**BYU vs. Arizona: Clash of Former WAC Rivals in Provo**

The No. 14 BYU Cougars are set to face the Arizona Wildcats in an intriguing Big 12 matchup this Saturday at 2 p.m. MDT. Set in Provo, this highly anticipated game brings together former Western Athletic Conference (WAC) rivals, rekindling a competitive history that dates back several decades. Adding to the event's prestige, Fox's 'Big Noon Kickoff' show will be on site to elevate the game's atmosphere.

The weather forecast for the game predicts a mix of sunshine and clouds, with temperatures comfortably in the 70s. Light to variable winds from the south and southwest, gusting up to 10 mph, may increase slightly as the game progresses, offering a break from the heat.

BYU enters the game with an impressive turnaround, having won their first five games of the 2024 season after ending 2023 on a five-game losing streak. The Cougars come off a bye week, fresh from an upset over Baylor two weeks ago. Head coach Kalani Sitake boasts a 23-7 record when coaching a ranked team and aims to extend their undefeated streak in the Big 12 after a challenging 2-7 league record last year.

On the other side, Arizona Wildcats recently scored a major victory over No. 10 Utah, defeating them 23-10 on the road. Despite this feat, they were subsequently edged out by Texas Tech 28-22. The Wildcats have struggled against BYU in recent years, losing their last three encounters and holding a 3-4 all-time record in Provo. Under new head coach Brent Brennan, who replaced Jedd Fisch, Arizona looks to reverse this trend.

The spotlight will shine on BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who won the starting position after a competitive preseason and has displayed solid performance with a 5-4 record as a starter. Retzlaff's dual-threat capability, completing over 60% of his passes and operating as a running threat, will be crucial for BYU's quest to achieve a 6-0 start for the first time since 2020.

Arizona’s offensive weapons, quarterback Noah Fifita and receiver Tetairoa McMillan, have garnered national attention. McMillan made history in their season opener with an outstanding performance that highlighted his exceptional skill set. BYU’s defense will face the significant challenge of containing these dynamic players.

Adding to BYU’s arsenal, running back LJ Martin is expected to return after an injury in Week 2. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick has emphasized Martin's pivotal role, noting how his presence could mitigate Arizona’s pass rush and open up the offense for Retzlaff.

Both coaches have expressed respect for their opponents’ strengths, with BYU’s Sitake appreciating Arizona’s well-rounded defense and Brennan acknowledging the physicality and skill of the Cougars. This mutual respect sets the stage for a fiercely competitive and entertaining game in Provo.