With forecasters expecting Hurricane Priscilla to bring heavy rains to Tucson, Ariz., on Saturday, BYU spent part of the week practicing with wet footballs to get ready for the elements.
“We’re ready for the monsoon. Let’s go,” special teams coordinator Kelly Poppinga said.
In the end, it rained, it stormed — and the No. 18 Cougars remained perfect.
BYU overcame a 72-minute weather delay, two Bear Bachmeier interceptions and a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Arizona Wildcats 33-27 in double overtime.
“We just kept the faith. Just no panic,” BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said. “We knew there was plenty of time for us to get it done. … [But] we shouldn’t make it so interesting next time.”
Bachmeier, who looked like a true freshman for the first time this season, threw for 172 yards, a touchdown and two picks. But he also ran the ball 22 times for 89 yards and two scores — one to send the game to overtime and the eventual game-winner in the second extra period.
Running back LJ Martin finished with 162 yards and a score on 25 carries. Parker Kingston caught five passes, including a 75-yard touchdown, to finish with 117 total.
“We were going to have to use every second, and we did,” Sitake told BYUtv. “Overtime, double overtime. I’m just proud of the guys. They never stopped believing. This feels really good. Hit some adversity and found a way to still climb out and get a victory.”
Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita threw for 219 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Running back Kedrick Reescano finished with 90 yards and a touchdown.
“In this defense, you are going to have to lock down some people. The corners did a great job. It is hard against that type of offense,” Sitake said.
BYU is 6-0 and bowl eligible for the second-straight season. It will host Utah at LaVell Edwards Stadium next Saturday at 6 p.m.