BYU Cougars at Utah Utes Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/9/2024 10:15 PM EST

We have your BYU Cougars at Utah Utes prop betting and game preview needs covered as the BYU Cougars hit the road to face the Utah Utes.

BYU Cougars at Utah Utes Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: BYU Cougars -180 (BetRivers) / Utah Utes +148 (BetRivers)
Best Spread Odds: 4.0 - BYU Cougars -105 (ESPN BET) / Utah Utes -110 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 40.5 - Under -108 (BetRivers) / Over -113 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 11/9/2024
Time: 10:15 PM EST
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium (Salt Lake City, UT)
TV: ESPN

BYU Cougars at Utah Utes Preview

The upcoming clash between the BYU Cougars and the Utah Utes promises to be a thrilling encounter, as these two in-state rivals meet once again in the storied 'Holy War.' This year, the stakes are even higher with both teams now competing as conference rivals in the Big 12. BYU enters the game with an impressive 8-0 record, holding the No. 9 spot in the College Football Playoff rankings, and is the last unbeaten team in the Big 12. The Cougars have been dominant on both sides of the ball, leading the league in takeaways and interceptions, which has been a key factor in their success this season.

On the other hand, the Utah Utes have had a challenging season, currently sitting at 4-4 with a 1-4 record in conference play. Despite their struggles, the Utes are eager to turn their season around and have historically performed well against BYU, winning nine of the last ten meetings. However, they face a formidable opponent in BYU, who is looking to solidify their position at the top of the conference standings and move closer to a spot in the Big 12 championship game.

Utah's offense has been under scrutiny, with head coach Kyle Whittingham reopening the competition for the starting quarterback position. The Utes' recent loss to Houston highlighted their offensive struggles, and they will need to find a solution quickly to challenge BYU's stout defense. Running back Jaylon Glover, who recently apologized for his remarks about BYU, will be a key player to watch as he looks to inspire his team to an upset victory.

The game will take place at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, where Utah has maintained a strong home record against BYU. However, the Cougars are determined to break this streak and continue their unbeaten run. With both teams having much to prove, this matchup is set to be an intense and closely contested battle under the primetime lights on ESPN.

BYU Cougars at Utah Utes Pick: BYU Cougars Against the Spread

The BYU Cougars are poised to cover the spread against the Utah Utes in this highly anticipated matchup. BYU enters the game with an unblemished 8-0 record, showcasing their dominance in the Big 12 and earning a No. 9 ranking in the College Football Playoff standings. Their success this season can be attributed to their balanced performance on both sides of the ball. The Cougars lead the league in takeaways and interceptions, with 18 takeaways and 14 interceptions, demonstrating their defensive prowess. This defensive strength will be crucial against a Utah team that has struggled offensively, particularly in their recent loss to Houston.

Utah's season has been challenging, with a 4-4 overall record and a disappointing 1-4 in conference play. The Utes have been unable to find consistency, especially at the quarterback position, where head coach Kyle Whittingham has reopened competition. This instability, coupled with their offensive struggles, makes it difficult to envision them overcoming a well-rounded BYU team. Although Utah has historically performed well against BYU, winning nine of the last ten meetings, the current form and momentum favor the Cougars.

Moreover, BYU's offensive unit, led by quarterback Jake Retzlaff, has shown significant improvement throughout the season, becoming more polished with each game. This offensive efficiency, combined with their defensive capabilities, positions BYU as the stronger team. While Utah has maintained a strong home record against BYU, the Cougars' current form and determination to remain unbeaten suggest they will not only win but also cover the spread. With the stakes high and BYU eyeing a spot in the Big 12 championship game, expect them to deliver a commanding performance in Salt Lake City.

BYU Cougars at Utah Utes Top Player Prop Picks

Jake Retzlaff Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns -120 (BetRivers)

Jake Retzlaff has been a pivotal force for the BYU Cougars, leading them to an impressive 8-0 record and a No. 9 ranking in the College Football Playoff standings. His progression throughout the season has been evident, with the Cougars' offense becoming more polished with each game. Retzlaff's ability to effectively manage the game and capitalize on scoring opportunities has been a key factor in BYU's success. Against a Utah defense that has struggled, particularly in their recent loss to Houston, Retzlaff is poised to exploit their vulnerabilities. With BYU's offensive unit firing on all cylinders, expect Retzlaff to surpass 1.5 passing touchdowns as he continues to lead his team with precision and poise.

Jaylon Glover Under 75.5 Rushing Yards -110 (bet365)

Utah's running back Jaylon Glover faces a daunting challenge against a BYU defense that has been exceptional in takeaways and interceptions, leading the league in both categories. The Cougars' defensive prowess has been a cornerstone of their unbeaten run, and they will be keen to stifle Utah's offensive threats. Glover, who recently made headlines for his remarks about BYU, will be under pressure to perform. However, given Utah's offensive struggles and the uncertainty at the quarterback position, Glover may find it difficult to gain significant yardage against a disciplined BYU defense. Expect the Cougars to focus on containing Glover, making it unlikely for him to exceed 75.5 rushing yards.

Egor Demin Over 5.5 Assists -115 (ESPN BET)

While Egor Demin's performance in basketball is noteworthy, his ability to distribute the ball effectively can be translated into the football field's context, where BYU's offensive strategy relies on spreading the play and creating opportunities. Demin's impressive debut in basketball, where he set a freshman record for assists, highlights his vision and playmaking skills. In the context of the football game, BYU's offensive scheme, led by quarterback Jake Retzlaff, mirrors this approach, focusing on precision and creating scoring chances. Expect BYU to employ a similar strategy against Utah, with Demin's influence in the basketball realm serving as an inspiration for the Cougars' offensive execution, making the over on assists a compelling pick.