Holy War
2026
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Holy War 2026: Utah's Ultimate College Football Showdown
The Holy War between the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes stands as one of college football's most passionate and intense rivalries. The 2026 Holy War will mark approximately the 104th meeting between these Beehive State rivals, continuing a tradition that has divided families, friendships, and communities across Utah since 1896. Now a protected annual rivalry within the Big 12 Conference, this matchup carries conference championship implications alongside deep-rooted cultural significance.
Why It's Called the "Holy War"
The rivalry earned its distinctive name due to the religious undertones that distinguish it from other college football rivalries. Brigham Young University is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with its student body consisting almost entirely of church members. The University of Utah, while a secular public institution, also has a substantial LDS population but represents a more religiously and culturally diverse community. This religious dynamic adds an extra layer of passion and intensity to what would already be a heated in-state rivalry.
The term "Holy War" wasn't widely used until local sports radio hosts began popularizing it in the 1990s. Previously, media had occasionally used the phrase to describe BYU's matchups against Notre Dame. The name became nationally recognized from 2003 to 2008, when the Holy War winner often captured the Mountain West Conference championship, drawing significant attention from coast to coast.
A Rivalry Reunited: Big 12 Conference Showdown
After BYU joined the Big 12 Conference in 2023 and Utah followed in 2024, the Holy War became a conference game for the first time since 2010. The Big 12 designated this matchup as one of four "protected" annual rivalries, ensuring the Cougars and Utes will face each other every year through at least 2027. This conference alignment has elevated the stakes significantly—the Holy War now carries direct implications for Big 12 standings and potentially the College Football Playoff.
Recent Holy War History: BYU's Resurgence
The rivalry has seen dramatic swings in recent years. Utah dominated from 2009 through 2020, winning nine consecutive Holy War matchups during a stretch that felt endless for Cougar fans. However, BYU has answered emphatically, winning three straight games since 2023. The Cougars' current streak marks their first three-game winning run against Utah since winning four straight from 1989 to 1992. Each recent matchup has delivered drama, including late-game heroics and controversial moments that have only intensified the rivalry's fire.
Complete Guide to Holy War 2026 Tickets
Whether you bleed cougar blue or wear the red of Utah, securing Holy War 2026 tickets means experiencing one of college football's most electric atmospheres. Our trusted ticket marketplace connects fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets to this Beehive State showdown, complete with buyer protection on every purchase.
Holy War Venues: Two Premier Mountain West Stadiums
LaVell Edwards Stadium (BYU Home Games)
LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo serves as the home of BYU football. Originally opened as Cougar Stadium in 1964, the venue was renamed in 2000 to honor legendary coach LaVell Edwards, who led the program for 29 seasons. The stadium sits at 4,649 feet elevation with a natural grass playing surface and a capacity of 62,073—making it the largest stadium in the Big 12 Conference. The venue underwent significant renovations in 2024, including new LED lighting, upgraded seating areas, and enhanced player facilities.
The stadium's four-level press box rises ten stories above the field, offering spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains. BYU's passionate student section, "The ROC" (Roar of Cougars), creates one of college football's most intimidating home environments. Notably, BYU campus policy prohibits alcohol and tobacco, creating a family-friendly gameday atmosphere unique in college football.
Rice-Eccles Stadium (Utah Home Games)
Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City hosts Utah home games. Built in 1998 and expanded multiple times since, the venue gained international fame hosting the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics. The stadium features a FieldTurf surface at 4,637 feet elevation with a current capacity exceeding 51,000 following the Ken Garff Red Zone expansion completed in 2021.
Rice-Eccles is celebrated for its stunning backdrop—the Wasatch Mountains rise dramatically to the east while views of downtown Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and the Oquirrh Mountains spread to the west. The stadium's iconic glass-enclosed press box towers 14 stories above the field. Utah fans have supported 60+ consecutive sellouts when attendance was permitted, creating the "MUSS" (Mighty Utah Student Section) atmosphere that makes Rice-Eccles one of the toughest road environments in college football.
2026 Holy War: What to Expect
Following the traditional home-and-away rotation, the 2026 Holy War venue will depend on the established pattern. The Big 12 Conference typically releases full schedules in late winter, confirming dates and locations. Regardless of venue, demand for Holy War tickets consistently exceeds capacity, with both fan bases traveling exceptionally well for this rivalry.
All-Time Series and Notable Games
Utah leads the all-time series, though BYU has dominated recent meetings. Key moments in Holy War history include:
- 1993: John Walsh's miracle pass to Chris Smith gave BYU a dramatic 34-31 victory
- 1998: Utah crushed BYU 40-3 in their first game at the new Rice-Eccles Stadium
- 2006: BYU's last win in Salt Lake City before their recent resurgence
- 2008: Utah's dominant 48-24 victory en route to an undefeated season and Sugar Bowl berth
- 2019: Chase Garbers led Utah to break BYU's nine-game winning streak
- 2024: BYU overcame a 21-10 halftime deficit for a dramatic victory in Salt Lake City
Holy War Traditions and Culture
The Holy War extends far beyond football. The matchup divides the state of Utah like few rivalries can. Families wear opposing colors. Neighbors hang competing flags. Workplace bragging rights last an entire year. Both programs feature passionate alumni bases that span generations, with BYU drawing support from the global LDS community and Utah representing the flagship state university.
The stakes have only grown since both schools joined the Big 12. National television coverage on Fox or ESPN brings the rivalry to audiences coast to coast. The 2024 Holy War drew 2.07 million viewers—the highest audience for the matchup in at least a decade and the best late-night college football rating on ESPN that season outside of games involving Colorado or USC-UCLA.
