The 2021 BYU Cougars football team represented Brigham Young University (BYU) in the 2021 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Led by fourth-year head coach Kalani Sitake, the Cougars played their home games at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, as a member of the Independent FBS, and were in their sixth year of independence from any athletic conference.
After starting the season with an impressive 5-1 record, the Cougars received votes for the first time in the College Football Playoff Rankings on October 3, 2021. However, BYU would go on to lose three of their next four games, falling out of the rankings. Despite their struggles, the Cougars finished the regular season with a 10-3 record, earning an invitation to the Independence Bowl against the UAB Blazers.
The BYU Cougars will face off against the UAB Blazers in the 2021 Independence Bowl on December 18, 2021, at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana. The game will be televised on ESPN and will kick off at 4:30 p.m. ET.
BYU Bowl Game 2021
The BYU Cougars will face off against the UAB Blazers in the 2021 Radiance TechnologiesIndependence Bowl on December 18, 2021, at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana.
- Location: Shreveport, Louisiana
- Date: December 18, 2021
- Time: 4:30 p.m. CST
- Television: ESPN
- Teams: BYU Cougars vs. UAB Blazers
- Result: BYU 24, UAB 23
- BYU's record: 10-3
- UAB's record: 9-4
The game was a close contest, with BYU ultimately winning 24-23. BYU's victory was their first bowl win since 2016 and their first victory over a Power Five conference team since 2018. The game was also notable for being the final game of Tyler Allgeier's BYU career. Allgeier, who was named the game's Most Valuable Player, finished his BYU career with 2,892 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns.
Location: Shreveport, Louisiana
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was held in Shreveport, Louisiana, a city located in the northwestern part of the state. Shreveport is the third-largest city in Louisiana, with a population of over 190,000 people. The city is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful scenery.
Shreveport is home to a number of attractions, including the Shreveport Aquarium, the Sci-Port Discovery Center, and the American Rose Center. The city is also home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. Shreveport is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
The Independence Bowl is played annually in Shreveport at Independence Stadium. The stadium has a capacity of over 40,000 people and is the home of the Independence Bowl Foundation. The Independence Bowl is one of the oldest bowl games in the country, having been played since 1976.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable event for the city of Shreveport. The game was a sellout, and the city welcomed thousands of visitors from around the country. The game was also a major economic boost for the city, with an estimated impact of over $10 million.
Date: December 18, 2021
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was played on December 18, 2021, the final day of the 2021 college football regular season. This date is significant for a number of reasons.
- The end of the regular season
December 18, 2021, marked the end of the 2021 college football regular season. This is the day when all of the conference championship games are played, and the final College Football Playoff rankings are released.
- Bowl selection day
December 18, 2021, was also bowl selection day. This is the day when the bowl game committees announce which teams will be playing in their respective games.
- A popular day for bowl games
December 18, 2021, is a popular day for bowl games. This is because it is the last Saturday before Christmas, and many people have the day off from work or school. As a result, there are a number of bowl games played on this day, including the Independence Bowl.
- A special day for BYU
December 18, 2021, was a special day for BYU. It was the day that the Cougars played in their first bowl game since 2016. It was also the day that BYU earned its first bowl win since 2016.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable event for the Cougars and their fans. The game was a hard-fought victory, and it was a great way to end the season.
Time: 4:30 p.m. CST
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game kicked off at 4:30 p.m. CST on December 18, 2021. This is a common time for bowl games to be played, as it allows for the game to be played in the afternoon, but still gives fans a chance to watch the game in prime time.
- A convenient time for fans
4:30 p.m. CST is a convenient time for fans to watch the game. It is late enough in the day that most people are finished with work or school, but it is still early enough in the evening that people can watch the game without having to stay up too late.
- A popular time for bowl games
4:30 p.m. CST is a popular time for bowl games to be played. This is because it allows for the game to be played in the afternoon, but still gives fans a chance to watch the game in prime time. As a result, there are a number of bowl games played at this time each year.
- A good time for television
4:30 p.m. CST is a good time for television. This is because it allows for the game to be played in the afternoon, but still gives fans a chance to watch the game in prime time. As a result, bowl games played at this time typically have good television ratings.
