Brigham Young University (BYU) secured a decisive 41-21 victory over the University of Central Florida (UCF) on Saturday, marking a significant step towards their first conference championship in 18 years. Freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, present during the game with former BYU quarterback Max Hall, played a pivotal role in the Cougars’ success. This victory concluded the regular season for BYU with an impressive record of 11-1, equal to that of Texas Tech.
With only a rematch against Texas Tech remaining, set for December 2, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. local time in Arlington, Texas, the winner will be crowned the Big 12 champion and earn an automatic spot in the College Football Playoff. BYU Coach Kalani Sitake expressed optimism, stating, “The next best thing to a 12-0 year is 11-1, which we are. Our only loss was to a top-five ranked Texas Tech (29-7), so we are looking forward to the rematch.”
The Cougars’ victory over UCF was not just a statistic; it was a display of resilience and teamwork. Despite a challenging start, with UCF scoring two touchdowns in their opening possessions, BYU rallied to dominate the remainder of the game.
Key Plays Fuel BYU’s Comeback
The turning point came in the first quarter during a crucial third-and-6 situation at their own 39-yard line. Trailing 14-0, Bachmeier faced intense pressure from the UCF defense. Just as he released the ball, he was hit, causing an errant throw that fortuitously landed in the hands of his brother, Tiger Bachmeier. Tiger skillfully evaded defenders to secure a first down.
“It was a heck of a play by Tiger because I wasn’t throwing it to him,” Bachmeier said. “I got hit and it was a lucky deal, and Tiger ended up catching it. It was a good momentum swing, and we executed from there.” This play ignited a nine-play drive culminating in a 1-yard touchdown run by LJ Martin, setting the stage for BYU’s 41-7 scoring spree.
As the third quarter progressed, the Cougars maintained their momentum. Leading 24-14, UCF’s punter, Anthony Venneri, attempted a kick from the Knights’ 16-yard line. Thanks to a sack by Jack Kelly, BYU regained possession. Junior Parker Kingston anticipated the punt and executed a well-planned return.
“It was a middle return, and I knew if I got a little help up front we would be able to take one back,” Kingston noted. With impressive agility, he navigated the field and raced to the end zone, pushing BYU’s lead to 31-14.
Strategic Decisions and Individual Achievements
Coach Sitake demonstrated confidence in his team during a pivotal fourth-and-3 situation at UCF’s 46-yard line. Instead of opting to punt, he chose to go for it, surprising the Knights with a play that highlighted Kingston’s versatility.
“LJ was gashing them,” Kingston remarked, reflecting on his role after teammate Chase Roberts was sidelined. Bachmeier faked a handoff to Martin and connected with Kingston for a 46-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 38-21. Kingston’s performance was exceptional, as he amassed a career-high 181 all-purpose yards, becoming the first player in the Big 12 in nine years to achieve over 100 receiving yards, a punt return touchdown, and a receiving touchdown in a single game.
Bachmeier’s achievements are particularly notable as he becomes the first true freshman to start a season opener at BYU and the first to finish with an 11-1 record in his debut season. The upcoming rematch against Texas Tech will provide an opportunity for him to further solidify his place in BYU history.
The Cougars have not won a conference championship since 2007, the year Max Hall led the team to victory. As the only time BYU triumphed at AT&T Stadium was a narrow 14-13 upset against No. 3 Oklahoma in the 2009 season opener, this rematch represents a chance for both Bachmeier and Hall to bridge the past and present.
With their sights set on the Big 12 Championship, BYU’s latest victory showcases their determination and capability. As the players prepare for the crucial rematch, the momentum from their performance against UCF could be pivotal in their pursuit of championship glory.
