Utah’s Offense Unleashes Fireworks in Waco
The Utah Utes delivered a statement win on Saturday night, torching the Baylor Bears 55-28 in Waco behind a barrage of big plays and a breakout performance from true freshman quarterback Byrd Ficklin. Utah, ranked No. 15, notched its third straight victory and showcased why it’s one of the most dangerous teams in college football right now.
Byrd Ficklin’s Coming-Out Party
Needing a spark, Utah turned to Ficklin—and he delivered in spectacular fashion. The freshman quarterback ripped off touchdown runs of 67 and 74 yards, electrifying the crowd and leaving Baylor’s defense grasping at air. Ficklin’s mobility and vision were on full display, and his performance is already being called a “signature moment” in his young career.
Utah’s ground game was relentless all night, with three touchdown runs of more than 60 yards. The Utes’ offensive line dominated the trenches, opening up massive lanes and allowing their playmakers to shine.
Defense Delivers the Knockout Punch
Utah’s defense wasn’t content to let the offense have all the fun. Cornerback Elijah Davis returned an interception 65 yards for a touchdown, swinging momentum firmly in Utah’s favor and silencing the Baylor faithful. The Utes’ defense forced turnovers and capitalized on Baylor’s mistakes, keeping the Bears from mounting any serious comeback.
Baylor’s Struggles Continue
For Baylor, the loss was a tough pill to swallow. The Bears’ offense managed to put up 28 points but couldn’t keep pace with Utah’s explosive attack. Defensive lapses and missed tackles plagued Baylor all night, and the Bears’ inability to contain Ficklin proved costly.
What This Means for Utah
With this win, Utah improves its record and strengthens its case for a major bowl game. The Utes’ combination of big-play offense and opportunistic defense makes them a legitimate threat as the season heads toward its climax. Byrd Ficklin’s emergence adds a new dimension to Utah’s attack, and fans are already buzzing about his potential to lead the team to even greater heights.
Key Takeaways
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Utah’s offense is among the most explosive in the nation, with three touchdown runs over 60 yards in a single game.
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Freshman QB Byrd Ficklin is a star in the making, showcasing elite speed and playmaking ability.
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Utah’s defense continues to create game-changing plays, highlighted by Elijah Davis’s pick-six.
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Baylor’s defense struggled to contain Utah’s speed and physicality, leading to a lopsided final score.
Looking Ahead
Utah’s win cements its status as a team to watch in the postseason race. If Ficklin continues to develop and the defense maintains its opportunistic edge, the Utes could be a dark horse for a major bowl—or more. Baylor, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly as it looks to salvage its season and address glaring defensive issues.
Sources
1. Utah Utes vs. Baylor Bears Live Score and Stats - CBS Sports
2. Utah vs Baylor Prediction — Take the Over 60 (Nov 15, 2025)
3. Postgame Quotes: Utah vs. Baylor
4. CBS Sports - News, Live Scores, Schedules, Fantasy Games, Video ...
5. Needing a spark, Utah turned to its freshman quarterback. Byrd Ficklin produced another signature moment in the Utes’ win over Baylor
6. Best College Football Podcasts (2025) - Player FM
7. Big Plays Power No. 13 Utah Past Baylor FB at McLane
8. Kyle Whittingham on Utah's 55-28 Win vs Baylor - YouTube
9. Baylor Football: Postgame Press Conference vs Utah - YouTube