- A memorable time for BYU fans
4:30 p.m. CST will be a memorable time for BYU fans. This is because it was the time that the Cougars played in their first bowl game since 2016. It was also the time that BYU earned its first bowl win since 2016.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable event for the Cougars and their fans. The game was a hard-fought victory, and it was a great way to end the season.
Television: ESPN
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was televised on ESPN. ESPN is one of the most popular sports networks in the world, and it is the home of many major sporting events, including the College Football Playoff. ESPN has a long history of broadcasting bowl games, and it is one of the most trusted sources for sports news and information.
- A wide reach
ESPN has a wide reach, and its games are available to millions of viewers. This is important for bowl games, as it allows them to reach a large audience and generate more revenue. ESPN also has a number of different platforms, including its television network, its website, and its mobile app. This allows fans to watch the game on a variety of devices.
- A trusted source
ESPN is a trusted source for sports news and information. This is important for bowl games, as it gives fans confidence that they are getting accurate and up-to-date information about the game. ESPN also has a team of experienced commentators who provide insightful analysis of the game.
- A long history of broadcasting bowl games
ESPN has a long history of broadcasting bowl games. This experience is important, as it allows ESPN to provide a high-quality broadcast of the game. ESPN also has a good relationship with the NCAA and the bowl game committees, which gives it access to the best games and the best production facilities.
- A commitment to college football
ESPN is committed to college football. This is evident in the number of games that it broadcasts each year, as well as the amount of coverage that it gives to the sport. ESPN also has a number of college football analysts and commentators who provide insightful analysis of the game.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable event for the Cougars and their fans. The game was a hard-fought victory, and it was a great way to end the season. ESPN's coverage of the game was excellent, and it allowed fans to enjoy the game from the comfort of their own homes.
Teams: BYU Cougars vs. UAB Blazers
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game featured a matchup between the BYU Cougars and the UAB Blazers. Both teams had successful seasons in 2021, and they were both looking to end the season on a high note.
- BYU Cougars
The BYU Cougars are a college football team that represents Brigham Young University. The Cougars compete in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) as an independent. BYU has a long and successful football history, and they have won 19 conference championships and one national championship. The Cougars are known for their strong defense and their passionate fan base.
- UAB Blazers
The UAB Blazers are a college football team that represents the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The Blazers compete in the FBS of the NCAA as a member of Conference USA (C-USA). UAB has a relatively short football history, but they have quickly become a competitive team. The Blazers are known for their high-powered offense and their strong running game.
- A close matchup
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a close matchup between two evenly matched teams. Both teams had strengths and weaknesses, and the game was ultimately decided by a few key plays.
- A memorable game
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable game for both teams and their fans. The game was a hard-fought battle, and it was a great way to end the season.
The BYU Cougars defeated the UAB Blazers 24-23 in the 2021 Independence Bowl. The Cougars' victory was their first bowl win since 2016, and it was a great way to end the season.
Result: BYU 24, UAB 23
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a close and exciting contest, with BYU ultimately defeating UAB 24-23. The game was decided on a last-second field goal by BYU kicker Jake Oldroyd.
- A back-and-forth game
The game was back-and-forth throughout, with both teams trading blows. BYU took an early lead, but UAB came back to tie the game in the second quarter. BYU regained the lead in the third quarter, but UAB again came back to tie the game in the fourth quarter.
- A dramatic finish
The game came down to the final play, with BYU driving down the field for a game-winning field goal. Oldroyd's kick was good, and BYU won the game 24-23.
- A memorable victory
The victory was a memorable one for BYU and its fans. It was the Cougars' first bowl win since 2016, and it was a great way to end the season.
- A disappointing loss
The loss was a disappointing one for UAB and its fans. The Blazers had a great season, and they were hoping to end the season on a high note. However, they came up just short against a tough BYU team.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a great way to end the college football season. It was a close and exciting game, and it was a memorable victory for BYU and its fans.
BYU's record: 10-3
BYU's 10-3 record in 2021 was a significant improvement over their 7-6 record in 2020. The Cougars' success in 2021 was due to a number of factors, including a strong offense, a stingy defense, and a favorable schedule.
BYU's offense was one of the most prolific in the country in 2021. The Cougars averaged 40.7 points per game, which ranked 12th in the FBS. BYU's offense was led by quarterback Jaren Hall, who threw for 2,583 yards and 26 touchdowns. Running back Tyler Allgeier was also a key part of BYU's offense, rushing for 1,601 yards and 23 touchdowns.
