The BYU Cougars and the Utah Tech Trailblazers are set to meet for the second time in their brief college football history when they open the 2026 season in Week 1.
A Rivalry Renewed
In the 2022 showdown at LaVell Edwards Stadium, Utah Tech jumped out to a 6‑0 lead after scoring 20 points in the first half, but the Cougars answered with a dominant second half that limited the Trailblazers to just six points, sealing a 52‑26 win.
Quarterback Jaren Hall was the engine of BYU’s offense, completing 23 of 35 passes for 456 yards and five touchdowns, while also adding a rushing score that brought his total to six touchdowns for the game.
The receiving corps contributed heavily, with Keanu Hill hauling in six catches for 137 yards and three touchdowns, Chase Roberts adding two receptions for 82 yards and a score, Puka Nacua contributing five catches for 53 yards, and tight end Isaac Rex recording four catches for 60 yards and a touchdown. Running back Chris Brooks also broke the century mark, finishing with 102 yards on 12 carries.
Overall, BYU amassed 676 total yards compared to Utah Tech’s 420, and the Cougars’ defense forced the Trailblazers into a six‑point second half, underscoring a stark contrast to the early lead.
Utah Tech’s quarterback Victor Gabalis threw for 340 yards and three touchdowns, keeping his team competitive despite the eventual outcome.
Entering the 2026 opener, the Cougars view the matchup as an opportunity to fine‑tune a more balanced attack, while the Trailblazers hope to build on their early‑game explosiveness and challenge the BYU advantage.