Rivalry Week - Prediction (Scott)

Well, it is finally here ... the BIG GAME! Which means, at last, it's my time to predict the outcome of the game. I am excited that I have had some success the past few weeks predicting the BYU game scores the past few weeks, however, I'll quickly admit that this game is totally unique and you can pretty much throw out the records, the stats, and everything you think will happen.

BYU Will Win If...
The Cougars continue to control the game by managing the clock and getting defensive stops ... that has been the winning formula this year. However, emotion always runs high in this game and I don't anticipate the Cougars being in control the entire game like the have been the past few weeks. I think they will win if they win 2 out of 3 key areas:
*Turnovers - team that wins the turnover battle is 11-3 in recent history.
*Rushing Yards - team that rushes for more yards is 14-4 in recent history.
*Time of Possession - key for the Cougars if they are to control the game.

Who to Watch...
Harvey Unga - we'll see if Unga can show more moves than Darrell Mack (Mack said earlier in the week that he has more moves than Unga will ever have). If Unga can run well and help the Cougars control the game. Also, he needs just 91 yards to reach the 1,000 yard mark.

Bryan Kehl - this will be his last chance to beat the Utes in Provo. He will lead the Cougars emotionally and defense and will come up with big plays to stop the Utes.

Prediction...
Statistics, both historically and this year (see previous post Inside the Numbers), indicate that this game will be close. Also, my gut tells me this will be a close one. I feel most like comparing this game to the '85 game when BYU pulled away late and won 38-28. However, this one will be closer than that. BYU 28 - Utah 27