I thought the Las Vegas Bowl would be a Utah blowout if BYU's head wasn't in the game, and a close, defensive struggle if BYU did show up. The actual game kind of split the difference. The first quarter began by looking like BYU was going to get blown out. However, the turnovers and the short field didn't help Utah's offense. They never got on track. As poor as Utah's offense was, they were good enough to win. They capitalized on BYU's mistakes. There were a couple of drives that took time off the clock, especially when it counted. That was all they needed to do, and for most of the first quarter, the defense did the rest.
As for where this game ranks in history? Had it been played in Provo or Salt Lake City, it probably would have been a forgettable game. First of all, BYU wasn't ready out of the gate. That was obvious. And as Bronco said in the post-game press conference, "you get the results that you prepare for." Well said, outgoing coach. (I will post more on this development, later.)
Somehow, BYU pulled it together well enough to pull within 1 score, and by looking at the Twitter feed, put doubt in many a Utah fan. But at in the end, Utah was able to hold on and run out the clock.
Perhaps more credit goes to the fans on both sides. Most stayed until the end, and were very civil to each other before and after the game. After all is said and done, we are still family in this state. And for the most part, the fans proved it. Civility is greatly needed in this rivalry. It has been way to punchy, lately. Perhaps with the hiring of Sitake, someone who coach Whittingham respects, the corner will be turned for a more civil and fun rivalry game. Of course, for Utah fans, the last five meetings have been fun.
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