USU Prediction

I think the Cougars have their backs against the wall again this year against the Aggies.  It almost feels like the Aggies should be favored coming into this game.  The 2010 loss ended up being a turning point for the BYU team last year, but I think it will determine largly the remainder of the season for the Cougars this year. Bronco is teetering on the verge of losing to both Utah State and Utah in back to back seasons for the first time since the 1962 and 1963 seasons. Possible scenarios:

LOSE TO USU: BYU falls to 2-3 and it will appear that BYU hasn't taken very many steps forward since last year.  Similar to last year the schedule softens considerably after the USU game and they should be pick up some wins against not very good teams, however, they would go to Oregon State at 3-3 and probably take a loss, then come back home and win against Idaho State, then get beat by TCU and sit at 4-5 with three games left and they would be fighting for bowl eligibility.  I couldn't really see the Cougars doing any better than 6-6 to close the season if they fall tonight to Utah State.

BEAT USU: BYU would move to 3-2 and it would appear that BYU has made strides since their humiliating defeat against Utah State last year.  It would be a big confidence boost heading into an easier part of their schedule where they should beat San Jose and then move to 4-2 and have some confidence heading into Oregon State.  If the offense has got on track by then, they should be able to beat Oregon State and move to 5-2.  I see them winning their last three home games from there and splitting the TCU/Hawaii road games and finishing 9-3. 

OUTCOME:

9-3 and 6-6 are drastically different outcomes and I think BYU's course could very likely be determined by the outcome in tonight's contest.  I think BYU's defense comes out strong and the offense and special teams provide just enough for the Cougars.

BYU 13 - USU 10