Kansas takes down undefeated BYU, pulls off upset win

Heading into Saturday, there was just one undefeated team remaining in the Big 12. The number is now down to zero as BYU suffered its first loss of the season. Kansas came into Provo and shocked the Cougars, winning 17-13.

BYU was deep in the red zone with a chance to score before the two minute timeout took place. Three straight run plays were then called, followed by a false start penalty. A 4th and 11 was BYU’s last chance to get into the end zone and while the pass was completed, it was well short of the line to gain.

As the ESPN broadcast highlighted, the play of the game came from Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels. Not with his arm though, as the punting leg of Daniels completely turned the game. The ball hit off a BYU defender, resulting in great field position for the Jayhawks.

One play later, Devin Neal scored from the three-yard line to take the lead. They never turned back on held on for the victory.

Questions about the Big 12’s standing in the College Football Playoff will now come into question. The race to Arlington is still quite clear, as BYU and Colorado are the favorites to square off in AT&T Stadium. Both just have one conference loss.

However, that game could turn into an elimination one for the conference. Winner goes to the CFP while the other is out, giving the Big 12 just one bid. Some clarity will be given on Tuesday, depending on where the Cougars stand in the rankings.

As for Kansas, their hope for bowl eligibility is still alive. One more loss and Lance Leipold’s team will end following the season finale against Baylor. Next Saturday is a matchup against Colorado, another high-stakes one in the Big 12.

The Jayhawks will certainly enjoy this one before turning the page. In a college football slate where not too much action occurred, Kansas has completely shaken things up.