Freshman QB Bachmeier Leads BYU to Comeback Win Over Utah

On October 15, 2022, freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier led No. 15 BYU to a thrilling 24-21 comeback victory over rival and No. 23-ranked Utah. Bachmeier guided the Cougars to back-to-back fourth-quarter touchdown drives to erase a narrow deficit and secure the win before the largest crowd at LaVell Edwards Stadium in two decades.

Despite facing constant pressure from the Utah defense, Bachmeier remained poised and composed, avoiding turnovers and making plays that true freshmen are not typically expected to make. His leadership and playmaking ability were on full display, as he completed 13 of 22 passes for 166 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 64 yards on 11 carries.

The win lifted BYU to 7-0 on the season and tied them atop the Big 12 standings with Cincinnati. Bachmeier's performance was particularly impressive, as he accomplished something even the legendary Taysom Hill could not do - lead BYU to a victory over Utah. The Cougars' win snapped Utah's nine-game winning streak in the long-standing, passionate rivalry.

Bachmeier's heroics included a dramatic touchdown run in the fourth quarter, where he bowled over several Utah defenders to reach the end zone and put BYU up 24-14. Earlier in the game, he had also delivered a perfectly placed touchdown pass to senior Chase Roberts. Despite taking a brutal targeting hit, Bachmeier remained unfazed and continued to lead his team to victory.