Mon Dec 01 04:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

BYU, ranked No. 11, defeated UCF 41-21 after rallying from a 14-0 deficit. Bear Bachmeier passed for 289 yards and a touchdown, while LJ Martin rushed for 95 yards and three touchdowns. Parker Kingston added two touchdowns, one a punt return. UCF, led by Tayven Jackson’s 232 passing yards and two touchdowns, struggled after a strong first quarter, ultimately losing momentum due to turnovers and defensive woes, failing to qualify for a bowl game for the second straight year. BYU clinched a spot in the Big 12 championship game and will face Texas Tech.
News Article:

BYU Rallies to Secure Big 12 Championship Spot with Victory Over UCF

PROVO, UT – No. 11 BYU overcame a slow start to defeat UCF 41-21 on Saturday, securing a coveted spot in the Big 12 Championship game. The Cougars (11-1, 8-1 Big 12) clawed back from a 14-0 first-quarter deficit, fueled by a strong offensive performance and a stifling defensive effort in the second quarter.

Quarterback Bear Bachmeier led the charge, throwing for 289 yards and a touchdown. Running back LJ Martin proved unstoppable on the ground, rushing for 95 yards and three touchdowns. Parker Kingston made key contributions with 181 all-purpose yards, including a 55-yard punt return for a touchdown.

UCF (5-7, 2-7 Big 12), led by quarterback Tayven Jackson’s 232 passing yards and two touchdowns, came out firing in the first quarter. Jackson connected with Dylan Wade and Agyeman Addae for early scores, putting the Knights up by two touchdowns.

However, BYU responded by forcing a turnover and limiting UCF to minimal yardage in the second quarter. Martin capitalized on the momentum shift, punching in two short-yardage touchdowns to tie the game. A field goal before halftime gave BYU their first lead.

The Cougars continued to dominate in the second half, with Martin adding another touchdown run and Kingston’s punt return extending the lead. BYU now sets its sights on the Big 12 Championship game next Saturday, where they will face Texas Tech. UCF’s loss marks the end of their season, failing to qualify for a bowl game for the second consecutive year.

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