BYU Defense Shines with Key Plays to End Skid and Beat Houston
What an electrifying performance from the BYU Cougars as they stormed past Houston with a 30-18 victory, snapping a two-game losing streak and closing their regular season on a high note. Despite being eliminated earlier in the day from Big 12 Championship contention due to Iowa State's win, BYU’s determination never wavered.
The defense truly stole the show, delivering seven tackles for loss and forcing four turnovers. Tyler Batty was a standout, racking up nine tackles, 2.5 of them for loss, along with an interception. Tanner Wall added 13 tackles to lead a defensive effort that smothered Houston’s offense, holding them to just 250 total yards. The resilience and aggression of BYU’s defense set the tone, ensuring a win in front of over 59,000 fans at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
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Offensively, Jake Retzlaff showed his dual-threat capabilities. The quarterback threw for 167 yards and added 57 rushing yards, including two critical touchdowns. One of his highlights was a 13-yard rushing score just before halftime, capping off a two-minute drill that gave BYU a solid 21-10 lead heading into the break. His performance, coupled with LJ Martin's 87 rushing yards, provided just enough offensive firepower to complement the defense's stellar outing.
Houston made things interesting in the fourth quarter, pulling within eight points after a touchdown and two-point conversion. But BYU's defense came through once again. A strip-sack by Jack Kelly and recovery by Blake Mangelson not only extinguished Houston’s hopes but set up Retzlaff’s second rushing touchdown to seal the deal.
Special teams also delivered a memorable moment when Talan Alfrey returned an onside kick attempt 58 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. It was BYU’s third kick return touchdown of the season, tying a program record set in 1961.
This win marked BYU's 10th victory of the season—a remarkable achievement for the program. Although the disappointment of missing the Big 12 Championship looms, this game showcased the grit and tenacity of a team determined to finish strong. With bowl season on the horizon, BYU has proven they are ready to leave it all on the field.
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