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⬇️ In today’s newsletter, we’ll touch:

• 🏈 BYU Edges SMU

• 👀 This Week’s Top Play

• 📆 What’s Next

BYU’s Late Surge

In a nail-biter that kept fans on edge until the final whistle, BYU edged out SMU 18-15, ending the Mustangs’ nine-game home winning streak. The decisive moment came with 1:58 left when Will Ferrin nailed a 26-yard field goal, capping off a dramatic drive that included two pivotal fourth-down plays.

Head coach Kalani Sitake’s bold decision to go for it on fourth-and-1 paid off when Miles Davis turned a quick pitch into a game-changing 37-yard run, setting up the game-winning kick. “I didn’t look at the analytics; I just looked at our guys,” Sitake said. “I liked the look in their eyes.”

Fourth-Down Fervor

The Cougars showed grit throughout the game, especially on fourth downs. Enoch Nawahine’s 9-yard touchdown run on fourth down, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, gave BYU a 15-12 lead heading into the final quarter. Though BYU had chances to extend their lead after two SMU turnovers, they had to rely on their defense and special teams to secure the win.

SMU’s Streak Stalled

The Mustangs, who had averaged 53.9 points per game during their home winning streak, were stifled by BYU’s defense. SMU kicker Collin Rogers set a school record with five field goals, including a 45-yarder that tied the game. Despite Rogers’ heroics, SMU’s offense struggled. Backup quarterback Kevin Jennings couldn’t convert drives into touchdowns, leading to frustration for SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee.

“We didn’t do a good job of adjusting to odd fronts and different coverages,” Lashlee said. “We just didn’t score.”

Defensive Domination and Missed Opportunities

BYU’s defense was key, with Marque Collins intercepting a pass in the red zone and a critical turnover on a direct snap by SMU’s Brashard Smith. Despite an interception by BYU’s Jake Retzlaff to 294-pound defensive tackle Jared Harrison-Hunte, BYU’s defense held firm. SMU’s inability to capitalize on opportunities proved decisive.

The Big Picture

This win marks a significant step for BYU, moving to 2-0 in the Big 12 and maintaining their perfect record against SMU. The Cougars are showing they can compete at a high level, standing 7-7 since joining the Big 12—a testament to their grit after years as an independent program.

Looking ahead, BYU’s ability to win close games and perform under pressure will be crucial. With a balanced approach and a defense that’s learning to adapt, the Cougars are setting the stage for a memorable season in their new conference home.

Here’s this week’s Cougars Top Play! Each week, we’ll spotlight a standout moment from BYU Football’s latest matchup—whether it’s a thrilling play or one that had fans on their feet, this is the highlight you won’t forget.

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