Garret Rangel entered the game at quarterback for Oklahoma State early in the second half, replacing Alan Bowman in the Top 15 showdown against No. 12 Utah. With Utah freshman Isaac Wilson also starting in place of the injured Cam Rising, both teams appear to be able to handle this high-stakes game with their backup quarterbacks at the helm.

In the first half, Utah took a 10-3 lead midway through the second quarter, powered by a strong 1-yard touchdown run from star tight end Brant Kuithe. Kuithe’s score came with 7:25 left in the second quarter, capping a well-organized attack that gave the Utes their first lead of the game. Oklahoma State took the lead early in the first quarter with a 36-yard field goal, taking advantage of a slow start from Utah’s offense. Utah answered early in the second quarter, however, when their kicker converted a 43-yard field goal to tie the score at 3-3.

With Cam Rising out with a hand injury, Isaac Wilson took the reins for Utah, making his second career start. Despite his inexperience, the rookie played a composed first half, managing the offense effectively and leaning on veterans like Kuithe to lead the Utes down the field. Although he has yet to throw a touchdown pass, Wilson’s solid play under pressure has helped Utah control the game.

WATCH: Utah’s Brant Kuithe’s 1-yard touchdown run against Oklahoma State

On the other hand, Oklahoma State’s decision to trade Bowman for Rangel hints at a potential shift in their offensive strategy to overcome Utah’s defense. As the second half begins, both backup quarterbacks will be central to their teams’ chances in this already tightly contested battle. The outcome could depend on which young signal-caller rises to the occasion.