FORT WORTH, Texas — The TCU Horned Frogs suffered a tough loss at home on Saturday, falling to the Utah Utes 45-28. Despite strong individual performances, the Horned Frogs couldn’t overcome Utah's physical run game and defensive strength, dropping their record to 4-2 on the season and 2-2 in Big 12 conference play.
TCU quarterback Josh Hoover put up a valiant effort, throwing for 435 yards and three touchdowns. However, his three interceptions proved costly as Utah capitalized on every misstep. Hoover’s favorite target on the night was wide receiver Major Everhart, who hauled in eight catches for 149 yards and scored two touchdowns, giving TCU fans some electrifying moments despite the final score.
On the other side of the ball, TCU’s defense struggled to contain the relentless Utah run game, which wore down the Horned Frogs with a physicality that the team struggled to match. TCU’s defense had opportunities to turn the tide, but multiple dropped interceptions left potential momentum-shifting plays on the field.
Compounding the issues for TCU was a nearly non-existent running attack. Utah’s defense, with their size and strength, shut down TCU’s ground game, making the Horned Frogs one-dimensional and putting even more pressure on Hoover and the passing offense.
Next up for TCU is a highly anticipated matchup against the Texas Tech Red Raiders. With their conference hopes still alive, the Horned Frogs will look to bounce back and find a way to regain their early-season momentum.
Forth Worth, TX (AP) -
In a dominant 45-28 victory over the TCU Horned Frogs, the Utah Utes displayed impressive offensive and defensive performances. Quarterback Cameron Rising was exceptional, completing 21 of 26 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown, with a perfect passer rating of 183.0. The Utes' rushing attack was also potent, totaling 167 yards, with Micah Bernard leading the way with 98 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries. Dijon Stanley added 69 yards and two scores on 11 carries, furthering the Utes' balanced offensive effort.
Utah’s receiving corps was spread out effectively, with Brant Kuithe leading the team with 56 yards and one touchdown on eight catches. Dorian Singer contributed 65 yards on four catches, while Micah Bernard added another 47 yards as a dual-threat, catching two passes out of the backfield. The Utes' offensive line held up well, allowing only one sack despite 12 total pressures on the quarterback.
Defensively, Utah stifled TCU’s attack, led by linebacker Karene Reid, who recorded nine tackles and two tackles for loss. The Utes also intercepted three passes, including a key pick by Elijah Davis, who added five tackles and two pass breakups. Logan Fano and Zemaiah Vaughn each contributed solid performances, with Vaughn adding an interception and a pass breakup. Utah’s defense held strong throughout, limiting TCU to just 35 rushing yards while forcing three turnovers.
Special teams also played a key role, as kicker Cole Becker went a perfect 5-for-5 on extra points and nailed his only field goal attempt. Punter Jack Bouwmeester averaged 55.5 yards per punt, helping pin TCU deep in their territory. TCU, while managing 470 total yards, struggled in key moments, turning the ball over three times and failing to sustain drives when it mattered most. Despite a strong second-half effort from TCU, Utah’s early lead and complete team performance led them to a decisive 45-28 win.
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