BYU’s Unyielding Spirit: Bachmeier’s Overtime Heroics Keep Cougars Perfect in Thrilling Arizona Showdown

9 Min Read

In a testament to their unwavering resilience, the No. 18 BYU Cougars fought through a 75-minute lightning delay and a significant fourth-quarter deficit to secure a thrilling 33-27 double-overtime victory against the Arizona Wildcats. Freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier emerged as the undeniable hero, orchestrating a dramatic comeback and sealing the win with a decisive 7-yard touchdown run, keeping BYU’s perfect season alive.

The desert heat in Tucson on Saturday night, October 11, 2025, wasn’t the only thing providing intensity. In a game marked by a lengthy weather delay and a seesaw battle of momentum, the 18th-ranked BYU Cougars proved their mettle, outlasting the Arizona Wildcats 33-27 in a double-overtime thriller. This gutsy victory not only maintained BYU’s pristine 6-0 record (3-0 Big 12) but also showcased the remarkable composure of their freshman quarterback, Bear Bachmeier, under immense pressure.

The Cougars’ triumph marks their second consecutive season winning their first six games and the seventh time in program history, a testament to their growing prowess in the Big 12. For Arizona, the narrow defeat is a brutal blow to their conference aspirations, dropping them to 4-2 overall and 1-2 in the Big 12, having lost two of their last three contests.

The Overtime Drama: Bachmeier’s Defining Moment

After a frantic fourth quarter that saw BYU erase a 10-point deficit, the game escalated into a nail-biting overtime period. In the second overtime, Bear Bachmeier, demonstrating the “moxie” his teammates praised, took the ball up the middle for a 7-yard touchdown run, giving BYU a crucial 33-27 lead. While the subsequent 2-point conversion attempt was deflected, the Cougars’ defense rose to the occasion.

Arizona’s final opportunity to tie the game rested on quarterback Noah Fifita’s fourth-down pass, which agonizingly bounced off the hands of receiver Javin Whatley in the end zone, securing BYU’s hard-fought victory. “There’s no better feeling than winning, especially winning in double overtime on the road against a really good team,” remarked BYU receiver Parker Kingston, encapsulating the team’s exhilaration.

Bachmeier’s Poise Under Pressure: A Freshman’s Glimpse of Greatness

Despite being a freshman, Bear Bachmeier played with the composure of a veteran. He finished the game throwing for 172 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, but his impact was truly felt on the ground. Bachmeier added 89 rushing yards and two crucial touchdowns on 22 carries, including the game-tying 2-yard score in regulation with just 19 seconds left and the decisive 7-yard run in double overtime.

“He plays like he’s a vet,” Kingston observed. “He’s a freshman, but he’s smart. He’s just trying to make plays.” Coach Kalani Sitake echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s ability to capitalize on such moments. This dual-threat capability from Bachmeier is a significant asset for BYU as they navigate their conference schedule. His performance, while not flawless, demonstrated the resilience and big-play ability that has fans buzzing.

A Tale of Two Halves (and an Uninvited Storm)

The game began with BYU dominating, quickly establishing a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. Running back LJ Martin burst through the middle for a 28-yard touchdown, followed by a spectacular 75-yard touchdown reception by Parker Kingston from Bachmeier. Kingston would finish with an impressive 117 receiving yards.

BYU running back LJ Martin (4) reacts after scoring a touchdown against Arizona in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
BYU running back LJ Martin (4) reacts after scoring a touchdown against Arizona in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

However, the game took an unexpected turn at the beginning of the second quarter when a lightning delay, caused by remnants of Hurricane Priscilla, halted play for approximately 75 minutes. When play resumed amidst intermittent showers, Arizona’s offense found its rhythm. Noah Fifita connected with Chris Hunter for a 35-yard touchdown, contributing to the Wildcats’ 17-14 halftime lead.

Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita throws the ball past BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker (16) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita throws the ball past BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker (16) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Arizona extended their lead in the fourth quarter when 214-pound running back Kedrick Reescano bulldozed through the BYU defense for a powerful 36-yard touchdown run, making it 24-14 with 11:14 left. It was a moment that could have deflated many teams, but BYU’s “gutsy” approach, as described by analysts, allowed them to claw their way back.

Arizona running back Kedrick Reescano runs the ball against BYU in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Kedrick Reescano runs the ball against BYU in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Key Performances Beyond the QB

While Bachmeier commanded attention, other Cougars played crucial roles. LJ Martin had a career-high 162 rushing yards and a score, demonstrating the strength of the BYU ground game. Linebacker Siale Esera led the defensive effort with a team-high 16 tackles, a key factor in stopping Arizona’s late drives. For Arizona, Noah Fifita threw for 219 yards and two touchdowns, with Kris Hutson hauling in nine passes for 106 yards and a touchdown.

Big 12 Implications and Fan Reaction

BYU’s undefeated run continues to send ripples through the Big 12. Their ability to win a challenging road game against a formidable conference opponent signals their serious contention. Fans are ecstatic, discussing Bachmeier’s rapid development and the team’s seemingly unbreakable will. This victory is a significant statement as BYU looks to establish itself as a dominant force in the newly expanded Big 12 Conference standings, as reported by Big 12 Sports.

Conversely, for Arizona, this loss stings. It was an opportunity to make a definitive statement in the Big 12 race, and the inability to close out the game at home leaves a sense of missed potential. Coach Kalani Sitake emphasized enjoying the victory before preparing for the next challenge. “You’ve got to enjoy this — it’s a lot of fun,” Sitake said. “There are a lot of things to keep building off of, but we’ll worry about that on Monday. I think we owe it to ourselves, owe it to our team and this program, to relish the victory.”

BYU safety Faletau Satuala celebrates after defeating Arizona in two overtimes during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
BYU safety Faletau Satuala celebrates after defeating Arizona in two overtimes during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Looking Ahead

The Cougars will look to continue their historic season next Saturday, October 18, when they host regional rival Utah. This highly anticipated matchup will test BYU’s resolve once again and promises another electrifying atmosphere for fans. The Wildcats, aiming to bounce back from this heartbreaking loss, will travel to face Houston on the same day. For more information on team statistics and upcoming games, fans can refer to official sports outlets such as ESPN’s college football coverage.

Share This Article