Truth be told, I feel like a hypocrite even typing this message, because I’ve been guilty of contributing to the bitter rivalry between BYU and Utah.

But I actually hate what this rivalry has become, and I genuinely wish it could become a RESPECTFUL rivalry between 2 fanbases.

Will that ever happen? No, I don’t think so. But it would sure be nice to eliminate the personal hate, the violence, and the awful taunting/sportsmanship.

And it would sure be nice if the “Holy War” moniker could just be used as a fun title for the game, instead of a platform for bigotry and moral platitude.

Hatred is impossible to eliminate, but great LEADERSHIP could certainly rein it in, and this is where I’ve witnessed utter failure the last 3-4 days.

University of Utah President, Taylor Randall, where are you?!?

I saw your recent campaign with BYU President, Shane Reese, asking for civility, sportsmanship, and respect.

But then, when it mattered the MOST, you’ve done nothing to foster any of those things.

Really - you’ve said NOTHING about your AD’s despicable display of sportsmanship? Your AD walked onto the field DURING a play to attack a referee. Your AD alleged blatant cheating by the refs. Your AD said he isn’t excited to be affiliated with their current league? And you’ve said NOTHING to temper all this?

No apology? No statement? Nothing?

Your head coach, for years, has tried to minimize BYU, going so far as to refuse to say the school’s name. And what have you done?

After the most recent loss, your head coach embarrassed himself (and the university) by attacking the officials (mid-way in greeting Kalani)… then repeatedly whined about the “ridiculous” officiating in his post-game comments, overthrowing a chair on his way out. And you’ve said nothing to the public?

You witnessed trash thrown at the refs.

You saw food and garbage raining down on the BYU bench.

Good grief! - you saw a BYU cheer coach get knocked unconscious.

You’ve seen countless reels with middle fingers, “f the Mormons” chants, and other acts of hatred and religious bigotry.

President Randall - WHERE ARE YOU!? What are you doing to curb AWFUL behavior among your fans, and what are you actually DOING to encourage sportsmanship among your coaches and athletes.

Your little commercial about sportsmanship was cute. Now back it up with some substance.