BYU Football Stuns No. 13 Kansas State in Dominant Big 12 Opener

The BYU Cougars delivered a statement victory, taking down the 13th-ranked Kansas State Wildcats 38-9 in their Big 12 Conference opener. The win improves BYU's record to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in the Big 12, while Kansas State drops to 3-1 and 0-1 in the league.

A Rollercoaster of Momentum Shifts and Defensive Dominance

A Stunning Turnaround Before Halftime

The game witnessed a remarkable sequence of events just before halftime. With BYU trailing 6-3 and the clock winding down, the Cougars unleashed a flurry of plays that turned the tide of the game. Freshman safety Tommy Prassas scooped up a fumble and returned it for a touchdown, giving BYU a 10-6 lead. On the ensuing Kansas State possession, Avery Johnson threw an interception to BYU defensive end Tyler Batty. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff then connected with Chase Roberts for a 23-yard touchdown pass, extending the Cougars' lead to 17-6 at the break.

Defensive Dominance and Turnovers

BYU's defense was the driving force behind the team's success. Despite Kansas State's early sustained drives, the Cougars' defense held firm, limiting the Wildcats to just six points. This set the stage for the momentum shift before halftime. In the second half, BYU's defense continued to shine, with Harrison Taggart recording his second interception of the game and Parker Kingston returning a punt 90 yards for a touchdown. The Cougars' defense effectively shut down a Kansas State offense that had been averaging 28 points or more per game, a streak that now comes to an end.

Standout Performances and Unsung Heroes

Linebacker Jack Kelly was a standout for the Cougars, creating havoc for the Kansas State offense and recording a sack in the fourth quarter. Freshman running back Sione I. Moa also made a statement, showcasing his physical running style and scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The BYU offensive line, with a new starter at right guard, stepped up to the challenge, limiting the Wildcats to just two sacks. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff also deserves praise for his efficient performance, avoiding turnovers and capitalizing on the momentum shifts.

The Crowd's Impact

The electric atmosphere at Lavell Edwards Stadium played a significant role in the Cougars' victory. The sellout crowd of over 64,000 fans created a hostile environment for the visiting Wildcats, causing false starts and illegal formations. This was reminiscent of BYU's previous upset win over Arizona State in 2021, where the crowd's energy contributed to the Sun Devils' struggles.

A Statement Win for the Cougars

BYU's dominant performance against the highly-ranked Kansas State Wildcats sends a clear message: the Cougars are a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 Conference. This victory not only improves their record but also showcases the team's defensive prowess, offensive versatility, and the ability to capitalize on momentum shifts. As BYU continues its journey in the Big 12, this statement win will undoubtedly boost their confidence and set the tone for the rest of the season.