Utah-BYU game day

UTAH (8-3, 5-2) at No. 23 BYU (8-2, 6-0)
Clear and cold, with high temperatures in the low to mid-40s.
Today, noon — LaVell Edwards Stadium (64,045/Grass) — Provo
Ticket information: The game is sold out
TV information: The game will be broadcast on three channels — The mtn. (Comcast Ch. 37); CSTV (Comcast Ch. 269, DirecTV Ch. 610, Dish Network Ch. 152); and Versus (Comcast Ch. 34, DirecTV Ch. 603, Dish Network Ch. 151)
Radio: 700AM, 1160AM, 102.7FM

PLAYERS TO WATCH

BRIAN JOHNSON, Utah: The junior quarterback finally gets to make his playing debut in the rivalry. The Utes (8-3, 5-2) are 7-0 this season when he starts and finishes a game.

MAX HALL, BYU: The sophomore quarterback's ability to take over a game gives the Cougars another dimension the Ute defense hasn't faced since Louisville QB Brian Brohm.

KEY MATCHUPS

DARRELL MACK vs. BYU DEFENSE: Mack faces a formidable challenge against BYU's front seven.

DENNIS PITTA vs. UTAH DEFENSE: BYU's top receiver, a sophomore tight end, will test Utah's safeties and linebackers.

THE STAKES

For Utah ... The Utes still have a shot at securing a share of the Mountain West Conference championship with BYU and Air Force. They need to win this game and hope that the Cougars lose at San Diego State. It's the only scenario to earn a piece of the title.

For BYU ... A win would give BYU its second undisputed Mountain West championship, keep the Cougars ranked and establish a two-game win streak against the Utes after losing four straight to their rival.

THE TRENDS

For Utah ... The Utes have won seven consecutive games after a 1-3 start. They're playing well defensively — allowing just one touchdown over the past 14 quarters of play.

For BYU ... The Cougars are working on their 15th straight conference win, extending a league record. They are also seeking their eighth straight victory, a nine-win season, a sixth straight sellout and a 12th consecutive win at LaVell Edwards Stadium.

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