Get ready for a thrilling rivalry clash as BYU takes on Utah, with major conference title aspirations on the line!
BYU, fresh off a dramatic double-overtime victory against Arizona, returns home to face their arch-nemesis, Utah. The Cougars aim for a rare feat: three consecutive wins over the Utes, a scenario unseen since the early '90s. But here's where it gets controversial... ESPN's FPI predicts a nail-biter, giving BYU a slim 51.0% chance to prevail in Provo.
FPI's preseason forecast had BYU winning 8.5 games, but now, they project a remarkable 9.6-2.4 season. BYU is favored in all remaining games, except for a potential challenge against Texas Tech.
A "special season" for BYU, as defined by 10 or more regular-season wins, could propel them into Big 12 championship contention and even the College Football Playoff. FPI's odds for BYU achieving this feat have soared to 54.9%, up from 45.2% last week. The chances of an undefeated season? A slim but exciting 3.8%.
Here's a breakdown of BYU's win probabilities:
- 7+ wins: 99.8%
- 8+ wins: 97.0%
- 9+ wins: 84.0%
- 10+ wins: 54.9%
- 11+ wins: 22.0%
- 12 wins (undefeated): 3.8%
After their win over Arizona, BYU climbed one spot to No. 19 in the FPI rankings. However, Utah's dominant performance against Arizona State saw them leapfrog BYU in the Big 12 rankings. Meanwhile, Texas Tech's impressive blowout win against Kansas has them climbing into the top 10.
BYU, Utah, and Texas Tech are the only Big 12 teams currently ranked in the top 30 by FPI.
In the race for the conference title, Texas Tech is the clear favorite, with a favorable conference schedule ahead. BYU is hot on their heels, with the second-best odds to win the league, according to FPI.
Here are the teams with the best chances to win the conference, as per FPI:
- BYU: 30.0%
- Texas Tech: 45.0%
- Other teams with over 5% chance: 3
BYU's College Football Playoff prospects are looking bright, with FPI giving them the second-best odds in the conference at 30.0%.
Will BYU's dreams of a special season come to fruition? Can they overcome Utah and secure their place in the Big 12 championship race? The answers lie in the upcoming games.
And this is the part most people miss... it's not just about the wins; it's about the journey, the rivalries, and the passion that fuels these teams. So, who do you think will emerge victorious in this intense rivalry? Let's discuss in the comments and share your predictions!
