Defense can’t step up amid Jacob Manu’s ejection as Arizona falls to No. 14 BYU

Looking to rebound after their loss to Texas Tech last week, the Arizona Wildcats couldn’t overcome second-half mishaps as they fell to No. 14 BYU 41-19 on Saturday.

The Wildcats allowed four turnovers, two of which came in the opening minute of the second half. Amid a BYU 14-7 lead entering the third quarter, these two turnovers quickly shifted momentum, allowing the Cougars to jump ahead 24-7 before Arizona managed to score again.

It was a deficit the Wildcats couldn’t overcome, and amid linebacker Jacob Manu’s ejection in the opening minutes of the game, Arizona’s defense allowed 398 total yards and 22 first downs.

At one point, Arizona’s offense was poised to take the lead with nearly 10 minutes left in the first half, but a critical interception by BYU ultimately led to the Cougars taking a 14-7 lead with 6:30 left in the second quarter, a score that held until halftime.

INTERCEPTED AT THE GOAL LINE

What a play by the @BYUfootball defense 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ZzSTen9MnM

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 12, 2024

BYU sealed the deal with an Isaiah Glasker 21-yard pick-six with 1:02 remaining in the game.

Arizona allowed 147 rushing yards across four BYU rushers. BYU running back Hinckley Ropati led the way with 65 yards on nine carries.

Noah Fifita completed 26 of 52 passes for 275 yards and three interceptions along with seven carries for 24 yards. Arizona receiver Tetairoa McMillan had five receptions for 78 yards.

Arizona is now 3-3 on the season.

Jacob Manu ejected in opening minutes

Arizona junior linebacker Jacob Manu was ejected for targeting with 13:06 left in the first quarter vs. No. 14 BYU.

He tackled Ropati, and after a review, was given a personal foul penalty for targeting and was ejected.

Manu is ejected for targeting after this hit ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/I0o5i2HCz2

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 12, 2024

Manu, a captain who leads Arizona with 42 total tackles, remained on the sideline for the rest of the game.

Arizona takes on Colorado at home next Saturday at 1 p.m.

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