University of Cincinnati suffers loss to BYU in Big 12 matchup
PROVO, Utah – The University of Cincinnati Bearcats fell short in their quest for their first Big 12 victory, losing to Brigham Young University 35-27. Despite winning several statistical categories, the Bearcats were unable to secure the win.
BYU took control of the game late in the first half and never relinquished their lead. UC outgained BYU in total yards, outrushed them, ran more plays, and controlled the time of possession. However, turnovers proved costly for the Bearcats, with BYU capitalizing on an interception return for a touchdown in the first quarter and scoring off a fumbled punt in the fourth.
Bruce transfer quarterback Kedon Slovis had a solid performance for BYU, leading the team on back-to-back scoring drives in the first and second half. He finished with 223 passing yards and two touchdowns. L.J. Martin added 48 rushing yards and two scores.
UC’s Emory Jones had a strong showing as well, throwing for 256 yards and three touchdowns while also contributing 94 rushing yards. Corey Kiner rushed for 77 yards, and Myles Montgomery added 61. Xzavier Henderson led the receivers with seven catches for 74 yards.
The first half of the game was peculiar, with UC trailing despite outgaining BYU in various categories. BYU’s Jakob Robinson intercepted a pass from Jones and returned it for a touchdown in the first quarter. UC finally scored their first touchdown of the game in the second quarter but settled for a field goal just before halftime.
BYU surged in the third quarter, extending their lead to 28-20. UC managed to close the gap with another touchdown from Metayer, making it 28-27, but a fumbled punt by Braden Smith gave BYU the opportunity to score again, widening the gap.
BYU improved their record to 4-1, while UC dropped to 2-3. Both teams will have a bye week before their next games. The Bearcats will face Iowa State on Saturday, October 14th, at Nippert Stadium.
In the end, turnovers proved to be the downfall for the Bearcats, preventing them from securing their first conference win as a member of the Big 12. Despite strong individual performances, they will need to address ball security going forward to increase their chances of success in the conference.