Pac 12 Football: Week 2 Power Rankings
The Holy War between Utah and BYU went the way of the Utes in a one-point victory over the Cougars. BYU almost made the full comeback after being behind since the end of the second quarter when they scored a touchdown at the end of the fourth to make it a 20-19 game. BYU went for the two-point conversion to win the game but came up empty.
The biggest play for Utah could have been the first play of the contest. BYU quarterback Taysom Hill’s pass went to Utah linebacker and Pac-12 defensive player of the week Sunia Tauteoli who returned it for 41 yards and the touchdown. Tauteoli also added another interception and six tackles.
Utah’s next touchdown would come with just 0:17 seconds left in the half when quarterback Troy Williams connected with wide receiver Tim Patrick for 21 yards and the touchdown. Speaking of Utah and their offense, one must look at the turnover extravaganza.
Six turnovers occurred against BYU, but somehow the Cougars could only turn that and the rest of their offense into 19 points. Which is a tribute more to the fierce defense of Utah than the sputtering offense of BYU.
Utah is second in the Pac-12 in points allowed (9.8) and second in total defense allowing just 243 yards per game. The Utes have also only allowed one touchdown. While in the nation, they are 17th in total defense.
They will need to stop turning the ball over as the won’t be lucky enough to win such style games. They will see if they can bounce back when the Utes take on San Jose State this Saturday.
Next: 3. Washington