Rivalry week can bring out the very best in a fanbase. Showing up to the stadium in full force, selling out every seat and then some to pack the building to its very capacity and some change, leaning fully into every cheer, tradition, and promoting their fandom however possible makes a rivalry special and makes college athletics special.
Most notably, opposing fanbases will take to social media to pine for their allegiance in any way possible. Defending their school against every slight, jab, or ounce of smack talk their heated rival throws their way, and using that as ammunition for their counter-attack can lead to some hilarious interactions. When done right, online debate can boost anticipation for a game that's already carrying more than its participants can bear.
But sometimes, trash talk can go from a light-hearted interaction to something truly hideous. Threats of violence are the dark, ugly underbelly of fandom, and one fan was caught crossing the line by a country mile.
Disgusting and violent threats were extended toward Utah fans on X in the week leading up to the Holy War rivalry game. They were severe, and those who came across the tweets knew they needed to take action. BYU and Utah fans alike joined from both sides of the feud, uniting to report the account to both the platform and the local police.
The Provo Police have reportedly arrested the user for his actions.
It goes to show that actions have consequences, and a social media alias is no barrier between the user and the world around him. Violence has no place in sports at any level, college football rivalries included.
BYU and Utah square off in the Holy War rivalry this Saturday as ranked foes for the first time since 2009, and their meeting charges the highest priced cheap seats in the entire nation this weekend.
Rivalry can bring out the best in a community, but it can also draw out the worst.
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