2012 College Football...week 1 predictions

Four of Utah's 5 college teams will be in action on Thursday night this week.  The 3 FBS teams will be at home, and the FCS teams will be on the road.  Gives people in Utah what we want, college football and camping on Labor Day weekend.

Washington State at BYU--The Palouse Valley Cougars are a big question mark this year.  Yes, there is a lot of talk in Pullman about how improved Washington State will be with Mike Leach at the helm.  But, for the most part, he has the same players that were there last season.  The offense may score more points, but Leach's teams have often forgotten about defense.  But, they are playing against Riley Nelson and and the Utah Valley Cougars.  We know what they can do, or do we?  BYU needs to prove that they can run the ball effectively and not turn it over.  If they can do that, expect the Cougars at home to win. 

Prediction 49-39 BYU

Northern Colorado at Utah--NCU was at the bottom of the Big Sky last year, and most do not expect that to change in 2012.  The real question is whether or not Jordan Wynn, John White and the rest of the Utah starters will be playing in the second half.  The only reason to watch this game is to see the Stanley Cup.  Salt Lake City native, Trevor Lewis of the Los Angeles Kings will bring the famous trophy to Rice Eccles Stadium on Thursday.

Prediction 73-10 Utah

Southern Utah at Utah State--Brad Sorensen, in my opinion, is the best college quarterback in the state.  But he leads the FCS Thunderbirds into Romney Stadium this weekend.  The key will be how well the Thunderbirds can replace Austin Minifee.  If they can run the ball, they might give Utah State a close game for a little while.  This season, the Aggies are trying to prove that they can win consistently and that they can hold onto a head coach.  Neither quest will be challenged this weekend.

Prediction 45-24 Utah State

Weber State at Fresno State--Weber usually plays two games against FBS opponents every year, and they often put a good scare into one of them.  Fresno State and Weber State are breaking in new head football coaches.  If Weber is going to put a scare into an FBS opponent, it is more likely to be this one.  But Fresno should have the depth to pull away late.

Prediction 38-20 Fresno State