is control: BYU can strengthen its playoff case by winning in Salt Lake City, while a loss leaves its fate to committee judgment and other results.
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