Provo residents saw BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier take heavy criticism after throwing four interceptions in the Cougars’ loss to rival Utah, but teammates and coaches quickly rallied around him, signaling confidence that the senior will rebound in the next game.

According to Fox 13, offensive lineman Bruce Mitchell said, “I know Bear. I know the character he has. I know he’s going to bounce back, and it’s not just his fault. He’s taken a lot of heat in the media. He’s taken it personally, and I got no doubt in Bear and have the utmost confidence in him that he’s going to bounce back and have a great game this Saturday.”

Head coach Kalani Sitake echoed that sentiment, acknowledging the quarterback’s responsibility while stressing his belief in Bachmeier’s talent. “There’s a factor for everybody to take the blame, but the bulk of it is on the quarterback, and nobody’s harder on him than he is himself right now,” Sitake said. “I believe in his talents.”

The loss, BYU’s second of the season, makes the Cougars’ path to the 12‑team College Football Playoff more challenging, according to the same report. Nonetheless, a broader postseason change is on the horizon: the College Football Playoff will expand to 24 teams beginning in 2027. Sitake chuckled, “I wish there were 24 this year. I think there’s a lot of interest, and there were a lot of people that were against it. Most coaches I’ve talked to love the idea, and I think it’s a good move.”

Fans in Provo can look forward to the Cougars’ next test on Saturday when BYU hosts Baylor at 1:30 p.m., broadcast on FOX 13. The game offers an opportunity for Bachmeier and the offense to reset after the Utah setback and keep the team’s playoff aspirations alive.

What’s next: BYU will face Baylor on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. on FOX 13. The outcome will shape the Cougars’ standing in the race for a postseason berth and determine whether Bachmeier can silence his critics with a strong performance.

Sources: fox13now.com