Why ESPN Scheduled 'Holy War' Between Utah and BYU in a Terrible Time Slot

The 'Holy War' should be promoted as one of the best college football games this season. However, ESPN disagrees with such an assessment.

After both the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars pushed themselves inside the top 10 ahead of Week 9 in the schedule, many believed the primetime treatment would be applied to the rivalry. But, putting the Big 12 Game of the Week on at Noon isn't the most opportune time.

Yes, ESPN is also partnered with the SEC, so there are other decisions that need to be made when it comes to scheduling. In terms of ABC, No. 10 Alabama vs. No. 15 LSU at 3:30 p.m. ET was a better bet for them. Not to mention, No. 3 Georgia traveling to face No. 12 Ole Miss right after at 7:30 p.m. ET.

The biggest rivalry game in the Beehive State deserves more attention than being forced to a Noon ET kickoff. Unlike the two previously mentioned contests, the 'Holy War' features two teams who could make the College Football Playoff. Keep in mind, this is a 10 a.m. local time start for Utah and BYU. Any thought of major pregame festivities might have just gone down the drain.

Not saying this game should be a late night kickoff, and in reality, Utah athletic director Mark Harlan has opted for fewer 'Big 12 After Dark' specials. But there should have been some type of compromise with the network. These are must-see showdowns across the board, along with No. 1 Miami facing No. 5 Notre Dame in primetime on NBC.

If both Utah and BYU win their respective next games, the November 7 Holy War could become the first matchup in rivalry history featuring two top-10 teams. Previous meetings have included highly ranked opponents, but these two teams have never been ranked inside the top 10 together.

The stakes extend beyond bragging rights. The Big 12 championship and College Football Playoff hopes are also on the line. The conference is expected to send two teams to the Playoff, making every remaining game key for the postseason chase.

If Utah and BYU win out and deliver a close, competitive Holy War, both could present their case for being in the final 12 teams. The winner would also gain an advantage in the Big 12 race, potentially setting up an unprecedented rivalry rematch in the championship game.

Imagine these two teams meeting twice in one season with a conference title and playoff seeding at stake. Such a scenario could make this year's edition unforgettable for both programs.