BYU Football Misses Big 12 Title Game Opportunity
PROVO, Utah — BYU football failed to get the assistance it required in the final week of the season to secure a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game.
The Cougars, 9-2 overall and 6-2 in Big 12 play, needed a win over Houston along with either Arizona State or Iowa State losing to qualify for the championship in Arlington.
Arizona State and Iowa State Clinched Wins
The losses BYU needed didn’t happen.
Arizona State dominated Arizona 49-7, while Iowa State beat Kansas State 29-21 in Ames.
BYU’s elimination from championship contention was confirmed during the second quarter of their game against Houston.
Outcome of BYU vs. Houston Still Matters
The result of the BYU-Houston game will affect the Big 12 Championship lineup. If BYU beats Houston, Iowa State will face Arizona State in Arlington next week.
However, if Houston upsets BYU, Colorado, not Iowa State, will advance to play Arizona State in the title game.
Late-Season Struggles Hurt BYU
BYU began the 2024 season 9-0, reaching No. 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings. But back-to-back losses to Kansas and Arizona State left them reliant on other outcomes to make the Big 12 title game.
The Cougars will participate in a bowl game for the first time since 2022. Representatives from the Alamo Bowl and Pop-Tarts Bowl attended Saturday’s BYU-Houston game in Provo.
The 2024 Big 12 Championship Game is scheduled for Saturday, December 7, at AT&T Stadium. The game will air at 10 a.m. (MST) on ABC.