Some reasons BYU football might be considered "better" than Utah's football program by certain fans could include:

Historical Success: BYU has had a long history of success in college football, particularly under coach LaVell Edwards. They won the 1984 National Championship, a rare achievement for a non-Power Five school, and have produced multiple NFL players over the years.

Consistent Bowl Appearances: BYU has consistently appeared in bowl games, with over 40 bowl appearances in its history. They’ve earned a reputation for being competitive year in and year out, regardless of conference affiliation.

Independent Status: BYU has played as an independent team since 2011, meaning they schedule their own opponents and aren't tied to a specific conference. This flexibility has allowed them to challenge themselves with a variety of opponents from different conferences, which has helped elevate their profile.

Notable Alumni: BYU has produced numerous standout NFL players, including stars like Steve Young, Jim McMahon, and Taysom Hill. This strong pipeline of talent to the professional level speaks to the quality of the program.

Head-to-Head Rivalry: While the rivalry with Utah is incredibly fierce and competitive, BYU holds a historical edge in the series. BYU has had periods of dominance, especially in the 1980s and 90s, which fans might use to argue their superiority.