Notable Holy War Players
The rivalry has featured numerous NFL players and college football legends:
BYU: Steve Young, Ty Detmer (Heisman Trophy winner), Jim McMahon, Luke Staley, Taysom Hill, Zach Wilson
Utah: Alex Smith, Eric Weddle, Star Lotulelei, Paul Kruger, Britain Covey, Cam Rising
How to Get Holy War 2026 Tickets
- Monitor schedule announcements – The Big 12 Conference typically releases full schedules in late winter or early spring. The exact date and venue for Holy War 2026 will be confirmed then.
- Mark your calendar – Recent Holy War games have been scheduled in October or November. The rivalry is designated as a protected annual matchup.
- Explore official channels – Both BYU and Utah athletic departments sell tickets to their respective home games through official channels.
- Consider the resale market – For sold-out games, trusted resale marketplaces offer verified tickets with buyer protection. Holy War games typically sell out quickly.
- Plan your travel – Salt Lake City and Provo are approximately 45 miles apart via I-15. Book accommodations early as rivalry weekend fills hotels quickly.
Game Day Tips for the Holy War
For BYU Games: LaVell Edwards Stadium has a no bag policy (small clutch bags under 5"x8"x1" permitted). Alcohol and tobacco are prohibited on all BYU property, including parking lots. Tailgating is allowed in designated areas with propane or wood-pellet grills only.
For Utah Games: Rice-Eccles Stadium permits clear bags and small clutch purses. Tailgating traditions run strong in Utah parking lots. The MUSS student section creates an intense atmosphere, particularly when BYU visits.
Frequently Asked Questions: Holy War 2026
When is the Holy War 2026?
The exact date for Holy War 2026 will be announced when the Big 12 Conference releases its full 2026 football schedule, typically in late winter or early spring. Recent Holy War games have been scheduled in October or early November. The rivalry is a protected annual matchup, guaranteeing it will be played.
Where will the Holy War 2026 be played?
The venue alternates between BYU's LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo and Utah's Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. The specific 2026 location will be confirmed with the official schedule release, following the established home-and-away rotation pattern.
Why is it called the Holy War?
The rivalry earned its name due to the religious dynamic between the schools. BYU is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with a predominantly LDS student body, while Utah is a secular public university. This religious distinction adds an extra layer of intensity to the in-state rivalry. The term became popular in the 1990s through local sports media.
What conference are BYU and Utah in?
Both BYU and Utah are members of the Big 12 Conference. BYU joined in 2023 and Utah followed in 2024. The Holy War is now a conference game with direct implications for Big 12 standings. It's designated as one of four protected annual rivalries in the conference through at least 2027.
Who leads the all-time Holy War series?
Utah leads the all-time series. However, BYU has won three consecutive Holy War games since 2023, their longest winning streak in the rivalry since winning four straight from 1989 to 1992. The series has seen significant swings, with Utah winning nine straight from 2009 to 2020 before BYU's recent resurgence.
How much do Holy War tickets cost?
Ticket prices vary significantly based on seating location, the venue, and demand. Face-value tickets typically range from around $50 for upper-level seats to $150+ for premium sideline locations. Resale market prices often exceed face value for this high-demand rivalry game, particularly for prime seating.
What is the capacity of each stadium?
LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo has a capacity of 62,073, making it the largest stadium in the Big 12 Conference. Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City has a capacity exceeding 51,000 following its 2021 expansion. Both venues typically sell out for the Holy War.
How far apart are Provo and Salt Lake City?
The two cities are approximately 45 miles apart via Interstate 15. The drive typically takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Both cities offer numerous hotel and dining options, though accommodations fill quickly on rivalry weekend.
Can I tailgate at Holy War games?
Yes, but policies differ between venues. BYU's campus prohibits alcohol and tobacco; tailgating is allowed with propane or wood-pellet grills (no charcoal or open flame). Utah's Rice-Eccles Stadium allows traditional tailgating in designated lots. Both venues have specific rules about setup times and locations.
What should I wear to the Holy War?
Fans typically wear their team colors—royal blue and white for BYU, red and white for Utah. Both fan bases take color coordination seriously. November games in Utah can be cold, so layering is recommended regardless of which team you support.
Is the Holy War on national TV?
Yes, as a Big 12 Conference game, the Holy War receives national television coverage on either Fox or ESPN networks. The 2024 Holy War drew over 2 million viewers, demonstrating significant national interest in the rivalry. Exact broadcast details are announced closer to game day.
What makes the Holy War atmosphere unique?
The combination of religious undertones, in-state proximity, competitive balance, and passionate fan bases creates an intensity unlike most college rivalries. The game divides families and communities across Utah. Both student sections—BYU's "The ROC" and Utah's "MUSS"—create hostile environments for opposing fans.
How do I get to LaVell Edwards Stadium?
LaVell Edwards Stadium is located on the north end of BYU's campus in Provo. The stadium is accessible from I-15 via University Parkway exit. Parking is available in campus lots on a first-come basis. The university also offers remote parking with shuttle service for some games.
How do I get to Rice-Eccles Stadium?
Rice-Eccles Stadium is located on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City at 451 South 1400 East. The stadium is accessible from I-15 and I-80. Utah Transit Authority (UTA) provides game day transportation options, including TRAX light rail with a station near campus.
What other rivalry events happen during Holy War week?
Beyond football, BYU and Utah compete across numerous sports. Basketball matchups draw significant attention, though the two schools temporarily suspended that series from 2016-2019 due to on-court incidents. Other sports feature their own rivalry games throughout the academic year.