The Holy War is the name given to the rivalry between the BYU Cougars and Utah Utes. The rivalry between the two universities stems from the stark contrast between the cultures of these two Utah-based institutions. BYU is a private religious institution while Utah is a state public school. The two schools have been playing since 1896 and the winner of the annual contests walk away with the Beehive Boot. The Utes lead the all-time series 57-34-4, but the Cougars hope to narrow the gap this season.
BYU and Utah State play annually for the Old Wagon Wheel. The two schools first met in 1948 when The Aggies took down the Cougars 42-3 since then the Cougars have gotten their revenge as they’ve taken a 46-35-3 all-time lead. Unlike the Holy War both of these schools have large LDS student bases and a result the rivalry is a bit friendlier. BYU will look to extend their lead over the Aggies when these two teams meet next.
Cougars Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
BYU began allowing tailgating in the RV lot and lot 20 before the 2012 season. The allowance of tailgating was a response to a group of fans’ desire to start a tailgate culture at BYU. While alcohol is still prohibited, you can use propane grills in either of these locations. You’ll also find plenty of games and food here at a BYU tailgate, which helps create a fun time for the whole family.
Although BYU is alcohol-free due to being a private university owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that doesn’t mean the fans here won’t try and build up a tailgate experience similar to the Grove at Ole Miss. The tailgates at BYU are very welcoming to opposing team fans as they seek to build the tradition from the ground up and feel that it necessary to offer “football, fun, and friendship.” The tailgate organizers have been very active in trying to engage with visiting fans as not only have they set up a Facebook page, but they’ve even gone as far to contact the mayors of the visiting towns and formally invite fans to the tailgate. The fans here are working hard to build up a tailgate tradition here at BYU, so be sure to stop by and say hello when you come to a Cougars game.
The Cougar Walk debuted in 2013 and is an excellent way for fans to interact with the Cougars players and coaches. The walk starts two hours before the game and runs along the east side of the stadium.
Those of you wanting to tailgate will want to set up shop in the RV Lot and Lot 20. The RV Lot and Lot 20 are the only two lots that permit tailgating at BYU, so stop by and join in on the festivities.
RV Lot and Lot 20Those of you wanting to tailgate will want to set up shop in the RV Lot and Lot 20. The RV Lot and Lot 20 are the only two lots that permit tailgating at BYU, so stop by and join in on the festivities.
Cougars Stadium Guide
In Game
BYU fans are very loud and give the Cougars lots of support. The fans here show off their school pride by singing the fight song “Rise & Shout, the Cougars are Out.” Here at BYU people also aren’t afraid to show appreciation for the small things as the fans will get up and cheer for every first down and third down stop.
After years of having a fractured student section located throughout the stadium, BYU has finally assembled all the students in one place. The section is known as the ABYSS, the Almighty Brigham Young Student Section is the most vocal section at BYU games as they cheer on the Cougars to victory. If you want to sit with the most vocal fans at a BYU game look to get tickets in the student section.
LaVell Edwards Stadium provides an incredible view of the Wasatch Mountains. When BYU fans look to the east not only can they see BYU spelled out by the seats, but they can also see these beautiful mountains. If attending a game at BYU try to get seats facing the Wasatch Mountains so that you can view one of the most breathtaking sights in all of college football during the game.
Students partake in this almost 100-year-old homecoming tradition by climbing Y Mountain and screwing in 150 light bulbs into a 380-foot tall letter Y. Originally students lit the Y by burning mattress stuffing soaked in flammable liquids. However, today’s light bulbs are much safer. If you want to take part in this tradition, show up for the homecoming game.
After years of having a fractured student section located throughout the stadium, BYU has finally assembled all the students in one place. The section is known as the ABYSS, the Almighty Brigham Young Student Section, is the most vocal section at BYU games. If you want to sit with the most vocal fans at a BYU, then sink into the ABYSS.
Fight Songs
Rise & Shout, the Cougars are Out
Rise all loyal cougars and hurl your challenge to the foe. You will fight, day or night, rain or snow. Loyal, strong, and true Wear the white and blue. While we sing, get set to spring. Come on Cougars it’s up to you. Oh!
CHORUS: Rise and shout, the Cougars are out along the trail to fame and glory. Rise and shout, our cheers will ring out As you unfold your vict’ry story. On you go to vanquish the foe for Alma Mater’s sons and daughters. As we join in song, in praise of you, our faith is strong. We’ll raise our colors high in the blue And cheer our Cougars of BYU.
(CHANT) Rah! Rah! Rah-rah-rah!
Rah! Rah! Rah-rah-rah! Rah! Rah! Rah-rah-rah! GO COUGARS!
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