I grew up in northern Davis County, Utah and was one of about 5 Utah fans in my school. This was in the late 80's, early 90's, before the 34-31s and really any Utah win. I was mocked relentlessly for not being a BYU fan.

As the rivalry got more heated and even, the mocking got worse. I was told I was a "bad Mormon" and "Denying the truth in the church"...over a football team.

It wasn't just kids that would say things, but some of my teachers in church. I let it affect me for far too long. I fell away from the church for a while. To say it was completely because of the rivalry is irresponsible, there was a lot going on, but I felt that type of hypocrisy was uncalled for.

Anyway, now that I'm in my 30's, I still hear some crap and when I hear it I dish it back. There are a lot of good things about BYU and a lot of things I can't stand. Just like there are a lot great things about Utah and a lot that I'm not proud of.

I'm happy to say I'm a temple recommend holder and back in the church for some time now. Religion plays much too large of a roll in this rivalry on both sides. I absolutely HATE seeing Utah fans mocking the church, and for the few Utah BYU games I've gone to, if I have seen something that offends me, I say something. But yes, the sacrament jello shots, dressing up as Jesus, and signs mocking the church are unacceptable. Kind of like jumping a cheerleader and throwing garbage at refs is unacceptable.

Sorry to make this so long. Good luck against WVU and the rest of your season. Personally, I'm afraid BYU will struggle for the rest of the year, but I definitely see them becoming a major force in the coming years.

Go Utes!