BYU's defense was also one of the best in the country in 2021. The Cougars allowed just 17.6 points per game, which ranked 10th in the FBS. BYU's defense was led by linebacker Keenan Pili, who had 104 tackles and 5.5 sacks. Defensive end Tyler Batty was also a key part of BYU's defense, recording 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss.
BYU's schedule was also favorable in 2021. The Cougars played just two Power Five teams, and they avoided playing any of the top teams in the country. BYU's schedule did include some tough games, but the Cougars were able to win all of their non-conference games and all but one of their conference games.
UAB's record: 9-4
UAB's 9-4 record in 2021 was a step back from their 12-1 record in 2020. However, the Blazers' 2021 season was still a successful one, as they finished the season with a bowl victory over an Power 5 team, the South Carolina Gamecocks.
- A tough schedule
UAB's 2021 schedule was a tough one, as they played seven Power 5 teams. The Blazers managed to go 2-5 against Power 5 competition, which was a creditable performance. UAB's two Power 5 victories came against the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of South Carolina. - A strong finish
UAB finished the 2021 season strong, winning their final three games. The Blazers' strong finish was due in part to the play of running back DeWayne McElveen, who rushed for 1,017 and 13 in the final three games of the season. - A bright future
UAB has a bright future under head coach Bryant Vinvent. The Blazers have a loy of taletn players returng in 2022, and he has a gopd recruiting clas commitg to the program. UAB is poised to be a contender in the American Athletic Conference in the years to come.
UAB's 9-4 record in 2021 was a successful season for the Blazers. The team showed improvement over their 2020 season, and they finished the season strong. UAB has a bright future under head coach Bryant Vinvent, and they are poised to be a contender in the American Athletic Conference in the years to come.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2021 BYU Bowl Game:
Question 1: When and where was the game played?
The game was played on December 18, 2021, at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Question 2: Who were the teams playing?
The teams playing were the BYU Cougars and the UAB Blazers.
Question 3: What was the score of the game?
The score of the game was BYU 24, UAB 23.
Question 4: Who was the MVP of the game?
The MVP of the game was BYU running back Tyler Allgeier.
Question 5: What was the attendance for the game?
The attendance for the game was 41,227.
Question 6: What was the weather like on the day of the game?
The weather on the day of the game was clear and mild, with temperatures in the mid-60s.
Question 7: What were the highlights of the game?
The highlights of the game included a 96-yard kickoff return touchdown by UAB's Will B袪 and a last-second field goal by BYU's Jake Oldroyd.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the 2021 BYU Bowl Game. For more information, please visit the official website of the Independence Bowl.
Tips
Here are a few tips for attending the 2021 BYU Bowl Game:
Tip 1: Purchase your tickets early.
Tickets for the game are on sale now, and they are expected to sell out quickly. The best way to guarantee your seat is to purchase your tickets as early as possible.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The gates to Independence Stadium will open two hours before kickoff. It is recommended that you arrive early to allow yourself plenty of time to find your seat and enjoy the pre-game festivities.
Tip 3: Dress warmly.
The weather in Shreveport, Louisiana, in December can be cold, so it is important to dress warmly. Be sure to wear layers of clothing so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Tip 4: Be respectful.
The BYU Bowl Game is a family-friendly event. Please be respectful of the other fans in attendance, and refrain from using profanity or engaging in other disruptive behavior.
Tip 5: Have fun!
The BYU Bowl Game is a great opportunity to see a great game in a festive atmosphere. Be sure to enjoy yourself and cheer on your favorite team.
These are just a few tips to help you make the most of your experience at the 2021 BYU Bowl Game. For more information, please visit the official website of the Independence Bowl.
Conclusion
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was a memorable event for the Cougars and their fans. The game was a hard-fought victory, and it was a great way to end the season.
BYU's victory was a testament to the team's hard work and dedication. The Cougars overcame a number of challenges during the season, but they never gave up. BYU's victory was also a credit to head coach Kalani Sitake. Sitake has done a great job of rebuilding the BYU football program, and he has the Cougars poised for even greater success in the years to come.
The 2021 BYU Bowl Game was also a great example of the passion and support of BYU fans. The fans packed Independence Stadium and created a great atmosphere for the game. BYU fans are some of the most loyal and passionate fans in the country, and they are a big part of the team's success.