BYU Cougars Win 1983 Holiday Bowl with Steve Young

BYU Cougars won the 1983 Holiday Bowl with Steve Young's game-winning touchdown catch, beating Missouri Tigers 21-17.

What happened in the 1983 Holiday Bowl?

The Cougars entered the game with a 10-1 record and a No. 9 national ranking, facing the Missouri Tigers of the Big Eight Conference.

Steve Young, the most accomplished pro quarterback in BYU history, made the defining plays in the game, running for a touchdown and throwing for a touchdown.

How did Steve Young make the game-winning play?

Young caught a touchdown pass from running back Eddie Stinnett with 23 seconds left, dashing inside the left pylon of the end zone to secure the win.

The Cougars' offense struggled overall, but Young's playmaking ability shone through in the final moments of the game.

Why does this win matter for BYU Cougars?

This victory set the table for the national championship campaign of 1984, showcasing the team's ability to win with defense, holding Missouri to 17 points.

The Cougars finished the 1983 season with an 11-1 record, staying in the top 10 and demonstrating their toughness and finesse on the field.

And with their next game scheduled against Utah Tech Trailblazers on 2026-09-06, the BYU Cougars look to continue their winning tradition.

But for now, the focus is on the 1983 Holiday Bowl win, a testament to Steve Young's exceptional skill and the team's determination.

So the Cougars' win in the 1983 Holiday Bowl remains a notable moment in the team's history, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.

The game was played at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, with the Cougars coming back from a loss in 1982 to secure the win.

Steve Young's performance in the game cemented his place as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in BYU history.

The Cougars' ability to win with defense was a key factor in their success, holding Missouri to 17 points and securing the 21-17 victory.