UCF Secures Historic 39-31 Double-Overtime Win Over No. 2 BYU

In a landmark victory for the University of Central Florida (UCF) football program, the Knights defeated the No. 2 ranked Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars 39-31 in a double-overtime thriller on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The game took place at UCF’s Acrisure Bounce House in Orlando during the Knights’ homecoming weekend, and was nationally televised on FOX.

This win marked UCF’s first-ever triumph over an Associated Press (AP) top-five opponent, surpassing previous program highs. Prior to this game, UCF’s highest-ranked opponent defeated was No. 6/5 Baylor in the 2014 Fiesta Bowl. The victory provides a significant boost to the Knights’ 2026 campaign, which had been marked by mixed results, entering the game with a 3-3 record.

BYU, coming in undefeated at 6-0 and riding a wave of momentum following a dramatic 28-24 victory over then-No. 8 Notre Dame, was favoured to continue their winning streak. The Cougars, coached by Kalani Sitake, had climbed to their highest AP ranking since 1996, and were aiming to maintain their perfect start to the season. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier had been a key figure in BYU’s success, known for his dual-threat capabilities and leadership on the field.

The game unfolded as a tightly contested battle, with both teams exchanging leads and showcasing balanced offensive efforts. BYU’s Bachmeier completed 10 of 17 passes for 179 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while UCF’s quarterback Keyone Jenkins threw for 138 yards, completing 15 of 24 attempts, with one touchdown and no interceptions. Both teams also demonstrated potent rushing attacks, with UCF outpacing BYU on the ground.

A dramatic sequence late in regulation became a focal point of the contest. UCF’s kicker Will Stone attempted a field goal that was blocked by BYU, but subsequent events involving a fumble recovery, an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against BYU, and a 10-second runoff due to Stone’s helmet coming off led to the clock expiring and the game being tied at 31-31 at the end of regulation. This unusual set of rulings was widely discussed among fans and analysts, though no official explanation or statement was released by the Big 12 Conference or the game’s officiating crew.

In the first overtime, BYU struck first with a touchdown pass from Bachmeier, taking a 31-24 lead. However, UCF responded promptly as Jenkins connected with a receiver for a touchdown to level the score and force a second overtime. In the decisive period, UCF took control, scoring a touchdown and successfully converting a two-point attempt to seal the 39-31 victory.

The win not only disrupts BYU’s undefeated run but also serves as a statement for UCF’s program, highlighting their resilience and capacity to capitalise on critical moments against elite competition. The Knights will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming games, including the annual Space Game against Baylor on October 30.

While the ending sparked debate due to the rare officiating rulings, the outcome stands as a celebrated upset. UCF’s victory over a top-five opponent at homecoming will be remembered as a defining moment in the school’s football history.