The Kansas Jayhawks secured an impressive 17-13 victory over No. 7 BYU, handing the Cougars their first loss of the season. Jalon Daniels threw for 169 yards, while Dylan Neal scored two crucial touchdowns, lifting Kansas to a 4-6 overall record (3-4 in the Big 12). This marks the first time in school history that Kansas has defeated ranked opponents in back-to-back weeks.
Hope Rekindled for Kansas
The victory against BYU not only brought joy to Kansas but also kept alive their hopes of qualifying for a bowl game for the third consecutive season, following a rough 1-5 start. Daniels emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and trusting the team’s process.
BYU’s Tough Loss
BYU (9-1, 6-1) faced a challenging game, with Jake Retzlaff throwing for 192 yards and LJ Martin rushing for 76 yards. Despite gaining 354 total yards, the Cougars managed to score on only two of their four red zone opportunities and failed to record a touchdown in any of their four trips inside Kansas’ 20-yard line. Head coach Kalani Sitake highlighted the team’s inability to execute plays and their costly mistakes.
Kansas Rallies in the Fourth Quarter
Trailing 13-10 entering the fourth quarter, Kansas took the lead with a pivotal 3-yard rushing touchdown by Neal. A crucial moment occurred when Daniels’ kick deflected off Evan Johnson’s helmet, creating an opportunity for Kansas to score the go-ahead points. Kansas head coach Lance Leipold praised the team’s resilience and ability to find a way to win.
BYU’s Offensive Struggles and Kansas’ Defensive Excellence
BYU had a late-game opportunity to score but couldn’t overcome Kansas’ stout defense. In the final minutes, the Cougars managed only four yards on three consecutive plays. Kansas showcased its defensive strength, effectively shutting down BYU’s offense in critical moments. Kansas maintained solid ball control and smart decision-making, forcing BYU into just one turnover. BYU struggled in the red zone, significantly impacting their scoring opportunities during the game.
Laying the Groundwork for a Bright Future
BYU’s loss may push them out of the Top 10 rankings, while Kansas demonstrated its ability to compete and overcome tough challenges. This game set the stage for a brighter season ahead for the Jayhawks. For BYU, the matchup serves as a valuable lesson on the need to improve their red zone efficiency in crucial situations. This game was more than just a milestone for Kansas—it was a turning point for both teams as they look to finish their seasons on a high note.