Utah is lucky that the third time was still the charm when its players and fans rushed the field to celebrate its 24–21 win over in-state rival BYU.
Both the Utes and their supporters initially thought they had won it when a pass from Cougars QB Riley Nelson sailed out of bounds with the Cougars down 24-21 in the final seconds- only to be sent back to the sidelines when officials determined there was one second left on the clock.
BYU’s 51-yard field goal try on the subsequent play was blocked, resulting in another field storming. But since the players and fans rushed the field while the ball was still live, Utah was penalized 15 yards and gave BYU another FG try from a much closer 37 yards.
Thankfully for Utah, Cougars kicker Justin Sorensen’s attempt bounced off the left upright, preserving the Utes’ win.
Kyle Whittingham will surely review the rules with his players following this game. And fans at Rice-Eccles Stadium will be reminded of them before Utah’s next home game.
