BYU-Utah Rivalry Heats Up With Familiar Faces on Coaching Staffs
The Holy War rivalry between Utah and BYU takes a new turn this year, with several coaches on both sides having deep connections to the opposing team. The two teams, now in the Big 12, have similar offensive and defensive rankings, adding fuel to the intense rivalry.
The coaching staffs of Utah and BYU are filled with familiar faces. Justin Ena and Morgan Scalley, now with Utah, worked under Kyle Whittingham at BYU before taking their current roles. Meanwhile, five Utah assistants—Jason Beck, Mark Atuaia, Micah Simon, Freddie Whittingham, and Koy Detmer Jr.—played for BYU. This is the first time Beck, Atuaia, and Simon coach against their alma mater.
The bond between the coaches runs deep. Kalani Sitake, BYU's head coach, spent a decade on Whittingham's staff at Utah, helping him navigate the transition to the Pac-12. Despite the intense rivalry, there's no animosity between the coaches, who are close friends off the field.
The Utah-BYU matchup promises to be an emotional one, with coaches facing their former teams and alma maters. The similar rankings of the two teams in the Big 12 add to the excitement. Fans, however, should be aware of a recent incident where one man was arrested for allegedly making threats against Utah fans.
