Big 12 football is back in full force, with the Arizona Wildcats heading into Provo as 7.5-point underdogs against the BYU Cougars.
This conference battle should give us a good idea of where both teams stand heading into the rest of the 2026 season.
Let’s get to my Arizona vs. BYU predictions, as my college football picks are all in on the Wildcats in Week 2.
TOP PICK
Who will win Arizona vs BYU: Arizona +7.5
Are the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks anywhere near the same stratosphere as the BYU Cougars? Of course not, but it is refreshing to see the Arizona Wildcats prepare for the heavy run attack they are going to endure this weekend, as they held the Lumberjacks to -7 rushing yards last week. They will need that defensive intensity against BYU sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier.
Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita had himself a solid game against Northern Arizona, throwing for nearly 280 yards while completing 23 of his 30 pass attempts and throwing two touchdowns. Fifita is coming off a solid 2025 season, throwing for 3,228 yards and 29 touchdowns while only tossing six interceptions.
With Fifita serving as a familiar leader and the Wildcats returning several offensive weapons, Arizona should be able to keep this matchup close, even in a hostile environment like Provo.
COVERS INTEL: The 6-foot-5, 245-pound former Illinois tight end Cole Rusk, who is coming off a knee injury that cost him most of last season, could end up being Fifita’s favorite target this season.
Arizona vs BYU Over/Under pick: Under 46.5
If BYU plans to try and run the ball down Arizona’s throat in this matchup, the clock will be ticking from start to finish. The Wildcats’ defense should be fully prepared for the ground attack.
On top of this being a big conference matchup, it’s one that Arizona hasn’t won in quite some time. This should be a tight one from start to finish.
Arizona vs BYU odds
For help understanding probabilities, see our odds calculator.
- Spread: Arizona +7.5 | BYU -7.5
- Over/Under: Over 46.5 (57%) | Under 46.5 (49%)
- Moneyline: Arizona 27% | BYU 73%
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Arizona vs BYU weather
The weather in Provo should be clear, with temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s.
Check out our college football weather page for up-to-date info on every matchup.
Arizona vs BYU trend to know
Arizona has hit the Game Total Under in 8 of their last 12 games (+3.60 Units / 27% ROI).
Find more college football betting trends for Arizona vs. BYU.
How to watch Arizona vs BYU
| Location | LaVell Edwards Stadium, Provo, UT |
| Date | Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 3:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | FOX |
Arizona vs BYU latest injuries
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Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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