The controversy that erupted over BYU's first touchdown in its 27-20 win over Arizona State on Saturday possibly could have been avoided if officials had reviewed Bear Bachmeier's quarterback sneak on first-and-goal from the 1-yard line.
But they didn't review it even though it was razor close, and on second down the crazy play happened in which Bachmeier fumbled the snap, and the football sat between his legs at about the 2-yard line for a few seconds before running back Sione Moa scooped it up and took it into the end zone.
After two different reviews, officials erroneously awarded BYU the touchdown, according to a statement issued by the Big 12 several hours after the conclusion of the game at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
Curiously, BYU didn't use the "Tank" formation that it successfully used to score a touchdown at UCF the previous week.
It will be interesting to see if the No. 7 Cougars use it Saturday in their long-awaited showdown with No. 3 Utah at Rice-Eccles Stadium (10 a.m., ABC) in Salt Lake City.
Basically, the Cougars utilize anywhere between seven to nine offensive linemen at one time, with two to four in the backfield and the others on the line of scrimmage.
It is the brainchild of offensive line coach TJ Woods, who installed it two years ago when he arrived at BYU from Georgia Southern in 2024.
"Yeah, that was kind of the O-line corporation, as we call it," Woods said, referring to himself and three other assistant coaches who help out coaching the guys in the trenches. "We have some good young players that we like and that we think we can trust. So why not use them?"
Center Bruce Mitchell said the formation keeps everyone involved, and credited Woods for keeping things interesting.
"I am not exactly sure who comes up with certain plays," Mitchell said. "I think I will credit that one to coach Woods because he's trying to put as many offensive linemen out there as he can. Maybe we will sneak a 10th on in here soon. We will see."
Woods said the package originally called for seven offensive linemen, but has evolved into nine this year.
"Guys such as Joe Brown and Trevin Ostler (now injured) get to play meaningful snaps," Woods said. "So to me, that's a huge advantage for an offensive lineman."
BYU offensive line coach TJ Woods looks on during the first practice of spring camp Feb. 27, 2026. | Aaron Cornia, BYU Photo
