Losing the Utah-BYU rivalry was part of the collateral damage that was feared could arise from the former’s decision to leave for the Pac-10 and the latter forsaking the chains of conference affiliation for the freedom of football independence.
Fortunately for fans of those programs, and college football fans in general who enjoy a quality, hate-filled rivalry, the series will continue, at least in the short term.
In a press release issued by the schools, it was announced that Utah and BYU have reached agreement on a home-and-home series. The teams will play in Provo on Sept. 17, 2011 and in Salt Lake City on Sept. 15, 2012.
“We are excited to continue our rivalry with BYU in football and men’s basketball and our other sports are busy working out the logistics to make it happen as well,” Utah athletic director Dr. Chris Hill said in a statement. “It is an important rivalry to our fans and to everyone involved with Utah athletics.”
“We are pleased to announce the Deseret First Duel rivalry games will continue with Utah,” said BYU A.D. Tom Holmoe. “The BYU-Utah rivalry is one of the best in the country and very important to the fans of both schools
Unfortunately there is a casualty that’s come about as a result of the continuation of the rivalry. From the release:
To make room for BYU on its non-conference schedule, Utah canceled a three-game series with Boise State in 2011, 2012 and 2013. The buyout for the Boise State games will cost a total of $350,000 and Utah will recoup $250,000 from Iowa State, which canceled its return game. The Utes filled the ISU vacancy with a home game against Montana State on Sept. 1. Still in place is Utah’s game at Pittsburgh on Oct. 8, 2011.
