Utah rides its defense to 20-19 win over rival BYU

SALT LAKE CITY -- In a game between bitter rivals with both teams desperate to win, it seemed as if neither actually wanted to. Utah and BYU combined for nine turnovers Saturday as the The Holy War more closely resembled a game of hot potato with both squads struggling with ball control. Sunia Tauteoli had two interceptions as the Utah defense saved the day in a disjointed 20-19 win over BYU. The Utes have now won six straight in the series for the first time since 1964. "I felt like I was just doing my job and the ball came to me," said Tauteoli, who returned an interception 41 yards for a score on the first play of the game. "The game was very intense. As a defensive player, you want those opportunities to land on your shoulder. If we're called on, we need to perform." The Utah defense was routinely put in bad positions as the offense committed six turnovers.