Utes fans are angry because Big 12 is keeping the Holy War under wraps on ESPN

Utah Utes fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment over the Big 12’s decision to schedule the highly anticipated “Holy War” rivalry between Utah and BYU for ESPN’s late night slot.

The 10:15 PM ET kickoff has caused frustration among fans who believe the game deserves a more prominent place on the schedule. As one of the Big 12’s biggest matchups, fans argue that this storied rivalry should be featured during prime viewing hours, especially considering the national appeal and intensity surrounding the two teams.

Many fans see the late-night kickoff as a missed opportunity for the Big 12 to showcase the rivalry on a bigger stage. This year’s “Holy War” is particularly important. It’s the first time Utah and BYU have met as conference opponents within the Big 12, adding extra stakes and renewed intensity to the matchup.

The Utah faithful argue that scheduling the game at a time when much of the country might not tune in limits its exposure and robs the rivalry of the spotlight it deserves. Some fans have even called on Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark to fight for a better timeslot, believing that an afternoon or evening game on FOX or another major network would have attracted a larger national audience and truly highlighted the meaning of the rivalry have emphasized.

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The Big 12’s logic likely revolves around using the late-night slot to draw national attention to the Beehive State’s most prominent football rivalry, without directly competing with other high-profile games during rivalry weekend. However, fans point out that while this might increase visibility in certain markets, it doesn’t give “Holy War” the prestige that a primetime broadcast could provide. Instead, many fans believe the conference’s decision detracts from the meaning of the game and disrespects the history and magnitude of the Utah-BYU rivalry.

Adding to the frustration is that this is the third straight late-night kickoff for Utah, and fans are feeling fatigued by the consistent placement in these late slots. Many Utah supporters argue that if the team continues to win, such scheduling conflicts can resolve themselves, as winning teams typically have better time slots. However, the consensus remains that the Big 12 missed an opportunity to elevate one of their great rivalries by not positioning it as a premier event.

As the rivalry draws closer, Utes fans will no doubt join in despite the late start. Still, their message to the Big 12 is clear: They want their team’s biggest games to be treated with the prestige and visibility they deserve on a national stage.