BYU jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter with a 28-yard rushing touchdown from LJ Martin and a 75-yard touchdown pass from freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier to Parker Kingston. Arizona answered with a 17-yard touchdown from Noah Fifita to Kris Hutson, cutting BYU’s lead to 14-7.
The game was interrupted by a 74-minute lightning delay early in the second quarter. When play resumed, Arizona closed the gap further with a field goal and then took the lead before halftime with a 35-yard touchdown pass from Fifita to Chris Hunter, making it 17-14 Wildcats at the break. BYU struggled with turnovers and penalties in the third quarter, allowing Arizona to extend its advantage to 24-14 after a 36-yard touchdown run from Kendrick Reescano.
Bachmeier led BYU on a crucial 15-play drive in the fourth quarter, ending in a 24-yard field goal by Will Ferrin. After forcing a punt, BYU regained possession, and Bachmeier scored on a two-yard run with just 19 seconds left, sending the game to overtime tied 24-24.
Both teams traded field goals in the first overtime. In the second overtime, Bachmeier ran in a 7-yard touchdown, and BYU’s defense held Arizona scoreless on the ensuing drive to secure the win. Bachmeier finished with 172 passing yards, 2 rushing touchdowns, and a passing touchdown, while Fifita threw for 219 yards, 2 touchdowns, and an interception.
With this win, BYU improved to 6-0 (3-0 Big 12), while Arizona dropped to 4-2 (1-2 Big 12). The Cougars lead the all-time series 14-12-1.
For more detailed stats and analysis, visit BYU vs. Arizona Game Recap on ESPN and follow live coverage from KSL Sports.