The Cougars got a nice victory over a decent TCU team that has underperformed this year. While BYU turned the ball over twice (and only got one turnover), they continued to accentuate their strengths by playing pretty solid defense, controling the clock and converting on 3rd downs. Especially on 3rd downs, going 13 for 20 (65%). Max Hall came up with a couple of key runs and make some really nice passes. Just like most of their wins this year - not spectacular, but sufficient to get the job done. The Cougs moved to within one win of clinching at least a share of the MWC championship.
THIS WEEK'S MATCHUP: BYU @ WYOMING
The Cowboys opened up the season 4-1, including a win over Virginia (which really baffles when you consider how good Virginia has been in the ACC this year), but since then Wyoming has flipped and has gone 1-4 and come into this Saturday's game riding a 2-game losing streak and a 5-5 record. The Cowboys were sent home licking their wounds after a 50-0 defeat at the hands of Utah last week. This should provide extra fuel for the fire of wanting to win this week ... not that the Cowboys need anything extra to get up for BYU in Laramie. Last season, Wyoming went to Provo with one of the top defenses in the country and the Cougars whipped then 55-7. It will certainly be closer this year in Laramie. The weather shouldn't be a factor as temps are expected to be in the mid-50s and only a 10% of showers.
BYU will win if ...
I can't really say they need to not turn the ball over, because everytime I do, they lose the turnover battle and still win the game ... however, I will say that if they win the turnover battle their chances of winning are greatly increased. The Cougars' ability to still manage the game has been the key to continued winning. If they can control the clock by running the ball, converting 3rd downs and getting defensive stops they will win the game.Photo Courtesy of Dan Ransom (www.danransom.com/blog)
Who to Watch ...
Kellen Fowler - he will be starting in place of the injured Quinn Gooch. He did recover a fumble in the end zone last week against TCU, but the play got overturned on instant replay. In Bronco's system he should fill in nicely as other players have throughout the year so far.
Dennis Pitta - he is one of Hall's favorite targets - often, it seems on 3rd downs - and his good size, ability to get open, and soft hands make him an incredibly valuable asset on offense. Look for a big game from Pitta, perhaps over 100 yards.
Prediction ...
BYU 28 - Wyoming 17
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