BYU's College Football Playoff aspirations hang in the balance following a stumble against UCF, setting up a must-win showdown with the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Cougars' loss to the Knights has left them with little margin for error as they prepare to face their in-state rivals.
The key storyline heading into the game is the health of running back LJ Martin. In the teams' previous meeting at LaVell Edwards Stadium on October 18, 2025, quarterback Bear Bachmeier handed off to Martin, but his availability for the rematch remains uncertain. All eyes will be on Martin's status as BYU looks to keep its playoff hopes alive.
