The BYU-Utah rivalry is more than just a game—it’s a clash of brothers, bound by shared history yet divided by fierce competition. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: despite the rivalry’s intensity, the deep personal and professional ties between the two programs make it uniquely special for coaches and players alike. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about the connections that endure long after the final whistle.
In Provo, the 23rd-ranked Utah Utes (5-1, 2-1 Big 12) are led by Kyle Whittingham, a former BYU linebacker turned head coach. When faced with the challenge of revitalizing Utah’s offense after a tough 5-7 debut in the Big 12, Whittingham turned to Jason Beck, a former BYU quarterback and New Mexico offensive coordinator. This move underscores the intertwined histories of these two programs, which share more similarities than differences—despite their occasional estrangement.
On the other side, No. 15 BYU (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) is helmed by Kalani Sitake, a former BYU fullback who honed his coaching skills in Salt Lake City. Sitake’s journey is a testament to the cross-pollination of talent between the two schools. His coordinators, Aaron Roderick (a former BYU wide receiver) and Jay Hill (a Utah alum and former Weber State head coach), further illustrate the blurred lines between these rivals.
But here’s the controversial part: while the rivalry divides communities, neighborhoods, and even families on game day, it reunites them by Sunday morning—often in church meetinghouses across the Wasatch Front. This unique dynamic raises a thought-provoking question: Can a rivalry this intense truly be separated from the bonds that unite these programs? Sitake, for one, cherishes these connections, calling Whittingham a mentor and friend. ‘I’ll always have a lot of love and admiration for Kyle,’ Sitake said, ‘but also for the connection I have to that university.’
For both coaches, the game is bigger than themselves. It’s about the players, who join a legacy of alums who’ve left their mark on this historic rivalry. Take Keanu Tanuvasa, for example, who played for both Utah and BYU, or John Henry Daley, a BYU transfer leading the Big 12 in sacks. These players embody the rivalry’s complexity, having worn both jerseys and experienced both cultures.
And this is where it gets even more fascinating: even the schools can’t agree on the number of times they’ve played, with Utah counting six games from the Brigham Young Academy era. Yet, amidst the disagreement, the ties that bind remain unbreakable. ‘The fact that there are connections, that we’re familiar with them and they’re familiar with us, makes it even more fun,’ Sitake said.
So, as Saturday’s game approaches, here’s a question to ponder: In a rivalry this deeply personal, is it possible to separate competition from camaraderie? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this age-old clash of brothers.
