BYU won the Pop-Tarts Bowl in more ways than one. Not only did the Cougars defeat the Yellow Jackets of Georgia Tech, they showed the utmost class in victory.
Sophomore safety Faletau Satuala showed his strong character with a subtle gesture during a crucial point in a one-possession game.
In a world where the headlines surrounding college football often focus on the negative, I want to give equal shine to the positive. The little things often leave the greatest impact.
BYU won the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Shame on Notre Dame for opting out of the people’s national championship, but their decision not to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl led to an incredible matchup between two programs who wanted to be there. BYU ultimately defeated Georgia Tech in an instant classic by a final score of 25-21.
Head coach Kalani Sitake, who chose not to take the same job at Penn State just a few weeks prior because of how much his alma mater means to him, had nothing but respect for his postseason opponent. He went out of his way to show gratitude for the Yellow Jackets not just once but twice during his postgame interviews. It is a testament to who he is.
The 50-year-old is not only trying to develop NFL athletes.
Sitake wants to also develop outstanding young men who go on to be valuable members of their communities. Respect and honor are at the forefront of his program and the players respond to his leadership. The Cougars have won 10 or more games in four of their last six seasons and did so with class. Never has an ill word been spoken of the culture in Provo.
Faletau Satuala is a great example.
The end of the Pop-Tarts Bowl came down to the final offensive possession for Georgia Tech. It was an exhilarating back-and-forth game. Both schools put up more than 400 yards of offense.
An end zone pylon fell over during all of the excitement, right in front of photographer Rachel Leggett. She captured a heartwarming moment with her camera.
BYU safety Faletau Satuala went over to the pylon and placed it right side up. Nobody asked him to do it. Players are not required to help. He did so on his own accord.
While this minor adjustment to the pylon might not seem like a big deal, it reflects the culture of the college football program in Provo. BYU players play with honor and respect. For themselves. For their opponents. And for their surroundings.