SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Though his team fell in a tough 35-27 loss to Utah Saturday night, one thing was clear about BYU quarterback Zach Wilson; the freshman is a special player.

Completing 20-of-29 passes for 204 with two touchdowns, Wilson showed great poise in just his sixth collegiate start. He did have one poor throw that resulted in a 27-yard interception return for a touchdown by Utah cornerback Julian Blackmon, but overall, the 18 year old had a strong outing playing on the biggest stage of his young career.

A painful loss for BYU blowing a 20-point lead. Two questionable play calls on 3rd and 1 and 4th and 1 but we learned a lot about Zach Wilson tonight. BYU has a QB. He’s a special player. pic.twitter.com/qKCPk2GEIB

— Jeremiah Jensen (@JJSportsBeat) November 25, 2018

Wilson also rushed for a team high 73 yards on 14 carries as the Utah defense kept BYU’s running backs in check pretty much all game.

Sitake Speaks On Wilson

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake lamented the pick-six, but felt that Wilson had played a great game overall.

“You can’t have a pick-six,” said Sitake. “The turnover cost us, and really cost us with that one. But you can’t point it at one person. We have a lot of young guys who made some great plays. Zach made some great plays.”

Hansen Impressed By Wilson

Wilson’s play caught the attention of Utah’s star linebacker, Chase Hansen.

“He was crafty,” said Hansen. “He played well and converted a lot of third downs. He took a lot of shots and kept bouncing back so give him credit.

With a 6-6 record, Wilson and the Cougars will likely play one more game in a bowl game. Details on the Cougars’ potential bowl game appearance are still to come.